Experiencing Interruptions?

Silent Verses

A stuttering young boy, pressured by his father, finds solace in his bicycle-until a troubled boy steals it, leading to an unlikely friendship.

  • Abu-bakr S. Adamu
    Director
    Fear And Water, Salamatu's Rhapsody
  • Abu-bakr S. Adamu
    Writer
    Fear And Water, Salamatu's Rhapsody
  • Abdullahi Tauheed Mohammed
    Producer
    Fear And Water
  • Nasir Nuhu
    Producer
    Fear And Water
  • Abdulqhowiy Dundu
    Producer
  • Najeeb Nuhu
    Key Cast
    "Sadiq"
  • Mahmud Abdullateef
    Key Cast
    "Sunnie"
  • Sadiq Hamisu
    Key Cast
    "Madrasah Teacher"
  • Salim Muhammad Musa
    Director of Photography
  • Project Type:
    Experimental, Short
  • Runtime:
    24 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    February 28, 2026
  • Country of Origin:
    Nigeria
  • Country of Filming:
    Nigeria
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    1.50
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Digital Cinema Package:
    Unavailable
  • Shorts at AFS
    Accra
    Nigeria
    July 18, 2026
    Ghana Premiere
    Official Selection
Distribution Information
  • Brokepvls
    Distributor
    Country: Worldwide
Director Biography - Abu-bakr S. Adamu

Abu-bakr S. Adamu is an award-winning Nigerian writer, director, editor and visual artist. Born 7 July 2001 in Kubwa, FCT, and raised in Suleja. His passion for filmmaking began early at the age of 11 when he started making videos with his friends using mobile phones. His distinctive style explores societal complexities and realism inspired by the vibrant Northern Nigeria.

His short film "Tsoro Da Ruwa" was screened at several international film festivals and earned nominations for Best Actor and Best Director at the 2023 Ibadan Indie Film Awards. In 2024, Abu-bakr was selected as a participant in the inaugural Film Lab Africa Accelerator program.

Abu-bakr, alongside a collective of creative minds, founded Alpha Flicks, a powerhouse of talent and innovation. Together, they have brought to life numerous captivating films, music videos, commercials, and documentary projects. His films are renowned for their thought-provoking narratives and poignant, often tragic conclusions, leaving audiences both moved and inspired.

With an unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Northern Nigeria, he uses his cinematic endeavors to spotlight this remarkable region. His storytelling is not just a passion but a profound mission to amplify the voices and stories of his homeland, making him a true believer in the world of African cinema.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

Silent Verses is a story rooted in my own experiences with silence, expression and friendship. As someone who stutters, I’ve rarely seen characters who reflect that part of me on screen. This film is my attempt to change that—gently, honestly, and with heart.

It’s a story about two boys, both carrying different forms of struggle, who meet at the point where pain and empathy intersect. Through quiet moments, stolen bicycles, and unexpected bonds, Silent Verses explores resilience, understanding, and the small, life-shaping choices we make as children.

I aim to create a film that feels intimate, naturalistic, and emotionally true.