The official release of “My Father’s Shadow” marks a historic milestone for Nigerian cinema
Last week, Lagos celebrated a cinematic milestone with the Nigerian premiere of “My Father’s Shadow,” released on 19 September 2025, by FilmOne Distributions. The premiere, held at Filmhouse Cinemas IMAX, drew filmmakers, actors, cultural leaders, industry executives, exhibitors, and media, all celebrating the film’s homecoming after making history globally.
“My Father’s Shadow” became Nigeria’s first film in the Cannes Film Festival’s Official Selection earlier this year. It also received the Caméra d’Or Special Mention for best debut feature.
“My Father’s Shadow” creative team share their insights at the premiere
The film unfolds on 23 June 1993, when Nigeria’s democratic hopes collapsed after the annulment of the June 12 election. It follows two brothers as they navigate Lagos alongside their estranged father. Producer Wale Davies originally wrote the script as a short film, later expanding it into a feature with his brother, acclaimed filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr. The result is a deeply personal yet universal depiction of fatherhood, identity, and national memory that resonates across cultures and generations.
At the premiere, director Akinola Davies Jr. said, “I hope that audiences will relate to the same things I love in the film – the family, politics, spirituality, and psychology. Trying to navigate all of these aspects in a mid-nineties Nigerian period drama is what helps make this film unique. We’ve tried to make something that is accessible, so that when people watch it, they see a reflection of themselves and experiences that they are familiar with.”
Funmbi Ogunbanwo, producer and CEO of Fatherland, added: “I am excited for audiences to see Lagos portrayed in this way. Audiences will enjoy the rich tapestry of Nigeria, our people and our language. They will feel the rhythm and the sound of Lagos – the size of Lagos. The journey of these boys with their father through this city ultimately culminates in this rich experience of family.”
“My Father’s Shadow” is live in a theatre near you
Ladun Awobokun (Chief Content Officer, FilmOne Entertainment) said: “At FilmOne, our priority is to identify and champion content that is both artistically powerful and culturally relevant. “My Father’s Shadow” is a deeply authentic story that resonates with our collective experience, and bringing it to cinemas across West Africa ensures that audiences at home connect with the same story that has captivated the world.”
“My Father’s Shadow” has been released nationwide since 19 September 2025, marking the beginning of its global theatrical journey. With its critical acclaim, storytelling, and historical significance, the film is set to excite audiences, empower local creatives, and spur additional investment in the country’s film industry. The Nigerian premiere was also proudly supported by The Glenlivet Single Malt Whisky and Guinness Foreign Extra Stout.
To watch it at a location near you, get tickets at Silverbird and Film World Cinema.
