I Live in V.I., a Social Class Satire from Nigeria: Exploring Urban Alienation and Gentrification
I Live in V.I. is a captivating social class satire from Nigeria, directed by Ugochukwu Azuya, that delves into the complexities of urban alienation and gentrification in the bustling city of Lagos. This film, presented at the 2026 edition of Open Doors at the Locarno Film Festival, showcases the struggles of a young woman named Florence, who leaves her small town in Akwa Ibom to pursue a job in the hospitality industry in Lagos.
The film's premise is intriguing, as Florence grapples with the harsh realities of her new life. She finds herself in a poor living situation, enduring a challenging commute to Victoria Island (V.I.), battling insomnia, and grappling with the loss of her father. To cope with her demanding job, she resorts to squatting in an abandoned construction site, closer to her workplace, and fabricates a lie about living in the affluent V.I. neighborhood.
Azuya's personal experiences in Lagos and his observations of young people mirroring Florence's working-class background inspired the film. He explores the ways in which society is constructed and how it shapes our psyche, particularly under capitalism. The film's universal themes resonate with anyone who has left their hometown for the promise of an urban metropolis, seeking identity and improved material conditions.
One of the most fascinating aspects of I Live in V.I. is its exploration of the Nigerian collective psyche. Azuya's use of humor, colored by the eccentricities, bravado, and ingenuity of Nigerians, adds a unique layer to the story. The film showcases the poetry of Lagos, its brutal beauty, and chaotic nature, painting a vivid picture of the city's diverse neighborhoods, from Yaba to Oshodi, Elegushito to Obalende, and Ojo to Gbagada.
The film's Möbius-strip-like structure symbolizes the lost hope of the Nigerian dream, where exorbitant displays of wealth coexist with failing infrastructure and displaced people. Florence's struggle to maintain the illusion of 'living the good life' in Lagos mirrors the experiences of many young people who leave their hometowns for the city, seeking opportunity but often facing challenges and loneliness.
I Live in V.I. is a thought-provoking film that invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of urban life, class dynamics, and the human condition. It highlights the universal struggle of adapting to a new environment, the challenges of survival, and the emotional toll of navigating a materialistic society. Azuya's unique perspective and personal experiences make this film a compelling watch, offering a fresh and insightful take on Nigerian society and its urban landscapes.
As the film progresses, Florence's journey becomes a powerful commentary on the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of societal structures. The audience is left with a profound understanding of the Nigerian dream's complexities and the emotional journey of those who dare to pursue it. I Live in V.I. is a must-watch for anyone interested in social class satire, urban alienation, and the human experience in a rapidly changing world.
