I Am More Dangerous Dead

A poetic tribute to writer, poet and environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, who was executed alongside eight other activists for opposing the environmental damage done in their oil-rich homeland, Ogoni.

  • Majiye Uchibeke
    Director
  • Majiye Uchibeke
    Writer
    Directing debut
  • Denzel Jenkins
    Producer
  • Miles Lagoze
    Producer
    Combat Obscura
  • Ken Saro-Wiwa
    Key Cast
  • Ledum Mitee
    Key Cast
  • Charles Wiwa
    Key Cast
  • Kwame Saro-Wiwa
    Key Cast
  • Roy Doron
    Key Cast
  • Omolade Adunbi
    Key Cast
  • Cristina Headrick
    Editor
  • Matthew Berger
    Editor
  • Shan Cao
    Sound
  • Damisi Scott
    Sound
  • Wubetu Shimelash
    Cinematography
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    24 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    December 9, 2022
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    Nigeria, United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital, 6K
  • Aspect Ratio:
    17:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    Yes - University of Southern California, School of Cinematic Arts
  • International Nature and Environmental Protection Film Festival
    Godollo
    Hungary
    May 20, 2023
    No Premiere
    2nd Place Best Documentary Short
  • Student World Impact Film Festival

    United States
    June 18, 2023
    No premiere
    Quarter Finalist, Best Documentary Short
  • Essence Film Festival
    Essence Film Festival
    United States
    July 1, 2023
    New Orleans Premiere
    Official Selection
  • The Micheaux Film Festival
    Los Angeles
    United States
    July 14, 2023
    No Premiere
    Winner, Best Documentary
  • BlackStar Film Festival
    Philadelphia
    United States
    August 4, 2023
    Philadelphia Premiere
    Official Selection
Distribution Information
  • Cassidy, Sandrine
    Sales Agent
    Country: Worldwide
    Rights: All Rights, Internet, Video on Demand, Pay Per View, Hotel, Airline, Ship, Theatrical, Video / Disc, Free TV, Paid TV, Console / Handheld Device
Director Biography - Majiye Uchibeke

Majiye Uchibeke is a talented and visionary Los Angeles-based filmmaker hailing from Nigeria. Born and raised in a culturally rich environment, Uchibeke developed a deep appreciation for storytelling from an early age. Fascinated by the power of film as a medium for social change and cultural exploration, he embarked on a journey to pursue his passion for filmmaking.

Uchibeke's pursuit of his artistic aspirations led him to the prestigious University of Southern California (USC) Film School, where he honed his skills and expanded his creative horizons. Immersed in an environment that fostered innovation and collaboration, Uchibeke thrived, pushing the boundaries of his craft and embracing diverse storytelling techniques.

His education at USC Film School provided Uchibeke with a solid foundation in the technical aspects of filmmaking. He gained proficiency in various aspects of the filmmaking process, including directing, cinematography, editing, and sound design. Uchibeke's background as a Nigerian filmmaker brings a unique perspective to his work. He draws inspiration from the vibrant cultures, rich traditions, and pressing social issues of his homeland. With a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances of Nigerian society, Uchibeke aims to shed light on underrepresented narratives and challenge prevailing stereotypes through his films.

Driven by a desire to make a positive impact through his work, Uchibeke is committed to creating thought-provoking and emotionally resonant stories that engage audiences on a profound level. His films explore themes of identity, social justice, and cultural heritage, aiming to foster empathy, inspire dialogue, and effect change.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

As a filmmaker from the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, the story of "I Am More Dangerous Dead" holds a deeply personal and profound significance for me.

Growing up in this region, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the oil industry on our communities and the environment. Saro-Wiwa's unwavering determination and his ultimate sacrifice deeply inspired me. After moving to the U.S. for college, I noticed that there are gas stations in every few miles in big cities like Los Angeles. But the issue I noticed was, people do not know where the gas they buy comes from, or what effect it has had on the people and places it is being exploited from.

Usually, we all tend to associate the climate crisis with its environmental impacts like unbearable heat, air pollution, rising seas, burning forests, etc, yet the attacks against environmental activists show that the unaccountable exploitation and greed driving the climate crisis is also having an increasingly violent impact on people. In 2020, Global Witness recorded 227 murders of environmental activists worldwide. In 2021, they recorded 200 murders. Clearly, brutal executions of environmental activists continue worldwide to this day.

I Am More Dangerous Dead examines the legacy of Ken Saro-Wiwa and shares awareness of the issues that go on when big corporations we rely on a daily basis, unjustly exploit people and attempt to conceal their actions from public eye. "I Am More Dangerous Dead" is not simply a historical account; it is a poetic exploration of Saro-Wiwa's spirit and the indomitable resilience of the Ogoni people. Through this film, I aim to honor his memory and bring awareness to the ongoing struggle for environmental justice. With "I Am More Dangerous Dead," I aspire to honor Saro-Wiwa's legacy, amplify the voices of the oppressed, and inspire a global movement towards ecological justice.

Therefore, it is with a sense of duty that I share this film with you. Thank you for considering I Am More Dangerous Dead for this year’s festival. I cannot think of a more perfect way to introduce this story to you and the world.