Nigerian filmmaker, Ike Nnaebue, received a commendation for his first documentary titled ‘No U-turn’ at the 72nd Berlin International Film Festival in Berlin, Germany which was held from February 10 to February 20, 2022.
While expressing his excitement towards the commendation, Ike Nnaebue stated that the recognition felt like a pat on the back encouraging him to do even better.
“When No U-Turn received an official selection from the Berlinale, I felt an encouraging pat on the back. Receiving a Special mention for my first documentary film felt like the documentary world swinging wide open its doors and welcoming me in heartily. All thanks to the amazing program that is Generation Africa. This is the generation of Africans that changes the narrative.”
Also, Susanne Schüle, a documentary jury member further stated that awards are given to documentaries that are special, noting how ‘No U-Turn’ gave voice to the people of Nigeria through filmmaking.
“We give the Special Mention to a film that sensitively gives voice to the people of Nigeria who are in a state of constant transit in their desperate search for a viable future. We rejoice with Ike Nnaebue and his team for No U-Turn.”
The film is one of two from STEPS’ most recent documentary project, Generation Africa, that has been chosen for screening at the festival. The other Generation Africa film chosen was Akuol de Mabior’s ‘No Simple Way Home,’ which was also the first South Sudanese film chosen in the festival’s history.