Nigerian audiences are gearing up for the highly anticipated local premiere of My Father’s Shadow, the internationally celebrated debut feature film by acclaimed director Akinola Davies Jr. The movie is set to hit cinemas nationwide on September 19, marking a homecoming for a film that has already captured global attention.
Earlier this year, My Father’s Shadow made history as the first Nigerian feature film to be officially selected for the prestigious Cannes Film Festival under the Un Certain Regard category.
The production further garnered a Caméra d’Or Special Mention, placing it among some of the world’s most promising cinematic works.
Critics have lauded the film for its originality, narrative depth, and visual storytelling.
The Guardian described it as a “subtle and intelligent coming-of-age tale,” while IndieWire called it “a beautifully remembered drama about a fateful day trip through Lagos.”
Set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s politically charged 1993 election crisis, the semi-autobiographical story follows two brothers who reunite with their estranged father for a day-long journey across Lagos.
The film was shot entirely on 16mm film, capturing the city in all its chaos and beauty, effectively turning Lagos into a central character within the narrative.
Director Akinola Davies Jr. emphasized the personal nature of the story, noting, “I cried when I first read the script my brother Wale wrote.
Our stories don’t need to be sensationalized; they’re powerful enough as they are. Point a camera at anything in Lagos, and it becomes cinematic.”
The screenplay was co-written by Davies Jr. and his Grammy-winning brother Wale Davies.
The cast features British-Nigerian actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, known for Slow Horses and Gangs of London, leading alongside newcomers Godwin and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo, whose performances have been widely described as “stirring” and “authentic.”
The ensemble also includes Nollywood veterans and rising stars such as Ayo Lijadu, Greg “Teddy Bear” Ojefua, Uzoamaka Power, Winifred Efon, and Olarotimi Fakunle.
Produced under Fatherland Productions with international support from Element Pictures, BBC Film, BFI, and streaming platform MUBI, the film boasts a predominantly Nigerian crew of over 80 percent.
The production team includes Rachel Dargavel and Funmbi Ogunbanwo as producers, with executive producers Ed Guiney, Andrew Lowe, Eva Yates, Ama Ampadu, and the Davies brothers themselves.
Production design was handled by Anti Design, and strategic partnerships were formed with The Match Factory, Fremantle, Electric Theatre Collective, and Crybaby.
Industry experts suggest that the Nigerian premiere represents more than just a local release—it is a cultural milestone that underscores Nigeria’s growing influence on the global cinematic stage.
With its strong festival reception and Cannes recognition, My Father’s Shadow is expected to attract cinephiles, casual viewers, and global media attention alike.
The September 19 release marks a significant moment for Nigerian cinema, as audiences finally get the opportunity to experience a story that bridges personal memory, national history, and universal emotion.