Mami Wata is a 2023 Nigerian black-and-white fantasy film written and directed by C. J. Obasi, based on West African folklore. The film premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival, marking Obasi's third feature to screen at Sundance. Cast Evelyne Ily Juhen as Prisca Uzoamaka Aniunoh as Zinwe Kelechi Udegbe as Jabi Emeka Amakeze as Jasper Rita Edochie as Mami Wata Tough Bone as Ero Production Obasi first came up with and began developing Mami Wata in 2016. After penning a few drafts, he took part in a number of labs to help refine the script. In an interview with CNN, Obasi stated he "wanted to make a hyper-stylised film" with its style rooted in substance, taking inspiration from his favourite filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa and David Lynch. The characters Prisca and Zinwe were inspired by Obasi's late sisters, adding a personal touch to the project. Production companies attached to Mami Wata include Obasi's Fiery Film Company, Palmwine Media, Swiss Fund Visions Sud Est, and Ifind Pictures of France. Principal photography took place on location in the rural villages of Benin and wrapped in January 2021. Reception At the Sundance Film Festival, cinematographer Lílis Soares won the Special Jury Prize in the World Dramatic Competition for the film's cinematography. References External links Black-and-white films Films based on African myths and legends Films shot in Benin Nigerian fantasy films