Nigerian film ‘My Father’s Shadow’ to premiere at 2025 Cannes Film Festival

The Nigerian film industry has achieved a significant international milestone as ‘My Father’s Shadow’—a poignant drama steeped in the nation’s political and cultural legacy—is set to premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in May.

Co-written and directed by Akinola Davies Jr., with the screenplay by Wale Davies, the film is a collaborative effort between Nigerian producer, Funmbi Ogunbanwo of Fatherland Productions and UK-based producer, Rachel Dargavel of Element Pictures.

Filmed across Lagos and Ibadan, the film delves into the emotional aftermath of Nigeria’s historic 1993 presidential election, capturing its deep impact on a father-son relationship.

A statement shared on the Lagos State Government’s official website on Saturday noted that British-Nigerian actor, Sope Dirisu, takes the lead role, alongside new entrants Godwin and Chibuike Egbo.

The statement partly read, “The film’s selection for a world premiere at Cannes marks a significant achievement for the film industry and places Nigerian storytelling in the global spotlight.”

It added that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the film’s global breakthrough, praising the creative team and reaffirming his administration’s dedication to supporting the arts.

“This is a proud moment for Lagos and for Nigeria. We are committed to nurturing local talent and creating an environment where creativity can thrive”, the governor stated.

It further noted that the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, also expressed pride in supporting the project.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, noted that the film represents “A significant step in amplifying Nigerian voices on the world stage.”