As we step into the concluding stretch of 2023, discussions will increasingly center around the festivities accompanying the season and the ensuing preparations.
Many people are already engaged in conversations about wardrobe choices, culinary delights, and even selecting venues and companions. However, one might wonder, do conversations about which movies to watch during this season ever take place?
While our nation’s climate may not lend itself to snow-filled streets, and other fancy things Christmas is known for, many of us cherish childhood memories of the festive season, spent watching classic Hollywood Christmas movies.
In this compilation, we delve into a selection of Nollywood films tailored for the season. Given that Nollywood lacks an abundance of movies specifically centered around the holidays, we will introduce you to a collection of light-hearted films.
These movies offer a delightful addition to your seasonal to-watch list.
1. A Naija Christmas
Released on December 16, 2021, “A Naija Christmas” quickly became the talk of Nollywood on Netflix. At the time, it was Kunle Afolayan’s third Netflix release, following “Citation” and “Swallow,” and was his third film of 2021.
This Christmas flick centeres around three brothers racing against time to bring a woman home by Christmas and fulfil their mother’s wishes. The film’s lively narrative and delightful sibling dynamics make it a captivating watch. Notably, it features one of the final performances of the late Nollywood veteran, Rachel Oniga, who passed away later in the same year.
The movie showcases touching performances by Kunle Remi, Efa Iwara, Segilola Ogidan, and Linda Osifo, with appearances from Lateef Adedimeji, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, and Carol King.
2. Christmas In Miami
“Christmas In Miami,” tells the story of a reality TV-style gathering of six families from different countries, all under one roof for a week, competing for a million-dollar prize.
It featured the stereotyped Ayo Makun‘s (AY) character Akpos, known for movies like “30 Days In Atlanta,” and, “A Trip To Jamaic,” which brings festive laughter in this Christmas-themed comedy.
The film maintains AY’s successful formula of setting his movies predominantly abroad and featuring an ensemble of international actors. Here, AY is supported by Nollywood veterans Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD) and Osita Iheme (Paw-Paw). The film is a blend of humour and drama, and it is undeniably a good experience for audiences seeking laughter and entertainment during the holiday period.
3. Introducing The Kujus
In 2020, the Nigerian comedy-drama film “Introducing the Kujus” took center stage, directed by Biodun Stephen and produced by Winifred Okpapi. The storyline revolves around five Nigerian siblings facing a dilemma as they grapple with the decision of whether to return to their hometown in Badagry for their mother’s five-year remembrance. Mausi Kuju (Bisola Aiyeola) collaborates with Maugbe Kuju (Timini Egbuson) to devise a plan to reunite their estranged siblings, a task requiring a clever deception due to the family’s volatile dynamics.Although not a conventional Christmas-themed film, “Introducing the Kujus” centers around the theme of family reunion, making it an ideal choice for family viewing, coupled with a generous dose of humor.
The film’s ensemble cast includes Bisola Aiyeola, who co-produced the film, along with Timini Egbuson, Femi Jacobs, Bimbo Ademoye, Sophie Alakija, and Mimi Onalaja.
Set in the backdrop of Badagry, the movie unfolds as a heartwarming and comedic exploration of family ties.
4. Christmas is Coming
Ufuoma McDermott, in her second directorial venture, brought forth “Christmas Is Coming,” standing out as one of the rare Christmas-themed Nollywood movies of the 2010s.
This romantic comedy unfolds just five days before Christmas, chronicling the efforts of a former tomboy attempting to salvage her image after a sudden transformation prompted by her flatmates. The challenges intensify with a crucial work presentation, a challenging colleague, and unwelcome romantic feelings entering the mix.
Ufuoma McDermott leads the cast, supported by talented actors including Mary Lazarus, Izzie Otaigbe, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha, Deyemi Okanlawon, and Michael Okon. Notably, veterans Sola Sobowale and Zack Orji take on the roles of Ufuoma McDermott’s character’s parents, adding weight to the film’s ensemble.
5. The Wedding Party
“The Wedding Party,” directed by Kemi Adetiba in 2016, held the title of the highest-grossing Nigerian film until 2021 when “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” surpassed it.
Like “Introducing the Kujus,” despite not being a traditional Christmas-themed movie, it earns its place on this list due to its humor and light-hearted take on significant subjects. Balancing drama and humor, the film offers an entertaining watch fitting for the season. The storyline revolves around a couple’s grand wedding plans turning into a chaotic ordeal involving exes, feuding parents, and uninvited guests.
Starring Adesuwa Etomi-Wellington, Banky Wellington, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Sola Sobowale, Ireti Doyle, Zainab Balogun, and more, it boasts a star-studded cast ensemble.
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