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Nigerian Film 'My Father’s Shadow' Shines at Cannes

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Akinola Davies Jr. earned acclaim for his debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, at the Cannes Film Festival, a milestone for Nigerian cinema.
The film, set against Nigeria’s 1993 election crisis, centers on paternal estrangement with a predominantly Nigerian cast.
It has earned multiple awards, including 12 nominations at the British Independent Film Awards.
My Father’s Shadow releases in UK cinemas on February 6 and in the US on February 13.

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Story summary

Akinola Davies Jr. earned acclaim for his debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, at the Cannes Film Festival, a milestone for Nigerian cinema.
The film, set against Nigeria’s 1993 election crisis, centers on paternal estrangement with a predominantly Nigerian cast.
It has earned multiple awards, including 12 nominations at the British Independent Film Awards.
My Father’s Shadow releases in UK cinemas on February 6 and in the US on February 13.