Nigerian actor presents his new film at the American Pavilion

Nigeria makes history as "My Father’s Shadow" becomes the first film in Cannes’ Official Selection (Un Certain Regard). Director Akinola Davies Jr. crafts a deeply personal story about family, masculinity, and Nigeria’s turbulent 1993 post-election era. Starring Sope (Gangs of London) and real-life brothers Godwin & Chibuike Egbo, this semi-autobiographical drama has critics raving. For more details, watch our story and subscribe to our channel, DRM News

I had the occasion to meet Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù later at a panel discussion hosted by the American Pavillon. Global storytelling was on the agenda, and the actor represented Nollywood.

Stories grounded in cultural and geographic specificity often have the widest reach.

Moderated by Nancy Tartaglione from the Deadline, the panelists commented their work, that it should resonate globally by embracing their roots, along with the creative potential and challenges of telling culturally nuanced stories across borders.

Together with Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù were on stage three further panelists: 

Richard Lorber / Chairman / Kino Lorber

Fawzia Mirza / Writer, Director / The Queen of My Dreams

Frida Torresblanco / Producer / Hangtime Picture

Alice Kanterian