Activist, Temitayo Awodoyin to release Cutter’s Festival at UNCSW

Nigerian film maker, Philanthropist and Frontline Activist Temitayo Awodoyin set to release powerful New Film tittled “Cutter’s Festival” to be screened in March 2025 in commemoration of International Women’s Day at the UNCSW 69th in New York, USA.

To raise awareness about the impact of grassroot efforts in combating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and related matters in Nigeria and to inspire frontline activists across the world, Temitayo Awodoyin has produced Cutter’s Festival, a docu-drama starring veteran actor Peter Fatomilola, Adetutu Adewunmi, and Yinka Salau, amongst others.

“Cutter’s Festival” is a powerful and thought-provoking film that showcases the strengths and challenges faced by frontline activists working tirelessly to eradicate FGM in local and hard-to-reach communities. Shot on location in Ile-Ife, Osun State, the film celebrates the rich traditions and values of the community while highlighting the importance of ending FGM.

Temitayo Awodoyin, a seasoned filmmaker with over two decades of experience, has passionately invested in this project. As a board member, Director of Operations at Initiative For Girl’s Rights and Health Development (IGRHD) and member of the frontline end FGM movement, Temitayo has been at the forefront of encouraging fellow men to discourage the culture of FGM.

“Cutter’s Festival” is produced by Temitayo Awodoyin through his film company, Afrospire Films Production. The film aims to inspire frontline activists, reminding them that their struggles are shared and not personal. It also seeks to encourage private donors and donor organizations to continue funding grassroots organizations working to end FGM. Speaking with the lead Actor Adetutu Adewunmi who acted as Abebi, she says Cutter’s Festival is a masterpiece of Storytelling, fom the title to the intricate plot and vivid storytelling, Cutter’s Festival is undoubtedly a blockbuster. After reading the script particularly impressed by the unexpected twists, breaking away from the conventional movie endings we often see. One of the most compelling aspects of the story is the irony of the heroes’ struggle—the very people they seek to save resist their own liberation. This brilliantly mirrors the reality of our society, where many choose to cling to myths and ideologies that pose a threat to communal progress.The climax had me on the edge of my seat, and I couldn’t help but scream, I eagerly anticipate the sequel and would highly recommend this movie over and over again.

Playing the lead character in Cutter’s Festival is both exhilarating and challenging. It has pushed me beyond my comfort zone, demanding not just emotional depth but also a strong connection to the character’s struggles and triumphs. Stepping into the role made me more aware of the complexities of human nature—how people often resist change even when it’s for their own good.

As a young actor, this experience has taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of fully immersing myself in a role. It has also helped me refine my craft, from mastering nuanced expressions to conveying powerful emotions. I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring such a compelling story to life.

Ayodeji Awodoyin, wife of the Producer and board member of Afrospire Films says Temitayo has been passionate since he shared the idea with her and she has no doubt, it will encourage Activists to stay focused regardless of challenges. As an Activist, Ayodeji says the film makes her feel seen and heard.

Cutter’s Festival will be screened in Newyork, USA with Highlevel officials such as Diplomats, Renowned Filmakers, UN Key leaders and private donors such as the Wallace Global Fund who supported the production of this film.