Cannes 2025: My Father's Shadow, Enzo, Dalloway | Festivals & Awards | Roger Ebert
Briefly

'My Father's Shadow' is a semi-autobiographical film by Akinola Davies, marking Nigeria's first entry in Cannes' Un Certain Regard. Set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian elections, it captures the journey of two brothers and their estranged father. This trip evolves into a haunting exploration of personal and national losses, reflected through the characters' interactions and experiences. The film blends magical realism with elements of Christian faith, creating a fragmented yet compelling narrative that resonates deeply with themes of longing and disillusionment within a volatile sociopolitical landscape.
My Father's Shadow' is a beautifully rendered film about the kind of loss that permanently rips you apart, highlighting personal and national tragedies interwoven through its narrative.
Set during the election between MKO Abiola and Bashir Tofa, the film powerfully portrays the breakdown of familial and national identities amid societal upheaval.
Akinola Davies masterfully depicts the struggle of a family yearning for connection while facing the harsh reality of their socio-political landscape in Nigeria.
The incorporation of magical realism and Christian beliefs enriches the storytelling, pulling viewers into a unique and fragmented sense of time and place.
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