In a historic moment for Nigerian cinema, Nollywood is making a significant impact at the Cannes Film Festival 2025. For the first time in nearly 80 years, Nigerian films have been officially selected for screening, marking a turning point for the industry.
Akinola Davies Jr.'s 'My Father's Shadow' is set to premiere in the Un Certain Regard section, highlighting Nigeria's growing creative prowess. The film is a semi-autobiographical drama set against the backdrop of the 1993 military coup, offering an emotional portrayal of Nigeria's socio-political landscape.
Additionally, 'Osamede,' a historical fantasy directed by James Omokwe, will debut at the Pavillon Afriques during the Cannes Film Market. This film explores the rich mythology of the Benin Kingdom, further showcasing the diversity and potential of Nigerian cinema on the global stage. The historical drama FESTAC '77 has been selected by the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) for an exclusive preview at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.