CJ Obasi’s ‘Mami Wata’ Selected To Compete In World Drama Category At Sundance 2023

Mami Wata, a film by Nigeria’s very own CJ “Fiery” Obasi has been selected to partake at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival as a feature in World Cinema Dramatic Competition.

Sundance Film Festival, an annual event recognized as one of the largest independent film festivals in the United States is well known for bringing together storytellers, documentaries, short films, episodic storytelling, lively filmmaker conversations, and panel discussions.

Mami Wata tells the tale of, Prisca and Zinwe, daughters of Mama Efe who must rise to defend their village when it comes under attack and restore the glory of the Mermaid goddess of the land of Iyi.

Produced by Oge Obasi, it stars Evelyne Ily, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Emeka Amakeze, Kelechi Udegbe, Rita Edochie, and Tough Bone.

Mami Wata’s selection marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian movie industry as the development makes the project the very first Nigerian film ever to be selected for the festival.

Commenting on the development, CJ Obasi, the film’s director said, “I am so very thrilled about this selection. It is such a great honor and honestly, it feels surreal. I mean, you put in the work and hope for the best, then when recognition comes, it is both remarkable and very fulfilling.

It is also a challenge to keep raising the bar and inspiring others to do the same.”

Sundance Film Festival is scheduled to hold from 19th to 29th of January 2023.