The Nigerian cast of Lady were unable to attend the 2026 Sundance Film Festival due to visa denials, even as the film won the Special Jury Award for Acting Ensemble.
Tinuade Jemiseye, who plays Sugar in the film, described the experience in an interview with The Nollywood Reporter:
“It was a moment of pure, overwhelming joy mixed with a touch of heartache. Knowing that our collective work and the sisterhood we built on screen was recognized on a global stage was incredible,” she said.
“However, because our visas were denied, we couldn’t be there in person to celebrate that win. It felt like a testament to the film’s power that the performance spoke for itself even when we couldn’t be in the room.”
The cast also includes Jessica Gabriel, Amanda Oruh, Binta Ayo Mogaji, Seun Kuti, and Bucci Franklin. Directed by Olive Nwosu, Lady follows a Lagos taxi driver whose encounter with a group of sex workers, including Sugar, draws her into a sisterhood that blends danger and solidarity.
Jemiseye prepared for the role by learning Benin/Warri Pidgin, developing Sugar’s physicality and posture, and immersing herself in the character’s world.
The UK-Nigerian co-production will have its European premiere at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival in the Panorama section.