In a proud moment for Nigerian cinema, Nollywood has achieved a historic milestone with its first-ever official selection at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival.
This is the first time in nearly 80 years that a Nigerian movie would be screened in a hallowed official slot at the Cannes Film Festival.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the Cannes Film Festival is the most prestigious film festival in the world. Held in Cannes, France, it previews new films of all genres, including documentaries, from all around the world.
On Sunday May 18, 2025, My Father’s Shadow, a semi-autobiographical film directed by Akinola Davies Jr., would be premiered in the Un Certain Regard (A certain glance) section of the Cannes Film Festival.
Reacting to the development Prince Baba Agba, a cultural advisor to President Bola Tinubu, who is in Cannes for the premiere, said the Nollywood Cannes debut highlights the growing creative prowess of Nigerian filmmakers.
Agba stated: “Getting into competition for the first time shows that Nigerian cinema has come of age.”
Meanwhile, My Father’s Shadow, a movie directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written with his brother Wale Davies, is a poignant drama set against the backdrop of the 1993 military coup in Nigeria, a defining moment in the Nigeria’s democratic history.
The film protrays two young boys navigating the chaotic streets of Lagos with their father during the political turmoil following General Sani Abacha’s seizure of power.
Featuring Gangs of London actor Sope Dirisu, the film has been lauded for its emotional depth and authentic portrayal of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.
The Nollywood Cannes debut comes after Funke Akindele, the multifaceted Nollywood actress, filmmaker, and producer, was featured in Hollywood’s influential women list.
Also, Mo Abudul was named in the Hollywood Reporter’s prestigious list of “The Most Influential Women in International Film”
