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Ten years after breaking new ground with “76”, Africa’s first military thriller, the acclaimed team behind the film returns to the international spotlight with the world premiere of “77: The Festac Conspiracy” at the Cannes Film Festival 2025.
The screening will take place on May 19 at 2:00 PM at the prestigious Palais des Festivals, marking a defining moment for Nigerian and African cinema.
Produced by Adonis Production — led by Adonija Owiriwa and Tonye Princewill — and directed by the award-winning Izu Ojukwu, “77” stars Nollywood icons, Ramsay Nouah and
Rita Dominic. FilmOne Entertainment, West Africa’s premier distribution company, is handling the film’s release.
The film dramatizes the political intrigue and international tensions surrounding Nigeria’s historic FESTAC ’77 — the largest pan-African cultural festival ever held — weaving a
suspense-filled narrative that explores nationalism, identity, and legacy.
“With ‘77: The Festac Conspiracy’, we go deeper into history, but with even more cinematic power,” said Tonye Princewill, producer.
“This film is more than a story
— it’s a cultural reckoning and a global statement about where Nigerian cinema is headed.”
A Full Slate of Activities at Cannes
To promote the film and spotlight the emergence of Nigerian cinema, the cast and creators of “77” will participate in a range of high-profile events during the festival, including: May 19, 10,00 AM where there will be talk at Plage des Palmes — engaging global industry leaders in a
conversation about the evolution of African storytellers.
On May 19, 12:00 PM: Panel at AfroCannes – New Nigeria Day — discussing the film’s themes and Nigeria’s cultural reawakening.
Also on May 19, 2:00 PM: Official Screening at Palais des Festivals.
Then, there will be an interview with Ernest White II at AfroCannes — a candid conversation on the making
of “77” and the global rise of Nollywood.
Director Izu Ojukwu also commented that, “Like ‘76’, this film honors our history. But ‘77’ dares to question it, dramatize it, and humanize it — all through a cinematic lens worthy of the global stage.”
These activities are part of a larger campaign not only to elevate “77: The Festac Conspiracy”, but also to unveil the new face of Nigerian cinema to the global film industry.
A Historic Year for Nigeria at Cannes
The film’s premiere coincides with two major milestones which includes the debut of the Nigerian Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival, a first in the festival’s 77-year history and the inclusion of a Nigerian film in the official selection, marking a transformative moment
for the nation’s film industry.
A growing wave of international recognition for Nollywood and African storytelling
FilmOne Entertainment, known for elevating West African cinema across global markets, is strategically distributing the film to ensure it reaches a wide, international
audience.
“This year isn’t just about one film,” said Adonija Owriwa, co-producer.
“It’s about an industry that has matured, innovated, and is now ready to lead. The Nigerian Pavilion and the recognition by Cannes are proof that the world is watching.”
About the Film
● Title: 77: The Festac Conspiracy
● Director: Izu Ojukwu
● Producers: Adonija Oniriwa, Tonye Princewill (Adonis Production)
● Cast: Ramsay Nouah, Rita Dominic
● Distributor: FilmOne Entertainment
● Genre: Political Thriller / Historical Drama
● Runtime: 107 minutes
● Screening: May 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM – Palais des Festivals, Room G
Media Contact:
Adonis Production / Cannes Publicity Team
Email: Deborah Okocha
Number- +234 8054762622
Email- deborahokochaa@gmail.com
Website: www.adonisproductions.com
Follow AfroCannes for coverage and updates
Website: www.afrocannes.com
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