“Osamede”, a historical epic film by Ivie Okujaye, is set for cinema release nationwide on Oct. 17.
The ace filmmaker and actress made the announcement in a post on her verified Instagram page.
The post reads: “The beauty of culture lies in what our ancestors left us!”
“Osamede comes from the heart of the Benin Kingdom, a story about a young woman who dares to change everything, drawing strength from the legacy of her people”.
“#Osamede The movie is coming to cinemas nationwide Oct. 17, “she said.
Produced by Lilian Olubi under Gold lilies Global services, “Osamede” is directed by AMVCA winning filmmaker James Omokwe.
It features ace Nollywood stars, including Ivie Okujaye in the lead role, alongside Lexan Aisosa Peters, William Benson and Tosin Adeyemi.
Others are Etinosa Idemudia and veteran filmmaker Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, among others.
Shot in Benin City, reflecting traditions of the ancient Benin empire,‘Osamede’ explores themes of resilience, identity, female empowerment, and historical legacy.
The plot tells the story of Osamede, an orphaned girl who discovers she holds the mystical power of the Aruosa stone, a sacred object believed to have been bestowed by ‘Osanobua’.
The epic film is set against the backdrop of the 1897 British invasion of the Benin kingdom, bending themes of resistance, betrayal, and supernatural destiny.
‘Osamede’ had its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Market on May 17, at the Pavillion Afriques section of the festival.
It has also screened at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF), where it was extoled for its attempt to reclaim African mythology while retelling a pivotal moment in Nigerian history.
With its October release, ‘Osamede’ is expected to spark renewed conversation around the representation of African history in cinema and the global rise of Nollywood’s storytelling power.
