Chukwu Martin’s latest feature film, We Danced & Danced, has quietly entered the Nigerian film scene through a string of private screenings in Ibadan and Lagos. Known for his series of rough plays, which include Mr Gbega’s Hard Drive, Oga Mike and Abeni. As well as his pioneering role at The Annual Film Mischief. Martin’s moves past the traditional cinema premiere and choses a more intimate rollout. This is designed to immerse audiences in the film’s unflinching emotional core.

Shot in Ibadan in April 2024, the film tells the story of two siblings, Zina and Eno. Played by Jessica Gabriels Ujah and Timilehin Ojeola, who escape their turbulent home in search of freedom and belonging. 

Zina has always been fiercely protective of her younger brother, Eno, as they flee a home consumed by their parents’ bitter conflicts. In each other, they find comfort and the only true sense of belonging they have ever known. Driven by a shared dream of freedom, they take temporary refuge in a friend’s house while secretly plotting to leave the country and begin a new life together. But as their bond deepens, long-buried family truths and the weight of their choices begin to surface, challenging the fragile world they have built.

The screenplay, co-written by Martin and Tomi Folowosele, blends fragility with resilience in a narrative that has already sparked conversations in its earliest viewings. We Danced & Danced is a stirring drama that delves into the scars of parental neglect, the desperate search for freedom, and the unsettling taboo of forbidden love.

Speaking about the film’s journey, Martin said: “I’ve lived with the story for a while… As a filmmaker, I wanted to create a narrative that forces us to confront uncomfortable truths. I want the viewer to feel like they are watching their secrets play out on screen. The bond between Zina and Eno is more than just a shocking premise; it’s a reflection of the loneliness that can arise from fractured family dynamics”. 

We Danced & Danced is the first production from New Culture Studios in over 50 years, made in collaboration with Nostalgia Media Agency. Behind the scenes, Okwong Fadamana handled cinematography, Tinuola Nwachukwu led production design, and Peter Nwanguma served as editor and colourist. Executive producers include Rufus Nwoko, Martin, and Adeniyi “TAJ” Joseph. The cast also features Ikechukwu Iwebenua, Tega Ethan, Chris Ikechi Anyanya, Kelvin Callistus, Temitope Agoro, Chabod Oyejide, and Ifeoluwa Ogunade, alongside music from The Golden Chorale.

The feature will begin festival screenings soon.