Babatunde Apalowo’s debut feature is a brave, empathetic treatment of a Nigerian man struggling to come to terms with his sexuality. Bambino (Tope Tedela) has a job as a delivery driver. He’s a popular figure in the neighbourhood, known for his kindness and generosity. But when his friend Ifeyinwa (Martha Ehinome) confides that she’d like to have sex, he’s hesitant. And in fact he gravitates more to the company of Bawa (Riyo David), a photographer with whom he is collaborating on an art project. However, the taboos — and laws — around homosexuality cut deep in this part of the world.
As its name suggests, Apalowo’s film pays scrupulous attention to its colour palette, imbuing this tender, sensitive drama with radiance and warmth.
A superb story of self-knowledge and self-acceptance set in a place where to do either is very difficult… a beautiful reminder of the bravery that can be required just to be who you are, and how important it is to support that bravery wherever it is found.
Sarah Manvil, Critic’s Notebook
Babatunde Apalowo
Tope Tedela, Riyo David, Martha Ehinome Orhiere, Uchechika Elumelu
Nigeria
2023
In English, Igbo and Nigerian Pidgin with English subtitles
Berlin Film Festival Teddy Award for best LGBTQ-themed feature film
Book Tickets
Indigenous & Community Access
Credits
Screenwriter
Babatunde Apalowo
Cinematography
David Wyte
Editor
Babatunde Apalowo
Original Music
Richard Kett, Catherine Shrubshall
Production Design
Art Anekwe
Art Director
Jeffrey Agama