A Nigerian film, “Mami Wata,” has been shortlisted for the World Dramatic Film Competition at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.
The annual festival, which is a convergence of original storytellers from around the world, will take place in the United States between January 19 and 29, 2023.
Organizers announced the 12 films that made the shortlist for the competition on Wednesday night.
“12 narrative feature films by emerging talent from around the world offer new perspectives and inventive styles,” a statement on its website read.
Among the 12 shortlisted films is Nigerian entry Mami Wata, which will debut at the prestigious gathering.
“When harmony in a town is threatened by outside elements, two sisters must fight to save their people and restore the glory of a mermaid goddess to earth,” organizers wrote of Mami Wata.
The film’s selection in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition makes it a nominee for the festival’s World Cinema Grand Jury Prize, Directing and Special Jury Prize.
Directed by Fiery Obasi, produced by Oge Obasi and distributed by Film One, Mami Water is the story of two sisters who, when their village is threatened, must fight to save their people and restore the glory of a mermaid goddess to earth. . .
Reacting to the news of the selection and the Sundance announcement, the leading production and distribution company, Film One Distribution, distributors of the film, expressed their enthusiasm, declaring it a boost for the Nigerian film industry.
“This is really important to us,” company co-founders Moses Babatope and Kene Okwuosa said in a statement.
“We had a good feeling about this film and believed in Obasi’s exceptional talent as a director, and while we were looking forward to this selection, it is still very gratifying to know that we are supporting the best to come out of Nigeria.”
Elated Fiery and Oge Obasi said they are delighted to have been selected for the World Dramatic Film Competition.
“We are very excited about this selection. It’s such an honor and honestly it feels surreal. You push yourself and hope for the best, and then when the recognition comes, it’s remarkable and very rewarding. It’s also a challenge to keep raising the bar and inspiring others to do the same.”