From Lagos to Cannes 2025: ‘My Father’s Shadow’

Nigerian-British filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr. is poised to make waves at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with his feature directorial debut, My Father’s Shadow—a deeply moving drama that marks a historic milestone for Nigerian cinema. Premiering in the prestigious Un Certain Regard section, this film becomes the first Nigerian feature to receive an official selection at Cannes, spotlighting the country’s growing cinematic voice on a global stage.

A Story Rooted in Time and Place

Set in Lagos, Nigeria, during the volatile political landscape of the 1993 presidential election, My Father’s Shadowfollows two young brothers spending the day with their estranged father, Folarin. As they move through the vibrant and chaotic cityscape, the boys witness their father’s struggle to provide for them while navigating personal and political instability. The film offers an intimate glimpse into fractured familial relationships, fatherhood, and the silent burdens of manhood under societal pressure.

A Star to Watch

Acclaimed actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù stars as Folarin, delivering a performance that is already generating awards buzz. Known for his emotionally charged roles in His House and Gangs of London, Dìrísù brings nuance and intensity to the role of a father torn between duty and regret.

Crafted with Care

The film is a passion project for Akinola Davies Jr., who co-wrote the script with his brother Wale Davies. Drawing from personal and cultural memories, the screenplay paints a multi-layered portrait of masculinity, loss, and political legacy. Produced by Element Pictures, Fatherland Productions, BBC Film, and the British Film Institute (BFI), the film was shot entirely on location in Lagos, lending it an authenticity that pulses through every frame.

Building on a Celebrated Foundation

Davies Jr. is no stranger to acclaim. His short film Lizard won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance in 2021 and earned a BAFTA nomination, establishing him as a unique voice in contemporary cinema. With My Father’s Shadow, he takes a major leap forward, combining his roots in experimental and documentary filmmaking with narrative storytelling.

A Global Stage for a Nigerian Voice

My Father’s Shadow’s selection for Cannes is more than a personal triumph—it is a landmark for Nollywood and African storytelling as a whole. The film’s presence in Un Certain Regard signals a broader shift in international cinema, where African filmmakers are gaining long-overdue recognition and reshaping the global film landscape.

Looking Ahead

With global sales representation by The Match Factory and distribution already secured by MUBI in several territories, My Father’s Shadow is expected to make a strong impression beyond the Croisette. As the festival approaches, anticipation is high for what could be one of the most emotionally resonant and culturally significant debuts of the year.

In a year where Cannes continues to push boundaries and champion new voices, My Father’s Shadow stands out as a work of vision, heart, and historical weight. From Lagos to Cannes, Akinola Davies Jr. is bringing a vital story to the world—and cinema is better for it.