The Hollywood Reporter has unveiled an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated directorial debut of Akinola Davies Jr., poised to make its mark at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù (Slow Horses, Gangs of London) takes center stage in the semi-autobiographical tale, My Father’s Shadow. Crafted from the imagination of brothers Wale Davies and Davies Jr., the film captures a poignant journey between two young brothers, Remi and Akin, as they spend a transformative day with their estranged father, Folarin.
Set against the vibrant and chaotic backdrop of Lagos, the brothers embark on an eye-opening adventure, witnessing the sprawling metropolis for the first time while grappling with the challenges their father faces to provide for them. All of this unfolds amid the turbulence of the 1993 presidential election result, casting a shadow over Folarin's struggles to ensure Remi and Akin find their way home. The first exclusive image provided to THR reveals Dìrísù, embodying Folarin with intensity, seated on the bustling streets of Lagos alongside Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo. Davies Jr. shared his emotions, stating, “Bringing My Father’s Shadow to life in my home country—a narrative so deeply personal to me and my brother Wale, who penned the script—is beyond a dream. Collaborating with the remarkable Ṣọpẹ́ Dìr
He passionately stated, “This incredible journey has only been possible thanks to the steadfast support of Eva Yates at BBC Film, Ama Ampadu at the BFI, and my exceptional producers Rachel Dargavel from Element Pictures and Funmbi Ogunbanwo at Fatherland Productions. I am thrilled to unveil a hidden aspect of my home and the city that shaped me, a perspective seldom portrayed on screen.” On Thursday, the Cannes executives revealed that the film will be showcased in the illustrious Un Certain Regard section, which celebrates bold directorial debuts.
Alongside Davies Jr.’s remarkable work, this prestigious lineup will also include Scarlett Johansson’s Eleanor the Great, featuring the talents of June Squibb, and Harris Dickinson’s haunting British drama Urchin, which tells the gripping tale of a homeless man navigating the harsh realities of London. My Father’s Shadow stands as a collaboration between BBC Film and BFI, joined by the creative forces of Match Factory, Fremantle, Electric Theatre Collective, and MUBI. This Element Pictures production, in partnership with Crybaby and Fatherland, beckons audiences into an evocative exploration of untold stories. Worldwide sales are being expertly managed by The Match Factory. Meanwhile, the arthouse distributor and streamer Mubi has secured all rights for North America, the U.K., Ireland, and Turkey. The theatrical release plans for North America, the U.K., and Ireland remain shrouded in anticipation.
