Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on September 12, 2023, 9:38 PM

From 'Evil Dead' to 'Mami Wata': CJ & Oge Obasi's fascinating swim to Sundance

If you are a fan of horror movies, you might have heard of CJ Obasi, the Nigerian filmmaker who directed the 2013 indie hit 'Ojuju', a zombie thriller set in the slums of Lagos. But you might not know that CJ has a twin sister, Oge Obasi, who is also a filmmaker and a writer. Together, they have created a unique and captivating short film called 'Mami Wata', which has been selected for the prestigious Sundance Film Festival {2024}.

'Mami Wata' is a supernatural drama that explores the myth of the water spirit that is revered and feared in many African cultures. The film follows a young woman named Ada, who is haunted by visions of Mami Wata after she witnesses a brutal murder. As she tries to cope with her trauma, she discovers that she has a special connection to the water and the spirit world.

The film is inspired by the Obasis' own experiences growing up in Nigeria, where they were exposed to various stories and beliefs about Mami Wata. They also drew inspiration from their love of horror movies, especially the classic 'Evil Dead' franchise by Sam Raimi. In fact, they used some of the same techniques and tricks that Raimi employed in his films, such as low-budget practical effects, camera movements and sound design.

The result is a stunning and original film that blends horror, fantasy and folklore in a captivating way. The film also showcases the talents of the Nigerian film industry, which is often overlooked or stereotyped by the mainstream media. The Obasis worked with a talented cast and crew, including the lead actress Nneka Edozie, who delivers a powerful performance as Ada.

The Obasis are thrilled and honored to have their film selected for Sundance, which is one of the most prestigious and influential film festivals in the world. They hope that their film will reach a wider audience and spark more interest and curiosity about African cinema and culture. They also hope that their film will inspire other filmmakers, especially young Africans, to tell their own stories and express their own visions.

'Mami Wata' is a film that celebrates the power of imagination, creativity and storytelling. It is a film that challenges the stereotypes and expectations that often limit African cinema. It is a film that showcases the beauty and diversity of African culture and spirituality. It is a film that you don't want to miss.