My Father's Shadow

Two brothers set out on a day trip with their elusive father into central Lagos, unaware of the political unrest that is brewing.

While playing together at home in rural Nigeria, two brothers unexpectedly run into their mostly absent father. Excited and nervous in equal measure, they beg him to take them back to the big city for the day. He agrees.

Gradually, they learn more about this mysterious man – the reasons he is absent, the barriers he faces – but unbeknownst to the boys, there are dangers in the city, and they are visiting while political unrest is brewing.

Curator’s note
The aftermath of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election provides suitably shaky ground for two young boys who are learning about their father, life and the world around them. Inspired by memories of brothers and co-writers Wale Davies and Akinola Davies Jr, the film is imbued with a personal authenticity throughout. Both have received a BAFTA Award nomination for their work.

My Father’s Shadow premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.