Farming is a British drama film written and directed by Nigerian-British filmmaker Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. The film is an autobiographical account of his upbringing in Tilbury, Essex, England. The story centers on Enitan, a young Nigerian boy (played by Damson Idris), who is sent to live with a white British family in the 1960s as part of a practice known as "farming."
Enitan struggles to fit in with his new family and experiences racism and isolation in his suburban community. As he grows older, he rebels against his parents' expectations and becomes involved with a group of white skinheads, led by a charismatic leader named Levi (played by John Dagleish).
Under Levi's influence, Enitan adopts a violent and aggressive persona, earning the nickname "Gangster" among his peers. The film explores the complexities of identity, race, and belonging, as Enitan navigates between his Nigerian heritage and his adopted British culture.
The film features an ensemble cast, including Kate Beckinsale as Enitan's foster mother, Gugu Mbatha-Raw as a teacher who supports Enitan, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as Enitan's father. The film premiered at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival and received mixed reviews from critics. However, the film was praised for its powerful performances and its portrayal of the emotional struggles faced by young immigrants. Overall, the film serves as a poignant and personal reflection on the immigrant experience in the UK.
