Nigerian-born, British-American actress and filmmaker, Sope Aluko, is set to premiere her emotionally charged short film, “Chidera,” in Africa at the prestigious Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) on Tuesday, 7th November 2023. The premiere will take place at Filmhouse Landmark Centre, Twin Waters, with screenings in screens 2 and 3 starting at 2.50 PM.
“Chidera” delves into themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery within a contemporary Nigerian-American immigrant community. The story follows the journey of a high school teenager named Chidera as she grapples with the complexities of her cultural roots and the expectations imposed by her family and community. The film promises to take viewers on an evocative and visually stunning cinematic journey.
Sope Aluko, renowned for her roles in Hollywood blockbusters like “Black Panther,” “Wakanda Forever,” and “Venom,” is displaying her versatility and creativity as a storyteller in “Chidera.” The short film is a testament to her passion for authentic storytelling and her commitment to showcasing the richness and diversity of her Nigerian heritage.
In 2019, Sope founded her production company, “SopeBox Productions,” with the mission of giving voice to positive and engaging stories about the African Diaspora, particularly female-driven narratives that highlight the resilience of African women.
The screening of “Chidera” at AFRIFF is a significant milestone for Sope Aluko and her production team. AFRIFF is a highly esteemed film festival known for celebrating and promoting African and international cinema. The inclusion of “Chidera” in the festival is a testament to the quality of Aluko’s work and her dedication to creating thought-provoking and compelling films.
Sope Aluko expressed her excitement about the screening, stating, “Chidera is a project very close to my heart. It’s essential to use film as a medium to shed light on important social issues and empower our youth. This short film embodies the message of resilience, self-love, and embracing one’s identity, and I can’t wait to share it with the world at AFRIFF.”
“Chidera” marks her first female-driven production under her production company, “SopeBox Productions,” and underscores her commitment to telling meaningful stories with depth and authenticity. The film had its world premiere at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) in June 2023, which is an Oscar-qualifying Film Festival.
