CJ Obasi’s “Mami Wata” Set for Japanese Cinema Release

CJ “Fiery” Obasi’s black-and-white fantasy thriller,  “Mami Wata” , is set to premiere in Japanese cinemas this October with Japanese subtitles, further extending its international reach since its 2023 debut at the Sundance Film Festival.

Based on West African folklore, the film follows life in the oceanside village of Iyi, where Mama Efe serves as an intermediary between the people and the water deity, “Mami Wata”. When a child dies from a virus, unrest brews, challenging the village’s long-held beliefs.

“Mami Wata”  won the Special Jury Prize for Cinematography at Sundance and was Nigeria’s official submission for Best International Feature at the 96th Academy Awards. It also earned nominations at the 39th Independent Spirit Awards and the 55th NAACP Image Awards.

Written in Nigerian Pidgin, the film stars Evelyne Ily Juhen, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Kelechi Udegbe, and features a cameo by CJ Obasi himself.

With its Japanese release, “Mami Wata” continues to solidify its presence on the global stage, bringing its distinct storytelling and visual style to new audiences.