Akinola Davies Jr.’s My Father’s Shadow has carved a historic mark for Nigerian cinema by earning a Caméra d’Or Special Mention at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. This accolade celebrates the best debut features at the festival and places the film among the most notable first-time efforts in global cinema this year. More importantly, it represents a milestone not just for the filmmaker, but for the entire Nigerian film industry.

The film, which premiered in the Un Certain Regard section, is the first Nigerian fiction feature to be officially selected by Cannes since its inception. This alone is a groundbreaking achievement. However, the story does not end there. Set in Lagos during the tension-filled 1993 elections, My Father’s Shadow follows two young brothers as they reconnect with their estranged father. Through its quiet emotional rhythm and deeply rooted themes of memory, masculinity, and grief, the film draws attention not only to personal family dynamics but also to Nigeria’s larger political soul.

The performances in the film carry a rare authenticity. British-Nigerian actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù plays the father, Folarin, while real-life siblings Godwin and Chibuike Egbo portray the young boys. Their chemistry and raw delivery help ground the narrative in lived experience. Even more impressively, the film was made with over 80% Nigerian crew and about 90% African creatives. Despite challenges in logistics and infrastructure, the team managed to produce a work that now stands among the best in international debut cinema.

Beyond its emotional core and technical merit, the film is already making waves in distribution. MUBI, the global streaming platform, acquired rights to the film in North America and several other territories. This signals growing international interest in stories that emerge from Africa but resonate universally. At a time when audiences are increasingly seeking stories that feel both grounded and global, My Father’s Shadow delivers with care and precision.

The film’s recognition has also sparked institutional movement. In parallel with its premiere, Nigeria re-established its presence at Cannes with the relaunch of its national pavilion under the “Screen Nigeria” banner. As part of the larger “Destination 2030” campaign, this initiative aims to highlight the strength of Nigeria’s creative sector and attract international collaborations and investment. The film’s success has become a symbolic push for greater industry recognition and global respect.

Critics have embraced the film for its subtle approach and its ability to allow emotion to build slowly and naturally. Reviewers commend its minimalism, its sense of restraint, and its atmosphere. Rather than relying on dramatics, it lets the story unfold through memory, silence, and tension, anchored in cultural truths that are both specific and universal.

With My Father’s Shadow, Akinola Davies Jr. hasn’t just launched a promising directorial career. He has opened a door, one that many Nigerian filmmakers have been knocking on for years. His debut not only affirms the power of personal storytelling but also showcases the artistic and technical depth that Nollywood has been nurturing behind the scenes.

This Special Mention from the Cannes jury is more than an award. It is a quiet but powerful statement. Nigerian cinema is ready for the world stage and it isn’t just arriving, it is already here.