Nollywood’s historical films have traditionally drawn heavily from Yoruba myths and folklore, creating a familiar narrative terrain for story/” title=”Daniel Ademinokan counters Stella Damasus’ ‘online divorce’ claim, says ‘that’s not the full …!’”>audiences both locally and internationally. However, the release of Osamede marks a significant departure from this trend. Helmed by director James Omokwe and executive produced by Lilian Olubi, this film centers on the Benin Kingdom, weaving a grand tale that redefines the archetype of a hero. At its core is Osamede, a young orphaned girl who rises to protect her people during a period of profound crisis. The film is scheduled for a nationwide cinema release on October 17.
Crafted by writer Lolo Eremie and featuring Ivie Okujaye in the lead role, Osamede transports viewers to Edo State, where the production was shot entirely on location and performed in the Bini language. The cast also includes William Benson, Lexan Aisosa Peters, Tosin Adeyemi, Etinosa Idemudia, Paul Obazele, Lancelot Oduwa Imaseun, and Alexander Bud, blending seasoned talent with fresh faces to bring the story vividly to life.
The film’s significance extends beyond its narrative focus to its historical depth. Set against the backdrop of 1914 but beginning with the 1897 British invasion and looting of the Benin Empire, Osamede anchors itself in a pivotal era marked by devastation, recovery, and resilience. The production team undertook meticulous research to ensure cultural accuracy, drawing from verified historical records of the Benin Kingdom and benefiting from the expertise of dialect coach and cultural advisor Osagie Elebe on set.
For director James Omokwe, Osamede is both a personal and socio-political narrative. “This film is more than a historical recount; it highlights the remarkable journey of a female protagonist reclaiming her rightful place in a society where women’s contributions have often been marginalized,” Omokwe shared. He describes the story as one of endurance, empowerment, and strength-a tribute to the Edo people and a legacy for Nigerians and Africans worldwide.
The choice to spotlight a female lead was intentional. Historically, Nollywood’s epic tales have predominantly featured male warriors, kings, and patriarchal figures. With Osamede, the filmmakers sought to disrupt this pattern by presenting a heroine who not only embodies courage but also challenges conventional perceptions of women’s roles in history. “We deliberately chose a woman to confront the patriarchal narratives often portrayed in media,” Omokwe explained during a recent press briefing.
Moreover, the film represents a broader push for inclusivity within Nigerian cinema. Despite Nigeria’s rich tapestry of over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, Nollywood has largely focused on a limited range of cultural stories, predominantly from Yoruba traditions. Osamede breaks new ground by celebrating Edo heritage, potentially paving the way for other ethnic narratives-from the Ijaw communities in Bayelsa to the Angas of Plateau State-to gain cinematic representation.
Executive producer Lilian Olubi has expressed a deep personal connection to the project, describing Osamede as a divine story she felt compelled to bring to life. This passion propelled the film from its origins as a stage play at the Muson Centre to a feature film now poised for international festival circuits.
Earlier this year, Osamede was showcased at Afro Cannes, where it garnered acclaim for its ambitious scope and production quality. Its forthcoming U.S. debut at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival in California continues to build momentum, offering a platform for Edo narratives to reach global audiences alongside the more widely known Yoruba epics. “It’s Benin’s story shared with the world!” Olubi proudly stated.
Looking ahead, the creative team envisions expanding Osamede into a franchise, aiming for a worldwide theatrical release that resonates across continents. To them, Osamede is not merely a historical figure but a contemporary emblem of resilience, symbolizing Africa’s unyielding spirit despite centuries of adversity.
As Olubi eloquently summarized, “Osamede tells a story about Africa’s enduring spirit. Though much was taken from us, our essence remains intact.” Rooted in Benin’s rich history, featuring a bold female warrior at its center, and targeting an international audience, Osamede is spearheading a new era of diverse storytelling within Nollywood.
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