British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr has released his debut film, My Father’s Shadow, in cinemas across the UK, Ireland, USA, Canada, Italy, and Spain, following its exclusion from this year’s Academy Awards international feature shortlist.
Set against the political unrest that followed Nigeria’s annulled 1993 presidential election, the drama tells the story of two young brothers, Akin and Remi, navigating a single day in Lagos as they attempt to reconnect with their estranged father, Fola, played by Şopé Dìrísù.
“The absence from the Oscars does not diminish the honour of being the United Kingdom’s official submission,” Davies Jr said, reflecting on the film’s journey. “Every one of them carries its own truth, and it’s an honour to be in conversation with that work.”
Written by Wale Davies and co-written by Davies Jr, the film has earned recognition on the international festival circuit, including a Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival.
Davies Jr also expressed gratitude to the BAFTA for their support, acknowledging the collaborative effort behind the production.
“I think those two things, Nigeria not getting this father figure and the boys not getting their father figure, married each other pretty well,” he added, highlighting the narrative’s emotional core.
Starring Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo alongside Dìrísù, My Father’s Shadow continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reinforcing Davies Jr’s emergence as a filmmaker to watch.
About the Author
