Nollywood, Nigeria’s thriving film industry, stands as the second-largest in the world, churning out a staggering 2,500 films annually. Renowned for its dynamic narratives addressing social and political issues, Nollywood has recently experienced an upsurge in popularity, captivating audiences both in Nigeria and across the globe. A significant catalyst for this phenomenon lies in the accessibility of Nollywood productions through streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
Moreover, the industry’s growth owes much to a fresh wave of filmmakers pushing the boundaries of Nigerian cinema. These visionaries create visually stunning and thought-provoking films, characterized by unprecedented diversity and inclusivity in storytelling. Below, I present a selection of must-see Nigerian films that epitomize the evolving face of Nollywood:
King of Boys
Directed by Kemi Adetiba, this Nigerian crime thriller stars Sola Sobowale as Alhaja Eniola Salami, a formidable businesswoman with complex past and promising political aspirations. A critical and commercial triumph, the film grossed over ?2 billion at the Nigerian box office and received multiple award nominations, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Film and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award for Best Film.
Anikulapo
Breaking new ground, “Anikulapo” is a high-budget, visually captivating film featuring a star-studded cast. It stands as a historically accurate portrayal of a pivotal figure in Yoruba history. Praised for its production values, exceptional performances, and authentic representation of Yoruba culture and history, this film is a must-watch for enthusiasts of Nigerian cinema and Yoruba heritage.
Jagun Jagun
An epic action film produced by Femi Adebayo and directed by Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani. Lateef Adedimeji takes the lead as Gbotija, a young warrior mentored by the formidable Ogunjimi (Odunlade Adekola). Love and conflict entwine as Gbotija falls for Ogunjimi’s daughter, resulting in a thrilling struggle for freedom. “Jagun Jagun” signifies Nollywood’s global appeal, offering entertainment and substance for diverse audiences worldwide.
Shanty Town
This Nigerian crime thriller series, created by Xavier Ighorodje and Chichi Nworah and produced by Chinenye Nworah, debuted on Netflix in January 2023. The series revolves around Scar (Chidi Mokeme), a ruthless leader in Shanty Town, where crime reigns. It captivates audiences with well-developed characters, a suspenseful plot, and an unflinching portrayal of the darker aspects of Lagos, cementing its role in reshaping Nollywood’s landscape.
Battle on Buka Street
Directed by Funke Akindele and Tobi Makinde, this Nigerian comedy-drama showcases a stellar cast including Funke Akindele, Mercy Johnson, Bimbo Ademoye, Sola Sobowale, and Nkem Owoh. The film narrates the rivalry between half-sisters Aduke (Funke Akindele) and Ijeoma (Mercy Johnson) as they compete for the title of “King of Buka Street” in a culinary showdown. Celebrating Nigerian women’s resilience and the richness of their culture, this heartwarming film ranks among the highest-grossing Nigerian productions ever.
Gangs of Lagos
Directed by Jade Osiberu and starring Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, and Chike Osebuka, this crime thriller delves into the lives of three childhood friends ensnared in gang violence and political corruption. “Gangs of Lagos” delivers a gritty, realistic portrayal of these issues in Nigeria, providing a suspenseful and captivating viewing experience.
Brotherhood
Telling the tale of twin brothers, Wale Adetula (played by Falz) and Akin Adetula (played by Tobi Bakre), “Brotherhood” unravels their divergent paths, one joining the Police SWAT team and the other embracing a life of crime. Boasting high-octane action sequences and a multifaceted, emotionally charged storyline, this film further underscores the diversity and talent of Nigerian filmmakers and actors.
These films are merely a glimpse of the remarkable works emanating from Nollywood that are reshaping the industry’s landscape. For those seeking fresh and engaging cinematic experiences, these productions offer a gateway to the ever-evolving world of Nigerian cinema. Beyond the aforementioned titles, Nollywood continues to expand its horizons, showcasing the multifaceted talents of its filmmakers and actors while crafting stories with global resonance.
The current era can be aptly described as a golden age for Nollywood. Streaming platforms and a new generation of visionary filmmakers are propelling Nigerian cinema into the global spotlight, redefining the very essence of the industry. Indeed, Nollywood is leading the charge in transforming the face of cinema, and the world is watching with anticipation.
