Filmmaker's Asylum Ordeal Inspires Powerful Debut

Nigerian-British director Joy Gharoro-Akpojotor's debut feature, 'Dreamers', offers a poignant look at asylum seekers through a semi-autobiographical lens. The film, set within an immigration detention centre, draws inspiration from Gharoro-Akpojotor's own harrowing experience seeking asylum in the UK. It unflinchingly portrays the impersonal nature of the immigration system and the emotional toll it takes on individuals.

The narrative centers on Isio, a Nigerian woman whose claim is being processed, mirroring Gharoro-Akpojotor's own close encounter with the asylum system. The film dramatizes the often-uninformed and intrusive nature of Home Office interviews, where personal lives and identities are scrutinized. Despite the grim backdrop, 'Dreamers' weaves in themes of hope, resilience, and the power of human connection, including a tender love story.

Gharoro-Akpojotor, also known for producing films that champion black, female, and gay stories, aims to foster empathy and understanding through her work. 'Dreamers' challenges stereotypes about refugees and immigrants, presenting them as individuals with complex lives and aspirations. The director hopes her film encourages viewers to look beyond labels and recognize shared humanity, advocating for greater compassion in social issues.