My Father’s Shadow is a 2025 Nigerian drama directed by Akinola Davies Jr., marking history as the first Nigerian film ever selected for the Cannes Film Festival. Premiering in the Un Certain Regard section on May 18, 2025, the film earned a Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or. At its heart, it tells a moving story about family, love, and the bonds that shape us.
Set in Lagos during the turbulent 1993 presidential election, the film follows two brothers, Remi and Akin, who spend a rare day with their estranged father, Folarin. For the boys, it’s their first time seeing the sprawling city; for their father, it’s a chance to share his world and show the struggles behind his work.
What begins as a fun outing turns into a deeper journey of discovery. As political unrest builds, Folarin must not only protect his children but also find a way to bridge the distance between them.
Sope Dirisu (Gangs of London, Slow Horses) stars as Folarin, delivering a heartfelt performance. The brothers are played by newcomers Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo, whose natural chemistry brings authenticity to the story. The cast also includes Efòn Wini, adding warmth and honesty to this family portrait.
This semi-autobiographical debut feature is directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and co-written with his brother Wale Davies. Produced by Element Pictures (London/Dublin), Fatherland (Lagos), and UK-based Crybaby, with support from BBC Film, the project is as much a personal family story as it is a cinematic milestone.
The film explores forgiveness, family bonds, and parenthood under pressure. Lagos itself emerges as a living character, beautiful, chaotic, and challenging. By setting the story against the backdrop of the 1993 elections, My Father’s Shadow also highlights how political tensions shape the lives of everyday families.
It is more than just a drama, the film speaks to universal experiences, the longing to connect, the complexities of fatherhood, and the resilience of children discovering their place in the world.
Following its acclaimed Cannes debut, My Father’s Shadow will premiere in Nigerian cinemas on September 19th
My Father’s Shadow proves that great cinema doesn’t always require big budgets or elaborate plots. Sometimes the most powerful films are born from simple human moments, a father trying to connect with his children while opening their eyes to a new world, and a family rediscovering love in the face of hardship.
With its heartfelt storytelling, striking performances, and vivid portrayal of Lagos, this landmark Nigerian film not only makes history but also delivers a story that lingers long after the credits roll.
