Nigeria has scored a major milestone in global cinema as My Father’s Shadow, directed by British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr., becomes the first Nigerian film to make the Official Selection at the Cannes Film Festival. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Cannes selection committee, marking a significant leap for the country’s film industry.
Set in 1993 Lagos during the tumultuous aftermath of the annulled presidential election, My Father’s Shadow is a coming-of-age drama that explores the complex relationships between a widowed father and his two sons. The film stars Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and was co-written by the director and his brother Wale Davies, both of whom emphasized the film’s deeply personal narrative.
Speaking to CNN, Akinola Davies Jr. said, “This is a historic moment not just for me, but for Nigeria. We have long had the stories, the talent, and the determination—this selection shows that the world is ready to listen.” The film will premiere in the Un Certain Regard section, which highlights fresh perspectives and daring storytelling.
CNN’s Africa correspondent Larry Madowo described the development as “a proud moment for African cinema.” He wrote, “Nigeria’s selection into the Cannes Official Selection is not just symbolic—it is overdue. Nollywood is bursting with creativity and deserves its place on the global stage.”
Film industry stakeholders in Nigeria have welcomed the news as a sign of Nollywood’s growing international relevance. Charles Okpaleke, CEO of Play Network Studios, said, “This milestone sets the tone for the next era of Nigerian filmmaking. It’s no longer about quantity, but about quality and global resonance.”
With this achievement, expectations are high for My Father’s Shadow to not only garner critical acclaim but to open the floodgates for more Nigerian stories on global platforms. Davies Jr. concluded, “We’re just getting started. There are many more stories that need to be seen, heard, and celebrated.” GMTNewsng
