AFRIFF 2024 Standout Films

The 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) proved to be a space for groundbreaking stories.

On Thursday, November 7, a series of compelling films took center stage, with three notable works leaving a lasting impact on attendees: “Call Me Shamz”, “Yam and Egg”, and “Freedom Way”.

Each film provided a fresh perspective on pressing issues, exploring themes of HIV, trauma, societal oppression, and the interconnectedness of human lives in Nigeria and beyond.

“Call Me Shamz”, written, filmed, and directed by Geoff Browne, is a short documentary that shares the story of Samsudeen Kareem, a man living with HIV since birth. Kareem, who serves as the national coordinator for the Association of Young People Living with HIV in Nigeria (APYIN), takes viewers on an emotional journey to highlight the stigma surrounding HIV, especially in the context of disclosure.

Kareem expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “I’m thrilled to share this project with the world – a journey highlighting the real-life experiences of young people living with HIV, and especially the difficult, yet important topic of disclosure. With this film, my goal is to shed light on the challenges faced by young people living with HIV, breaking down stigmas and opening up conversations around health, acceptance, and empowerment.”

He further added, “This achievement is not just a personal milestone but a step towards a more inclusive narrative for people living with HIV. Together, let’s change perceptions and inspire support for all youth navigating this journey.”

Through this documentary, Browne offers a candid portrayal of Kareem’s life and advocacy work, showing the importance of fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for those living with HIV.

Emily Nkanga’s “Yam and Egg” provided another standout moment at AFRIFF 2024. The film, which examines the trauma and moral complexity following the #EndSARS protests in Nigeria, centers on Gbenga (Tomisin Ajani), who relocates to the UK after the death of his sister in the protests. The film poignantly explores the way personal grief and unresolved trauma affect human relationships and interactions. Gbenga meets Pelumi (Treasure Obasi), a stranger whose involvement in Gbenga’s life unravels some dark, unforeseen consequences. Nkanga’s narrative is direct, often gritty, and unapologetically real, painting a vivid picture of the emotional baggage that comes with living through political violence and personal loss. “Yam and Egg” speaks to the complexities of coping with grief while living in a world that forces individuals to keep moving forward, regardless of the emotional toll. The film’s no-nonsense storytelling and relatable characters present a refreshing, unfiltered exploration of trauma’s lingering grip.

“Freedom Way”, directed by Afolabi Olalekan, was another highlight of the day. The film portrays the struggles of three young co-founders of a ride-sharing startup who are caught in the intersection of government policy and police harassment. The narrative weaves together multiple storylines, with each character’s experience reflecting the broader issues of corruption and economic instability in Nigeria.

Olalekan presents Lagos as a fast-paced, chaotic city where survival often requires navigating a system that favors the powerful and punishes the vulnerable. “Freedom Way” successfully highlights the interconnected nature of society and shows how one seemingly small action can have far-reaching consequences.

The film features an ensemble cast, including Adebowale Adedayo (aka Mr. Macaroni), Mike Afolarin, Bimbo Akintola, and Femi Jacobs. However, it was Adedayo’s performance that stole the spotlight. He played Abiola, a father whose livelihood is jeopardized by a government ban on the startup’s app. Adedayo’s portrayal of a man struggling to maintain his dignity in a society that continually thwarts his efforts was powerful, grounding the film’s social commentary in personal emotion.

Speaking after the screening, Adedayo noted, “I wanted people to reflect and make better choices through the character I played. People should do good so goodness can come to them.” When asked about how he handled his character, which involved significant growth from being a victim to someone who joins the corrupt system, Adedayo said, “Every human being has the ability to be good, bad, and evil. To bring my character to life, I tapped into that potential, merging the person and character together.” Femi Jacobs, who played a corrupt police officer, also delivered a memorable performance, further elevating the tension in the film.

These films were not just performances but powerful explorations of some of Nigeria’s most urgent social issues. “Freedom Way”, in particular, resonated strongly with viewers, not only due to its exploration of systemic corruption, but it also offered a broader critique of power dynamics in society. The connection between the characters was almost natural, and the film’s rapid pacing kept the audience engaged throughout its twists and turns.

While there have undoubtedly been other impactful screenings throughout the festival, the films showcased on Thursday, November 7, have certainly earned their place as some of the most memorable of AFRIFF 2024.

Whether it was “Call Me Shamz” shedding light on the experiences of young people living with HIV, “Yam and Egg” examining the aftermath of political violence, or “Freedom Way” offering a searing look at the complexities of modern Lagos, each film proved its capacity to spark conversation, reflection, and, most importantly, change.

As AFRIFF 2024 continues, it is clear that the festival remains a vital platform for films that not only entertain but also challenge, inspire, and broaden our understanding of the world around us.