African cinema is set to make waves at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival with the exclusive preview of FESTAC ’77, a powerful historical epic chosen by the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC).
The film revisits the iconic 1977 Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, a landmark event that united creatives, intellectuals, and cultural leaders from across Africa and its diaspora.
Produced by Adonis Production and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, FESTAC ’77 brings to life Africa’s largest cultural gathering—a moment of unity and pride that helped shape Pan-African identity.
With its compelling visuals and a stellar ensemble cast, the film captures the spirit and significance of this historic celebration.
For Executive Producer Adonijah Owiriwa, the project is more than a cinematic retelling—it is a declaration of ownership over African narratives:
“This project is about taking ownership of our narrative. FESTAC ’77 revives a monumental moment of African solidarity, creativity, and pride. It’s more than a film—it’s an effort to reshape how African stories are seen and valued globally. Presenting it at Cannes is a statement: African cinema has arrived, and we’re telling our stories our way.”
The film’s selection reflects the rising prominence of African cinema on the global stage, a sentiment strongly supported by Kene Okwuosa, Group CEO of Filmhouse Group:
“This is a defining moment not just for FESTAC ’77 but for the continent’s film industry as a whole. For too long, our stories have either been ignored or distorted. This film allows the world to see African culture in its fullness—authentic, rich, and globally resonant. Its presence at Cannes signals a turning point for African stories in the international box office.”
Adding his voice to the growing recognition of African filmmaking, Executive Producer Prince Tonye Princewill described FESTAC ’77 as a milestone in the continent’s cinematic journey:
“This film is evidence of how far we’ve come. From production values to storytelling ambition, African cinema is now competing on the world stage. FESTAC ’77 showcases not only a historical moment but a creative evolution. It’s a milestone for African filmmakers and a source of pride for all of us committed to telling our own stories, on our own terms.”
As excitement builds ahead of Cannes 2025, FESTAC ’77 stands as both a tribute to Africa’s rich cultural legacy and a bold statement about its creative future.
African filmmakers are no longer waiting for permission they are taking center stage, telling their stories with power, pride, and purpose.
