Renowned Nigerian author Wole Soyinka’s acclaimed memoir, “The Man Died,” is set to make its cinematic debut with Nollywood veteran Wale Ojo portraying the esteemed writer.
The film adaptation, directed by Awam Amkpa, is slated for release in July 2024, promising a compelling narrative that delves into Soyinka’s experiences during the Nigerian Civil War.
“The Man Died” chronicles Soyinka’s profound emotions while detained as a political prisoner by the Nigerian government in the late 1960s, shortly after the war ended. This autobiographical work, penned by Soyinka in 1972, offers a poignant reflection on his tumultuous journey during a pivotal period in Nigerian history.
Wole Soyinka, the first Sub-Saharan African to be honored with the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, holds a significant place in literary history. Celebrating his 89th birthday last July, Soyinka received accolades from Wale Ojo, who hailed the playwright as “a rare icon” deserving of utmost respect.
The upcoming film adaptation of “The Man Died” boasts a stellar Nollywood cast, including Chidi Mokeme, Sam Dede, Norbert Young, Francis Onwochei, Edmond Enabe, Segilola Ogidan, Simileoluwa Hassan, Christiana Oshunniyi, and newcomer Abraham Amkpa.
Produced by Femi Odugbemi and written by Bode Asiyanbi, the film’s release in July will coincide with Soyinka’s 90th birthday, commemorating his enduring literary legacy.
This cinematic endeavor adds to the growing repertoire of adaptations based on Soyinka’s works, such as the 2022 Netflix film “Elesin Oba,” featuring Odunlade Adekola, Shaffy Bello, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omowunmi Dada, and Jide Kosoko. Soyinka’s literary contributions, including “Death and the King’s Horseman” and other seminal works like “The Trials of Brother Jero,” “Aké: The Years of Childhood,” “The Lion and the Jewel,” and “You Must Set Forth at Dawn,” continue to captivate audiences globally, underscoring his enduring impact on African literature and storytelling.
