AFRIFF 2023
Ahead of its cinema release on December 1, 2023 and as part of the lineup of activities for this year’s Africa International Film Festival, Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boy Story, positioned itself as one of the festival’s most anticipated entries.
At the festival, the Kayode Kasum directed movie, which delves into the rich world of the apprenticeship system and unveils the essence of Igbo entrepreneurship and the power of a united community, held the eagerly gathered audience to a compelling cinematic experience that stole their hearts.
The film dwells on how the Igbo apprenticeship system revitalised the community’s economy by allowing successful Igbo men to pass on their knowledge and blessings to apprentices, perpetuating the cycle of wealth creation. This gripping narrative not only captivated the audiences but also proved to be a perfect highlight of the film festival’s theme, ‘Indigenous 2.0 to Global’, which began on Sunday, November 5 and ends today, November 11.
Delving deep into the Igbo apprenticeship system, the film offers the festival attendees an immersive experience into the cultural heritage, ambition, sacrifice, love, betrayal and redemption associated with this revered institution.
It follows the journey of Afamefuna interpreted by Paul Nnadiekwe and his peers as they embark on the path to economic freedom through apprenticeship, while vividly portraying their ambitions, the sacrifices required to succeed, and the betrayals that accompany success. The boys try to outdo themselves to please and make money for Odogwu, their master.
According to a statement from Come On Naija, the production studio, “there is a significant aspect of Nigerian history that needs to be unpacked and this is one of the many reasons we decided to make this particular movie.”
Produced by Omobayowa Alabi, and executive produced by Lawumi Fajemirokun and Kenechukwu Egbue, the cast list includes Kanayo O Kanayo, Segun Arinze, Stan Nze, Alex Ekubo, Chuks Joseph, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Jide Kene Achufusi, Eso Dike and Paul Nnadiekwe. It is distributed by Film One Entertainment.
Also at the festival, another film that excited the audience was Over the Bridge, a movie that revolves around Folarin Marinho, an investment banker who grapples with alcohol addiction and sporadic panic attacks.
When Folarin mysteriously disappears while working on a significant government project in Lagos, viewers are led through the myriad challenges and stress he faces in his high-profile life, while his disappearance plunges his family into confusion.
Set against the backdrop of Corporate Lagos, which is dubbed as Nigeria’s commercial nerve center and West Africa economic hub, the movie riveting psychological thriller is a testament to the talent of the cast and crew, as it enjoyed a successful world premiere in the UK in October this year.
Produced by Bose Oshin, directed by Tolulope Ajayi and shot by K.C Obiajulu, Over the Bridge features standout performances by Ozzy Agu in the lead role, alongside seasoned actors Joke Silva, Deyemi Okanlawon, Segilola Ogidan, Chimezie Imo and Paul Adams.
Giving the opening remarks at the festival, Latasha Ngwube, stated that the 12th edition of the African International Film Festival is set to uncover new talents, create insider opportunities and screen hundreds of films for free. “The world is coming to Nigeria as AFRIFF looks internally to strengthen and grow in preparation to take African stories made by Africans to the world.”
