A Nigerian documentary detailing the Ancient (and still practiced) Healing Tattoo of the Esan People of Edo State has been nominated for the first ever Authentic Global Film Awards.
The awards organised by Authentic Global TV Media will hold May 21, 2025 in Los Angeles, United States of America.
Written and directed by culture activist now filmmaker, Samuel Osaze, ‘Ema/Udeh’ explores the traditional tattoo culture of the Esan people of Edo State, which serves the dual purpose of artistic marking of the skin, and the medicinal treatment of Splenomegaly (swollen spleen).
Engaging the expert perspectives of ‘Ema/Udeh’ practitioners, locals, academics, and medical experts, Osaze looks at the aesthetic, artistic, spiritual and medicinal purposes of the art, the convergence of art and medicine, whilst attempting to answer pertinent questions surrounding the art, such as its effectiveness in addressing Splenomegaly? Do locals really prefer it over orthodox treatment of Splenomegaly? Is Splenomegaly endemic to Esan people? How do others treat it? Can the practice align with global health standards? How does it compare to modern tattoos?
In a letter to the director confirming the film’s nomination at the festival, the festival’s representative , Dr Gershom Sikaala pronounced ‘Ema/Udeh’ a testament to Osaze’s exceptional artistry and dedication to the craft of filmmaking, and a means of honouring his creative achievement.
Selected from over 3000 entries, ‘Ema/Udeh’ aligns with the awards’ vision of recognising and promoting compelling storylines with an underlying message that celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.
“At the heart of storytelling lies the power to inspire, uplift and transform lives. With this ethos, our festival showcases purpose-driven films that promote peace, diversity, inclusion, wholesome family themes and environmental sustainability.
“We draw inspiration from the very foundations of Christian values, presenting stories that shine a light on love, compassion and redemption. Through this authentic lens, we aim to inspire hope and motivate audiences to embrace their own unique paths,” states the festival site.
Besides nominations for one of Awards 12 categories of submission, and prized awards (ranging $10,000 Feature Film of the Year Award, $5000 Monetary Support for Filmmakers, $1500 Writer of the Year, and 10 Out of Competition Special Awards); the Awards offer nominated works non-exclusive distribution on Authentic TV (ATV) platform, which undertakes a robust promotional effort to showcase the films to a worldwide audience.
It also offers creators of nominated works as Osaze, two festival passes and a couple tickets to the Awards gala.
