Action Xtreme’s gripping action-thriller, Son of the Soil, stood out as a major victor at the 10th edition of the Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF), clinching top honors including Best Film, Best Director, and Best International Showcase. The film was also honored as the festival’s closing night presentation, a prestigious slot reserved for exceptional works.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Nigeria, Son of the Soil stars Razaaq Adoti as Zion Ladejo, a former special forces operative who returns to his homeland following the tragic and violent death of his sister. His quest for justice leads him into a dangerous world rife with corruption, ruthless criminal syndicates, and personal struggles that test his resolve.
Since its inception in 2015 by Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, BSIFF has evolved into a premier platform celebrating African and diaspora cinema. Over the past decade, the festival has showcased films from over 120 countries, fostering connections between local filmmakers and international audiences. The 2025 festival featured 27 films representing Africa and its diaspora, attracting participants from more than 25 nations.
This year also witnessed a groundbreaking distribution agreement between BSIFF and Majestic Cinemas in Côte d’Ivoire, aimed at enhancing the exchange of English and French-language films throughout West Africa. Son of the Soil is set to be among the first beneficiaries of this partnership, with its African theatrical debut scheduled for October 31, 2025.
Juliet Yaa Asantewa Asante, the festival’s founder and chairperson, expressed her admiration for the film:
“The audience’s response during the closing ceremony was truly telling. Son of the Soil has raised the bar, illustrating the power of collaboration and highlighting the immense potential of our film industry to create stories that resonate across Africa and beyond. African cinema is undeniably the next big wave.”
Director and producer Chee Keong Cheung shared his gratitude:
“Winning three awards is an incredible honor. Son of the Soil was crafted from a deep passion to tell a story rooted in Nigeria but touching on universal themes like justice, redemption, and identity. This recognition validates our vision profoundly. I’m thankful to the Black Star jury, Juliet Asante and her team, and the entire cast and crew whose commitment brought this film to life.”
Razaaq Adoti, who also penned the screenplay and whose return to Nollywood has been widely anticipated, reflected on the film’s reception:
“Premiering our film on African soil at such a prestigious festival is a tremendous privilege. To have Son of the Soil embraced by the Ghanaian audience and honored with these awards is both humbling and deeply rewarding. As an African, this fills me with immense pride and joy.”
Produced by UK-based Action Xtreme and Sovereign Films in collaboration with Lagos’s Boxonia Blueprint, Son of the Soil is directed and produced by Chee Keong Cheung. The production team includes Andreas Roald, Razaaq Adoti, Ioanna Karavela, and Wingonia Ikpi, with Adoti also serving as the lead actor and writer. African distribution rights are managed by Nile Entertainment, following their recent first-look agreement with Action Xtreme.
The film features a dynamic cast including Ireti Doyle, Patience Ozokwo, Taye Arimoro, Philip Asaya, Sharon Rotimi, Damilola Ogunsi, and Sunshine Rosman-a blend of award-winning veterans, festival favorites, and emerging talents.
This achievement marks a milestone as the first time a Nollywood action-thriller has garnered multiple accolades at BSIFF. Traditionally, the festival has favored dramatic and socially conscious films, but Son of the Soil signals a growing acceptance and enthusiasm for genre films, particularly action, within Africa’s festival landscape. This success is propelling African action cinema onto the global stage, positioning the film as a trailblazer.
Son of the Soil is set to premiere in English-speaking West African theaters on October 31, 2025, with plans for an international release to follow.
Other notable winners at BSIFF 2025 included Yamina for Best Animation, Coinquest as Best Short Film, The Power of the String receiving the Student Showcase Award, Mikoko honored with the African Rising Award, Sweet Palm Wine winning the Ghanaian Showcase Award, and Beyond Olympic Glory taking home Best Documentary.
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