My Father’s Shadow will hit Nigerian cinemas on September 19, 2025. Director Akinola Davies Jr. has unveiled an official poster for the local market. FilmOne Nigeria will distribute the acclaimed film nationwide.
The new poster captures the film’s emotional tone and nostalgic mood. This marks a significant moment for Nigerian cinema. The story finally returns home after receiving global recognition.
The Story Behind the Film
The film takes place in Lagos during 1993. This was one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods. Two young brothers, Remi and Aki, spend a single day with their estranged father, Folarin. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù plays this complex father figure.
What begins as an attempt at reconnection slowly changes. The day unravels into a journey of grief, tension, and fragile hope. The film explores fatherhood, memory, and the personal weight of history.
Previously, the feature debuted at Cannes in the Un Certain Regard section. It earned a prestigious Caméra d’Or special mention.
Cast and Creative Team
Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù leads the cast as Folarin. Real-life brothers Chibuike Marvellous Egbo and Godwin Egbo bring authenticity to their roles. They play Remi and Aki respectively.
Additionally, Akinola Davies Jr. co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Wale Davies. This collaboration makes the project deeply personal. The film features striking cinematography and sound design. These elements blend lived memory with crafted storytelling.
Director’s Personal Reflection
Recently, Akinola Davies Jr. shared his thoughts on Instagram. He expressed amazement about the film’s journey home.
“It’s crazy that a film we made last year about a period of time in my childhood is going to be screened in Nigeria,” he said. “I’ve been asked what the response will be and quite honestly I have no idea.”
However, he remains confident about the work. “What I do know is I’m extremely proud of this film and my collaborators. It’s given me a lot of hope, an opportunity to grieve and the confidence to feel validated in an industry that at times feels extremely trend-based and unrewarding.”
Conclusion
My Father’s Shadow offers more than entertainment. It presents a reflection of history and memory through cinema. Nigerian audiences can experience this landmark film when it opens nationwide on September 19, 2025.
