The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival from May 13 to May 24, 2025 marks a historic turning point for Nigerian cinema. For the first time ever, Nigeria isn’t just participating at the prestigious global event; it’s staking a powerful claim on the world stage.

From a debut national pavilion to the official recognition of two groundbreaking films, Nigeria is rewriting the narrative of African storytelling at Cannes. This year’s festival features 22 films in the Official Selection, but what makes 2025 unforgettable for Nollywood isn’t just the numbers, it’s the quality, boldness, and cultural depth of the stories being told.

This is more than presence. It’s representation with purpose, and a moment that signals a new era for Nigerian film.

Here are the two Nigerian films making waves at Cannes 2025, each bringing a unique story and perspective to the global stage.

My Father’s Shadow

Director: Akinola Davies Jr.

Category: Cannes Official Selection

Premiere Date: May 18, 2025

My Father’s Shadow makes history as the first Nigerian feature film to be included in the Cannes Official Selection. Set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election, the film follows two brothers navigating a politically tense Lagos with their estranged father.

With raw emotion, political insight, and masterful cinematography, this film represents a milestone for Nigerian storytelling on the global stage.

Osamede

Director: James Omokwe

Category: Cannes Film Market Screening

Screening Date: May 17, 2025

Rooted in African mythology and history, Osamede is a fantasy thriller set in the 1897 Benin Kingdom. It follows a young orphan girl who discovers her superhuman powers and sets out to protect her people against colonial threats. With its stunning visuals and mythical narrative, Osamede is a bold testament to Nollywood’s capacity for genre innovation and world-building.

Its screening at the Cannes Film Market puts the spotlight on Nigeria’s ability to compete at a global scale.

Conclusion

With the groundbreaking inclusion of My Father’s Shadow and the fantasy brilliance of Osamede, Cannes 2025 marks a monumental moment for Nollywood.

This is not just a breakthrough, it’s a blueprint for the next chapter of Nollywood: bold, visionary, and ready to take center stage. Which of these Nigerian films will you watch first? The historical and emotional layers of My Father’s Shadow? The magical, mythical adventure of Osamede? Let me know in the comments which one you’re most excited to see.

Read also: From Nominees to Reigning Stars 

Imagine being in the presence of greatness, witnessing a superstar in the making. That’s exactly what’s happening on Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter Tour, where Queen Bey’s little star, Rumi, is stealing the spotlight. As you watch, you can’t help but be captivated by Rumi’s adorable antics and charming personality.

Beyonce performing “Tyrant” on a Metallic Bull

On 28th April, 2025, Beyonce kicked off her “Cowboy Carter Tour” at SoFi stadium outside of Los Angeles. It has been a riveting and incredible experience for people present and virtually viewing.

Queen Bey and Her Little Star, Rumi on the performance of “PROTECTOR” during the Cowboy Carter Tour in LA

During the opening night of “Cowboy Carter Tour” Blue Ivy and Rumi joined their mother onstage to perform “PROTECTOR” one of the tracks on “Cowboy Carter’s” album which was released March 29th, 2024 that features Rumi’s voice. The crowd went wild in cheers of Rumi’s appearance and performance.

Beyonce, Rumi, and Blue Ivy onstage

Rumi, Beyoncé’s youngest daughter, is making waves on the tour, and it’s clear she’s a natural-born performer. With her big smile and infectious energy, she’s winning hearts everywhere she goes. Whether she’s dancing, singing, or just being her adorable self, Rumi is undoubtedly the miniature queen of the Cowboy Carter Tour.

Beyonce and Rumi onstage

Beyoncé and Jay-Z’s parenting style is clearly paying off, as Rumi exudes a sense of comfort and belonging on stage. She’s growing up surrounded by music and performance, and it shows. With every step, every gesture, and every adorable expression, Rumi is proving herself to be a true superstar in the making.

Read also: Ayra Star and Wizkid’s “Gimme dat” Honest Review 

As the Cowboy Carter Tour continues, one thing is clear: Rumi is the ultimate scene-stealer. She’s a reminder that talent and charm can come in the smallest packages. So, get ready to be dazzled more by this tiny superstar, because Rumi is here to stay, and she’s shining brighter than ever.

Olivier Farwell’s visit to Goree Island was a poignant reminder of the complex and often painful history that lies beneath the surface of this small, yet historically significant landmass off the coast of Dakar, Senegal. As he stepped foot on the island, he was met with a mix of emotions – a sense of reverence for the millions of souls who once passed through its infamous “Door of No Return“, and a deep appreciation for the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

Olivier Farwell in The crystal clear water of Goree Island wearing a big beautiful smile

The island’s history is a haunting one, marked by the brutal transatlantic slave trade that saw an estimated 20 million Africans forcibly taken from their homes, sold into slavery, and shipped across the Atlantic to the Americas, never to return. The House of Slaves, a historic building now turned museum, stands as a stark reminder of this dark past, its cramped cells a testament to the inhumane conditions endured by those who were once held captive within its walls.

Olivier Farwell in a Yatch

As Olivier walked through the island’s picturesque landscape, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the stark contrast between the island’s serene atmosphere and the brutal history that unfolded there. The pastel-colored buildings, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters seemed to whisper secrets of the past, their beauty belied by the atrocities that took place within the island’s walls.

Olivier Farwell on black Sunglasses

The Door of No Return, a small doorway located at the back of the House of Slaves, was the last glimpse of freedom for millions of enslaved Africans. Once they passed through it, they were forced onto ships bound for the Americas, never to see their homeland again. Such a scary and tragic experience for the slaves.

Oliveir Farwell watching the beauty of God’s creation

As photographer Samba Ba Ka Lo captured Olivier’s moment on the boat, the businessman couldn’t help but smile, perhaps in reverence to the island’s complex history or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere. Whatever the reason, Olivier’s visit to Goree Island was a testament to the enduring power of human connection and the importance of preserving our collective history, acknowledging and learning from the past.