I Live in V.I.: Nigerian Satire Spotlights Lagos Class Divide

Nigerian filmmaker Ugochukwu Azuya is developing a new social class satire titled I Live in V.I., which examines key issues surrounding urban alienation and gentrification. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the project recently gained international attention after being featured as a film in development during the Locarno Open Doors initiative.

The narrative of I Live in V.I. draws directly from Azuya's personal observations while living in Lagos, Nigeria. The director described the city as a materialistically driven and deeply classist society. These observations provided the foundation for a storyline focused on economic disparities and the social friction generated by rapid urban re-development.

Gentrification and social stratification remain central focus areas for the feature film. Azuya utilizes a satirical tone to dissect the disconnect experienced by urban dwellers navigating high-stakes environments. The project highlights how financial pressures and modern developments reframe relationships and community structures inside one of Africa's largest economic centers.

Selection for Locarno Open Doors places the feature among prominent international projects currently seeking co-production partners and industry backing. The showcase offers crucial platform visibility for developing films, assisting directors from emerging cinema regions in securing international support while refining their scripts and production strategies for global audiences.

As development on I Live in V.I. progresses, the production team continues to build out the project following its pitch presentation. Additional announcements concerning cast selection, formal filming schedules, and international release partners are anticipated as Azuya advances the feature through its next stages of pre-production.