Nigerian producer Mo Abudus made her directorial debut with two short films entitled Her Perfect Life and Iyawo Mi (My Wife). Both films offer a poignant look into women and mental illness, a topic that is scarcely discussed in popular media. 

Her Perfect Life tells the story of an entrepreneur, Onajite Johnson-Ibrahim, in her late 30s, who seemingly has it all, but is secretly struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts. Iyawo Mi (My Wife) tells the story of Eniola, who lives in one of the poorest parts of Lagos. Eniola is discovered by her husband in the midst of a mental breakdown, screaming and crying and threatening to kill the family. 

Both films have garnered a lot of attention following their festival rounds. The two films debuted at Cannes’ Short Film Corner, and are now up for an Oscar. Mo Abudus spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about the films saying, “For years, I’ve strived to elevate African stories, to amplify voices that deserve to be heard on a global stage. African storytelling isn’t just confined to our borders; it’s a universal language, resonating with the human experience worldwide. Her Perfect Life and Iyawo Mi were born from an intrinsic need to explore societal nuances, to peel back the layers of our existence. These stories, set against the vibrant tapestry of Lagos, delve into complex emotions and the intricacies of human relationships. Through these short films, I’ve witnessed the immense power of narrative to bridge cultures. They’ve graced prestigious platforms, not merely for accolades but to spark conversations, to challenge perceptions and to offer a glimpse into narratives often overlooked.”  

Abuda was on the list of The Hollywood Reporter’s annual Most Powerful Women in Global Entertainment. Her production company, EbonyLife Media, is responsible for movies such as Fifty, The Wedding Party, and Blood Sisters. EbonyLife strives to give “the voices and perspectives of underrepresented communities.”