In 2025, Nollywood delivered a powerful year of cinema with films that didn’t just hit theatres but stirred conversations, trended online, and got Nigerians talking everywhere.

Whether it was because of box office milestones, captivating performances, cultural buzz, or social media reactions, the following movies made waves across the country and beyond.

1. Colours of Fire

Directed by celebrated filmmaker Niyi Akinmolayan, Colours of Fire closed the year in style with a cinema release on December 24. The film stars Osas Ighodaro, Uzor Arukwe, Mercy Aigbe, Femi Branch, Gabriel Afolayan, and Ibrahim Chatta in a story blending culture, conflict, and compelling visual storytelling. Early teasers and visuals stirred huge online buzz long before its release, with fans counting down to Christmas Day at the cinema.

2. Behind the Scenes

Behind the Scenes came with serious hype and broke internet chatter, especially because it’s produced and directed by Funke Akindele, one of Nollywood’s biggest names. The movie premiered on December 12 and features a star-studded cast including Funke Akindele, Scarlet Gomez, Uzor Arukwe, Destiny Etiko, Mr Macaroni, and Ini Dima-Okojie. Audiences praised its captivating drama and strong ensemble, making it one of the most talked-about films shortly after its release.

3. Oversabi Aunty

Starring and directed by Toyin Abraham, Oversabi Aunty became a social media sensation almost immediately after its premiere on December 14. The comedy-drama tells the story of a well-meaning but overzealous church usher whose attempts to “help everyone” create both chaos and laughter. With a cast including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, Queen Nwokoye, Jemima Osunde, and Tana Adelana, the film’s strong debut box office numbers made headlines online.

4. Labake Olododo : The Warrior Lord

Labake Olododo became a cultural talking point thanks to its strong performances and deep Yoruba cultural themes. It was produced by Iyabo Ojo and directed by Biodun Stephen. The film tells the story of a fearless warrior Queen in the Yoruba cultural heritage. The movie starred Femi Adebayo, Faithia Williams, etc.

5. Iyalode

Iyalode made waves for its strong female-led narrative and cultural depth. The movie sparked conversations around power, tradition, and womanhood, with many viewers praising its bold storytelling and performances. It was directed by Adebayo Tijani and produced by Toyin Abraham. Toyin Abraham, Muyiwa Ademola, Kehinde Bankole, and Ibrahim Chatta starred in the movie.

6. This is Not a Nollywood Movie

Directed by Wale Ojo and produced by Boma Akpore, the movie premiered on December 6, 2025. It tells the story of Okechukwu Nwadi Ibe who failed as an Igbo movie director and is trying to comeback.

7. Grandpa Must Obey

With comedy and strong performances from veteran actors, like Kanayo O. Kanayo, Bimbo Akintola, and Yvonne Jegede; Grandpa Must Obey became a popular topic post-release. Many scenes and character moments were shared widely online, with fans praising its blend of humour and emotional moments that connected with family audiences in Nigeria.

8. A Very Dirty Christmas Released just ahead of the holiday rush, A Very Dirty Christmas grabbed attention for its bold twist on the usual festive narrative. Directed by Akay Mason and featuring Ini Edo, IK Ogbonna, Lateef Adedimeji, Nancy Isime, and Wunmi Toriola, the movie had Nigerians talking for its mix of humour, chaos, and dramatic scenes tied to Christmas celebrations.

9. Ginger

Ginger officially premiered in cinemas on September 21, 2025, and quickly became one of Nollywood’s most talked-about releases of the year. Directed by Yemi Morafa, the film stood out not just for its storytelling but also for the powerful creative force behind it.The movie was produced by a dynamic quartet — Wunmi Toriola, Kiekie, Bolaji Ogunmola, and Bisola Aiyeola — four women who are already respected for their influence and consistency in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Their collaboration alone generated massive online anticipation ahead of the premiere, with fans eager to see what the project would bring.

These movies didn’t just sell tickets; they broke the internet, got people talking, and proved once again that Nigerian films are a major part of the cultural conversation.

Which of these movies did you see or you’re yet to see?