Nigerian feature films “Mojisola” and “This Is Lagos” have been chosen as part of the selection for the prestigious 2024 Pan African Film Festival (PAFF) held in Los Angeles, California. The festival, which pays tribute to black film, art, and culture, is set to feature more than 140 films along with diverse Q&A sessions and in-depth discussions.
Director Kenneth Gyang, responsible for both Nigerian features, expressed his excitement about the festival’s selection. “The Pan African Film Festival holds immense significance as it kickstarts the celebrations for Black History Month, providing a vital platform for cultural exchange and representation of diverse narratives from the African diaspora. As a cultural ambassador from Nigeria, I am excited to present these stories from Cinema Kpatakpata,” he shared with ShockNg.
“This Is Lagos” delves into the life of Stevo, a young man aspiring for superstardom in the bustling city of Lagos, exploring the challenges and excitement of urban living. The cast includes Gabriel Afolayan, Ikechukwu Onunaku, Rahama Sadau, Kate Henshaw, Enyinna Nwigwe, and others.
Meanwhile, “Mojisola” narrates the journey of a young girl on a quest to save her love, facing an unexplainable life-threatening illness.
Kenneth Gyang returns to the festival after a decade since his first feature film, “Confusion Na Wa,” won the Jury Prize in 2014. Reflecting on the opportunity, Gyang expressed his joy, stating, “In 2014, my first feature film Confusion Na Wa won the Jury Prize there. Ten years later, I am happy to be back with two features.” The selection of these Nigerian films highlights the continued recognition of African cinema on the global stage.