By Oghenekevwe Kofi
Nollywood is about to take centre stage on the global film circuit as Osamede, a powerful historical fantasy set in the 1897 Benin Kingdom, is gearing up for its debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Market in 2025. Scheduled for a special screening on May 17 at the Pavillon Afriques, a key hub celebrating African cinema, the film promises to be a groundbreaking moment for Nigerian storytelling internationally.
Photo: Director James Omokwe and executive producer Lilian Olubi
Directed by James Omokwe and executive produced by Lilian Olubi under the Gold Lilies banner, Osamede blends history, mythology, and fantasy into an epic tale of courage, identity, and resilience. At the heart of the story is a young orphaned girl who discovers she has superhuman powers and is destined to wield the mythical Aruosa Stone to free her people from British colonial rule.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the infamous 1897 British invasion of the Benin Kingdom, Osamede tackles themes of power, resistance, and cultural identity through a genre rarely seen in African cinema. This bold and imaginative narrative offers a fresh perspective on historical events, filtering them through the lens of an African heroine who is ready to change the course of history.
As part of Nigeria’s ambitious “Screen Nigeria” initiative, which is launching at Cannes to showcase the nation’s thriving film and audiovisual industry, Osamede is set to be one of the most anticipated films at Pavillon Afriques. The pavilion is dedicated to promoting African talent, and the film will be presented to international buyers, distributors, and film lovers, positioning it as a must-see title.
“Osamede is more than just a film; it’s a movement,” says executive producer Lilian Olubi. “It’s about reclaiming our history, reimagining our narratives, and asserting our rightful place in global cinema. We are incredibly proud to bring this story to Cannes.”
With its Cannes debut just around the corner, Osamede is already generating excitement as one of the standout films from Africa this year. For Nollywood and Nigerian creatives, this screening is not just a moment of recognition—it’s a statement that African stories are powerful, captivating, and deserve to be showcased on the world’s biggest stages.
On May 17, all eyes will be on Osamede, as it takes its first step toward global acclaim. The world is about to see Nigeria shine.
