“My Father’s Shadow,” by brothers Akinola and Wale Davies, marks a historic first as the first Nigerian film selected for Cannes’ official competition.
The film, playing in the Un Certain Regard section, poignantly imagines a single day spent with their father, who passed away when they were young.
Wale initially wrote the script in 2012, deeply moving Akinola with the concept of a hypothetical reunion.
Set in Lagos in 1993, the film’s Cannes debut has prompted Nigeria to establish its inaugural national pavilion at the festival.
Akinola Davies emphasizes the significance for Nigerian storytelling and talent on a global platform.
While Davies is UK-based, he considers the film Nollywood due to its Nigerian cast and crew.
He also highlights Lagos’ inherent cinematic quality, influencing the film’s atmosphere.
Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù portrays the father, Folarin, in a story where his sons unexpectedly find him home.
The narrative unfolds during a pivotal day in Nigerian history, paralleling the brothers’ exploration of memory and loss.
“My Father’s Shadow,” Davies’ first feature after a BAFTA-nominated short, is a cathartic tribute to their father and a significant moment for Nigerian cinema.
