Biodun Stephen’s widely-celebrated drama, Sista, has made a stunning impact at the 11th annual NollywoodWeek Film Festival in Paris.The film swept both the Audience Choice and Jury Prize awards for best movie, highlighting its ability to resonate with viewers across cultural boundaries.
Sista, inspired by Biodun Stephen’s upbringing with a single mother, sparked thought-provoking discussions and deep emotional satisfaction among a wide range of movie fans when it was released.
Sista wasn’t Stephen’s only success at NollywoodWeek Paris. Her film, Atiko, co-produced with Adediwura Blackgold, opened the prestigious festival.
Biodun Stephen’s NollywoodWeek victories are merely the latest in a string of successes. Her films consistently explore universal themes like love, loss, family, and societal challenges.
These new awards follow Sista’s impressive track record, having previously won Best Nollywood Drama at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) and Best Original Score at the International Independent Film Awards. Stephen’s talent has consistently been recognised, with her win for Best Writer at the AMVCA in 2022 for her work on The Kujus.
Sista was written and directed by Biodun Stephen, who is notable for other films like ‘Breaded Life’, ‘Finding Baami’ and ‘Picture Perfect.’
“I always love to tell stories that resonate and look real, while subtly adding comedy to douse emotional purge. I am thrilled that my films are recognised for their authentic portrayal of African narratives and their ability to connect with global viewers. It’s a victory, not just for me but for Nollywood,” Biodun Stephen said.
In 2023, Stephen’s The Wildflower won the Audience Choice award at the NollywoodWeek festival in Paris.
Olaitan Ibrahim