A coming-of-age story that unfolds across one day in Lagos
In Lagos, 1993, while Nigeria is in the throes of a deep political crisis, Akin and Remi — two young brothers — spend a rare and precious day with their father, Folarin. Through the children’s eyes, the city unfolds in all of its complexity: urban bustle, social tensions, fragile hopes. Through journeys, silences, and moments of connection, this intimate interlude gradually reveals the sacrifices, contradictions, and tenderness of a father trying to protect his sons in an unstable world.
With great delicacy, this debut feature captures the density of a single day lived as a journey, attending closely to sensations, fleeting emotions, and the world as seen through children’s eyes.
Special Mention for the Caméra d'Or award, Festival de Cannes, 2025, fr
Toronto - TIFF, 2025, ca
Special Mention for the Gold Hugo, Chicago International Film Festival, 2025, us
Rampa Award, Seville European Film Festival, 2025, es
Silver Peacock Special Jury Award, International Film Festival of India, 2025, in
Best Director, British Independent Film Awards, 2025, gb
Breakthrough Director, Gotham Independent Film Award, 2025, us
Best Director, Pingyao International Film Festival, 2025, cn
Akinola Davies Jr
Born in Hammersmith (London) and drawn to cinema from an early age, Akinola Davies Jr. studied directing at the New York Film Academy after completing his studies at the University of Brighton. His career began with the acclaimed short film Lizard (2020). He was subsequently selected for Berlinale Talents and named a ‘Star of Tomorrow’ by Screen Daily. His debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, premiered in Un Certain Regard in 2025, where it received a Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or, and went onto win the British Independent Film Award for Best Director.
