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Machine Boys

Best Short Documentary Karimah Ashadu Germany, Italy, Nigeria, Documentary, 00:08:56

“Machine Boys” is a short film which explores the informal economy of motorcycle taxis; colloquially known as “Okada”, in the mega city of Lagos. Banned due to the government’s inability to regulate it, “Machine Boys” portrays a hardy group of bikers who continue this work, seeking to attain financial autonomy and independence.  

With its innovative, cutting-edge style and sartorial references, the film engages in a dialogue around post-colonial informal economy structures in Nigeria, as well as opening a window into the socio-cultural nuances of its most populated city.  

Watch the trailer

Machine Boys
Film block: DOCUMENTARY / ON HABIT AND TRADITION
Screening:
Palace of Culture Pernik, Hall 1
  • Language
  • Country Germany, Italy, Nigeria
  • Genre Documentary
  • Cinematographer Aigberadion Israel Ikhazuangbe
  • Producer Fondazione In Between Art Film and Golddust by Ashadu
  • Editor Karimah Ashadu
  • Year of creation 2024
  • Duration 00:08:56
Karimah Ashadu
Director Karimah Ashadu

Karimah Ashadu (b. London 1985) is a British-born Nigerian Artist and Film Director living and working between Hamburg and Lagos. Ashadu’s work is concerned with labour, patriarchy and notions of independence pertaining to the socio-economic and socio-cultural context of Nigeria and its diaspora.

Her work has exhibited and screened at institutions internationally, including the 60th Venice Biennale, where she was awarded the Silver Lion. In 2020, Ashadu established her film production company Golddust by Ashadu, specialising in Artists’ films on Black culture and African discourses.

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