Nigerian film Daddy Bear has completed principal photography and is moving into post-production, but it is the film’s planned distribution strategy that could make it one to watch ahead of its targeted 2026 release.
Co-directed by Korede Azeez and Hajarat Alli and produced by Fulfilment Nwaturuocha, the film wrapped production in Abuja on 25 August. It is backed by Africa No Filter in partnership with CcHUB through its Storytellers cohort.
The film was shot by Fadamana Okwong and features Jammal Ibrahim, Ummi Baba-Ahmed, Dera Osadebe, Ame Aiyejina and Ijapari Ben-Hirki.
Rather than relying solely on conventional theatrical distribution or a streamer acquisition, Nwaturuocha plans to take Daddy Bear into community cinemas and smaller shared screenings. The approach positions community exhibition as a deliberate audience-development strategy rather than an alternative used after traditional distribution channels fail to secure a release.
That strategy comes as independent Nigerian productions face challenges securing theatrical screens, while streaming platforms have become more selective with acquisition and commissioning budgets.
The model could offer filmmakers another route to audiences, particularly where conventional cinema infrastructure does not provide sufficient access for independent titles. It also raises questions around the economics of community exhibition, including how revenues, audience reach and screening costs compare with traditional box-office arrangements.
The approach will be closely watched as Daddy Bear moves towards release, particularly if it demonstrates that smaller, community-led screenings can become a viable distribution channel for independent African film.
Africa No Filter’s Storytellers cohort is also supporting other African productions, including Anam’s Wake and Kenya’s Utata, highlighting the funder’s broader focus on developing locally driven storytelling across the continent.
