In a groundbreaking achievement for Nigerian cinema, British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr.’s directorial debut “My Father’s Shadow” continues to make waves internationally, securing two prestigious nominations at the 2025 Gotham Film Awards. The film has earned nods in the Breakthrough Director category for Davies and Outstanding Lead Performance for star Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù.
Set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s tumultuous 1993 presidential election crisis, “My Father’s Shadow” tells the poignant story of two young brothers during a life-changing day in Lagos with their estranged father. The film, co-written by Akinola and his brother Wale Davies, features powerful performances from Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù as Folarin alongside young talents Godwin Chimerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo.
The film has already carved its place in history as the first Nigerian-backed feature to grace the prestigious Un Certain Regard section at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it received a Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or. In a remarkable turn of events, the United Kingdom has chosen it as their official submission for the Oscars’ Best International Feature Film category, highlighting its unique British-Nigerian heritage.
Behind the scenes, the film boasts an impressive lineup of production partners, including Element Pictures, Fatherland Productions, BBC Film, BFI, and Crybaby. Distribution duties are split between FilmOne Entertainment in Nigeria and MUBI handling the UK and North American markets.
The Gotham nominations add another feather to the film’s cap, positioning both Davies and Dìrísù among global cinema’s rising stars. The winners will be revealed at the 35th Gotham Film Awards ceremony on December 1, 2025, in New York City.
“My Father’s Shadow” represents more than just another film – it’s a testament to the evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema. As an introspective drama that has garnered critical acclaim, it showcases how African storytellers can successfully navigate the international film circuit while staying true to their roots. This continuous recognition signals a new era for Nollywood, where festival strategies, international co-productions, and authentic storytelling are opening doors on the global stage.
Leave a Comment