My Father’s Shadow, the feature debut from British-Nigerian filmmaker Akinola Davies Jr., has won the BAFTA for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer at the 79th British Academy Film Awards in London.
The win marks another historic moment for Nigerian storytelling on the global stage. Davies Jr. received the award alongside his brother and collaborator, Wale Davies, who co-wrote the film. The project beat other shortlisted titles including The Ceremony, Pillion, A Want In Her, and Wasteman to secure the prize.
The award recognises first-time feature filmmakers whose work demonstrates originality, craft and strong creative vision. For Davies Jr., whose journey began with short films and music videos before moving into feature filmmaking, the honour confirms the arrival of a major new voice in British and African cinema.
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A Personal Story Set Against a National Turning Point
Set during Nigeria’s 1993 presidential election crisis, My Father’s Shadow follows two young brothers navigating Lagos with their father on a day that quietly changes their understanding of family, masculinity and uncertainty. The election, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most significant political moments, was annulled by the military government, leading to nationwide tension.
Rather than retelling the political drama from a distance, the film centres the emotional life of one family. The story, conceived by Davies Jr. and Wale Davies serves as a tribute to their late father, Akinola David Sr. In interviews, the brothers have described the film as both deeply personal and reflective of a wider generation shaped by migration, memory and identity.
Accepting the award on stage at the Royal Festival Hall, Davies Jr. thanked his family for nurturing the idea behind the film. He dedicated the win to immigrant parents who made sacrifices to build new futures for their children, adding that their stories matter now more than ever.
Wale Davies also honoured their father, describing shadows as ‘proof of light’, a metaphor that captures the film’s title and emotional core. The moment resonated strongly with audiences, particularly across the African diaspora.
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From Cannes to BAFTA: A Landmark Run
The BAFTA win adds to what has already been a remarkable journey for My Father’s Shadow. The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, becoming the first Nigerian film ever selected for Cannes’ Official Selection. It went on to receive a Caméra d’Or Special Mention and later earned recognition at the British Independent Film Awards and the Gotham Independent Film Awards.
Davies Jr. is no stranger to critical acclaim. His 2020 short film, Lizard, inspired by his childhood in Lagos, won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival and earned a BAFTA nomination. However, My Father’s Shadow marks his first full-length feature, making this Outstanding Debut award particularly significant.
The film’s success signals a shift in how Nigerian stories are positioned globally. It shows that stories rooted in local history and lived experience can travel widely without being diluted. By shooting on location and staying faithful to the emotional truth of the narrative, the filmmakers delivered a project that feels grounded yet universal.
On a night that also saw British-Nigerian actress Wunmi Mosaku win Best Supporting Actress for Sinners, the 2026 BAFTAs underscored the growing influence of African and diaspora creatives in international cinema.
For filmmakers across the continent, My Father’s Shadow offers a clear example of what is possible when craft, cultural depth and persistence meet opportunity.
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