Rampa

MY FATHER'S SHADOW

Akinola Davies Jr. | UK, Nigeria | 2025 | 94 min. | O.V. in Naijá, Yoruba and English, subtitles in Spanish and English
MY FATHER´S SHADOW
- NERVION 2

This gripping social thriller follows an absent father as he navigates the chaotic upheaval of Lagos with his two young children, set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s tumultuous 1993 election crisis. Director Akinola Davies Jr. and his brother, Wale Davies—duo behind the acclaimed short Lizard, winner of the Sundance Grand Jury Prize—draw on the loss of their own father to craft a poignant tale, seen through the eyes of two siblings. This bold and arresting debut is the first ever Nigerian film to be selected for Cannes, where it received a Special Mention for the Caméra d'Or. Deftly exploring themes of memory, as both a source of pain and solace, the film portrays the complex interplay of love and absence. Following the unforgettable His House, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù is magnetic in his latest role, with captivating natural performances from his young co-stars lending authenticity to a narrative rich with both personal and collective resonance. A remarkable debut that signals the emergence of a vital new voice in contemporary cinema.

Direction: Akinola Davies Jr.

Screenwriter: Wale Davies, Akinola Davies Jr.

Cinematography: ​​​​​​Jermaine Edwads 

Editor: Omar Guzmán Castro 

Music: Duval Timothy, CJ Mirra 

Production: Rachel Dargavel, Funmbi Ogunbanwo

Producer: Mubi

Cast: Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, Chibuike Marvellous Egbo, Godwin Egbo, Akerele David