By Our Correspondent

National News – Nigerian historical drama, My Father’s Shadow, emerged as the biggest winner at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards held in Lagos on Saturday night.

The emotionally driven film defeated several Nollywood blockbusters to win five major awards, including Best Movie, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Score/Music, and Best Sound Design.

Directed by Akinola Davies Jr., the film tells the story of two brothers, Akin and Remi, who reconnect with their estranged father during Nigeria’s tense 1993 election crisis.

The movie stars Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù as Folarin, a troubled father trying to rebuild his relationship with his children amid political unrest, poverty, and emotional struggles.

The award-winning movie stood out for its emotional storytelling, nostalgic Lagos setting, and cinematic quality.

Shot on 16mm film, the production captured the atmosphere of 1990s Lagos with grainy visuals, military checkpoints, crowded buses, and tense street scenes that reflected the uncertainty of the annulled June 12 election era.

The screenplay, co-written by Akinola Davies Jr. and Wale Davies, was inspired by personal family experiences following the loss of their father at a young age.

The film explores themes of grief, masculinity, family bonds, brotherhood, and generational trauma, which resonated strongly with audiences and AMVCA judges.

Before its AMVCA success, “My Father’s Shadow” had already gained international recognition after becoming the first Nigerian film selected for the official lineup of the Cannes Film Festival.

The film also received attention at the BAFTA Awards and British Independent Film Awards, further boosting its global profile.

Its AMVCA victory highlights Nollywood’s growing global influence and the rising demand for emotionally rich African storytelling with international cinematic appeal.