Following its Cannes premiere earlier this year, Akinola Davies Jr.’s critically acclaimed debut feature, My Father’s Shadow, has released its first official trailer ahead of its U.K. and U.S. theatrical release on February 6, 2026 via MUBI.
The semi-autobiographical drama is set over a single day during the 1993 Nigerian election crisis. It follows Fola (Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù), a Nigerian father, as he attempts to bond with his estranged sons, Akin (Godwin Egbo) and Remi (Chibuike Marvellous Egbo), while navigating the chaotic streets of Lagos amid political unrest. What begins as a hopeful journey of connection and reconciliation quickly becomes a tense struggle for safety as the city descends into turmoil.
Co-written with his brother Wale Davies, Akinola Davies Jr. said the historical backdrop “helped us create a huge amount of tension and tell the story of what actually happened in that period in Nigeria. It also helps people understand the history of Nigerians, as well as the diaspora, as well as other people in Africa, as well as other people in the world.”
The film made history earlier this year as the first Nigerian feature selected for Cannes’ Un Certain Regard and has since continued to collect accolades. Davies Jr. won Best Director at the British Independent Film Awards, while Dìrísù earned Breakthrough Director and Outstanding Lead Performance honors at the Gotham Awards. Additionally, the film has been selected as the U.K.’s official submission for Best International Feature Film at the Academy Awards.
The official poster, created by celebrated Ghanaian artist D.A. Jasper, reflects West African cinematic traditions and the film’s emotional depth. Jasper described the process as “a wonderful and emotional journey” in translating the story’s visual and emotional essence onto canvas.
My Father’s Shadow combines lyrical cinematography from Jermaine Edwards with a deeply personal narrative, offering a child’s perspective on family, estrangement, and resilience against a backdrop of political instability.
The trailer showcases the film’s blend of poetic imagery and rising tension, hinting at the emotional and physical challenges Fola and his sons face as Lagos—and Nigeria—teeters on the edge of upheaval.
MUBI has pre-bought rights for multiple territories, ensuring the film will reach audiences internationally when it opens in theaters next February.