Sope Aluko, the celebrated Nigerian-born, British-American actress and rising filmmaker, is set to premiere her short film “Chidera” in Africa at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) on November 7, 2023, at Filmhouse Landmark Centre, Twin Waters (screens 2 & 3) at 2.50pm.
“Chidera” is a compelling and emotionally charged short film that explores themes of identity, heritage, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a contemporary Nigerian-American immigrant community. The short film follows the journey of Chidera, a high school teenager, who grapples with the complexities of her cultural roots and the expectations placed upon her by her family and community. As she embarks on a personal quest for self-acceptance, the short film takes viewers on an evocative and visually stunning cinematic journey.
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In 2019 Sope started SopeBox Productions, her production company, with the premise of ‘giving voice’ to the positive and engaging stories about the African Diaspora, particularly female-driven stories showcasing the resilience of African women like her deceased mother, and other women considered heroes before their time.
Sope Aluko, who is best known for her roles in Hollywood blockbusters such as Marvel’s “Black Panther”, “Wakanda Forever” and “Venom,” has shown her versatility and creativity as a storyteller in “Chidera.” The short film is a testament to her passion for authentic storytelling and commitment to showcasing the richness and diversity of her Nigerian heritage.
The screening of “Chidera” at AFRIFF is a significant milestone for Sope Aluko and her production team. AFRIFF is one of the continent’s most prestigious film festivals, known for celebrating and promoting African and international cinema. The short film’s inclusion in the festival is a testament to the quality of Aluko’s work and her dedication to making thought-provoking and compelling films.
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Sope Aluko expressed her excitement about the screening, saying, “Chidera is a project very close to my heart. It is 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.”
The premiere of “Chidera” at AFRIFF promises to be a memorable event, celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of African cinema.
Sope Aluko is a Nigerian-born British-American actress and filmmaker mostly known for her role in Marvel’s “Black Panther” released in 2018 and then reprised in “Wakanda Forever” in 2022. She is also an advocate for authentic storytelling, particularly the representation of African narratives in the global film industry. “Chidera” marks her first female-driven production under her production company, “SopeBox Productions”, and showcases her commitment to telling meaningful stories with depth and authenticity. “Chidera” world premiered at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), an Oscar qualifying film festival in June 2023.
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