Photos From Stars-Studded Private Screening of 'Higher Crime', to Hit Cinemas June 14th

The highly anticipated film "HIGHER CRIME," produced by Aniebiet Francis and directed by Uduakobong Patrick, held an exclusive private screening for select media and industry pundits at the prestigious Silverbird Galleria on Sunday, June 9, 2024, to set the stage for the movie's official release in cinemas across Nigeria and French-speaking West Africa from June 14, 2024.

The cast and crew of "HIGHER CRIME" at the private screening of the movie on Sunday.

Distributed by Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution, this gripping drama delves into the courageous journey of Tife, portrayed by Enwongoabasi Ibom, a prominent blogger who brings to light the chilling truth of a woman's sexual assault, igniting a fierce legal battle with Jeffrey, a prominent philanthropist played by Femi Branch.

The private screening was graced by prominent industry figures, including Keppy Ekpenyong, Amb. Queen Blessing Ebigieson (President of the Association of Movie Producers, Nigeria, AMP), and Uche Agbo (Vice President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, DGN).

The film features a vibrant ensemble cast, blending industry heavyweights like Femi Branch, Bimbo Akintola, and Keppy Ekpenyong with rising stars Enwongoabasi Ibom and Folashade Abimbola. Femi Branch, who recently starred as a villain in the acclaimed Disney-Kugali animated series "IWAJU," once again embraces a dark role as Jeffrey. Bimbo Akintola, known for blockbusters like "93 Days," stars as Jeffrey's loyal yet naive wife. Enwongoabasi Ibom, a rising actress and social media influencer, takes on the role of Tife, the fearless blogger determined to fight for justice. Nollywood legend Keppy Ekpenyong plays Jeffrey's lawyer, who helps Jeffrey leverage shared political connections to silence Tife, while newcomer Folashade Abimbola portrays Ruby, another victim of abuse.

Executive Producer, Aniebiet Francis, and actor, Keppy Ekpenyong.

The private screening was graced by prominent industry figures, including Keppy Ekpenyong, Amb. Blessing Ebigieson (President of the Association of Movie Producers, Nigeria, AMP), and Uche Agboh (Vice President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, DGN). The First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Patience Eno, was represented by her daughter, Mrs. Eby Eno, who delivered a powerful speech, applauding Francis and highlighting the various initiatives spearheaded by the Office of the First Lady through the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) to combat gender-based violence. The release of "HIGHER CRIME" is especially significant as June is recognized as Gender-Based Violence Awareness Month in Akwa Ibom State.

"HIGHER CRIME" is produced by Nigerian filmmaker and actress, Aniebiet Francis, under her production company, Amazing Arts Entertainment, and distributed domestically and internationally by Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution. It will be available in major cinema chains and independent theaters across Nigeria and French-speaking West Africa starting June 14th, promising to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and powerful performances.

See pictures from the screening below: