Released in 2015, DRY is an award-winning feature film written, directed, and produced by Stephanie Linus. Addressing child marriage, obstetric fistula, maternal health, and the rights of girls and women, the film evolved beyond cinema into an international advocacy platform.
Today, DRY stands as a powerful example of how storytelling can move beyond entertainment to become a catalyst for awareness, advocacy, healing, and lasting change.
Set against the backdrop of Northern Nigeria, DRY tells the powerful story of a young girl whose life is forever changed by child marriage and obstetric fistula.
Through an emotionally compelling narrative, the film explores resilience, dignity, healing, and hope while highlighting challenges faced by millions of girls and women worldwide.
More than a story about suffering, DRY is a story about courage, survival, and transformation.
Selected principal cast and key creative credits.
Selected laurels from DRY’s original Next Page Productions archive.
Awards won and nominations are separated so the film’s achievements remain clear and documented.
Bentonville Film Festival
Best Protagonist Award
ZAFAA Global Awards
Best Film • Best Director • Best Actress • Best Producer
Best of Nollywood Awards
Movie with the Best Social Message • Best Cinematography • Best Screenplay • Best Child Actress
Pan African Film Festival
Programmers’ Award for Narrative Feature
AMVCA 2016
Best Overall Movie • Best Costume Design • Best Sound Editor
AMAA 2016
Best Nigerian Film • Best Young and Promising Actor
NAFCA
Best Overall Movie • Best Director • Best Screenplay • Best Drama Film • Best Actress in a Leading Role
AMVCA 2016
Best Director • Best Supporting Actress • Best Art Director • Best Cinematographer • Best Makeup Artist
AMAA 2016
Best Film • Best Director
NAFCA
12 award nominations across multiple categories
The film became a tool for advocacy and dialogue across Africa and internationally.
Screened to national leaders and policymakers, including First Lady Esther Lungu.
Screened to senior government leaders, including Vice President Dr. Isatou Njie Saidy.
Screened and discussed during engagements surrounding the 72nd United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The message of DRY inspired the creation of the Extended Hands Foundation, connecting awareness with healthcare action for women and girls living with obstetric fistula.
The influence of DRY extended beyond film into wider recognition of Stephanie Linus’s advocacy and leadership.
Recognition for contributions to maternal health advocacy and awareness through storytelling and humanitarian work.
Regional advocacy leadership for maternal health in West and Central Africa.
Recognition at Buckingham Palace for leadership and impact across the Commonwealth.
Watch the official trailer or stream the full film on currently available platforms.
More than a film. More than an award-winning production. More than an advocacy campaign.
DRY demonstrated how storytelling can influence conversations, inspire action, improve lives, and create lasting social impact.