Damilola Orimogunje's Dear Ajayi Sets World Premiere at Venice 2026, Unveils Official First Look

By Akinwande Jordan

Damilola Orimogunje's latest feature, Dear Ajayi, will make its world premiere at the 2026 Venice Film Festival, with FilmOne Entertainment attached as the film's West African distributor.

The announcement was accompanied by the release of the film's official first-look images, offering audiences an early glimpse of Orimogunje's latest work ahead of its festival debut.

Dear Ajayi stars Bimbo Akintola and Tosin Adeyemi as estranged sisters who are forced to reunite to care for their paralysed mother, reopening old wounds as they confront their family's fractured past.

The ensemble cast also features Antar Laniyan, Uzoamaka Power, Michelle Dede, Chioma "Chigul" Omeruah, Kalu Ikeagwu, Tope Tedela, Baaj Adebule, Idowu Philips, Demi Banwo, Jide Oyegbile and Seun Kentebe.

FilmOne Entertainment's involvement as West African distributor positions Dear Ajayi for release across Nigeria and neighbouring territories following its Venice premiere.

A theatrical release date has yet to be announced. Further details regarding the film's Venice section, additional festival engagements and its wider theatrical rollout are expected in the coming weeks.

Damilola Orimogunje