British Nigerian director's debut film 'My Father's Shadow' makes history

Akinola Davies Jr.'s autobiographical drama about reconnecting with his late father wins acclaim worldwide.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The British Nigerian director Akinola Davies Jr. and his brother Wale were both toddlers when their father died. As adults, they could hardly remember him. Then Wale had an idea for a movie - what if they had the chance to spend a day with their dad? The result is 'My Father's Shadow,' a powerfully autobiographical film that has become one of the most acclaimed movies of the past year, making history at the Cannes Film Festival and winning awards around the world.

Why it matters

The film's success represents a milestone for Nigerian cinema, as 'My Father's Shadow' was the first Nigerian film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival's official competition. It showcases the talent and stories emerging from Nigeria's thriving film industry, known as Nollywood, and proves that Nigerian filmmakers can find global recognition.

The details

Set in Lagos in 1993 during a pivotal moment in Nigeria's political history, 'My Father's Shadow' follows the young Davies brothers as they unexpectedly reunite with their father, Folarin, for a day-long trip through the city. The film blends the personal story of the Davies family with the larger national context of Nigeria's struggle for democracy at the time.

  • The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025.
  • It is set to be released in North American theaters on Friday.

The players

Akinola Davies Jr.

The British Nigerian director of 'My Father's Shadow' and the film's co-writer, based on a script by his brother Wale.

Wale Davies

The brother of Akinola Davies Jr. and the co-writer of 'My Father's Shadow,' which was based on his original script idea.

Ọpẹ́ Dìrísù

The actor who plays the role of the father, Folarin, in 'My Father's Shadow.'

Chibuike Marvellous Egbo and Godwin Egbo

The young actors who play the Davies brothers as children in 'My Father's Shadow.'

Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida

The Nigerian military ruler who refused to accept the results of a democratic election in 1993, the pivotal historical event that serves as the backdrop for 'My Father's Shadow.'

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It means a lot to people back in Nigeria. It means we can exist on these platforms and our stories can exist in these spaces. It's a testament to talent that's around in Nigeria. It's a testament to the stories that are there. It's a testament to the industry that's flourishing.”

— Akinola Davies Jr., Director of 'My Father's Shadow' (Cannes Film Festival)

“The Nigerian press asks me a lot if the film is Nollywood or not Nollywood. I would say it is because all the technicians work in Nollywood. You can't borrow people from that whole industry and say it's not part of it.”

— Akinola Davies Jr., Director of 'My Father's Shadow' (Cannes Film Festival)

What’s next

The film is set to be released in North American theaters on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The takeaway

The success of 'My Father's Shadow' represents a significant breakthrough for Nigerian cinema, showcasing the talent and stories emerging from the country's thriving Nollywood film industry and proving that Nigerian filmmakers can achieve global recognition and acclaim.