Rucksack Productionz has released the first teaser for historical drama The Herbert Macaulay Affair, the latest offering from indie film director Imoh Umoren who has been on a roll this year. The blockbuster period piece is the Children of Mud’s director fourth feature in 2019, following Dear Bayo, The Coffin Salesman, and Lagos: Sex, Lies, and Traffic.
The Herbery Macaulay Affair is set between the late 1800 and early 1900. It follows the life of the enigmatic Nigeran Nationalist, Herbert Macaulay who was one of the advocates for independence. The story, based on actual events, will focus more on the personal life of the rebel, which has not often been well-documented. One of Herbert’s grandchildren is a producer on the project to ensure historical accuracy. You can read the official synopsis below.
The Herbert Macaulay Affair begins with young Herbert stepping off a ship after spending sometime schooling in England in 1893. He gets work at the Crown Lands as a Surveyor. Herbert, who has been radicalized upon his return, is annoyed by the segregation he witnesses at work and in his way rebels against authority. He meets and falls in love with Caroline Pratt whose father is a police officer of Her Royal Majesty, this immediately sets him on a warpath with his intending father in law as both men are of opposing ideologies. Superintendent Pratt tasked with keeping the law has to deal with this emerging rebel who also wants to marry his daughter. Despite opposition and setbacks, Caroline and Herbert fall madly in love and this film tells that story.
Herbert Macaulay will be played by William Benson (93 Days, Ajoche). Other cast members include Tonia Chukwurah, Saidi Balogun, Obi Maduegbuna, Martha Ehinome Orhiere, Joy Nmezi, and Steve Enagbare. The Herbert Macaulay Affair comes out in cinemas September 20.