Temi Ami-Williams’ Film Ireti Joins AFRIFF 2024 Lineup
Temi Ami-Williams’ heartfelt FilmLab Africa film, ‘Ireti,’ has officially joined the lineup for the 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). After its premiere in September 2024 at the Nigerian International Film and TV Summit (NIFS), ‘Ireti’ marks New Wine Studios’ first foray into drama—a meaningful shift for Ami-Williams, whose studio is known for costume-focused storytelling.
In this debut drama, Ami-Williams tells a story that mirrors her personal journey. ‘Ireti’ follows Iyanu, a rising costume designer, played by Kayinsola Eros, known for ‘Muri & Ko.’ Iyanu’s world is upended by a sudden cancer diagnosis, plunging her into despair as she navigates the challenges of chemotherapy. However, it is her close-knit community that becomes her source of resilience and hope.
Ami-Williams drew deeply from her own experience, having also faced a cancer diagnosis. This connection gave the story a profound emotional resonance that took the team thirteen drafts to perfect. Writing it was a deeply personal journey, and with screenwriter Udochukwu Onuoha, she was able to craft a screenplay that captures this intimate experience.
For Ami-Williams, overcoming cancer was possible through the unwavering support of her community. In a full-circle moment, the film’s production became a community effort too, including involvement from the hospital that treated her.
Beyond celebrating the strength of community, ‘Ireti’ also reflects Ami-Williams’ desire to inspire renewed faith in Nigeria’s healthcare system. While many Nigerians feel more secure seeking treatment for serious conditions abroad, Ami-Williams hopes this film will highlight the potential within local healthcare and encourage a sense of patriotism in its capabilities.
Ultimately, ‘Ireti’ is a testament to love, community, and the unbreakable resilience of the human spirit.
AFRIFF 2024 runs from November 3rd to November 9th.
