C.J. ‘Fiery’ Obasi has generated buzz with a captivating teaser for his highly anticipated film, “Mami Wata.”
The teaser offers a glimpse into a gripping night scene, featuring close-ups of some of the notable faces in the movie. Among the talented cast showcased in the clip are Rita Edochie, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Evelyne Ily Juhen, and Kelechi Udegbe.
Exciting news accompanies the teaser, as Obasi announces his recent collaboration with Aya Films. According to Variety, the UK-based distribution company has acquired the rights to this Sundance Award-winning film.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, Obasi remarks, “I’m quite moved by Aya’s sensitivity to new forms of African storytelling, and how they seek to find its rightful place in the current world cinema conversation. This, for me, is what true love for cinema is all about, and I’m excited to be a part of the movement.”
Taking to Twitter, the filmmaker expresses his gratitude to the dedicated crew and cast for their hard work.
The UK teaser of @MamiWatamovie is here…
Sales: alief Distribution: @weareayafilms (UK) @dekanalog_ (North America) @trigon_film (Switzerland & Liechtenstein) @FilmOneng (Nigeria) pic.twitter.com/10zFYove0t
— C.J. “Fiery” Obasi (@FieryCJ) July 1, 2023
A very special thanks to my team… pic.twitter.com/bZLy3Z0UoO
— C.J. “Fiery” Obasi (@FieryCJ) July 1, 2023
With this new deal in place, “Mami Wata” is set to hit theaters in the UK later this year. Dekanalog will handle the North American theatrical release, while FilmOne will distribute the film in Nigeria.
Set in the remote West African village of Iyi, the story revolves around the villagers’ reverence for the water deity Mami Wata, with guidance from Mama Efe, their intermediary.
Doubt seeps into the community when a young boy falls victim to a virus, leaving Efe’s devoted daughter Zinwe and skeptical protégé Prisca at a crossroads. Matters are complicated by the arrival of Jabi, a local villager seeking control, and the rebel warlord Jasper, who aligns himself with Jabi’s cause. To save their village and restore Mami Wata’s glory in Iyi, Prisca and Zinwe must devise a plan.
Produced by Oge Obasi, “Mami Wata” is a captivating film written and directed by C.J. ‘Fiery’ Obasi, with cinematography by Lílis Soares.
As “Mami Wata” continues its festival journey, it garners critical acclaim, capturing the attention and admiration of audiences worldwide.
PHOTO CREDIT: Pulse/Twitter