Lioness of Lisabi

Set in 1940s Nigeria, capturing the struggles of a young African girl. Funmi precariously straddles the different worlds of modernity and tradition. When Funmi's mother, a powerful market woman, insists on sending her to England for an education, Funmi goes reluctantly, knowing that the patriarchal traditions at home continue to oppress the market women. With the help of a strange African American angel, Funmi returns with the confidence of an educated young woman. But she soon finds that, even though she has changed, the oppression has remained the same. The film culminates in the moment when Funmi finally and fully faces the old challenges.

Directed by Vlady Oszkiel, Lioness of Lisabi leans on a strong ensemble — Anita Kavuu, Alana Arenas, Bibi Lebechi — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 0.