Israel Eziedo’s “Ajamu” Wins Big at the World Film Festival in Canne

The cast and crew of “Ajamu” have reason to celebrate as the film clinched the Best Foreign Film award at the October edition of the prestigious World Film Festival in Cannes 2024.

Directed and produced by Israel Eziedo, “Ajamu” features a stellar Nollywood cast, including Jide “JBlaze” Oyegbile, Pere Egbi, Segun Arinze, Tunbosun Aiyedehin, Miriam Peters, Lady T, MC Omoawe, Adenike Odubawo, Fadare Faniyi Eferiipin, Oladimeji Oluwapelumi, Kehinde Alagbe, Ngumex Peter, Uche Chidiebere, and Emmanuel Amuzie.

In an interview with “The Nollywood Reporter” (TNR), lead actor JBlaze shared his excitement about the win and provided insights into the film’s storyline. “This win is a huge milestone for me. The film is part of a larger narrative. It tells the story of a soldier who returns to his village after a war, hoping to reunite with his family, only to discover that the King, played by Pere, has taken his wife into his palace. The soldier’s wife, who is pregnant, becomes central to a plan to reclaim her. The twist lies in the fact that the unborn child is the soldier’s only chance at fatherhood due to an injury he sustained in battle,” he explained.

JBlaze also praised Eziedo’s directorial brilliance in crafting the epic tale. When asked about the film’s wider release, he revealed, “Discussions are ongoing, but for now, “Ajamu” remains on its festival circuit. We’re awaiting production updates for its global debut.”

The film was shot at Ibrahim Chatta’s Africhatta Film Village in Oyo State, a location renowned for its contribution to Nigerian cinematic artistry.

The World Film Festival in Cannes is known for celebrating excellence in global cinema, drawing filmmakers, actors, and industry professionals from across the globe. “Ajamu” triumphed over nominees from China, South Africa, and the United States to secure this coveted honor.

Watch the official trailer here.