British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr has launched his debut feature film, My Father’s Shadow, in cinemas across multiple countries, marking a significant milestone in his directorial career.
The international rollout follows the film’s omission from the Academy Awards’ international feature shortlist earlier this year. Despite not advancing in the Oscar race, the project has continued to gain momentum globally, with screenings currently underway in the United Kingdom, Ireland, the United States, Canada, Italy, and Spain.
Set against the political turbulence that followed Nigeria’s annulled 1993 presidential election, the drama explores themes of identity, absence, and generational longing. The story unfolds over the course of a single day in Lagos, chronicling the journey of two young brothers, Akin and Remi, as they attempt to reconnect with their estranged father, Fola, played by Ṣopẹ́ Dìríṣù. The young protagonists are portrayed by Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo.
The screenplay was written by Wale Davies and co-written by Davies Jr, weaving personal family dynamics with a broader national narrative. Reflecting on the film’s thematic core, Davies Jr noted, “I think those two things — Nigeria not getting this father figure and the boys not getting their father figure — married each other pretty well.”
Although My Father’s Shadow did not make the final Oscar shortlist, it was selected as the United Kingdom’s official submission for the international feature category — a recognition Davies Jr described as a profound honour. “Every one of them carries its own truth, and it’s an honour to be in conversation with that work,” he said, referencing the films competing in the category.
He also expressed appreciation to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) and his collaborators for their support. “Thank you BAFTA for your belief in the film’s support. ‘My Father’s Shadow’ is carried by so many hands,” he stated.
The film has already attracted critical acclaim on the festival circuit, earning a Special Mention at the Cannes Film Festival alongside other accolades from various international festivals.
With its global cinema release now underway, My Father’s Shadow continues to build its reputation as a poignant exploration of family, political history, and emotional reconciliation, reinforcing Davies Jr’s emergence as a compelling new voice in contemporary cinema.