“With great tenderness, Davies imagines such dreams, memories and even cinema itself as a portal through which we might resume communion, and honour what could have been.” – Abiba Coulibaly, Sight & Sound
“The unusual power of MY FATHER’S SHADOW for all its subjectivity, comes from its elements of impersonality—from the seemingly scriptural authority with which memory is sublimated into myths and relationships into destinies. – Richard Brody, The New Yorker
Saturday, July 11, 4:00 p.m. | The first Nigerian film ever to screen in Official Selection at Cannes, this prizewinning debut feature from Akinola Davies Jr. is steeped in feeling and lyrical imagery. Bathing the father-son bond in a tender glow, this vibrant coming-of-age tale gathers up precious things amid political tumult.
Awards & Nominations
2025 Cannes Film Festival - Caméra d’Or Special Mention
MUBI FEST CHICAGO | July 11–12, 2026
BETTER TOGETHER: A series of cinematic pairings that reflect and refract one another, exploring relationships as a shifting bond shaped by loyalty, desire, intimacy and power. Each film might echo or complicate the other, but they're always better together.
The Film Center is ADA accessible. This presentation will be projected without open captions. The theater is hearing-loop equipped. For accessibility requests, please email filmcenter@saic.edu