Film lovers abroad have already been charmed by My Father’s Shadow — now it’s Nigeria’s turn. Directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written by Wale Davies, the film arrives in cinemas on September 19, with FilmOne handling distribution in the country.
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The story takes place in 1993, following the annulled presidential election. It follows two brothers who spend one day in Lagos with their estranged father.
The cast is led by Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, who plays Folarin, the father. Real-life brothers Godwin Chiemerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo portray the sons, Akinola and Olaremi. Supporting performances include Ayo Lijadu, Greg “Teddy Bear” Ojefua, Uzoamaka Power, Winifred Efon, and Olarotimi Fakunle.
The film had its world premiere in the Un Certain Regard section of the 78th Cannes Film Festival, marking the first Nigerian feature ever selected as a Cannes’ Official Selection, where it received a Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or award for best first feature. Following its Cannes debut and screenings at other international festivals, My Father’s Shadow had its African premiere at the Durban International Film Festival in July 2025.
My Father’s Shadow was produced by Funmbi Ogunbanwo for Fatherland Productions (who led an over 80% Nigerian crew) in Lagos in collaboration with Rachel Dargavel for Element Pictures and developed by BBC Film and the British Film Institute. Its North American premiere is set for the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
The film will be distributed in North America, the U.K., Ireland, and Turkey by MUBI.
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