Akinola Davies Jr.’s drama My Father’s Shadow will begin streaming on Netflix on September 21, 2026, following its cinema release and run at international film festivals.

Directed by Davies Jr. and co-written with his brother, Wale Davies, My Father’s Shadow follows two young brothers who spend an unexpected day with their estranged father in Lagos. Set during Nigeria’s 1993 election crisis, the film follows the family as they move through the city while dealing with tensions within their relationship and the uncertainty around them. The story takes place over a single day and draws partly from the filmmakers’ own experiences.

Photo: Instagram/@akinoladaviesjr

British-Nigerian actor Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù plays Folarin, the boys’ father, while Godwin Chiemerie Egbo and Chibuike Marvellous Egbo play his sons. The film was shot on 16mm by cinematographer Jermaine Edwards, with Lagos serving as both the setting and an important part of the story.

My Father’s Shadow premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, becoming the first Nigerian film selected for the festival’s Official Selection. It also received a Special Distinction at the Caméra d’Or, which recognises first features.

Photo: Instagram/@akinoladaviesjr

The film opened in Nigerian cinemas in September 2025 after its Cannes premiere, before continuing its festival and awards run internationally.

If you’re looking to round off the month with quality Nigerian stories, Netflix offers a selection of films and series that span crime, history, fantasy and suspense. Featuring respected filmmakers and well-known actors, these productions have helped showcase Nollywood to audiences around the world. Here are five titles worth adding to your watchlist.

The Black Book (2023 Movie / Action Thriller)

Directed by Editi Effiong, “The Black Book” stars Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ade Laoye and Sam Dede, with supporting performances from Iretiola Doyle and Shaffy Bello. The story follows Paul Edima, a former hitman who has rebuilt his life as a deacon. His world is turned upside down after his son is falsely accused of kidnapping and killed by corrupt police officers. Determined to uncover the truth, Paul is forced to confront the people behind the crime while seeking justice for his family.

Jagun Jagun (2023 Movie / Historical Epic-Action)

Produced by Femi Adebayo and directed by Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, “Jagun Jagun” is a Yoruba-language epic featuring Femi Adebayo, Lateef Adedimeji and Bimbo Ademoye. Set in a fictional ancient kingdom, the film follows a gifted young warrior determined to avenge his father, whose rise brings him into conflict with a powerful warlord. The story combines themes of loyalty, ambition and revenge.

Blood Sisters (2022 Limited Series / Thriller)

Directed by Biyi Bandele and Kenneth Gyang, “Blood Sisters” became Netflix’s first Nigerian original series. The thriller stars Ini Dima-Okojie, Nancy Isime and Kate Henshaw, alongside Deyemi Okanlawon. The story centres on best friends Sarah and Kemi, whose lives change after Sarah’s fiancé disappears during their engagement celebration. As they try to clear their names, they uncover dangerous family secrets and hidden rivalries.

Aníkúlápó (2022 Movie / Fantasy Drama)

Directed and produced by Kunle Afolayan, “Aníkúlápó” stars Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye and Sola Sobowale. Set in the old Oyo Empire, the film follows Saro, a travelling cloth weaver whose forbidden relationship with a queen leads to his death. After a mystical bird restores him to life, he gains the power to bring the dead back to life, that dramatically changed his fate, while revealing the consequences of power and ambition.

Seven Doors (2024 Limited Series / Historical Drama)

Directed by Femi Adebayo, Tope Adebayo Salami and Adebayo Tijani, “Seven Doors” features Femi Adebayo, Chioma Chukwuka and Jide Kosoko. The historical drama follows Adedunjoye, whose life changes after he becomes king of his community. As he navigates ancient traditions, he is confronted by a prophecy requiring him to open seven doors in order to atone for his ancestors’ past, while balancing his personal beliefs with the responsibilities of the throne.

Whether you enjoy action, historical stories or suspense-filled dramas, these five Nigerian productions offer a variety of experiences for your next Netflix session before the month comes to an end.

Netflix‘s latest African drama, ‘The Polygamist’, has sparked conversations among Nigerian viewers following its June 12 release, with discussions focusing on marriage, deception, accountability and family relationships.

The 22-episode South African telenovela, adapted from a novel by Zimbabwean author Sue Nyathi, follows Jonasi Gomora, a successful businessman whose carefully managed life begins to unravel as hidden relationships and long-buried secrets come to the surface. The series stars Sdumo Mtshali and Gugu Gumede and was produced by Stained Glass Productions.

Photo: Instagram

Since arriving on Netflix, the show has attracted attention in Nigeria, where it quickly climbed the platform’s television rankings. Data from streaming analytics platform FlixPatrol showed ‘The Polygamist’ among the most-watched TV shows on Netflix Nigeria within days of its release.

Across social media discussions, many viewers have focused less on the show’s twists and more on the choices made by its characters. Conversations on social media and entertainment forums have examined themes of infidelity, trust and personal responsibility, with some arguing that Jonasi’s actions caused avoidable damage to multiple families, while others questioned why certain characters remained in unhealthy situations for so long.

Photo: Instagram

Several viewers from Instagram described the series as emotionally charged and difficult to stop watching, pointing to its fast-paced storytelling and interconnected family drama.

Others expressed frustration with the behaviour of key characters, particularly the repeated deception and lack of accountability that drive much of the plot.

The show’s exploration of complicated relationships has also generated broader conversations about marriage and power dynamics. On Instagram and X some viewers said that the story highlights how dishonesty can affect partners, children and extended family members. Others viewed it as a reflection of social issues that continue to resonate across many African communities.

Photo: Instagram

Beyond the storyline, audiences have taken note of the production’s format. The 22-episode format allows more time for character development and interconnected storylines. The series was directed by Akin Omotoso, Rolie Nikiwe and Nthabi Tau.

While opinions remain divided, the growing discussion surrounding ‘The Polygamist’ suggests that the series has struck a chord with viewers. Whether audiences sympathise with its characters or criticise their decisions, the drama continues to generate debate about relationships, loyalty and accountability long after the credits roll.