In a groundbreaking moment for Nigerian cinema, “Osamede” is set to premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Market on May 17 at Pavillon Afriques. Directed by James Omokwe, a multiple Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) winner, and executive produced by finance veteran Lilian Olubi, this highly anticipated film brings to life the rich mythology of the ancient Benin Kingdom.
Set during the pivotal 1897 British invasion of the Benin Empire, Osamede tells the story of an orphaned girl who discovers superhuman powers tied to the mystical Aruosa stone. Armed with these newfound abilities, she embarks on a heroic mission to liberate her people from British colonial rule. This narrative uniquely blends history with fantasy, carving a fresh niche in the genre of African historical fantasy.
“Nigeria has exported music and films globally, but with Osamede, we’re revolutionizing how African historical narratives are presented,” says Olubi. She emphasizes that the film matches Hollywood fantasy epics in production values while staying deeply rooted in authentic African storytelling. Olubi will also be a featured speaker at Cannes, joining the panel titled Beyond Budgets: Innovative Funding for Filmmakers.
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Ivie Okujaye Egboh, Lexan Aisosa Peters, William Benson, Tosin Adeyemi, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, and Alexander Bud. Together, they breathe life into a story that joins the growing global category of African historical fantasy, following in the footsteps of successes like The Woman King.
One remarkable aspect of Osamede is its evolution from stage to screen. Olubi’s Gold Lilies Productions originally produced the play as a theatrical performance, staging it twelve times to sell-out audiences. This strong theatrical foundation gives the film a tested narrative strength, similar to the model used by successful Broadway-to-screen adaptations.
Director James Omokwe, known for hits like Ajoche, Riona, Itura, and Chetam, states, “Osamede goes beyond a fantasy film set in Africa. With this film, we’re reclaiming our historical narrative through the fantasy genre.” He further explains that while Black Panther introduced global audiences to Afrofuturism, Osamede seeks to redefine African historical fantasy by weaving the myths of the Benin Kingdom into a grand cinematic spectacle.
Shot on location in Benin City, Nigeria, Osamede showcases meticulous attention to historical accuracy. The film’s production team incorporated authentic cultural elements, from costumes to traditional practices, alongside state-of-the-art visual effects. The result is an immersive world that respects historical facts while delivering the visual excitement expected from epic fantasy films.
The timing of Osamede’s premiere is particularly symbolic. This year also marks a historic milestone, as My Father’s Shadow becomes the first Nigerian film ever selected for the Cannes Official Selection. The simultaneous presence of these two films signifies a new era of international recognition for Nigerian cinema, driven by the country’s ambitious Screen Nigeria initiative.
Global audiences are increasingly drawn to culturally rich stories with universal themes. Osamede presents a rare opportunity to tap into the commercial appeal of historical fantasy while introducing viewers to the untapped cinematic wealth of Benin Kingdom mythology. With growing interest in African narratives, the film is poised to captivate international audiences eager for fresh perspectives and powerful storytelling.
Exclusive first-look images released by Gold Lilies Productions reveal the film’s lush visuals, featuring sprawling landscapes, intricate costumes, and epic battle scenes set against the backdrop of the Benin Empire. These previews hint at a visual and emotional journey that will both entertain and educate viewers about a significant but often overlooked chapter of African history.
Osamede is not merely a movie; it is a cultural statement. Osamede stands at the intersection of history and imagination, offering a fresh model for African storytelling in the global arena. As it makes its debut at Cannes, it promises to inspire a new wave of historical fantasy films rooted in the rich and diverse heritages of African civilizations.
