As one of Nigeria’s leading platforms for export, Nollywood has undeniably achieved remarkable success over the years. With our films gaining recognition at international film festivals and winning prestigious awards, it’s evident that the industry has flourished.
However, we can’t overlook the glaring lack of diversity in storytelling that has, at times, held back the industry from reaching its full potential.
In light of the recent influx of new directors, writers, and filmmakers in the Nigerian movie scene, it’s crucial to delve into some themes and genres that could propel the industry forward in the years ahead.
1. History
While films like ‘October 1,’ ‘76,’ ‘Amina,’ and others have delved into pivotal moments in Nigerian history, there’s an exciting opportunity to explore additional significant events from our incredibly rich history. Additionally, shedding light on notable figures and unsung heroes could provide fresh perspectives.
2. Mental Health
The representation of mental health in Nigerian cinema has been rather limited, and when addressed, it has often been portrayed poorly. This misinformation has influenced the perceptions of viewers, both young and old. It’s imperative to see more films that tackle mental health issues such as depression, anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and more, without resorting to trivialization or demonization.
3. Fantasy / Supernatural
Escaping from reality into alternate universes where anything is possible has universal appeal. Exploring the concept of individuals with extraordinary abilities confronting villains could provide an exciting twist to Nigerian cinema—a sort of Africanized Superman, if you will.
4. Mystery
Niyi Akinmolayan’s ‘The Set Up‘ offers a glimpse into the mystery genre, albeit in a contained manner. Nevertheless, there’s a demand for more films in this genre. Picture a group of detectives grappling with an enigmatic case, striving to apprehend a cunning criminal. Or envision a team of intrepid journalists defying all odds to expose a sensational scandal. These captivating stories are abound in Nigeria, and it’s high time we shared them.
5. Musicals
Even with attempts from the likes of Kayode Kasum with ‘Obara’m,‘ music remains an uncharted territory in our industry. This doesn’t necessarily mean replicating the style of ‘High School Musical’ or ‘La La Land.’ Instead, we possess a treasure trove of songs deeply rooted in our culture that could be harnessed to create enchanting musical pieces. Who wouldn’t want to be immersed in a daydream while the magic of the music surrounds them?
Nollywood has the potential to break new ground by embracing these themes and genres. By doing so, the industry can continue its remarkable journey and captivate audiences both at home and abroad.
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