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The 78th Cannes Film Festival in 2025 has set a new benchmark for international cinema, with a lineup that underscores both global diversity and the rising influence of African filmmaking. This year’s festival, running from May 13 to 24 on the French Riviera, features a robust mix of premieres, directorial debuts, and documentaries from around the world, with a special spotlight on Africa’s cinematic contributions.
Historic Nigerian Representation
For the first time in nearly 80 years, a Nigerian film has been included in the festival’s Official Selection. My Father’s Shadow, directed by Akinola Davies Jr. and starring Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, was selected for the prestigious Un Certain Regard section. The film, set in Lagos during the aftermath of the 1993 presidential election, explores themes of family, legacy, and political turmoil. Davies Jr., who co-wrote the film with his brother Wale Davies, described the selection as a tribute to the resilience and creativity of Nigerian filmmakers, emphasizing the film’s role in sharing authentic Nigerian narratives with a global audience.
Adding to Nigeria’s presence, the historical fantasy epic Osamede premiered at the Cannes Film Market’s Pavillon Afriques. Directed by James Omokwe, known for his work on series like Ajoche and Riona, the film stars Ivie Okujaye Egboh, Lexan Aisosa Peters, and William Benson. Set during the British invasion of the Benin Empire, Osamede blends real history with vibrant fantasy, following a young orphan’s journey of courage and supernatural discovery. The film’s debut at Cannes signifies Nollywood’s ambition to tell culturally rooted stories that resonate internationally.
Absence of Ghanaian Films and Filmmakers
While Nigerian cinema made historic strides this year, there is no record of Ghanaian films or filmmakers being featured in the main lineup or special sections at Cannes 2025, according to available festival reports and coverage. The focus on Nigeria’s achievements reflects a broader trend of African nations striving for greater visibility, but Ghana’s absence from the headline selections suggests more work remains to ensure wider regional representation.
Broader Impact of African Cinema
African cinema’s growing prominence at Cannes is evident not only in the films selected but also in the festival’s broader programming and jury composition. With films like My Father’s Shadow and Osamede earning international attention, and special previews such as FESTAC ‘77 celebrating African cultural history, the festival is helping to redefine global perceptions of African storytelling. Industry leaders and filmmakers see this as a pivotal moment, marking a shift toward authentic, high-quality African narratives reaching worldwide audiences.
Cannes 2025 stands out as a landmark year for Nigerian-and by extension, African-cinema, with historic firsts in the Official Selection and a clear message that African filmmakers are ready to claim their place on the world stage. The absence of Ghanaian representation, however, highlights ongoing challenges in achieving broader continental inclusion.
#NollywoodAtCannes
#AfricanCinemaRising
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