Mami Wata: Nigerian Movie Selected For 2023 Sundance Film Festival

By Adekunle Fajana On Dec 7, 2022

Mami Wata, a Nigerian movie directed by C.J Obasi, has been selected for the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival.

The annual festival, which is a convergence of original storytellers from across the globe, will be held in the United States between January 19 and 29, 2023.

The organizers announced the 12 films that made the shortlist for the competition on Wednesday evening.

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“12 narrative feature films from emerging talent around the world offer fresh perspectives and inventive styles,” a statement on its website read.

Directed by CJ Obasi, produced by Oge Obasi, and distributed by Film One, Mami Wata 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 the land.

Reacting to news of the selection and Sundance’s announcement, leading production and distribution company, Film One Distribution, distributors of the film, expressed their excitement and declared it a boost for the Nigerian film industry.

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“This is really a big deal for us,” said the company’s co-founders, Moses Babatope and Kene Okwuosa in a statement.

“We had a good feeling about this film and believed in Obasi’s exceptional talent as a director, and while we have looked forward to this selection, it is still very gratifying to know we are supporting the very best coming out of Nigeria.”

Elated CJ and Oge Obasi said that they are thrilled to be selected for the World Cinema Dramatic Competition.

“We are so very thrilled about this selection. It is such a great honour and honestly, it feels surreal. You put in the work and hope for the best, and then when recognition comes, it is both remarkable and very fulfilling. It is also a challenge to keep raising the bar and inspiring others to do the same.”