The heroic story of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the legendary women’s rights activist and mother to Afrobeats idol, Fela, has finally made it to the big screen.
This story is being told through a new movie, aptly titled ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’, which is being screened at the Silverbird Cinema in Lagos.
It is a beautiful story of a celebrated woman, who was married to a hero and gave birth to heroes. And it is already thrilling audiences at the cinema for its limited theatrical release till Thursday September 14, 2023.
This landmark film marks a new era in the Bolanle Austen-Peters Productions’ illustrious journey and “showcases its passion for creating captivating movies for global audiences,” according to a statement made available to TCN.
Directed by the visionary Bolanle Austen-Peters, ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’ (FRK), the movie, is remarkable for its brilliant storytelling, unique characters and stunning craftsmanship; and as such is attracting critical acclaim from audiences since it started screening on September 8.
The film follows the intriguing story of Fela’s mother from her pioneering days as the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School; to her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti and her well-documented, landmark activism.
Together with her husband, they challenged oppression and created the Abeokuta Women’s Union, igniting a fierce battle against colonial and traditional rulers who stood in the way of fairness and justice.
This narrative artfully contrasts FRK’s tireless activism with her delicate balancing act as a wife and mother, revealing the indomitable spirit of a woman who changed the course of history.
“This film emerges as one contribution to the important conversations people are having now around women, identity and the constant push for equality,” according to the producers.
The phenomenal cast features groundbreaking performances from Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Ibrahim Suleiman, Jide Kosoko, Dele Odule, Adebayo Salami, Keppy Ekpeyoung, Adunni Ade, Omowunmi Dada and Patrick Diabuah, among others.
Austen-Peters, the driving force behind the film, expressed enthusiasm on where the film might be headed, stating that, “Submitting Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti for the consideration of Nigeria Official Screening Committee (NOSC) towards the 96th Academy Awards next year is a humbling and exhilarating experience. Our team poured heart and soul into this project, and this submission is a testament to their unwavering dedication.”
BAP Productions, known for its commitment to cinematic excellence, views this submission to NOSC as a significant milestone in its history.
Speaking about this, Yakubu Yahaya, an Associate Producer said, “It represents the values and artistic vision that have guided our company for years. The film will undoubtedly leave a mark on the global film scene, and this submission for Nigeria’s Official Selection Committee for the Academy Awards sets the stage for an exciting journey through the forthcoming global awards season.”
