A Nigerian-born British-American actress and rising filmmaker, Sope Aluko, is set to premiere her first short film ‘Chidera,’ under her production company, SopeBox Production, at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) scheduled to hold on November 7 in Lagos.
‘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 a high school teenager named Chidera, who grapples with the complexities of her cultural roots and the expectations placed upon her by her family and community. As Chidera embarks on a personal quest for self-acceptance, the short film takes viewers on an evocative and visually stunning cinematic journey.
In 2019, Sope launched her production company, SopeBox Productions with the mission of amplifying positive narratives related to the African Diaspora, particularly, female-driven stories that highlight the strength and resilience of African women, like her late mother and other unsung heroines from history.
Sope Aluko, famous for her roles in Hollywood hits like ‘Black Panther’, ‘Wakanda Forever’, and ‘Venom’, has showcased her storytelling prowess and versatility in her project, ‘Chidera’.
This short film reflects her genuine dedication to authentic storytelling and her commitment to showcasing the rich diversity of her Nigerian heritage.
The screening of ‘Chidera’ at AFRIFF marks a significant milestone for Sope Aluko and her production team as it is her first female-driven production under her company.
AFRIFF is a renowned film festival on the African continent, renowned for its celebration and promotion of both African and international cinema. The inclusion of Aluko’s short film in this festival underscores the exceptional quality of her work and her unwavering commitment to creating thought-provoking and compelling films.
Expressing her excitement about the screening, Aluko described Chidera as a project that is very close to her heart; noting that it is essential to use film as a medium to shed light on important social issues and empower the 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,” she said.
‘Chidera’ World Premiered at the American Black Film Festival (ABFF), an Oscar qualifying Film Festival in June 2023.
