In a bold cinematic stride for Nigerian storytelling, the historical fantasy film Osamede by acclaimed director James Omokwe is poised for its international premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Market. The screening is scheduled for May 17 at the prestigious Pavillon Afriques, spotlighting a rich blend of heritage and fantasy that reimagines the mythology of the 1897 Benin Kingdom.
Backed by executive producer and finance mogul Lilian Olubi, Osamede follows a young orphan girl who uncovers extraordinary powers tied to an ancient Aruosa stone—power she must wield to challenge British colonial forces. The project is a cinematic evolution of a successful stage production that captivated audiences with twelve sold-out runs under the banner of Gold Lilies Productions.
Olubi underscores the film’s significance, stating, “With Osamede, we are not just telling stories—we’re redefining how African historical narratives are shared globally. This is a cultural revolution packaged with world-class fantasy production quality.”
The cast features a dynamic ensemble including Ivie Okujaye Egboh, Lexan Aisosa Peters, and Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, bringing to life a genre that has gained global traction through works like The Woman King and Black Panther. Omokwe, reflecting on the film’s cultural mission, says, “This isn’t just fantasy. It’s a reclaiming of our identity—transforming our myths into visual epics that inspire and empower.”
The film’s Cannes appearance coincides with a major milestone for Nollywood: My Father’s Shadow making history as the first Nigerian film in the Cannes Official Selection. Together, these entries mark a new chapter for Nigerian cinema, demonstrating its increasing resonance on the global stage and aligning with the government’s ‘Screen Nigeria’ initiative to expand the country’s international film footprint.
