Film Review: ‘My Father’s Shadow’ is a Poignant Love Letter to Lagos and its People

It has become a cliche of filmspeak to state that a city is portrayed like a character unto itself. But it’s hard to not think of that analogy in the case of the affectionate depiction of Nigeria’s most iconic city in Akinola Davies Jr’s My Father’s Shadow. Indeed, this auspicious debut feature is a vibrant, sensorial love letter to Lagos and its people.

Set in Lagos during 1993, tensions are rising in anticipation of election results amid an ongoing military coup. Miles away from the buzzing metropolitan center, however, two young boys – Aki and Remi are languishing in the restlessness of school holidays. One day, their malaise is excitingly interrupted when they are invited to tag along with their father (against their mother’s strict instructions) to the city, where he hopes to collect a long awaited salary. Upon learning that his payment will be further delayed, the trip becomes an adventurous day out, offering rare quality time with the boys’ hardworking father. And as the hours pass, they gradually begin to get a deeper understanding of their idolized father and the world around them. 

As the boys embark on this pivotal day in their lives, we see the world through their eyes as the dual character studies of Lagos and its central characters unfold. With regards to the former, the visuals and sound design truly envelope us, from the buzzing of insects, to the warm glow of the sunlight, to the blaring car horns. Somehow, Davies’ makes this cacophony of Lagos’ noisy streets feel more like a symphony. And the camera drinks it all in, often diverting its gaze towards quotidian beauty, like a third curious child in awe of the surroundings.

But while the film does flirt with poetic flourishes (one beach scene in particular recalls Mahershali’s fatherly presence in Moonlight) it remains firmly rooted in Lagos’ vibrant energy thanks to the undeniable human elements. The plot and dialogue are rich in the details of that time and place in Nigeria, whether it be the pervasive discussions of the election, the foreboding military presence or gregarious greetings between friends. And natives of postcolonial developing states would surely relate to the love-hate sentiments expressed about Nigeria throughout.

For Davies, however, it’s clear that the balance tips towards love, with the nostalgia-tinged imagery lingering on tender father-son moments and warm embraces. Indeed, the perfect chemistry between our central trio of father and sons conveys a genuine bond, as well as the film’s underlying poignancy. Godwin Egbo and Chibuike Marvelous Egbo are naturals in front of the camera, completely present and engaged in every scene. Meanwhile, Dirisu cuts a commanding presence, with a brawny physique that belies the vulnerability behind his kind eyes and furrowed brow. 

Dirisu’s nuanced portrayal embodies the conflicting tensions of hope and danger that pervade throughout My Father Shadow. His worried face during foreboding flashbacks – or perhaps more accurately, flash fowards – signal a looming threat, juxtaposing his otherwise comforting demeanor. Ultimately, his performance and the film’s time capsule qualities leave us with the feeling of a wet hug – warm, but drenched in the tears of unfulfilled promise.

SCORE: ★★★

My Father’s Shadow opens in select theaters February 13.