The year 2023 has witnessed a remarkable surge in Nigerian cinema, with a notable influx of films gracing streaming platforms and cinema releases, signaling a significant boost to the industry.
Covering diverse genres and platforms, these films have elevated the overall quality of filmmaking in the Nigerian industry.
Here are five Nollywood titles we highly recommend you watch right now.
The Black Book
Directed by first-time-feature-director Editti Effiong, this 2023 Nigerian crime thriller, starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Sam Dede, Shaffy Bello, Femi Branch, Alex Usifo, Ade Laoye, and Ireti Doyle, stands out as one of Nollywood’s finest exports this year. The movie revolves around Paul Edema, an ex-militant who, after his son is framed for kidnapping, takes justice into his own hands, fighting a corrupt police gang to absolve him of both his crimes and sins. With widespread positive reviews for its production design, action sequences, and storyline, it’s available on Netflix.
The Origin: Madam Koi Koi (Episodes 1 and 2)
For horror film and thriller enthusiasts, “The Origin: Madam Koi Koi” is a must-watch. Exploring the horror genre, it delves into the origin story of the Madam Koi Koi mythology familiar to many who attended boarding schools in parts of Africa. Produced and directed by Jay Franklyn Jituboh and Dale Falola, the film features Chioma Chukwuka, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omowunmi Dada, Ejiro Onojaife, Chuks Joseph, Kevin T. Solomon, Temidayo Akinboro, Iremide Adeoye, and others. You can catch it on Netflix.
Ijogbon
Directed by ace director Kunle Afolayan, “Ijogbon” is a coming-of-age story following four close friends who stumble upon a pouch filled with diamonds, leading them into a series of life-altering events. Featuring Kayode Ojuolape, Oluwaseyi Ebiesuwa, Ruby Akubueze, Fawaz Aina, Yemi Solade, Femi Branch, Adunni Ade, Sam Dede, and Bimbo Manuel, the movie has received mostly positive reviews. It’s available on Netflix.
Small Talk
Biodun Stephen directs this comedy drama, “Small Talk,” where an overzealous driver announces his boss’s return to Nigeria, setting off a chain of comedic events. Starring comedian and activist Mr Macaroni in his first lead role, the movie has received excellent reviews. You can catch it in cinemas, offering a comically entertaining experience with a cast including Adebowale “Mr Macaroni” Adedayo, Ajayi Akorede, Blessing Abasi Nze, Greg Ojefua, Lasisi Elenu, Lizzy Jay, Michael John, Moet Abebe, Mofe Okorodudu, and Taye Arimoro.
Adire
Directed by Ademola Owu, “Adire” tells the story of a retired prostitute, Adire, who starts a lingerie-making business in a small town. The movie stars Kehinde Bankole, Damilola Ogunsi, Femi Branch, Funlola Aofiyebi, Ibrahim Chatta, Ifeanyi Kalu, Jack’enneth Opukeme, Kelechi Udegbe, Layi Wasabi, Mike Afolarin, Onyinye Odokoro, Tomi Ojo, Yemi Blaq, and Yvonne Jegede. Praised for stellar performances, “Adire” is available in cinemas.
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