Nigeria’s Cannes Darling ‘My Father’s Shadow’ Finally Lands on Netflix — About Time

Akinola Davies Jr.’s acclaimed drama “My Father’s Shadow” hits Netflix on September 21, 2026, following a run that’s picked up more hardware than most Nollywood films see in a decade.

Set in Lagos during the tense June 12, 1993 election crisis, the film follows two young brothers as they accompany their estranged father through the city while he tries to collect overdue salary — and stumble into family secrets along the way. Shot on 16mm film and led by Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù, the movie has already crossed $1 million at the global box office.

Its trophy case includes a Caméra d’Or Special Mention at Cannes 2025, a BAFTA for Outstanding Debut, a Gotham Award for Breakthrough Director, and a clean sweep at the 2026 AMVCAs for Best Overall Movie, Best Director and Best Writing.

If you’ve been waiting to see what all the festival buzz was about without booking a cinema ticket, September 21 is your day.

Source: BellaNaija.