Bolanle Austen-Peters’s compelling biographical drama, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, is set to hit Nigerian cinemas on May 17th, 2024. The film made its debut at the 12th Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF 2023), where it received accolades for Best Overall Feature Film and Best Screenplay.
The biopic, written by Tunde Babalola and directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, chronicles the life of the late Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. Funmilayo was a renowned women’s rights activist and the mother of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. The film delves into her formative years at Abeokuta Grammar School in Ogun State, her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti, and her unwavering fight against colonialism and patriarchy through the establishment of the Abeokuta Women’s Union.
Key Cast:
- Kehinde Bankole takes on the lead role as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.
- Other notable actors include Ibrahim Suleiman, Joke Silva, Adebayo Salami, Keppy Ekpenyong, Dele Odule, Jide Kosoko, Omowunmi Dada, and Adunni Ade.
About Bolanle Austen-Peters:
- Bolanle Austen-Peters is not only a lawyer but also an award-winning filmmaker.
- She is the convener of Terra Kulture, a cultural hub headquartered in Lagos. Terra Kulture hosts Nigerian cuisine, a bookstore, and various cultural events.
- As the CEO of BAP Productions, founded in 2013, Austen-Peters has been instrumental in bringing captivating theatrical experiences to audiences. BAP Productions was responsible for the successful theatrical release of Saro The Musical in 2013 and the film 93 Days in 2015.
This powerful film promises to shed light on the remarkable life and legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.