Nigerian filmmaker Winifred Nkiru Mena-Ajakpovi teams up with acclaimed director Kayode Kasum to deliver ‘The Serpent’s Gift,’ a mystery-drama that dives deep into themes of love, legacy, betrayal, and the deadly cost of inheritance.
Kasum, who made a major splash at the Nigerian box office with ‘Ajosepo,’ brings his signature storytelling style once again to the screen. ‘Ajosepo’ explored the chaos that erupts during a seemingly joyous wedding weekend, where secrets, family tensions, and cultural expectations clashed spectacularly. Now, with ‘The Serpent’s Gift,’ Kasum shifts gears into darker, more psychological territory while maintaining the emotionally charged, character-driven drama that defined his earlier success
Set against the backdrop of Igbo traditions and modern power structures, ‘The Serpent’s Gift’ follows the aftermath of the sudden death of Nduka Sylvanus, a revered businessman in Eastern Nigeria. When the dust settles, a young, elegant widow, Ijeoma, finds herself the unlikely guardian of his empire, standing in the crosshairs of a ruthless family determined to reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs.
As tradition clashes with ambition, and bloodlines blur beneath secrets, one question rises above all: will justice lie at the end of the serpent’s path? Shot in lush Igbo-styled locations, The film blends the suspense of a legal thriller with the emotional weight of family drama, anchored by strong character arcs and a dash of psychological intrigue.
The film boasts a stellar cast, including Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman, Stan Nze, Tina Mba, Daniel Etim-Effiong, Beverly Osu, and Ric Hassani in a dramatic, against-type performance. Their characters unravel a tightly woven story of loyalty, greed, womanhood, justice, and power in a modern African household.
Produced by Winifred Nkiru Mena-Ajakpovi, known for championing layered, female-led stories, and directed by Kayode Kasum, one of Nigeria’s popular cinematic voices, ‘The Serpent’s Gift’ promises both edge and elegance. Their collaboration breathes life into a story that feels culturally grounded yet universally resonant.
The Serpent’s Gift hits Nigerian cinemas on August 29 with early interest from exhibitors.
