The Story⚡
Osamede, a Nigerian historical fantasy epic, is heading to the 2025 Cannes Film Market.
Tell Me More
Set during the British invasion of the Benin Empire, the film follows Osamede, an orphaned girl who unlocks supernatural abilities through the sacred Aruosa stone, a mythological artifact gifted by Osanobua. Her quest to liberate her people blends historical authenticity with fantasy, shot on location in Benin City with meticulous cultural detail and spectacular visual effects. The narrative, rooted in empowerment and identity, resonates with global hits like The Woman King, positioning Osamede as a leader in Africa-centered historical fantasy.
The film stars Ivie Okujaye Egboh, Lexan Aisosa Peters, William Benson, Tosin Adeyemi, Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, and Alexander Bud, delivering powerful performances that bring the Benin Kingdom to life. Directed by James Omokwe, known for Ajoche, Riona, and Itura, Osamede reflects his signature visual flair and passion for African heritage.
Executive producer Lilian Olubi, a 25-year finance veteran and founder of Gold Lilies Productions, drives the project’s vision, merging business acumen with storytelling to elevate Nollywood’s global profile. “This film restores pride in our roots, reshaping African consciousness,” Olubi stated, emphasizing its cultural mission.
Osamede will premiere at the Cannes Film Market on May 14, 2025, at Pavilion Afriques, a landmark moment for Nigerian cinema’s global ascent.
Osamede’s journey began as a theatrical production by Gold Lilies, staged twice to sold-out audiences, providing a pre-tested narrative akin to Broadway-to-screen adaptations. This stage-to-screen evolution ensures a robust foundation, refined for cinematic impact.
The film’s debut aligns with Nigeria’s Screen Nigeria initiative, part of the “Destination 2030: Nigeria Everywhere” campaign, aiming to boost the creative industry’s global footprint. Alongside My Father’s Shadow, the first Nigerian film in Cannes’ Official Selection, Osamede marks a dual breakthrough for Nollywood in 2025, amplifying its presence at both the festival and market.
Nollywood’s evolving scope shines through Osamede’s ambitious narrative, joining a wave of epic storytelling that includes Lisabi: The Uprising and The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos. By weaving Benin’s rich history with universal themes, the film taps into the growing global demand for authentic cultural stories.
Its Cannes premiere offers a platform to connect filmmakers with investors, as Olubi’s Gold Lilies aims to empower emerging talent. Exclusive first-look images, showcasing the film’s vibrant Benin aesthetic, are available to media, highlighting its distinctive style.
Osamede is a must-watch for fans of epic fantasy and cultural storytelling, premiering at the Cannes Film Market on May 14, 2025. Watch for its stunning visuals, powerhouse cast, and a narrative that echoes across borders. As Nigeria’s cinematic star rises, Osamede invites audiences to join a new era of African storytelling.
In Summary
As Osamede begins its distribution signalling, audiences at home are highly anticipating how the producers will make this feature accessible to a wider Nigerian population.
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