My Father's Shadow

In this semi-autobiographical tale set over the course of a single day during the 1993 Nigerian election crisis, two young brothers follow their estranged father through the massive city of Lagos, witnessing both the city's magnitude and their father's daily struggles as political unrest threatens their journey home. A beguiling, superbly shot coming-of-age tale centered on father-son bond, both subtle and emotionally powerful.

Co-written by director Akinola Davis and his brother Wale, My Father’s Shadow contains all of the incomparable, organic bond between two brothers, especially as they go through a trying experience together. And when a filmmaker adopts so wholly, and with such love, the point of view of children, the resulting images cannot but take you in their arms. For the eyes of a child see everything and record everything as huge and important, potentially life changing. A truly beautiful film.

Introduced by producer Ed Guiney (Element Pictures).

Special ticket offer: Ed Guiney In Conversation (11.45, Triskel, Sun 9 Nov) + My Father's Shadow: €15 (select in book tickets window to avail).

This film is eligible for the Best New Irish Feature Award, proudly sponsored by the Irish Examiner.

Cork International Film Festival is delighted to return to its Principal Venue, The Arc Cinema on North Main St, Cork, for its 70th Festival edition, Thursday 6th to Sunday 16th November 2025.

The Arc Cinema Cork is home to The GATE Screen — a space dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of the beloved former Gate Cinema — and an ideal spot for meeting fellow festival goers in between screenings. The GATE Screen features luxurious double sofa seats and tables, creating an intimate and sophisticated viewing experience. It is dedicated to showcasing arthouse films, including independent and local productions, foreign and Irish language titles throughout the year.