In a first time effort, Afolabi Olalekan’s feature debut will be heading to Toronto International Film Festival 2024 for its world premiere while also seeking sale in its Discovery programme.
The festival pickup announcement also comes with a trailer and poster release for the drama film, starring Adebowale ‘Mr Macaroni’ Adebayo, Jable Ogranya, Jesse Suntele, Mike Afolarin, Femi Jacobs and Bimbo Akintola.
Written and produced by Blessing Uzzi, the synopsis of Freedom Way reads:
“Faced with unfavourable laws and incessant police harassment, three young co-founders struggle to keep theirstartup alive. A motorcyclist faces dark times with his family after losing his livelihood. A doctor struggles with his conscience on the job while battling outdated government policies. A police pair find themselves on different sides of the law with a difficult choice to make.”
The story stems from the precarious social situation in Nigeria, where “the Nigerian Police Force is notorious for harassing and extorting young Nigerians. I have been a victim of such harassments and arrests and my experience partly inspired the story of Freedom Way,” as shared by Afolabi in a statement.
Afolabi Olalekan’s previous directorial efforts include short films Without You and Caught Up, a 2019 African International Film Festival selection. His visual work for Rema and Ayra Starr are also part of his creative background.
Kabelo Thathe and Muhammed Attah are credited as cinematographers, with Olalekan Afolabi behind the editing.
The TIFF Discovery Programme, known for screening debut and sophomore films of emerging filmmakers, launched the careers of Alfonso Cuarón, Barry Jenkins, Christopher Nolan, and Yorgos Lanthimos.
The 49th annual Toronto International Film Festival will be held from September 5 to 15, 2024.
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