From the Benin Kingdom to Toronto: Battle of Blood Makes World Premiere at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival

From the Benin Kingdom to Toronto: Battle of Blood Makes World Premiere at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival

Toronto, Canada – The highly anticipated historical drama Battle of Blood will make its world premiere at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) 2025, bringing to life the power, intrigue, and legacy of the 16th-century Benin Kingdom. Written and directed by Oghenefego, the film offers audiences a rare cinematic journey into one of Africa’s most storied empires.

Set against the grandeur of Benin’s royal court, Battle of Blood follows a gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal, and destiny, exploring themes that remain universally resonant – honour, sacrifice, and the cost of power. The film is a sweeping visual narrative that fuses meticulous historical detail with the emotional weight of human conflict.

“I wanted to create a story that honours the history of the Benin Kingdom while speaking to modern audiences about timeless struggles,” says Oghenefego Ofili, director of Battle of Blood. “Toronto, with its vibrant African and diasporic communities, is the perfect place to begin this film’s global journey.”

The premiere will take place at York Woods Library Theatre on 9th September, 2025 as part of TINFF’s official selection. The festival, known for celebrating global storytelling through the lens of Nollywood and African cinema, offers the ideal stage for Battle of Blood’s introduction to the world.

In addition to its historical narrative, the film showcases stunning costume design, traditional music elements, and a cast of celebrated talents, including Baba Cliff Igbinovia, Andrew Osawaru, and Prof Vincent Diakpromere.

Premiere Details:
Film: Battle of Blood
Date: 9th September, 2025
Venue: Screen B, York Woods Library Theatre, Toronto, Canada
Festival: Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF)
Screening Time: 2:45pm
Get Your Tickets

About the Director
Oghenefego Ofili is a Nigerian filmmaker and storyteller with a deep passion for bringing African history and heritage to global screens. As founder of Teo-Inspiro International Limited, she has produced award-winning documentaries and narrative works that spotlight culture, identity, and social change. Battle of Blood is her latest project, blending historical research with cinematic artistry.

Media Contact:
Oghenefego Ofili
oghenefego@teoinspiro.com
www.teoinspiro.com

Watch Trailer

Picture of Teo-Inspiro

Teo-Inspiro

Teo-Inspiro International is a media production company that is changing the narrative by empowering young people with digital skills to showcase the beauty of Africa. We provide photography and video coverage for events, produce films and documentaries that tell the African story and organize training programs on camera handling.

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