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
| Aug 10 |
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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