Vanessa Obioha

iREP International Documentary Film Festival returned last weekend for its 14th edition with a buffet of documentary films and robust conversations. Exploring the theme ‘Freedom: Rights and Responsibility,’  the selected films expressed different forms of freedom. From personal freedom as seen in ‘Limo on the Run,’ where the Kenyan sky runner and architect Limo Kipkemoi pushes himself to the limit, capturing his journey of endurance, self-discovery, and the unwavering spirit of a sky runner, to the opening film ‘Mothers of Chibok’ where women affected by the infamous April 14, 2014 Chibok Girls chose to live a life of home instead of imprisoned BG the tragic event.

“The films we selected were not meant to narrow down what freedom is all about,” said executive director of iREP, Femi Odugbemi. “We wanted freedom to be interpreted in different spheres of life.”

One of the event’s highlights was the In-Conversation segment, where filmmakers engaged in deeper exchanges about their craft and beliefs. This edition featured Nigerian-Paris-based imagist Andy Okoroafor and Irish filmmaker Ruan Magan, who spoke with iREP Executive Director Femi Odugbemi and Board Chair Dr. Awam Amkpa, respectively.

Okoroafor, who is working on a project about the famed artist and architect Demas Nwoko, tackled many issues, including the importance of design in filmmaking. As an imagist, he pointed out the various ways design can bring about authenticity in films.

Magan’s film, ‘Steps of Freedom,’ used the performing art dance not only to highlight the cultural and historical landscape of Ireland but also as an expression of real independence.

In its tradition, the festival wrapped up with the CORA Art Stampede, where the topic ‘Is Art a Limitless Freedom Way?’ was tackled.

With a 14-year history, Odugbemi said iREP is keen on creating documentary filmmakers who believe they can change the world.

“We are hoping to raise conscious filmmakers who are searching for truth, not just facts; filmmakers who want to use their art to make a better country, a better community, and a better world.”

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