Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù gives a masterful performance as a stern but loving father that takes his children on an impromptu day trip to Lagos to recover a debt in the midst of a political upheaval.
A rich, heartfelt and rewarding movie. British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr makes a strong directorial debut with this deft and intrigung tale.
My Father's Shadow 2025
The first Nigerian film to screen in the Cannes official selection transports us into the chaos of Lagos and delivers one of this year’s most acclaimed debuts earning a Special Mention from the Caméra d’Or jury.
Set in 1993 during the nation’s first election after a decade of military rule. Two boys, played by real life brothers Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvelous Egbo, travel to the thriving metropolis with their father on a day when political tensions are reaching boiling point. Showing events from the point of view of the children, My Father’s Shadow filters the father's actions through a lens of mystery and innocence. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù gives an intense performance as the simultaneously stern, troubled and loving Folarin, the titular father navigating the city chaos trying to collect a debt before it is too late while also trying to keep his young sons in check.
Based on a semi-autobiographical script written by Akinola Davies Jr. and his brother, Wale Davies, this feature length directorial debut reminds us that we never know how precious a memory is until after the subject of the memory is gone. — Jordan Salomen