In 1993, Nigeria faced a political crisis marked by a military dictatorship and the annulled June 12 presidential election, leading to widespread protests and economic hardship due to structural adjustment policies. Amid this backdrop, Akinola Davies Jr.'s debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, explores themes of masculinity, family, and memory against a backdrop of national collapse. The film marks Nigeria's official debut in the Cannes Film Festival’s Un Certain Regard category.

The Cannes Film Festival, established in 1946, is a prestigious platform for cinematic excellence, emphasizing art, risk, and originality. My Father’s Shadow, set in Lagos during the 1993 elections, examines the reunion of two brothers with their estranged father, with the political crisis serving as a backdrop. Davies' contemplative directing style and collaboration with cinematographer Lílis Soares aim to imbue the film with deep emotional gravity.

Akinola Davies Jr., having directed for brands like Kenzo and Gucci and created music videos for artists such as Blood Orange and Kokoroko, brings a unique perspective, bridging continents and cultures. His previous work, including the short film Lizard, shares thematic similarities with My Father’s Shadow, focusing on protagonists in turbulent settings.

Referencing CJ “Fiery” Obasi’s Mami Wata, a defining work in African visual storytelling and Nigeria’s 2023 Oscar submission, the article highlights its monochrome aesthetic steeped in West African mythology. Mami Wata, also featuring Lílis Soares as cinematographer, explores themes of tradition, belief, and shifting power dynamics, earning accolades at Sundance and FESPACO.

My Father’s Shadow and Mami Wata, though stylistically distinct, both use unique color palettes to reframe the African gaze, challenging colonial visual hierarchies by emphasizing Blackness. Historically, African representation at Cannes has been sparse, but Nollywood's evolution is fostering auteur-driven narratives. Initiatives like AfroCannes reflect a new generation's confidence, marking a moment of artistic sovereignty for African filmmakers. My Father’s Shadow is set to premiere on May 18th, 2025.