Bolanle Austen-Peters’ latest production, “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti”, the biopic of the esteemed women’s rights activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, is currently being showcased at the Silverbird Cinema in Victoria Island.
This one-week screening event is a culmination of years of effort Austen-Peters acquired the rights for the film.
“Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” delves into the remarkable life of the Nigerian educator, political campaigner, and women’s rights advocate. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti not only blazed a trail as the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School but also stood as the mother of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Alongside her husband, she fearlessly confronted oppression, founding the Abeokuta Women’s Union and leading a relentless battle against colonial and traditional rulers who obstructed fairness and justice.
However, there’s a catch due to the stringent requirements of the Oscars Academy. Films in consideration must be screened in their original country for just seven days. The screening commenced on Friday, September 8, 2023, and is set to conclude on Thursday, September 14, 2023.
Bolanle Austen-Peters expresses her enthusiasm about the film’s journey and acknowledges her team’s unwavering commitment to making this biopic a reality. She shared, “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.”
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring talents like Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Ibrahim Suleiman, Jide Kosoko, Dele Odule, Adebayo Salami, Keppy Ekpeyoung, Adunni Ade, Omowunmi Dada, Patrick Diabuah, and more. Notably, the Kuti family members are also set to make appearances in the film.
Bolanle Austen-Peters has a track record of directing and producing iconic Nigerian films such as “Queen Moremi,” “Man of God,” “Collision Course,” and “The Bling Lagosians.” With “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,” she continues to showcase her passion for telling captivating stories that resonate with audiences.
