‘Jagun Jagun’, ‘Pregnant’ top IIF 2024 festival nominations

The Ibadan International Film Festival (IIFF) has announced the official nominations for its 3rd edition, taking place from September 19 to 21.

According to the organisers, the nominations showcase exceptional films from around the world, including Iran, Nigeria, the USA, among others.

With over 3,000 submissions from 150 countries across 18 award categories, the event will be held at the BUNKer Ibadan.

Leading the nominations is the Nigerian epic “Jagun Jagun (The Warrior),” which has seven nominations, followed by the Iranian films “Pregnant” with five nominations and “Golden Blood” with four nominations.

The nominations span various categories, including Best Feature Film, where “Golden Blood” (Iran), “Pregnant” (Iran), and “Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)” (Nigeria) are contenders.

In the Best Short Film category, “BLACKHOLE” (USA), “The New Cardinal” (USA), and “JUDE” (Nigeria) received nods. The Best Animation category features “1996” (USA), “HEADLESS” (France), and “EARTHED” (UK).

Other categories include Best Student Film, with “Blowing off steam” (UK), “GUGUSSE” (Canada), and “The Last Sketch” (USA) shortlisted. For Best Nigerian Film, the nominees are “Ile Ayo (The Musical)” (Nigeria), “Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)” (Nigeria), and “T’egbon T’aburo (Siblings)” (Nigeria).

In the documentary category, “Following the Traces of the Ephemeral” (France), “On Your Own (Short)” (UK), and “The Art of Giving” (USA) are nominated. For Best Editing, the nominees are “On Your Own (Short)” (UK), “Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)” (Nigeria), and “Sada Kalo Prem: Love is Monochromatic” (India).

Best Cinematography nominees include “On Your Own (Short)” (UK), “FLASHBACK” (India), and “Pregnant” (Iran). For Best Sound Design, the shortlisted films are “Golden Blood” (Iran), “Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)” (Nigeria), and “GUGUSSE” (Canada).

renowned filmmaker and Convener of IIFF, Ogunlade Usman Blackky, expressed excitement about the calibre of films selected in the year 2024.

“The diversity and depth of the films we’ve selected are truly remarkable. Each submission underwent a rigorous screening process, and the final selections are a testament to the global talent in the film industry. We’re particularly proud to see Nigerian films like Jagun Jagun leading the nominations, as it highlights the strength and potential of African cinema on the world stage.”

Festival Director, Babatunde Ojobaro, who is also a comedian, actor, and theatre practitioner, spoke on the significance of this year’s festival.

“This year’s IIFF is not just about showcasing films; it’s about creating a space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration. We have an incredible lineup of panel discussions, workshops, and networking events that will offer filmmakers and attendees the opportunity to engage with the industry in meaningful ways. This festival is a celebration of cinema in all its forms, and we’re excited to welcome everyone to Ibadan.”

Head of Communications, IIFF, Femi Davies Alagbala, commended the efforts of the College of Screeners and Jury, who reviewed each submission.

“The selection process was both intense and rewarding. With over 3,000 films to consider, the dedication of our screeners and jurors was unparalleled. The final list of nominees reflects the best of what was submitted, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience these films.”

The organisers added that the festival will feature thought-provoking panel discussions, immersive workshops, and networking opportunities for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinema enthusiasts.

“The IIFF is a premier event celebrating the art of filmmaking in Nigeria and beyond, offering a platform for filmmakers to showcase their work, promoting cultural exchange and elevating African cinema on the global stage.”