Following the selection of Mi Tazi as part of the 47th Durban International Film Festival’s (DIFF) Student Film lineup, Blessing Bulus, the director of the documentary, explains why the film continues to resonate beyond local audiences.
Since its debut, Mi Tazi has built a strong record of festival recognition. This includes winning the Women in Arts and Impact Grant at the All Africans Indie Film Festival (AAIFF) and securing a selection at the 2026 iRepresent Documentary Film Festival.
Reacting to the film’s latest nomination at DIFF 2026, Bulus reaffirms her belief in the story’s relevance and uniqueness. Speaking in an exclusive interview with The Nollywood Reporter (TNR), she says she did not initially anticipate the film’s growing recognition across local and international festivals.
“When I began making the film, my primary concern was telling it truthfully and with the care it deserved. I also felt it would resonate with people, especially those who share similar experiences,” she says.
She describes the film’s journey as a humbling experience, noting that each milestone reinforces her belief in authentic storytelling. “Every screening, selection, and conversation around Mi Tazi has reinforced my belief that authentic stories will always find their audience,” she adds.
Among DIFF’s student film selections this year, Mi Tazi stands as the only Nigerian title. For Bulus, this moment reflects the reward of telling a story that is both personal and honest.
“Mi Tazi is a deeply personal story rooted in my lived experiences. It is a tribute to my late father, a celebration of my culture, and a journey back to my heritage. To see it represent Nigeria on a platform like this is incredibly meaningful,” she says.
She recalls traveling to her hometown in Kaduna with her team to document the story, a process that has now extended beyond its origins to reach a global audience. “It is both humbling and rewarding,” she adds.
The filmmaker notes that the DIFF selection serves as a reminder that stories from African communities deserve global visibility and engagement. “I am proud that a story told in my mother tongue can stand alongside works from different parts of the world and still connect with audiences,” she says.
For young filmmakers looking to create stories with international relevance, Bulus advises starting from a place of personal truth or genuine connection.
“There is often a temptation to make stories feel international, but I believe the most powerful stories are the ones rooted in lived experiences, culture, and subjects that truly matter to the filmmaker,” she says.
Bulus maintains that the more truthful and personal a story is, the more universal it becomes, allowing audiences from different backgrounds to connect through shared emotions.
The Durban International Film Festival is scheduled to run from July 23 to August 2, 2026.
