Logline & Synopsis

LOGLINE: In contemporary Lagos, two queer friends, one unapologetically out, the other hidden behind faith and heteronormative performance, clash over how to survive in a homophobic society.

Synopsis

SIDES is a queer short film that explores the nuanced ways queer Nigerians navigate identity, safety, and visibility within a homophobic country. It follows the relationship between two close friends—Ify and Eni—both secure in their queerness but living radically different lives. Ify is vocal, visible, and deeply embedded in grassroots activism. Eni, by contrast, exists quietly on an invisible periphery, hiding behind religious and heteronormative performance as a form of self-preservation.

Their ideological differences spark growing tension, leading to a confrontation: Ify believes Eni's closeness to homophobic people and spaces reinforces harmful systems while Eni sees Ify's visibility as reckless—putting both of them at risk.

When a shared tragedy strikes, both are forced to confront the cost of their choices and the quiet love that still binds them. Set in contemporary Lagos, SIDES is a meditation on queer expression, safety, and community in a place where identity is often a matter of survival.

Filmmaker Biography

Odaro Eguavoen is a multidisciplinary creative working across film, architecture, and game development. He began his career in architecture, developing a strong understanding of structure, composition, and spatial storytelling. This foundation pushed him to expand into filmmaking, where he strengthened his ability to communicate complex ideas through film.

In just his first twelve months in filmmaking, he has achieved 1 award, 9 nominations, and 24 festival selections across three short films. He was also named as one of the Top 7 Writers for Film Lab Africa Phase 2, where his pitched script was selected for production in an anthology series. He is also one of 12 winners of the Obodo Artist Fund 2025, a win that led to the world premiere of his film at the S16 Film Festival 2026.

Cast

Extras: Isaac John, Vincent Egbe, Lazarus, Obed Isibor

Full Crew