Akinola Davies Jr.'s 'My Father’s Shadow' Trailblazes Nigerian Cinema
In the glittering halls of the Grand Theatre Lumiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, a moment of profound triumph unfolded. British-Nigerian director Akinola Davies Jr. stood before over 2,000 industry peers, basking in a well-deserved standing ovation. His debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, had just earned a special jury commendation for first-time filmmakers, marking a historic milestone: the first Nigerian film ever selected for the festival's official competition.
Davies Jr., overwhelmed yet elated, later reflected on the surreal experience. "I’d seen photos of premieres and awards, but nothing prepares you for your own," he shared. This isn't just a personal victory; it's a beacon for Nigerian cinema, Africa's most populous nation and the world's second-largest film producer by volume. As My Father’s Shadow gears up for its UK theatrical release on February 6, 2026, followed by the US on February 13, it promises to resonate far beyond the festival circuit.
The Story Behind the Screen: A Semi-Autobiographical Journey
At its core, My Father’s Shadow is a soul-stirring exploration of memory, loss, and the fragile bonds of family. Co-written by Davies Jr. and his brother Wale Davies, the screenplay draws from their own poignant history. The brothers lost their father at a young age, a tragedy that Wale first channeled into writing over a decade ago. The film imagines a rare, cherished day of connection: a father, played by acclaimed British-Nigerian actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Slow Horses, Gangs of London), takes his two young sons on a trip to Lagos following the tumultuous 1993 Nigerian general election.
Without spoiling the narrative, the story unfolds as a delicate act of wish fulfillment. It subtly unveils the father's sacrifices for his family's future, weaving in moments of wisdom and tenderness amid Nigeria's socio-political turbulence. Davies Jr.'s direction infuses the film with authenticity, blending intimate family dynamics with broader themes of diaspora and resilience. "It's about reclaiming what was lost," Davies explains, emphasizing how the project honors their father's legacy while addressing universal human experiences.
From Personal Grief to Cinematic Catharsis
The Davies brothers' collaboration breathes life into the script's emotional depth. Wale's decade-long development process allowed for layers of nuance, transforming raw grief into a narrative that's both devastating and hopeful. Davies Jr., with his background in short films and music videos, brings a visual poetry to the screen—vibrant Lagos streets contrast with introspective quietude, capturing the city's chaotic energy and the family's inner turmoil.
Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù's performance as the father is a standout, delivering a restrained yet powerful portrayal that anchors the film's heart. His chemistry with the young actors portraying the sons adds authenticity, making the bonding scenes feel achingly real. Critics at Cannes praised the ensemble for its subtlety, noting how it avoids melodrama in favor of quiet revelation.
A Milestone for Nigerian Cinema on the Global Stage
Nollywood, Nigeria's booming film industry, produces thousands of movies annually, yet few achieve international acclaim. My Father’s Shadow changes that narrative. Its Cannes selection plants a flag for African storytelling, challenging Western-dominated cinema landscapes. As the first Nigerian entry in the official lineup, it highlights the potential of the diaspora to bridge cultural gaps.
Davies Jr., raised in the UK with Nigerian roots, embodies this fusion. His journey—from London-based shorts to Cannes—mirrors the film's themes of displacement and return. The premiere's success, including that jury nod, has sparked conversations about inclusivity in global festivals. "This is for every Nigerian filmmaker dreaming big," Davies said during the festival's closing ceremony.
Release and Reception: Building Momentum
Post-Cannes, the film has garnered festival buzz and early reviews hailing it as a "tender triumph." In the UK, where Davies Jr. is based, the February 6 release at select cinemas taps into a growing appetite for diverse stories. Audiences can expect intimate screenings that foster discussion on heritage and healing.
Across the Atlantic, the US rollout on February 13 positions it for awards season contention. Distributors are eyeing expansions, potentially streaming later. For Nigerian viewers, a homecoming screening is planned, celebrating the film's roots. Early feedback from test audiences underscores its emotional pull, with many relating to the immigrant experience.
The Broader Impact: Elevating African Narratives
My Father’s Shadow arrives at a pivotal time for African cinema. With rising stars like Davies Jr., the continent's filmmakers are gaining visibility, from Berlin to Sundance. This film not only showcases technical prowess—stunning cinematography by rising DP Adaora Nwandu—but also tackles underrepresented themes like paternal legacy in post-colonial contexts.
Industry experts see it as a catalyst. "It's blazing a trail," notes film critic Elena Reyes. By centering Nigerian voices without exoticizing them, Davies Jr. contributes to a more equitable global canon. Challenges remain—funding hurdles for independent African projects—but successes like this inspire investment.
As My Father’s Shadow steps into the spotlight, Akinola Davies Jr. emerges as a voice to watch. His debut isn't just a film; it's a testament to perseverance, urging us to confront our shadows and embrace the light of memory.
Word count: 752