It won&#8217;t come as a shock if the climax of the Merry Men 3 take place in a wedding scene and if most of the film&#8217;s budget went into that scene.



No big introductions are necessary for the 3-part Merry Men Nollywood movies. The first part came in 2018 with a modern Robin Hood story. As the narrative goes, Ayo, Naz, Amaju and Remi have real problems with rich people.



They figured out a way to take from the rich and return to the poor, but that is not without consequences. In the first and second parts, they outsmart and are outsmarted, but they win over everything and everyone and live a jolly life in Abuja.



In the last part of Merry Men, Dame Maduka makes life difficult for the Merry Men. The team had to try to rescue Kemi after a kidnap incident. Now in the third and final part of Merry Men, after his desired wedding to EFCD field operative, DERA, fails, Ayo Alesinloye (Ramsey Noah) finds love and walks down the aisle. A peek into the wedding shows Ayo in a deluxe-style wedding that is arguably not like any seen in a Nigerian movie. 



While it might seem that way from the sneak peek, the Merry Men 3 wedding scene would need other elements to be iconic. Here&#8217;s what&#8217;s essential to having a grand wedding scene in a movie;



Merry Men 3 might be dedicating a grand nuptials scene if it expects to have its climax in the scene. To <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/dark-october-boys-will-always-have-viewers-heart-for-their-roles-in-the-nigerian-movie/">have an iconic scene in a movie</a>, it should not just have a decorated room but also have authenticity, chemistry and truth between the two characters.



The Merry Men 3 wedding scene probably also has an element of surprise waiting. Some gunshot or some kind of intense dialogue. More so, the surprise bride is Nadia Buhari according to the sneak peek. 



Is the character of Nadia Buhari a trap set by Dame Maduka? Is she here to infiltrate the Merry Men and is she a part of the EFCD? What is to come in Merry Men 3? 



Even though it was criticised, the action choreography and stunts are something to look forward to in Merry Men 3.

The Best Wedding Scene Yet in a Nollywood Movie Might Be on its Way With Merry Men 3

Awards do not always go the people&#8217;s way and may never will. Also, many actors tend to go on the offensive with the arrangements of award shows like the AMVCA.



However, the committee that sets up awards shows has principles and standards that govern it.



Hence, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/good-african-movies-that-lost-at-the-amaa-awards-in-2022/">if great performances were overlooked at the AMVCA 2023</a>, it is probably either because the AMVCA has some standards to maintain or it may only be enticed by the little things in movies.



But how can anyone tell?



The truth remains that some actors and movies at the AMVCA 2023 deserved to win and some didn&#8217;t deserve what they won.



There are a few other ways to look at award wins that the AMVCA is clearly not applying.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AMVCA 2023 Winners</h2>



With <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-amvca-2023-will-look-like-for-anikulapo-king-of-thieves-battle-on-buka-street-and-more/">so many Nigerian movies out every year, not everyone can get a nomination</a> even with the most outstanding performances.



AMVCA 2023 Winner for Best Actor in a Drama



Best Actor in a Drama, Movie, or TV Series was awarded to Tobi Bakare (Brotherhood &#8211; 2022).



The AMVCA is not the kind of award that neglects any film genre. It certainly allows all kinds of films to be enlisted only if they reach the standards of the Awards.



However, they tend to miss a few things. This category also had Kunle Remi &#8211; (Anikulapo 2022) in it. Anikulapo had incredible makeup and costume as a mystery film requiring a specific kind of wardrobe.



The AMVCA clearly missed the performance of Kunle Remi as Saro.



Kunle Remi played Saro tremendously interpreting the misdemeanour and meekness of the character with physical, psychological and mental awareness.



With the best practical artistry seen in any Nollywood movie of the past decade, Brotherhood does deserve most of the awards it got &#8211; Best Cinematographer and Best Art Director.



Tobi Bakare portraying Akin Adetula does put everyone in a difficult spot not knowing how to choose between him and Kunle Remi.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="220" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/obiemelonye.jpg" alt="Obi Emelonye AMVCA" class="wp-image-1098" style="object-fit:cover;width:603px;height:350px" title="obi.JPG"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Obi Emelonye AMVCA</figcaption></figure>



AMVCA 2023 Winner for Best Director



Best Director was awarded to Loukman Ali &#8211; (Brotherhood &#8211; 2022)



Awards underrate many directors, especially females. This category was heavy with female directors &#8211; Bolanle Austen-Peters for Man of God and Jade Osiberu for The Trade who all lost.



However, the work of Obi Emelonye in Black Mail can not be overrated. This is one of his best directorial pieces.



Loukman Ali is a tremendous director and has a few notable works under his belt.



However, the AMVCA may be overlooking movies by filmmakers living abroad. Black Mail had some international touch to it, a mixed-race narrative which probably doesn&#8217;t sit well with the AMVCA at least for now.



That doesn&#8217;t change the fact that films like Black Mail are the future of Nollywood. Emelonye is a pace-setter with narratives like this and he tells them better. To many, Black Mail comes off as a hallmark piece for Nollywood.

The “Best” Winners At The AMVCA 2023 That Never Happened

Nollywood has expertise in making movies that are rooted in superficial fiction without any references or traces back to history or books.



There is no telling how this makes storytelling easier or more difficult, but Nollywood manages to present good films in the end.



This current subject on Nollywood franchise movies highlights Toka Mcbaror&#8217;s Merry Men, the first chronicle of Ay&#8217;s rogue-themed creation with Ramsey Nouah, Ayo Makun and Ireti Doyle.



Where does this narrative go after the Merry Men frees Kemi from Dame Maduka in the second part by Moses Inwang? What ideas does AY have for the third part? What else is in his storybook?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Merry Men 3</h2>



Ayo Makun the creator and storyteller has confirmed part 3 of Merry Men which will take on the remainder of his story. Details of the production, director and release date are yet unknown.



Ay is trying the idea of trilogies, from simple storytelling, a new concept in Nollywood. As it seems to him now, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-best-wedding-scene-yet-in-a-nollywood-movie-might-be-on-its-way-with-merry-men-3/">a third film in the Merry Men franchise</a> is sensible to complete the trilogy like with his other films.



If things go as planned with the next movie, the viewers may be looking at an impossible mission narrative.



A mission-impossible narrative in <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/filmname/merry-men-3-wiki/">the Merry Men 3 will complement the second</a> which picks up shortly after the events in the first movie.



Merry Men will continue on the journey with Amaju, Remi, Dame, Ayo and Naz this time with a new addition.



Ayo Makun has created a similar franchise in the past which also ended with a third part. He appears to have made his previous franchise progressively and expects to eventually make three Merry Men movies all from fiction.

How Many Merry Men Movies Will There Be After 1 & 2?

The new generation of actors in all movie genres of Nollywood is not doing a good enough job if movie productions still need the ones from the 90s and early 2000s.



Many of those have remained the screen giants for so long that most millennials have watched them their entire lives. Films that cast them continue to break records in the cinemas and on streaming platforms. 



These are some of the actors who were identified early by movie fans because of how well they fit into a role. The distinct physics and personalities of these actors were significant too. 



Richard Mofe-Damijo, RMD, pulled off one of those great acts again in 2023 with The Black Book, earning the film <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-fintech-investment-that-gave-nollywood-a-global-boost-the-black-book/">its current title as the most streamed African movie</a> on Netflix. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/remake-99.png" alt="" class="wp-image-161"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Next Generation of Nollywood</h2>



Having a sound new generation of filmmakers is a two-way street as the previous ones have not done a good job either.



The younger actors are apparently putting in as much action to be called celebrities and are not to blame when leads are taken from the previous generation of Nollywood. They are here trying hard to make an impact in film, television, and theatre so that their accomplishments and brilliance can get them to the next level.



On the flip side, the performances of those before them lack a strong influence. Films should do considerably more than entertain viewers and communicate formative social information, they should inspire. The younger generation is stimulated by what they see rather than what they are told. 



It is the responsibility of today&#8217;s Nollywood to spread out their hands and inspire the younger ones to strive to be better than they are.



It might sometimes seem like the younger generation expects everything to be passed down to them. The difference between the two is that the previous generation understands that success is the output of the right packaging. 



They are persistent in their hard work to keep their titles as top actors of Nollywood and so should the younger ones. They put in a lot of time to retain the title, grow their fan base and maintain their relevance in the industry. 



That notwithstanding, Nollywood must take care to maintain a younger generation or just enjoy the attention of fans alone. Building a next-generation lies in their hands.



The global attention of The Black Book brings with it endless opportunities for newbies in Nollywood.

The New Generation of Nollywood and the Global Attention After The Black Book

Filmmaking techniques in Nollywood have undergone significant changes and improvements since the 2000s. While Nollywood has a history of low-budget, resourceful filmmaking, advancements in technology, training, and storytelling have led to notable developments in the industry. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What changed in Nollywood Techniques since the 2000s?</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Improved Cinematography</h3>



In the 2000s, many Nollywood films were characterized by basic camera work and limited attention to cinematography. 



Today, there is a noticeable improvement in cinematography, with better camera equipment, framing, lighting, and composition. Cinematographers and directors have embraced<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-lighting-techniques-have-change-in-nollywood/"> techniques that enhance visual storytelling</a>, contributing to higher production values.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Enhanced Sound Quality</h3>



Sound quality in Nollywood films has significantly improved. In the past, audio issues, such as poor sound recording and dubbing, were common. Better sound equipment, sound editing, and mixing techniques have led to improved audio quality in contemporary Nollywood films.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Script Development</h3>



The 2000s saw a prevalence of hastily written scripts with minimal focus on storytelling and character development. Today, there is a greater emphasis on scriptwriting and storytelling. Many Nollywood films now feature well-structured narratives, complex characters, and engaging plots.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Digital Filmmaking</h3>



The 2000s marked a transition from celluloid film to digital filmmaking in Nollywood. Digital cameras and editing software have become more accessible and affordable. The digital revolution allowed for cost-effective and efficient production processes, making filmmaking more accessible to a broader range of filmmakers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Post-Production Quality</h3>



Post-production techniques have advanced significantly, leading to better editing, color grading, visual effects, and overall post-production quality. Contemporary Nollywood films often exhibit a higher level of professionalism in post-production.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Collaborations and Training</h3>



In recent years, collaborations with international filmmakers and training programs have contributed to the professional development of Nollywood professionals. Partnerships with film schools and organizations have provided opportunities for Nollywood practitioners to enhance their skills and knowledge.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Genre Diversification</h3>



Nollywood has diversified its film genres beyond traditional drama and romance. There is a growing exploration of genres such as science fiction, fantasy, thriller, and comedy. This diversification has allowed for more creative storytelling and experimentation.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Visual Effects and CGI</h3>



While still in its early stages compared to Hollywood standards, Nollywood has started incorporating visual effects and CGI into some of its films. This development has allowed for more ambitious and visually engaging projects.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">International Collaborations</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-african-filmmakers-can-approach-the-international-market-enyinna-nwigwe-on-afro-cannes-2023/">collaborations with international filmmakers have introduced new techniques and production standards</a> to the industry. Co-productions and partnerships have enabled Nollywood to reach a broader global audience.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Quality Control</h3>



The increased focus on quality control and adherence to industry standards has resulted in a more polished and professional output.



The 2000s marked a period of growth and transition in Nollywood, and filmmaking techniques have evolved significantly since then. 



Advances in technology, training, scriptwriting, and storytelling have contributed to the industry&#8217;s improved production values and its ability to produce more compelling and visually appealing films. Nollywood continues to adapt and innovate, positioning itself as a dynamic force in the global film industry.

How Filmmaking Techniques in Nollywood Have Changed

The accuracy of Nollywood&#8217;s depiction of historical events varies from film to film. Nollywood, like any film industry, is known for creative storytelling, and historical accuracy can sometimes take a backseat to dramatic storytelling and entertainment. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Historical Events in Nollywood Movies </h2>



Dramatic License: Nollywood often takes creative liberties with historical events to create engaging and emotionally resonant stories. This can lead to fictionalized or dramatized versions of events.



Budget Constraints: Nollywood&#8217;s low-budget filmmaking model may limit its ability to accurately recreate historical settings and costumes. Filmmakers may make compromises due to budget limitations.



Research and Authenticity: While some Nollywood filmmakers invest in research and strive for authenticity, others may not have the resources or expertise to accurately depict historical periods. This can result in inaccuracies in costumes, props, and settings.



Storytelling Priorities: The primary goal of Nollywood, like any film industry, is often to entertain and engage audiences. As a result, the focus is on storytelling and character development rather than strict historical accuracy.



Audience Expectations: Nollywood films are made for a diverse audience, including viewers who may not be well-versed in specific historical events. Filmmakers may prioritize making the story relatable and accessible to a broader audience.



Cultural Significance: Some Nollywood films aim to explore cultural or societal themes within a historical context rather than providing a factual account of events. In such cases, creative interpretation may be more acceptable.



Criticism and Debate: Inaccuracies in the depiction of historical events in Nollywood films have led to criticism and debate within Nigeria and among historians. Some argue for greater attention to historical accuracy.



Documentary vs. Fiction: It&#8217;s important to distinguish between Nollywood documentaries and historical fiction. While some documentaries aim for factual accuracy, fictionalized historical dramas may prioritize storytelling over strict adherence to facts.



Accuracy Improvement: In recent years, there have been efforts in Nollywood to improve historical accuracy, particularly in films that tackle significant historical events. Filmmakers may collaborate with historians and researchers to enhance authenticity.



The extent to which Nollywood accurately depicts historical events can vary widely from film to film. While some Nollywood films prioritize creative storytelling and entertainment, others make an effort to achieve a higher degree of historical accuracy. 



Viewers should approach Nollywood historical films with an understanding of the industry&#8217;s storytelling traditions and consider whether a particular film aims for factual accuracy or creative interpretation.

Exploring Historical Events Depiction in Nollywood Movies

Lighting techniques in Nollywood have evolved significantly since the 2000s, leading to improvements in the visual quality and overall production values of Nigerian films. 



While earlier Nollywood films often struggled with limited equipment and resources, advancements in technology and increased attention to cinematography have contributed to these changes. 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Improved Lighting Equipment:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>In the 2000s, Nollywood filmmakers often had limited access to professional lighting equipment. Natural light or basic artificial lighting sources were commonly used.</li>



<li>Today, there is greater access to a wider range of advanced lighting equipment, including LED lights, softboxes, and more sophisticated rigs. This has improved the overall quality of lighting in Nollywood films.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Enhanced Cinematography: Nollywood has seen a rise in skilled cinematographers who are well-versed in lighting techniques. These professionals bring expertise in creating visually appealing and well-lit scenes.</li>



<li>Use of Natural Light: While artificial lighting is more accessible, Nollywood still values the use of natural light to create a particular ambiance. Cinematographers have become adept at harnessing natural light effectively.</li>



<li>Controlled Lighting: Nollywood now places a greater emphasis on controlled lighting setups. Cinematographers use various tools and techniques to shape and control light, creating specific moods and aesthetics.</li>



<li>Attention to Detail: Lighting setups are more carefully planned, taking into account the nuances of each scene. Proper lighting can enhance facial expressions, set the mood, and convey emotions.</li>



<li>Color Temperature Control: Cinematographers in Nollywood now pay closer attention to color temperature, ensuring that the lighting matches the scene&#8217;s mood and tone. This results in a more polished and consistent look.</li>



<li>Lighting for Genre: Different film genres require different lighting styles. Nollywood filmmakers have become more adept at tailoring lighting techniques to suit the genre, whether it&#8217;s drama, romance, horror, or action.</li>



<li>Technological Advances: Advancements in camera technology, such as high-definition and 4K cameras, have allowed for greater sensitivity to light. This means that filmmakers can achieve better results even in low-light conditions.</li>



<li>Training and Education: The growth of film schools and training programs in Nigeria has contributed to the development of skilled lighting technicians and cinematographers who bring modern lighting techniques to Nollywood productions.</li>



<li>International Collaborations: Collaborations with international filmmakers and technical experts have exposed Nollywood professionals to global lighting standards and best practices.</li>



<li>Experimentation: Nollywood has become more experimental with lighting, exploring creative and innovative lighting techniques to achieve unique visual effects and aesthetics.</li>
</ul>



Lighting techniques in Nollywood have evolved significantly since the 2000s, resulting in improved visual quality and greater attention to cinematography. 



Access to better lighting equipment, skilled professionals, and a focus on training and education have all played a role in these advancements, contributing to the industry&#8217;s growth and competitiveness on the global stage.

Lighting Techniques in Nollywood Movies. Photo: Unsplash/Sam Moghadam Khamseh

How Lighting Techniques Have Changed in Nollywood

Nollywood movies, like films from other parts of the world, evoke emotions and responses in viewers through a combination of storytelling techniques, cinematic elements, and cultural context. 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Storytelling:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nollywood movies often feature compelling and relatable stories that resonate with a broad audience. These stories can be emotionally charged, exploring themes such as love, family, identity, and social issues.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Character Development:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Well-drawn characters with depth and complexity allow viewers to connect emotionally with the on-screen personalities. Audiences become invested in the characters&#8217; journeys and experiences.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Drama and Conflict:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nollywood is known for its dramatic storytelling, which can include intense conflicts, confrontations, and emotional confrontations. These elements heighten emotional engagement.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Romantic Themes:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Romance is a prominent theme in many Nollywood films. Love stories, relationships, and the complexities of human emotions play a central role in evoking empathy and connection.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Family and Community:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nollywood often explores the dynamics of family and community life in Nigeria. These themes resonate with viewers who can relate to the importance of family bonds and social connections.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Music and Soundtracks:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Music is a powerful tool in Nollywood, used to enhance emotional impact. Well-composed soundtracks and songs are carefully chosen to complement the narrative and evoke specific emotions.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Cultural Elements:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Cultural elements, including traditional ceremonies, rituals, and customs, are often woven into Nollywood narratives. This can create a sense of cultural identity and emotional connection for Nigerian and African audiences.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Social Issues:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Some Nollywood films address pressing social issues, such as poverty, corruption, gender inequality, and healthcare. These themes can evoke empathy and inspire viewers to reflect on real-world challenges.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Suspense and Thrills:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Thriller and suspense genres in Nollywood captivate audiences through tension, anticipation, and surprise. Viewers become emotionally engaged as they follow the twists and turns of the story.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Comedy and Humor:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nollywood comedy films use humor to elicit laughter and positive emotional responses. These films provide entertainment and uplift the spirits of viewers.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Cultural Relatability:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Nollywood movies often depict everyday life and situations in Nigeria, making them relatable to local audiences. This <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/exploring-historical-events-depiction-in-nollywood-movies/">cultural authenticity can evoke nostalgia</a> and resonance.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Escapism and Fantasy:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Some <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/best-themes-to-choose-from-in-nigerian-movies-mystery-horror-and-thriller/">Nollywood films explore fantasy and supernatural themes</a>, offering audiences an escape from reality and a chance to engage with imaginative storytelling.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Realism and Authenticity:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Authentic portrayals of real-life challenges and triumphs resonate with viewers who appreciate the authenticity of the storytelling.</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Identification and Empathy:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Viewers may identify with characters who share their experiences, struggles, or aspirations, leading to a deeper emotional connection and empathy.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



Nollywood movies evoke emotions and responses by combining effective storytelling, relatable characters, cultural elements, and thematic exploration. These films foster empathy and entertainment while reflecting on a wide range of emotional experiences.

How Nollywood Movies Evoke Emotions and Responses

Many people who watch Nollywood movies tend to criticise its use of visual effects (VFX) and special effects (SFX). While there have been improvements over the years, the perception of poor effects in Nollywood movies can be attributed to several factors:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Budget Constraints: Nollywood traditionally operates on relatively low budgets compared to Hollywood. This limits the resources available for high-quality VFX and SFX. Complex and realistic effects often require substantial financial investment.</li>
</ul>







<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Limited Access to Technology: In the past, Nollywood filmmakers had limited access to advanced VFX and SFX technology and expertise. This resulted in a reliance on practical effects or rudimentary CGI.</li>
</ul>







<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Skill and Training: The expertise required for advanced visual effects and animation is specialized and often takes years to develop. Nollywood had a shortage of professionals with the necessary skills and experience.</li>
</ul>







<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Time Constraints: Nollywood&#8217;s fast-paced production schedules sometimes left limited time for post-production work, including the refinement of visual effects. Rushed production can lead to subpar effects.</li>
</ul>







<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Quality Control: In the past, there may have been less emphasis on quality control and attention to detail in VFX and SFX due to budget constraints and a focus on storytelling.</li>
</ul>







<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Audience Expectations: Nollywood&#8217;s primary audience often values storytelling, cultural relevance, and relatable characters over high-end visual effects. As a result, there may have been less pressure to invest heavily in effects.</li>
</ul>



It&#8217;s important to note that the quality of effects in Nollywood movies varies widely. While some Nollywood films may feature subpar effects due to the factors mentioned above, others have demonstrated significant improvements in recent years. 



The industry&#8217;s growth, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-film-collaborations-is-crucial-for-africa/">collaborations with international professionals</a>, and access to better technology have contributed to better effects in many contemporary Nollywood productions.



Furthermore, the focus of Nollywood has traditionally been on storytelling and cultural representation. Audiences often engage with Nollywood movies for their relatable stories and cultural elements, which may outweigh concerns about the quality of the effects. 



As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see further improvements in the use of visual and special effects in Nollywood movies.

Exploring The Use of Visual Effects in Nollywood Movies

Collaborations and co-productions in African cinema have become increasingly common and significant in recent years. Filmmakers, production companies, and institutions across the continent have recognized the advantages of working together and joining forces with international partners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Exploring Film Collaborations in Africa</h2>



1. Regional and International Partnerships



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>African filmmakers often collaborate with peers from other African countries to create co-productions that combine their creative talents, resources, and storytelling perspectives.</li>



<li>Additionally, collaborations with international production companies and filmmakers from Europe, Asia, and the Americas have become more frequent, allowing African films to access a global audience.</li>
</ul>



 2. Diverse Perspectives and Talent



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Collaborations and co-productions can provide access to funding, equipment, and technical expertise that may not be readily available in a single African country.</li>



<li>International <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/considering-indie-filmmaking-in-nigeria-with-the-2023-sundance-film-festival/">co-productions often involve financial support from foreign investors and film funds, expanding the financial resources</a> available for filmmaking.</li>
</ul>



3. Diverse Perspectives and Talent



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Collaborations bring together diverse talents, cultures, and perspectives. This can result in richer and more nuanced storytelling, as well as increased cultural exchange.</li>



<li>African filmmakers working with international partners can benefit from fresh insights and access to global distribution networks.</li>
</ul>



4. Enhancing Production Values



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Co-productions often lead to higher production values, including improved cinematography, visual effects, and post-production quality. This can make African films more competitive in the global market.</li>
</ul>



5. Promoting African Identity



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Collaborations and co-productions help African filmmakers tell their stories while also fostering a sense of Pan-African identity and unity.</li>



<li>These partnerships can dispel stereotypes and provide authentic portrayals of African cultures and societies.</li>
</ul>



6. Access to International Markets



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Co-productions with international partners can help <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-african-filmmakers-can-approach-the-international-market-enyinna-nwigwe-on-afro-cannes-2023/">African films gain access to international film festivals, distribution channels</a>, and global audiences.</li>



<li>This exposure can lead to increased recognition and commercial success for African filmmakers.</li>
</ul>



7. Challenges and Considerations



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>While collaborations offer numerous benefits, they also come with challenges, such as negotiating creative control, balancing cultural differences, and managing logistical complexities.</li>



<li>Financing and legal issues, including navigating co-production treaties and agreements, can be complex and require careful consideration.</li>
</ul>



8. Growing Support and Initiatives



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Organizations and initiatives that support African cinema, such as film funds, film festivals, and cultural exchange programs, have played a crucial role in facilitating collaborations and co-productions.</li>



<li>These initiatives provide funding, training, and networking opportunities for filmmakers.</li>
</ul>



Film collaborations and co-productions in Africa are essential in expanding the reach and impact of African films.

How Film Collaboration is Crucial for Africa

A rich woman, Eniola Salami suddenly shifts her focus from business to trying politics. In the face of a new political ambition is everything she has ever worked for. 



A simple mistake could cost her all that but she decides she can handle chaos by becoming ruthless.

Eniola Salami

The character is the favourite of many. A village finds out she is pregnant after a one-day incident with a stranger from the city.



Luckily for Dumebi, she had an idea of where to find the stranger. She packs her bag, picks up her baby and goes to the city to find the man responsible for her pregnancy.



She shows up at his door looking all shabby and dirty. Now he has to teach her city life while being a father.

Dumebi

Nollywood continues on an upward trend in 2023. Going back to its humble beginnings, there is so much to revisit for an industry with a large global cultural and cinematic force. This narrative of growth and influence can be traced through several key stages:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Inception and Early Days: Nollywood&#8217;s origins can be traced back to the late 20th century, with the release of the first Nigerian feature film, &#8220;Living in Bondage&#8221; (1992). This low-budget production marked the birth of an industry that would eventually become known as Nollywood. At the outset, filmmakers faced limited resources, including equipment, funding, and distribution channels.</li>



<li>Prolific Output: Despite these challenges, Nollywood filmmakers displayed remarkable resilience and creativity. They produced a staggering number of films, often on shoestring budgets. These early productions often dealt with themes of mysticism, spirituality, and morality, reflecting the socio-cultural context of Nigeria.</li>



<li>VHS Era: In the absence of a robust cinema infrastructure, Nollywood films were initially distributed via VHS tapes. This grassroots distribution method contributed to the industry&#8217;s rapid growth and accessibility, as people across Nigeria and the African continent could easily access these films.</li>



<li>Quality Improvement: Over time, Nollywood invested in better production values, from cinematography to storytelling. While low budgets remained a hallmark of the industry, filmmakers increasingly adopted digital technology and improved their technical skills.</li>
</ol>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="210" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image.jpg" alt="Nollywood Global Influence" class="wp-image-1108" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nollywood Global Influence</figcaption></figure>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Global Recognition: By the 2000s, Nollywood had gained significant recognition not only in Africa but also internationally. The term &#8220;Nollywood&#8221; itself became synonymous with Nigerian cinema. Nollywood films started screening at international film festivals, gaining attention for their unique storytelling style and portrayal of African life.</li>



<li>Market Expansion: Nollywood&#8217;s influence expanded beyond Nigeria&#8217;s borders, reaching African diaspora communities and global audiences. Its themes, characters, and cultural references resonated with viewers worldwide.</li>



<li>Global Distribution and Streaming: The rise of streaming platforms further propelled Nollywood&#8217;s global reach. Platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime began to feature Nollywood films, making them accessible to a vast international audience.</li>



<li>Cultural Impact: Nollywood has played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of Africa and Africans. It has contributed to changing stereotypes, presenting a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of African life, culture, and issues.</li>



<li>Economic Growth: Nollywood has become a significant economic driver in Nigeria. It generates employment opportunities for actors, directors, crew members, and various related industries. It also attracts investments and tourism.</li>



<li>Challenges and Future: Despite its global success, Nollywood still faces challenges, including piracy, copyright issues, and the need for more structured financing. However, it continues to evolve, exploring new genres and themes while maintaining its unique identity.</li>
</ol>



Nollywood&#8217;s journey from humble beginnings to global influence is a testament to the resilience and creativity of Nigerian filmmakers. 



It has not only transformed Nigeria&#8217;s entertainment landscape but has also had a profound impact on African cinema and the way Africa is depicted on the global stage. 



As it continues to grow and adapt, Nollywood&#8217;s global influence is likely to increase, further enriching the world of cinema.

Nollywood – The Humble Beginnings to Global Influence: The Black Book, Other Movies

It is not the first movie by Editi Effiong, but it is the one that will establish a lasting fintech-Nollywood collaboration after its huge returns. 



The first-time director and co-writer of The Black Book suggests that he will continue to work with fintech companies to make million-dollar budget movies. 



More so, fintech investors seem to have a strong conviction about the film industry in Nigeria and are setting aside film funds to partner with diverse creators.



They put their money down for The Black Book as a proof of concept and will do it again if they will.



The decision by fintech leaders to stake funds in movies is a way of showing support to the creative industry that is continually trying to take Africa to the world through culturally rich stories on thin budgets. With a global big hit on the streaming platform Netflix, the success and impact of The Black Book is satisfactory to investors.



The production value of The Black Book is evidently worth every shot. 



Its fintech influence appears to give it a huge boost, backed by the streaming platforms that made it even easier to reach places where it became a trend &#8211; South Korea, Greece, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Luxembourg, South Korea and Sweden.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Black Book</h2>



The Revenge List, the non-English title of The Black Book in some countries, has stayed at the top of the chart in 88 countries since its release on September 22, 2023,



In Nigeria, South Korea and 18 other countries, The Black Book has been No.1 and the first African movie to do so well on Netflix.



The Black Book&nbsp;takes on the narrative of a distraught church deacon, Paul Erima seeking revenge and honour for his son. He is caught in the intricacies of justice, revenge and his faith.



He refuses to let go and confronts the rogue police department that has a hand in his son&#8217;s death. The Black Book is slightly perceived as a manifest of the issues of corruption, injustice and prejudice in Nigeria.

The Fintech Investment that Gave Nollywood a Global Boost – The Black Book

A church deacon puts his beliefs aside, goes back to his old ways and picks the guns. He is after an entire police division, his former boss and everyone he believes had a hand in his son&#8217;s death.



Paul also retrieves The Black Book after defeating the enemy.

Paul Edima

A band of drug dealers rule and haunt the Shanty Town like a ghost. The people fear for their safety and those of their loved ones as they almost can&#8217;t avoid the criminals. There is always a victim.



Women have disappeared mysteriously and more are still held in custody of the ring leader Scar.



When they reach the height of the fear, the Shanty Town women will revolt against Scar together.

Scar

For him and his dirty circle of politicians to excel, Chief Fernandez has one loyal servant he can work with in Shanty Town, Scar.



Before Scar, he was the greater evil that plagued Shanty Town. He took advantage of women and covered up his deeds by any means. He is powerful and unreachable.



There might be only one way to get to him, taking down Scar.

Chief Fernandez

Before getting out, Inem was worried about her survival and that of her daughters in Shanty Town.



Her job at the club led her to <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wiki/chief-fernandez/">Chief Fernandez</a> and Inem gets ideas about how to regain freedom. It is later revealed that Inem is a different person from who they thought she was.



Inem further engages in a risky task to find answers about all the missing women of Shanty Town.

Inem

When Nollywood was born, it was creating a lot of good narratives or at least everyone thought so at the time. However, since the late 2010s, some producers are choosing to rewrite some of the narratives of these old movies. 



These remakes sometimes retell the story better, other times they can devalue the narrative that many grew up with, especially from the 90s. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why does Nollywood remake movies?</h2>



When a narrative is good, people tend to request more of the same. So why don&#8217;t Nollywood just make a new film with a similar narrative rather than remake an old one? Arguably, remakes are conceived from the lack of original ideas. However, redoing an old item is reasonable if it makes it better than the former version. With the help of new technology, new society and artistic evolutions, Nollywood can achieve this.



Nollywood has been taking these <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-african-folktales-reimagined-short-films-debut-on-netflix-globally/">old stories from the past and updating them</a> into better versions for today&#8217;s audience. The good thing is, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/netflix-african-originals-for-2023-movies-and-series-to-expect-soon/">they don&#8217;t just replicate the original movie, they always add something new that is up to date</a> with new trends. Details may change, but the messages of <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/netflix-african-originals-for-2023-movies-and-series-to-expect-soon/">the original films</a> remain the same. 



The movie industry in Nigeria is also creating new avenues for everyone in it to make money &#8211; actors and production teams. A hit from the 90s or an old hit could be perceived as something with the potential to make money in the new age. 



This is why <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-is-getting-a-boost-from-making-comedy-recent-records-show/">Nollywood sometimes take old classics that are loved and updates them,</a> rather than making something entirely new. Nollywood remakes are becoming acceptable models that producers use to showcase masterpieces. It is not so phenomenal to see how the remakes outperform the originals. Despite no <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-is-getting-a-boost-from-making-comedy-recent-records-show/">box office records</a> from the 90s and inflation considered these remakes broke box office records each time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">List of Nollywood Remakes and Sequels</h2>



Many of the Nollywood remakes or sequels are movies from the 90s.



&#8220;Domitilla&#8221; &#8211; 1996 by Zeb Ejiro. The sequel by Zeb Ejiro was released in April 2023.



&#8220;Glamour Girls&#8221; &#8211; 1994 by Chika Onukwufor. The remake by Bunmi Ajakaiye was released in June 2022.



&#8220;Living in Bondage&#8221; &#8211; 1992 by Chris Obi Rapu. The remake by Ramsey Nouah was released in June 2019.



&#8220;RattleSnake &#8211; Ahanna&#8221; &#8211; 1995 by Amaka Igwe. The remake by Ramsey Nouah was released in November 2020.

Nollywood Remakes or Originals – What is Best?

Richard Williams is a character introduced in the sequel of the 1992 &#8220;Living in Bondage movie&#8221;.



He heads a mysterious cult, Brotherhood of The Six where members are told to offer human lives and get endless wealth. This lures desperate young people who want to live luxurious lifestyles at all costs.



The character has now been repeated in another movie in a new concept adopted in Nollywood.

Richard Williams

Take Me To Maama begins with an anecdote about the fear of witchcraft and the accusations that some women may face in Africa. 



Jerry, who is one the sons of Nnenna a woman accused of using witchcraft to kill her husband had to take up family responsibilities for his mom and younger brother, Dave. The hardship he faces is irreconcilable and he finds a solution in drug dealing to escape it.



His brother chose a different path but might have to pay with his life if he speaks up against Jerry&#8217;s drug dealer boss. During the entire action, Jerry loses his fiancee in a car fire accident but saves his brother.

Jerry

Folktale narration in Africa is taking a reimagined form to enable storytellers to express new ideas with old anecdotes.



With so many of them coming from all over Africa, the storytelling market will have a new drive for the foreseeable future.



The Netflix x UNESCO | African Folktales Reimagined collaboration is presenting the works of six African storytellers who have <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-is-getting-a-boost-from-making-comedy-recent-records-show">retold folktales in short films that will launch on Netflix</a> on March 29.



The storytellers from Nigeria, South Africa, Mauritania, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania had been selected from a bunch after an open call for writers in 13 countries on the continent.



They were further empowered with resources from the collaboration that aims to <a href="https://nollymania.com/afriff-2021-festival-screens-encounter-gets-support-from-prime-video/">support the next generation</a> of storytellers.



Mohamed Echkouna, Enmity Djinn, Walt Mzengi Corey, Korede Azeez from Nigeria, Voline Ogutu, Loukman Ali and Gcobisa Yako were all beneficiaries of the $90 000 budget and mentorship offered by established filmmakers.



Netflix-appointed producer, Steven Markovitz supervised productions which were assigned to local teams.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Halima’s Choice (Korede Azeez &#8211; Nigeria)</h3>



Korede Azeez makes references to age-long practices of arranged marriage in Fulani villages with <a href="https://about.netflix.com/en/news/winners-of-the-african-folktales-reimagined-short-film-competition">Halima&#8217;s Choice</a> short film. A young woman finds an escape route from this situation. She elopes with an AI after 99% of the world&#8217;s population had been uploaded into virtual worlds.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Anyango and the Ogre (Voline Ogutu &#8211; Kenya)</h3>



Based upon a childhood folktale, Voline Ogutu narrates the responsibility of 13-year-old Otis who has to protect his younger siblings from a monster living within their home.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Katera of the Punishment Island (Loukman Ali &#8211; Uganda)</h3>



A grieving woman is abandoned on an island by a powerful man. But with nothing else to lose after the loss of the child, she decides to take revenge on him.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Katope (Walt Mzengi Corey &#8211; Tanzania)</h3>



A child tries to save her community from drought by going on a dangerous trip into the wild believing in her magical origin.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">MaMlambo (Gcobisa Yako &#8211; South Africa)</h3>



Over the sacred waters of discarded bodies, a mystical river being, MaMlambo exists as a keeper.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Enmity Djinn (Mohamed Echkouna &#8211; Mauritania)</h3>



An ancient Enmity Djinn was summoned for the first time after three generations but to unknown territories.



However beneficial the reimagination of African folktales may be, could it do any damage to the original folklore? Are these folklores forever changed from what Africans today grew up to know?

The African Folktales, Reimagined Short Films debut on Netflix, globally

Katera grieves her dead child, the one consumed by the cold and unfriendly Akampene Island. However, like most girls before her, she has to pay the price of getting pregnant outside wedlock.



Katera has nothing but hate and wants revenge for her loss. She makes a decision to haunt the man who sent her to Akampene Island. The story is about healing, revenge and the search for redemption.

Katera

Can You See Us? tries to dissect a belief that has plagued Africa since time immemorial. The movie hopes to reach out to people who find albinism offensive and help shift their perspectives.

Joseph

An ambitious teenager, Ishaya Bello keeps finding himself in trouble with the wrong people. He has just gotten an opportunity and funding for a decent education, which he was hoping to improvise for an art apprenticeship in London.



Far From Home is a coming-of-age Nigerian series.

Ishaya Bello

The character played by Ayo Makun, Amaju in the Merry Men movies is central to the narrative. He and his friend devise a criminal instrument that empowers them financially and they bring the money to the poor around them.



Rich politicians in Abuja who are capable of giving them contracts are their victims. The high-class women in the city are easily drawn to them before being scammed.



The Merry Men become popular among the lavish gatherings in town.

Amaju

Sarah is to marry the wealthy Kola Ademola who has abused her ever since they met. Suddenly Kola dies and now his family won&#8217;t accept Sarah or even let her live the house. 



They blame her for his death and holds her the prime suspect in Kola&#8217;s murder.

Sarah

Hollywood is not the only place to find true filmmaking mastery anymore.



Since the 2010s when Nollywood started getting recognition, it has become pressed with the responsibility to make globally acceptable films.



Filmmakers like Mo Abudu did not waste any time taking up that mantle, and she did so with grace. By 2022, <a href="https://theconversation.com/nollywood-could-see-a-major-boost-from-nigerias-new-copyright-law-an-expert-explains-why-200507">Nollywood has now advanced to a status where it can be addressed with films like &#8216;Blood Sisters</a>&#8216;, (not the remake of the old movie which had Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde in it).



The series has <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-studios-in-nigeria-made-the-highest-grossing-films-of-2022">a culture to share and the most creative, conceptual fashion</a> to display. However, the tale it tells is atypical of Nollywood with a clear depiction of principles in characters.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Relevant details in Blood Sisters</h3>



The filmmakers swapped the moralism that Nollywood has woven into characters for more complicated ones making for an easy, universal narrative.



&#8216;Blood Sisters&#8217; is an experience for viewers. It is African, and it is told in a better way with a more comprehensive approach to show the two categories of people in Africa and Nigeria.



&#8216;Blood Sisters&#8217; also reconciles the assertion by Nollywood films that good and evil are two extreme qualities. While achieving these, the backdrop of the movie, which is domestic violence against women is also illustrated in the most diabolical way.



&#8216;Blood Sisters&#8217; challenges the convention in the Nollywood film industry.



With it, comes an even bigger global audience, and the cinema results are off the roof for several other films.



This is a good place for Nollywood and Africa, and there is no reclination any time soon. It is not just &#8216;Blood Sisters&#8217;, there is a whole list to see.



In referencing Mo Abudu, &#8216;The Paradigm has already been shattered.&#8217; In the future, a partnership between Sony Pictures Television and EbonyLife Studios in “The Dahomey Warriors” is expected to add credits to Nollywood.

What Nollywood Made in 2022 – Blood Sisters

At the time of its release, Blood Sisters was a big hit on Netflix. It brings together the good and bad in an unconventional Nollywood manner, divulging how several one-sided narratives could have been better.



This is a series that openly deals with domestic violence and how families in Africa might encourage it by dismissing the rights of the women who want to get out of it.

Kola

Kopiko is a Tomboy who runs into a fancy rich guy and is the only one who can help him. On one occasion while trying to retrieve his stolen passport together, she gets offended at him for asking her why she is always mad.



Kopiko&#8217;s explanation points to the fact that they have different lives and he will not understand hers since he lives an exotic life in London. Kopiko feels she is better than him and that she should have his life.

Kopiko

The wealthy heiress of the Elesho wealth, Motunrayo is sucked into a marriage scheme by a businessman and a con artist.



When the scheme grows out of proportion, the sole heir to the Elesho wealth finds out what her family had been involved in in the past.

Motunrayo Elesho

In 2016, FilmOne / Inkblot Production / Koga Studios joined Ebonylife Films in the league of studios with the highest-grossing movies with &#8220;The Wedding Party&#8221; by Kemi Adetiba.



The group stayed at the top spot for about two years followed by studios like Corporate World Pictures, who came up with &#8220;Christmas in Miami&#8221;, &#8220;Merry Men&#8221; and others. In 2020, &#8220;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/king-of-thieves-meets-the-first-specification-for-the-oscars-but-there-are-more/">Omo Ghetto: The Saga</a>&#8221; placed SceneOne Productions for the first time at <a href="https://nollymania.com/nigerian-movies-production-companies/">the top spot bumping down the big group</a> that was at the top.



This has been the pattern and this set of studios is what <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/maggiemcgrath/2023/03/23/ebonylife-media-founder-mo-abudu-black-stories-do-matter-and-foreign-stories-do-matter/?sh=39e97ced47fa">most people will call the top studios</a> of Nollywood. However, these records have changed rapidly in the last years and this list shows how studios are emerging in Nollywood.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="block-a40826d9-748c-4642-9362-81592e70f335">FilmOne, Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network &#8211; &#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221;, &#8220;Ijakumo&#8221;</h2>



Having directed the successful &#8220;Omo Ghetto: The Saga&#8221;, the all-time highest-grossing movie at the time, FilmOne invited Funke Akindele to join the production of the &#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221;.



The 2022 movie is currently the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time after dethroning &#8220;Omo Ghetto: The Saga&#8221;. FilmOne has a significant release record for top-grossing Nollywood movies.



More so, they are currently, the studio with exclusive theatrical licensees to The Walt Disney Company, Warner Brothers Discovery, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Empire Entertainment in Anglophone West Africa.



As a distribution company, it occasionally produces films including &#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221; which it co-produced alongside Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network.



&#8220;Ijakumo&#8221; 2022 which falls under the FilmOne 2022 movies was co-produced by Toyin Abraham Films Production. In 2022, FilmOne still maintains its record as one of the top Nollywood studios.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="block-bb2dfdfe-0290-456d-9aa5-4562fc3a28e4">Greoh Studios</h2>



Though FilmOne claims to have released the top 10 titles of all time in West Africa, that is no longer completely valid. Greoh Studios is one of the studios that broke that record in 2020 with &#8220;Brotherhood&#8221;.



Currently the sixth highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time and the second highest for movies released in 2022, Lockman Ali&#8217;s &#8220;Brotherhood&#8221; was dexterous.



It divulges a possible new pattern for action and thriller Nollywood movies. &#8220;Brotherhood&#8221; came after Greoh Studios made a big mark with &#8220;Sugar Rush&#8221; in 2019.



The studio has been on an upward trend ever since. It currently has on its record the first-ever Amazon Prime Video original, a crime-thriller &#8220;Gangs of Lagos,&#8221; which will be released in April of 2023.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="block-de87428b-90cd-437f-aef1-6cea968ac718">Euphoria360 Media / Anthill Studios</h2>



Euphoria360 Media / Anthill Studios are on this list of studios with the highest-grossing Nollywood movies of 2022 as well as the current top 10 list of all time with &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221;.

4 Nollywood Studios Whose Movies are on the Top 10 All-Time

Directors in Nollywood have been known to play cameo roles that don&#8217;t take any time or effort.



However, movie directors and producers can sometimes fill actors&#8217; shoes on movie sets. Other times <a href="https://nollymania.com/merry-men-the-real-yoruba-demons-soundtrack-beats-movie/">a director can also be cast for a role </a>and vice versa.



Here are a few directors/producers who play roles in their films.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Femi Adebayo &#8211; Producer, King of Thieves</h3>



For the most part of his career in the Nigerian movie industry, Femi Adebayo has appeared as an actor including in the recent King of Thieves (Ògúndábède) which he is also a producer of.



King of Thieves is <a href="https://culturecustodian.com/no-nollywood-film-will-compete-at-the-next-oscars-awards-heres-why/">about a progressive and famous kingdom, Ajeromi</a> which unexpectedly catches the eye of a powerful bandit and terrorist Agesinkole.



With this new arrival, the kingdom of Ajeromi quickly went from a peaceful state to a chaotic and terrorized one.



The Ajeromi Kingdom refuses to have it and chases after the Agesinkole bandit with all its resources &#8211; sorcery, magic, hunters, witchery and wizardry.



Premiered under the theme &#8216;Epic and Dangerous&#8217; on April 4, 2022, at the IMAX Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Genevieve Nnaji &#8211; Director Lionheart</h3>



Directing and producing was almost overdue for Genevieve Nnaji before Lionheart in 2018. It was her directorial debut and she made quite an appearance as it became the first Nollywood Netflix original.



Lionheart features the director in the lead role Adaeze as the daughter of a transporter who had to retire early due to ill-health. Adaeze was to take over the business in an atmosphere that challenges her gender. 



Her impractical uncle Godswill was to be her backing but he has his ideas about how to run a business well. 



The pair will agree and disagree but they both want to arrive at the same goal.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Funke Akindele &#8211; Producer/Director, Battle on Buka Street, A Tribe Called Judah, She Must Be Obeyed</h3>



Funke Akindele has always had big ideas about films. At this time in her career, she would most likely want to direct those ideas onto the big screen herself. 



That is most likely the reason viewers are going to be seeing more of Funke Akindele in movies and series that she directs and produces. 



Funker Akindele is a super actor.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Battle on Buka Street</h4>



Two women have lived their entire lives hating on each other. Their new street food vending businesses did not make it easier. They vow to destroy each other if it comes to that. Battle on Buka Street is on Netflix and more details are available here.



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">A Tribe Called Judah</h4>



The Jedidah family is a large one with people having several personalities and abilities. But their mother has raised them to have similar values. Now on her dying bed, her boys whom she had conceived from 5 different men will put their heads together and agree to keep her alive. 



However, in the city, their other people who have made the same plan for the same night &#8211; to rob a store. 



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">She Must Be Obeyed</h4>



This series by Funke Akindle highlights the rivalry, anger and backstabbing activities between three successful music stars. They each fight for the top spot in the music industry against all odds and at the expense of the other&#8217;s efforts.

Nollywood Directors, Producers that Feature in their Films

Nollywood has got something going with comedy. The industry has made films in several genres including thrillers and comedy that became exceptional.



These genres where Nollywood serves quality storytelling, as well as pleasing visuals, are also some of the genres where its box office records are huge.



&#8220;King of Thieves&#8221;, and &#8216;Anikulapo&#8217; were big in 2022 and almost are on track for all-time best. However, they still fell behind the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of 2022.



Beginning in the 2010s, here is <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-nollywood-made-in-2022-blood-sisters/">a look at the movie gross in Nollywood</a> which also foretells the future of the industry.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221; &#8211; 2022</h3>



The movie was released on 16 December 2022 in Nigeria and had a limited release on December 30 at the AMC Theatres, United States.



&#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221; is the second film directed by Funke Akindele to <a href="https://nollymania.com/five-good-nollywood-movies-that-lost-at-the-box-office/">top the box office list</a> in Nigeria.



It is at this time <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-studios-in-nigeria-made-the-highest-grossing-films-of-2022/">the highest-grossing Nigerian movie</a> of all time. Uk and Irish cinemas are still currently showing &#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221;.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;Christmas in Miami&#8221; &#8211; 2021</h3>



The film fused actors of different races to make one of the best and the fourth movie in the &#8220;Akpos&#8221; franchise.



More so, it is the first universally acceptable Christmas narrative seen in Nollywood.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;Omo Ghetto: The Saga&#8221; &#8211; 2020</h3>



It was no surprise that the first feature film directed by Funke Akindele was a hit after the remarkable &#8220;Jenifer&#8221; series.



Until 2020, no Nigeran movies earned more the ₦400 million or even tracked the record of American movies in the Nigeria cinema.



&#8220;Omo Ghetto: The Saga&#8221; ran for over twenty weeks in 2020 and stayed at the top of the box office all the time.



It is currently the only movie that followed the same course as the &#8220;Black Panther&#8221; West African release record after surpassing the ₦600 million mark.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;Sugar Rush&#8221; &#8211; 2019</h3>



The 2019 crime comedy is not strictly comedy and that gave critics some concern. Though fusing two opposite genres together has oftentimes produced good movies, it is also not a concept seen in Nollywood.



Despite this, &#8220;Sugar Rush&#8221; is at the top of Nigeria&#8217;s box office list of all time.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;Chief Daddy&#8221; &#8211; 2018 &amp; &#8220;Chief Daddy 2&#8221; &#8211; 2022</h3>



The 2018 film was probably overcrowded with top and known Nigerian actors, however, the first part of the film &#8220;Chief Daddy&#8221; was a delight to viewers who demanded more.



There wasn&#8217;t much of a cliffhanger at the end, but the status of the characters still had to be determined and that gave room for a second part &#8220;Chief Daddy 2&#8221;.



In several other genres, it may still be a while before high-standard filmmaking can be achieved.

Nollywood is Getting a Boost from Making Comedy – Recent Records Show

Jenifa is a character with a drive for success. She explores the world around her, gets a job and tries her luck at schooling. The latter deludes as she fails to meet the standards of university women in Lagos.



Jenifa is not a quitter, she has high hopes and her bad grammar can&#8217;t take that away from her. So she works as hard as she can as a hairstylist to give herself a decent life. 



Now called Jenifa, she envisions herself as a big hairdresser.

Jenifa

Nollywood has been ready for the world for a while now. It left behind the days of poor acting, scripting and picture qualities after beckoning investors for support to perfect its content.



In 2023, Nollywood is halfway there.



So far,&nbsp;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/gangs-of-lagos-trailer-kadara-the-street-calls-out/">Nollywood has gotten to be a genre-layered industry</a>, that has a library steep with amazing content. The&nbsp;<a href="https://decider.com/2023/04/13/gangs-of-lagos-amazon-prime-video-review/">first African Amazon Original &#8220;Gangs of Lagos,&#8221; by Jadesola Osiberu</a>&nbsp;has just been released from Nollywood. The movie succeeded in its dissection of street life in Lagos.



Gift, Obalola and Ify are employed by Kazeem a crime lord, having had some practice stealing on the street as kids. Obalola is to be a ring leader as he believes, taking after his father who was killed as a street king. Their new job isn&#8217;t very different from what they are experienced with, as they have had a taste of the dark side due to hard life.



However, the friends do hope for the best. Obalala hopes for decent a career in politics and Ify hopes to be a singer. However, their environment &#8211; a drug dealers&#8217; and human trafficking den is not the most suitable for people with such dreams. The friends continually find themselves on the dark side of life racketeering, stealing, murdering and engaging in political corruption.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gift (Adesua Etomi Wellington )</h2>



Adesua Etomi, the often savage lead actor &#8211; Sugar Rush,&nbsp;<a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wikiid/muna">Muna&nbsp;</a>&#8211; remember, she plays Gift. She is one of the four main characters who are Kazeem&#8217;s messengers.



Gift pairs with Oba to do reckless assignments in Nigeria&#8217;s megacity, Lagos endangering their lives aimlessly in a series of gory rebellious political battles. The character is less ambitious, unlike her friends, Oba and Ify but is captivating in every slide she appears in.



The director of Gangs of Lagos, Jadesola Osiberu is locked in on some future investment deals with Amazon Prime Video.

Adesua Wellington Etomi in Gangs of Lagos

Gangs of Lagos – Adesua Wellington Etomi is a Ruthless Slayer in this Crime Thriller by Jade Osiberu

Muna had 13 stunt doubles with two designated to Adesua Etomi-Wellington including Bridgette Michelle Bentley who is known for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022) and Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and more.



 The character is filled with rage from the abuse of her childhood and is out for blood. Muna might be <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/gangs-of-lagos-adesua-wellington-etomi-is-a-ruthless-slayer-in-this-crime-thriller-by-jade-osiberu/">similar to some of the characters</a> that Wellington is known to play.

Muna

Several directors in Nollywood who successfully complete a feature film will always consider doing it a second time.



For most, the first instance is always a hoop and the hardest one. These directors get the first movie to their name but many are hardly a hit.



With a few exceptions, those who get positive reviews back for the first effort, often want to try again. They try to grow their list but it doesn&#8217;t always guarantee a hit.



The idea of jumping back into the director&#8217;s role is also less scary the second time. So many just take the chance and would often go on for a while to get a hit movie under their belt.



Funke Akindele is one exception for those who continue in the disciple for a while before a hit. She made <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wikiid/jenifa/">a hit out of her directorial feature</a> film, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Your_Excellency_(film)">Your Excellency</a>, (2019).



The actress/director has some of the biggest Nollywood movies <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_on_Buka_Street">Battle on Buka Street</a> and Omo Ghetto: The Saga under her name.



Other directors try once and just completely leave the discipline behind to go back to acting, especially if reviews are negative.



In 2002, before subsequent directorial pieces, <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/actorsPg/saint-obi/">Saint Obi</a>&#8216;s, Take Me Maama was the first to demonstrate that a Nollywood director could make a hit out of a one-time effort.



As long as they remain filmmakers, many Nollywood directors are probably going to keep trying until they get both good reviews and a hit movie.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Genevieve Nnaji: The one-time hit director of Nollywood</h2>



Genevieve Nnaji specializes in acting and is pretty good at it. Fans almost can&#8217;t seem to get enough of her even though she has been in several movies.



In 2018 the actress veered into directing and made Lionheart. The movie grew a buzz and was instantly grabbed by Netflix to be the first original out of Nollywood.



The one obvious thing that influenced Lionheart is the popularity of Genevieve Nnaji throughout her acting career.



Her single directorial piece Lionheart got a lot of positive reviews and keeps making gains for her on Netflix 5 years later. This is the one single thing that most directors struggle to get lucky at.

Lionheart – Still The One-Hit Title Of Nollywood

When Chief Obiagu could no longer manage his bus transport business, he had only one young woman to trust, Adaeze, his daughter. 



The business atmosphere is not typical for a woman. However, Adaeze accepts the challenge and keeps her father&#8217;s business alive.

Adaeze

It is unsure why Ayo Makun uses this concept of repeating one character, Akpos in different movies 30 Days in Atlanta, 10 Days in Sun City and more. However, what is more apparent is the idea behind the character &#8211; a Lagos street boy who grew up to explore the world around him from his humble background.



Ayo Makun has put in a lot of work to create the Akpos.

Akpos

Arolake gives up her marriage to the King to run away with the weaver, Saro. The promise of love and affection drove her but Saro had other intentions that may not go well with Arolake.



The former queen is mocked for being childless by the other wives of Saro and he weeps for love and attention that she hardly gets from Saro. Arolake makes a hard decision to destroy Saro.

Arolake

Awarun is an older female character who seeks romantic or sexual relationships with men far younger than her. She plays a key role in Saro&#8217;s life and helps him settle down after he arrives in the town.



She holds the power over her relationships like the one she has with <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wiki/saro/">Saro </a>and tells him he has no right to question what she does with other men.

Awarun

The extended thriller drama story of Anikulapo transformed into a Netflix series &#8211; Rise of the Spectre already has a release date of March 1st 2024. The series will feature stars from the movie including Bimbo Ademoye, Kunle Remi, Sola Sobowale, Moji Afolayan, Aisha Lawal, Adeniyi Johnson and Uzee Usman. 



This news was <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/anikulapo-rise-of-the-spectre-kunle-afolayan-developing-a-new-idea/">originally reported here at the end of 2023</a>. At the time, not much was known of the new series only the information that was provided by Kunle Afolyan, the director of both the movie and the upcoming Anikulapo series. 



Kunle Afolayan had this to say about the new portion of the Anikulapo narrative that was inspired by Ifayemi Elebuibon’s mystery collection: 



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow">
Anikulapo emerged precisely when it was destined to, a manifestation of patience and the alignment of cosmic forces.
<cite>&#8211; Kunle Afolayan</cite></blockquote>



Components of the Anikulapo fiction include characters, time and age from Ifayemi Elebuibon books.



The most probable event in the upcoming series is the beginning of the life of Saro before the time that was seen in the movie. It will most likely go back to Arolake’s life before the palace and Saaro. 



One obvious detail that will be seen in the Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre is the battle for power over life and death.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="whos-cast-in-mother-of-the-bride-1">The Cast Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="984" height="536" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-1.jpg" alt="Anikulapo is a successful movie with a folklore narrative. Photo: Kunle Afolayan" class="wp-image-873" style="width:624px;height:auto" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-1.jpg 984w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-1-300x163.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-1-768x418.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 984px) 100vw, 984px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Anikulapo is a successful movie with a folklore narrative. Photo: Kunle Afolayan</figcaption></figure>



All the expected names are returning for Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre, but there are more people on the team. 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Bimbo Ademoye: Arolake, the former Queen who fell from grace to be with Saro the weaver. </li>



<li> Kunle Remi: Saro the Weaver, the main character. An arrogant traveller whom Arolake falls in love with before she is abused by his other wives.</li>
</ul>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



The production of Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre began in 2023 with most of the filming done in locations around Nigeria.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Kunle Afolayan has&nbsp;confirmed that the series will launch globally only on Netflix on March 1st, 2024. Anikulapo, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-movies-and-series-on-netflix-get-over-30-nominations-at-the-2023-amvca/">the movie has multiple awards</a> to it, the series Rise of the Spectre is without question a metamorphosis of that success.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Idea of Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre</h2>



Kunle Afolayan had envisioned a series analogous to Game of Thrones when the idea of Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre was conceived.



The series which was to be called &#8220;ODU&#8221; an ancient narrative set in the Oyo Empire never took flight as the time was at odds with the idea.



The years that have passed, availed the team with the tools for a contemporary production. This further revealed to them that time was an integral element of the now-completed production, as Kunle Afolayan noted.

Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre Poster. Photo: Kunle Afolayan

Kunle Remi and Bimbo Ademoye Netflix Series ‘Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre’ Sets March 2024 Release Date

Anikulapo failed to win in major categories of the AMVCA 2023- no best actor or actress wins but it grabbed 5 awards from other categories.



Successful movies like Anikulapo plant the idea of franchises.



Director Kunle Afolayan is making another <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-movies-and-series-on-netflix-get-at-least-32-monimations-at-the-2023-amvca/">Anikulapo film</a>, a new half of a narrative inspired by Ifayemi Elebuibon’s mystery collection.



The <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-amvca-2023-will-look-like-for-anikulapo-king-of-thieves-battle-on-buka-street-and-more/">first Anikulapo movie</a> hardly adapts any of Elebuibon’s books. Ifayemi Elebuibon&#8217;s greatest philosophical achievements are found in Yoruba poetry and literature.



He takes record of the supernatural more than a mere mortal should. His writings delve into the forbidden, abominable, cursed, doomed and powerful.



He explores ancient elements of life and powers that breathe air, spit out fire and dwell in the waters.



Elebuibon paints the divine within his text like he is one of them &#8211; from another realm. A large part of his work is termed myth, some of which were compiled from the massive Ifa literary catalogue.



Ifa, the Custodian of Destiny is a good case study for what could come in the next Anikulapo movie.



This is one where Ifayemi Elebuivon dissects destiny. The book stages Orunmila as the custodian of destiny, specially assigned by Olodumare (the Almighty God).



This is some of the context applied by Kunle Afolayan in Anikulapo.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="913" height="596" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-movie.jpg" alt="Kunle Afolayan Movies. Photo: Kunle Afolayan" class="wp-image-1017" style="aspect-ratio:1.676;width:634px;height:auto" title="bimbo.JPG" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-movie.jpg 913w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-movie-300x196.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/anikulapo-movie-768x501.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 913px) 100vw, 913px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kunle Afolayan Movies</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre</h2>



Adaptations that require deep translation of the supernatural are not easy, this is why Ifayemi Elebuivon&#8217;s works serve better as inspiration.



A fictional narrative that mimics characters and other components like time and age from his books could be much easier to make.



However, out of curiosity, Is Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre going to be an inspiration or an adaption? Will Anikulapo progress into a franchise and how many will there be?



Kunle Afolayan only discloses the name of the next movie, not the details &#8211; whether it is a prequel or a sequel. He did hint at a series.



Kunle Remi&#8217;s Anikulapo character could be set up for greater vilification.



Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre will most likely continue on Arolake&#8217;s life back at the palace. With Saro among the living or dead, Anikulapo: The Septare will explore the weaver&#8217;s previous lives and possible hope for a new life.



What happens if Saro gets life one more time from the Akala bird? Does he get the power to raise the dead again, does he get Arolake back?

Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre – Kunle Afolayan Developing a New Idea

The life of a young man, Saro, leads down a dark terrain with every step. Born and trained as a weaver, Saro starts his life with the help of a woman after he arrives in a far town. 



As things go silent for him and <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wiki/awarun/">Awarun</a>, she initiates a love affair with the King&#8217;s favourite wife <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wiki/arolake/">Arolake</a>. This did not go well for Saro. He is killed and restored to life. But Saro might die again if he doesn&#8217;t get things right.



Aníkúlápó also stars Hollywood actor, Hakim Kazeem.

Saro

As a couple that caught each other&#8217;s affection, Arolake and Saro risk death from their affair. However, Saro was the only one who got the punishment of death.



However, Arolake also traded her life at the palace to be with a simple weaver.



A woman who gave up everything to be with Saro should have the kind of pain that Arolake had at the end of the Anikulapo. Actress <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-movies-and-series-on-netflix-get-at-least-32-monimations-at-the-2023-amvca/">Bimbo Ademoye delivered the role</a> flawlessly.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="179" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Bimbo-Ademoye-anikulapo.jpg" alt="Bimbo Ademoye Best Crying Scene in Anikulapo" class="wp-image-1093" style="width:628px;height:auto"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Happened To Arolake in Anikulapo</h2>



Arolake falls in love with a sojourner, Saro who has just settled in a kingdom ruled by her husband.



The weaver as he calls himself is enormously arrogant with a past that he appears to have tossed away quickly.



The pair has to sneak around to be with each other but only starts making a runaway plan after Saro is warned.



That night they are exposed.



When her lover Saro is killed and thrown out to rot for his betrayal of the King, he experiences resurrection through a mythical bird.



Unknown to Saro, Arolake witnessed this event and picked up a powerful portion that the bird had dropped when it brought him back to life.



In a later scene, Arolake hands the portion to Saro and tells him what the content is and how it can help them survive together.



Saro gains a new name &#8220;Anikulapo&#8221;, &#8211; one who holds death in his purse &#8211; from using the portion to raise people from the dead. However, it didn&#8217;t take long for him to lose it after he hurt Arolake.



The former Queen feels dissatisfied with her new life making her recall the one she had in these words:



&#8220;What a shame,



What a fool I have been,



At least as the wife of a great King of Oyo,



I was the favourite one,



The King&#8217;s favourite



Like the moon above all others



The king loved me



He loved me so dearly.&#8221;



After which she decides to leave Saro.



Those lines are so deep that <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/dark-october-boys-will-always-have-viewers-heart-for-their-roles-in-the-nigerian-movie/">it is possible to see Bimbo Ademoye feeling the pain</a> of Arolake. The actress delivers the lines with such great awareness of what is expected of her.



It is not just the lines, it is the sincerity she bore and the realisation of her mistakes. They are the best lines and a crying scene to come out of a Nollywood movie yet.



Bimbo Ademoye had a good handle on Arolake all the way and the actress sure pairs well with Kunle Remi.



Anikuapo is a story about culture and tradition, set in the 17th century of the Old Oyo Empire.



Bimbo Ademoye was nominated for Best Actress in a Drama at the 2023 AMVCA for her role as Queen Arolake in Anikulapo.

Bimbo Ademoye Best Crying Scene in Anikulapo

/ Movie Wiki Africa /

African Actors

Sola Sobowale

Mercy Johnson

Richard Mofe-Damijo

Ini Edo

Ramsey Nouah

Saint Obi

Mike Afolarin

Chidi Mokeme

Ayo Makun

Deyemi Okanlawon

Ini Dima-Okoji

Dakore Egbusun-Akande

Funke Akindele

Adesua Etomi Wellington

Genevieve Nnaji

Kunle Remi

Bimbo Ademoye

News