It might be obvious to many that 90% of movie leaks come from insiders on the production team in a Nollywood movie like Malaika. The relevant people on a movie production team can leak photos/video from the set and even more during post-production regardless of how much precautions go into this.



Malaika is a movie by Toyin Abraham, a new addition to her directorial list. The movie drowned the sum of N500m, and though unverified, this amount for a Nollywood movie places it on the high-budget list. 



Before its cinema release on December 15, 2023, movie pirates had gotten hold of it and made it available. The actress/director took steps to stop that action but it was too late. The financial implications of this illegal release of Malaika and how many people have a copy are not yet known.



Movie piracy is a serious issue globally. When movies and series get an early release from illegal unauthorised sources, there are always patronisers waiting to watch them for free. This content is made available on certain websites and others on DVDs in Nigeria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Safety of Nollywood Movies</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="701" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/malaika-1024x701.jpg" alt="Malaika Poster. Photo: Toyin Abraham" class="wp-image-868" style="width:793px;height:auto" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/malaika-1024x701.jpg 1024w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/malaika-300x206.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/malaika-768x526.jpg 768w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/malaika.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Malaika Poster. Photo: Toyin Abraham</figcaption></figure>



No safety measures against piracy for Nollywood movies are bulletproof. The one proven method is to monitor the core movie production team. Several film sets will ban mobile phones, the least kind of precaution, however, film pirates can hack the production server directly to get access.



There are several cases where movies leak through the censorship board that receives them for certification. The copies given to movie critics or even the premier copies carry risks too.



Errors from any of these channels can result in a lot of loss.



Also, consider releasing on <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/are-streaming-platforms-good-for-nollywood">streaming platforms</a> as they could take responsibility for leaks. Streaming platforms have become useful to Nollywood in this way over the years.



One move that is considered medicine after death could be to force movie pirates to take down intellectual property. There are tools available online for this purpose. With the correct proof of ownership, these tools pull pirated content from websites and prevent them from appearing on search engines.

How Malaika Leaked and the Cost for Toyin Abraham

There is an ongoing wave of remakes and sequels for good Nollywood movies from the 90s. This wave has seen the remakes and sequels of films like Ahanna: Rattle Snake and Domittila. 



The next to expect from <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-remakes-or-originals-what-is-best/">this wave of remakes and sequels</a> in Nollywood is Issakaba. It may not be very apparent, but the name is a palindrome of the word &#8220;Bakassi.&#8221;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1001" height="604" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/samdede.jpg" alt="Sam Dede from The Black Book" class="wp-image-930" style="object-fit:cover;width:618px;height:400px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/samdede.jpg 1001w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/samdede-300x181.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/samdede-768x463.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Sam Dede from The Black Book</figcaption></figure>



Issakaba was a vigilante movie that simulated the Aba Bakassi boys from the 1990s. 



These are some of the things to have in mind before the new Issakaba returns.



The Issakaba movie is a classic for a lot of reasons. From the &#8220;Issakaba&#8221; chant and charm that perpetrators wore before being tortured to death to all the parables, there are so many details to divulge here. 



There are over 100 local Nigerian parables used in the Issakaba. Igbo chants were also used to highlight most of the scenes in the movie.



Also, it was through mere run-in conversations, without any surveys that the popularity of most films was revealed in the 90s Nigeria. Issakaba was one of those movies. It drew attention across Nigeria due to the reality it put on screen.



Issakaba can be considered a successful film in its time and Sam Dede who plays the lead character, Ebube gave so much personality to the character.



<figure class="wp-block-video"><video controls loop src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/issakaba-sam-dede.mp4"></video></figure>



Bringing movies back to a time when Nollywood had modified its cinema system would show how much people appreciate films like Issakaba. 



The first two parts of Issakaba, released in 1999 and 2001, respectively, are highly rated by Nigerians. The audiences are keen to see what comes next.

Sam Dede who plays the lead character, Ebube gave so much personality to the character. Photo: Sam Dede

Relevant Moments From Issakaba to Remember Before it Returns

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science has released the nomination list for the 96th Awards, Mami Wata, the Nigerian official selection does not appear on the to be on it.



In recent years, the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood started to set targets to meet the Oscars specifications without much luck. This year it has failed to make the nomination list once again. 



The 2023 <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/considering-indie-filmmaking-in-nigeria-with-the-2023-sundance-film-festival/">diabolical movie by C.J. Obasi, Mami Wata</a>, was presented to the Academy by the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) as the official selection from Nigeria for the Best International Feature Film Category of the 96th Oscars.



Mami Wata was approved after meeting <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/king-of-thieves-meets-the-first-specification-for-the-oscars-but-there-are-more/">the specifications, unlike its predecessors including Lionheart</a> by Genevieve Nnaji. However, this approval is usually without assurance of a nomination.



Mami Wata is a narrative taken from a common myth about water goddesses in Nigeria that are addressed by the same name.



C.J. Obasi is charting a path and making hyper-stylised films as he had told <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CNN" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNN</a>. He is taking on the concepts of Akira Kurosawa and David Lynch to add substance and make films with depth.



The production of Mami Wata was backed by Fiery Film Company, Guguru Studios, Palmwine Media, Swiss Fund Visions Sud Est, and Ifind Pictures of France.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best International Feature Film Category Nomination</h2>



Movies nominated in the Best International Feature Film Category of the 96th Academy Awards are;



Io Capitano &#8211; Italy Perfect Days &#8211; Japan Societ of the Snow &#8211; Spain The Teachers Lounge &#8211; Germany The Zone of Interest &#8211; United Kingdom



Nollywood may have to try hard to beat the production values of films like Parasite &#8211; South Korea who are among the previous winners of the category. For 2023, All Quiet on the Western Front &#8211; Germany, won the category. Other previous winners of the International Feature Film Category are;



Another Round &#8211; Denmark Drive My Car &#8211; Japan



Mami Wata is nominated in the Best International Film category of the 39th Independent Spirit Awards.

Mami Wata Fails to Make the 96th Oscars Nomination List

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

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

Throughout its history, Nollywood has done well in delivering creativity. The best of them come from actors who push their talents a little bit further into the most unique zones.



They are those that can go beyond the transformation of their real selves. Outside their job description where they play a variety of roles, they could also be typecast and remain in the character even in various movies.



Many fans can truly become fond of characters created out of the book especially if they are repeated in various movies by one actor.



For instance, it will feel comforting to see <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/actorsPg/funke-akindele">Funke Akindele</a> taking up the name <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wikiid/jenifa">Jenifa</a> in different films and series. Funke Akindele is phenomenal with Jenifa but it sort of ends with the series.



Jenifa has not shown up in any movies or series even though many secretly long to see Jenifa again.



The good thing with this in Nollywood is that the audience has never had to worry about the character being replaced at one point in a franchise. This is mostly because these characters are created by the actors who play them.



This makes this list an easy one since there is only one actor who has maintained this concept.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1181" height="660" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Akpos-Nollywood-Movies.jpg" alt="Akpos in Nollywood Movies" class="wp-image-912" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" title="ay.jpg" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Akpos-Nollywood-Movies.jpg 1181w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Akpos-Nollywood-Movies-300x168.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Akpos-Nollywood-Movies-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Akpos-Nollywood-Movies-768x429.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1181px) 100vw, 1181px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Akpos in Nollywood Movies</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Akpos &#8211; 30 Days in Atlanta, 10 Days in Sun City, Christmas in Miami, A Trip to Jamaica</h2>



Akpos is currently a movement in the Nigerian movie industry. There is only one case of a performer of <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/wikiid/akpos">the Akpos role</a> and that is Ayo Makun. The character was created in 2014 by <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/actorsPg/ayo-makun">Ayo Makun</a> aka AY.



The actor/stand-up comedian has either directed or produced these movies sometimes while playing the role of Akpos.



AY gets credit for being the first one to repeat and maintain a character in a movie as well as creating the first Nollywood semi-franchise.



AY has starred in other movies in different roles with his <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/">most recent</a> before &#8220;Christmas in Miami&#8221; being Merry Men 2.



Repeating one character might be strange for AY as he will forever be known for the rest of his career as Akpos.



However, in Nollywood, the audiences often only see this one actor as perfect for a repeated character and role. Akpos remains unchallenged for Ay.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Richard Williams &#8211; Living in Bondage, RattleSnake &#8211; The Ahanna Story</h2>



In the remake of RattleSnake -The Ahanna Story &#8211; Richard Williams (Ramsey Nouah) also appears with the same name as in the &#8220;Living in Bondage&#8221; remake.



The character appears to offer Ahanna a place with The Brotherhood of the Six. Richard Williams once more showed up in Blood Sisters (2022) by the same actor.

This One Character, Repeated in Different Nollywood Movies is Exceptional

It wasn&#8217;t that long ago that Nollywood and Bollywood came together to make history with &#8220;Namaste Wahala&#8221; a family dramedy about love and friendship.



It appears that the film is the first of many to come from the director, Hamisha Daryani Ahuja, and the first of many collaborations.&nbsp;



A partnership of this nature can become binding for two film industries. As the top two industries in the world, the possibilities are endless. The options and narratives can quickly give way to something diverse and more so, dynamic.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-block-embed-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Namaste Wahala Full Trailer" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X9ug6QQGnDQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



The duo can make a difference in how a film project turns out and how well other countries receive it. Whether a film makes it to the top or stays at the bottom of the list of good movies and films, this relationship could begin to count.



It can further be described as an alliance of visionary filmmakers that could authenticate new genres or even redefine filmmaking.&nbsp;



Postcards, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-is-getting-a-boost-from-making-comedy-recent-records-show">comedy and drama</a> series, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/netflix-african-originals-for-2023-movies-and-series-to-expect-soon/">is coming soon</a> to TV.



The tagline for &#8220;Postcards&#8221; is &#8220;Love, Pain, Family, Relationship, Laughter&#8221; and suggests a similarity in genre and plotline to &#8220;Namaste Wahala&#8221;. The series is the typical urban life narrative portraying events that take place in Mumbai and Lagos.



It touches on the lives of a group of people. The interactions and the changes that the cast come to experience together are the objectives of the series.



Bollywood and Nollywood made a love story out of &#8216;Namaste Wahala&#8217; which was an idea by the director of both films. She said that she had been spending time observing Nigerians and connecting them to the way of life in India.



Hamisha Daryani Ahuja also mentions creating a reality show in the same concept between both industries.

Bollywood, Nollywood Set Off New Hit With “Postcards”

Top Nigerian filmmaker and director, C.J Obasi is making a historical appearance at the 2023 Sundance International Film Festival in Utah, Western United States as one of the industry representatives alongside Wale Oyejide and Funa Maduka.



C.J Obasi is the director of the medium flick “Mami Wata” which was featured in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition of Sundance on January 23. In “Mami Wata” Mama Efe who is played by Rita Edochie, is the medium and voice for the Iyi villagers and the water goddess, Mami Wata. 



Iyi is afterwards divided by one tragic event that sows doubt in the beliefs and doctrines of the people. It soon becomes too dangerous to dwell in the village. 



Similar to some other films by Obasi, “Mami Wata” bends folklore into an immersive thriller. Obasi also engages in the crime and horror genres with which he composed his directorial debut, “Ojuju.” C.J Obasi Steps in Nollywood Obasi made the award-winning “Ojuju” a no-budget 2014 movie, in the early days of his film career when he still exemplifies indie filmmaking. 



This should suggest to other indie filmmakers in Nigeria that, with good filmmaking skills, it is possible to make a global narrative. At Sundance, Obasi represents not just the movie powerhouses, which he is a part of now, but also indie filmmakers.



This group gets less attention in the Nigerian creative space, however, with a little push, they can leapfrog.



Obasi was once in the category. At this time, Obasi produces films including “Mami Water”, under the Fiery Film Company which he runs. 



Independent filmmaking in Nigeria can continue to hope for new heights as much as production companies and studios who do not toil to get funding or investors. Indie filmmakers have also paired with production companies to make great films like “The King of Thieves”, a film by Femi Adebayo which was released by Anthill Studios.

Considering Indie Filmmaking in Nigeria with the 2023 Sundance Film Festival

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 Poster. Photo: Kunle Afolayan

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

Everyone has one thing in common when it comes to movies and that is loving good ones. Top studios in Nigeria may not always have the best movies.



This list aims to assemble independent movies by Nigerian directors currently available to stream on Netflix.



There’s always <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/next-nollywood-movies-to-watch-after-gangs-of-lagos-the-wild-flower/">something about a good movie by independent directors</a> that strikes distinct notes.



These movies are among the ones that get the least attention sometimes. Discovering them can sometimes feel like winning a prize.



The directors put in good work and effort to make them suitable, and <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/what-coming-to-netflix-naija-at-the-end-of-may-26th-to-31st/">Netflix has a lot of those</a> by Nigerian directors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dazzling Mirage (2015)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-block-embed-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Dazzling Mirage - OFFICIAL TRAILER" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2Sc9I6yMkEk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Run Time: 1 hr 57 min | Genre: Comedy, Drama | Director: Tunde Kelani



Cast: Kemi Lala Akindoju, Kunle Afolayan, Seun Akindele, Carol King, Ayo Badmos, Bimbo Manuel, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Yomi Fash Lanso, Khabirat Kafidipe, Aderounmu Adejumoke, Bukola Awoyemi, Adewale Ayuba, Sean Tizzle, Collins Enebeli, Tunde Babalola, Hakeem Adenekan, Steve Sodiya



This movie by Tunde Kelani is based on Olayinka Abimbola&#8217;s Dazzling Mirage. For cinephiles looking to get into the work of Tunde Kelani for the first time, Dazzling Mirage is actually a great place to start.



It is a rather odd theme in the Tunde Kelani library as a director who focuses on mysteries in his work.



Dazzling Mirage is an intimate story that speaks to everyone facing social and emotional issues not just the ailing Sickle-Cell Anaemic group.



It is also an out-of-personal dairy thing for Tunde Kelani who said he had been in a relationship with sufferers and says he owes it to them to tell their story.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">LionHeart</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-block-embed-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="LIONHEART by Genevieve Nnaji - trailer eng sub" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v45GprEyM7U?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Run Time: 1 hr 34 min | Genre: Drama | Director: Genevieve Nnaji



Cast: Genevieve Nnaji, Nkem Owoh, Pete Edochie, Onyeka Onwuenu. Kanyo o Kanayo



Most people will naturally enjoy a movie that features Genevieve Nnaji. For people who want more of Genevieve Nnaji, Netflix’s drama Lionheart should supply a load of good moments.



Genevieve Nnaji co-stars and directs this strong female-led narrative.



Nnaji plays the daughter of Chief Obiagu and his business heir, Adaeze. After the chief falls ill, Adaeze has to take up the lead position of the company. However, she is intensely challenged by the role of a lead in a company that is domiciled within an industry run by men. A rival businessman Igwe Pascal did not make it easier.



Her father assigns his brother to chaperone her in managing the business and he makes it an even tougher challenge. 



Lionheart is the first movie that Nigeria submitted to the Oscars.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Joy (2018)</h2>



Run Time: 1 hr 40 min | Director: Sudabeh Mortezai



Cast: Miriam Precious Sanusi, Anwulika Alphonsus, Angela Ekeleme



Directed by Austrian Iranian visionary Sudabeh Mortezai, Joy is an uncommon narrative with a trafficking drama tone coated in a crime stunt.



Anwulika Alphonsus stars as Joy a stylist desperate for cash but finding terrible luck. She takes a supposedly easy job in Europe to support her in Nigeria.



Co-starring with Mariam Sanusi and Angela Ekeleme, who are two other young optimists, the three into unknown worlds of sex rings. In one event, Joy was instructed to watch over her younger colleague Precious who is new, but Joy fears for her.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nigerian Prince (2018)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-embed-handler wp-block-embed-embed-handler wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Nigerian Prince Trailer #1 (2018) | Movieclips Indie" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jeiuLjLyjIc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Run Time: 1 hr 44 min | Genre: Comedy Crime | Director: Faraday Okoro



Cast: Antoni J Bell, Chinaza Uche, Tina Mba, Bimbo Manuel, Ebbe Bassey Dean Cameron Crystabel Goddy



Co-written by Andrew Long, Nigerian Prince is a puzzling drama distinctly expressed by a stunning cast. It weaves the illogical into a thriller as director Faraday Okoro presents an array of the insanity seen as internet love.



Eze (Antoni J Bell) and Chinaza Uche (Pius) star as a fraudulent team distressed by the character of the noteworthy Tina Mba.



A stubborn Nigerian American is forced against his will to live in Nigeria and wants to return at all costs.



Nigerian Prince is a tale of tough love from parents that is successfully crafted into a magical piece of entertainment.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hakkunde (2017)</h2>



Run Time: 1 hr 32 min | Genre: Comedy, Drama, Socia Issue| Director: Oluseyi Amuwa



Cast: Frank Donga, Rahama Sadau, Maryam Booth, Ali Nuhu, Toyin Abraham, Indrahim Daddy, Bukky Ajayi, Alhaji Issa Bello, Hadiza Solja



Hakkunde is set right to mimic the unemployment status of many youths. It follows an uneasy graduate life in Nigeria, as unemployed Akande (Frank Donga) tries out his luck at a decent career.



He made a decision to leave his hometown and go find better opportunities, but that turns out to be the first of many hard decisions. He runs into unexpected events, causing him to lose himself and his identity sometimes.



However, his determination will not let anything stop him from making a difference in society.



Hakkunde was widely received.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Pay Day(2018)</h2>



Run Time: 1 hr 50 min | Genre: Comedy | Director: Cheta Chukwu



Cast: Baaj Adebule, Vctor Meg Otannwa, Bisola Aiyeola, Mwuli Gavor Zack Orji



Cheta Chukwu tells the story of two best friends, wanting to have fun at the expense of the shelter.



What begins as a fun life slowly turns into a nightmare for Paul (Baaj Adebule) and Ortega (Victor Ebiye) as Yemisola gives them an ultimatum that forces instant hardship on them.



Their suffering was slow and awfully comic.



The result of this fire lit by Yemisola is brutal honesty coming from both characters who express young adulthood and all the struggles that come with it.

Movies by Independent Nigerian Directors to Watch on Netflix Now

The new UK government&#8217;s regulations for streaming services within its new Media Bill are gaining momentum. Several Nollywood movies on Netflix will not be immune to a cut.



The proposed bill places streaming services and broadcasters houses on the policy scope which could mean that they will face fines of £250,000 ($310,000) if they breach content guidelines.



As a result, Netflix might be forced to pull several titles that could be considered to have harmful content from the UK.



This would include those from Nollywood as well.



Nollywood titles on Netflix and those on other streaming platforms are likely going under continual scrutiny. If any of these appear harmful, Netflix could remove them from its platform UK to avoid a breach of guidelines.



This is the best that Netflix may be able to deliver as the bill will force neutrality on streaming services that want to be in line with public policy.



Netflix is not moving without caution on what it considers a potential source of risk&#8221; from a compliance perspective as its strength also lies within the range and variety of its content. This applies to most countries including the UK.



It has said that removing content from its UK catalogue could inevitably be less risky.



Prime Video is one of <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/exploring-original-film-production-options-for-nollywood-with-prime-video-netflix">the streamers that took a similar step</a> in 2021.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nollywood Netflix Titles</h2>



It withdrew its Prime Video Direct, a service where independent filmmakers could upload unsolicited content. This move required more content to have specified quality and standards. 



The streamer went on to delete titles saying that it company had had a quality assurance review before making the decision. Prime Video currently no longer accepts unsolicited licensing submissions.



The UK is one of the few countries with a high rate of Netflix subscribers estimated at about 17 million. Being influenced by more countries&#8217; quality control expectations, the streamer has been experiencing a global decline in subscribers. It has been trying to manage this with the new password-sharing crackdown move.

Several Nollywood Movies On Netflix Will Likely Be Cut

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

With so many genres coming out of Nollywood now, the narratives are becoming so complex that they can sometimes blur the lines between three particular genres &#8211; horror, mystery and thrillers.



While each may have elements of the other, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-smart-way-to-watch-nollywood-movies-that-can-make-them-appealing">mystery, thriller and horror</a> aren&#8217;t always seen in one film. However, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/dark-october-boys-will-always-have-viewers-heart-for-their-roles-in-the-nigerian-movie/">a film can have two or more genres</a> woven together.



There are subtle similarities between them as horror movies carry with them huge amounts of mystery, yet different from mystery. Thrillers in Nollywood can sometimes find a way to stand out.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What genre of Nollywood movies are you watching?</h2>



Audiences might perceive a mystery-themed Nigerian movie as a horror movie and there is a reason that happens very often.



When a movie has both mystical and paranormal elements, it can be hard to classify.



In a horror Nollywood movie, the paranormal can sometimes go unsolved. These fables also have something creepy and scary that shakes up the viewers. The battle between good and evil further singles horror Nigerian movies out.



All <a href="https://cuturays.com/nollywood/news/next-nollywood-movies-to-watch-after-gangs-of-lagos-the-wild-flower">these genres always have something to resolve. The lead character has to overcome or pursue something</a> whether he fails or succeeds.



A crime in a horror movie is both physically or psychologically horrifying to the audience. But in a thriller, is a bit less terrifying to the viewers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mystery &#8211; Anikulapo</h3>



In Anikulapo, there is a supernatural element, the Akala bird. There was a precolonial, traditional religious backdrop and a supernatural setting which could also be said of a horror movie. The supernatural in Anikulapo makes way for mystery rather than horror.



The lead character, Saro makes a mistake and pays for his actions with his life. The killer and the reason for the murder are understood. However, no one visualized the mystery of his coming back to life and suddenly miraculous.



Then the mystery in Anikuapo and other elements begin to blur out and intertwine with thrilling events.



There was no puzzle for Saro to solve. There was nothing to uncover with the Akala bird except that the bird had something to show Saro.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="945" height="818" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/funke-a-tribe-called-judah.jpg" alt="Comedy leads in Nollywood and Funke kindele is at the top of the chart with A Tribe Called Judah. Photo: Funke Akindele" class="wp-image-988" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:400px" title="My project-1 (1).png" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/funke-a-tribe-called-judah.jpg 945w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/funke-a-tribe-called-judah-300x260.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/funke-a-tribe-called-judah-768x665.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 945px) 100vw, 945px" /></figure>



That is all the mystery that there is to Anikulapo. Without these, Anikulapo appears more like a love story but qualifies as a mystery in the end.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thriller &#8211; Brotherhood</h3>



For a film like Brotherhood, the aim is to solve a puzzle around the criminals. There was a chase of some kind which generates tension and suspense.



The good guy, <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt19704920/characters/nm14508795?ref_=tt_cl_c_4">Wale Adetula</a> who is one of the brothers, is always after the villain, the other brother. He constantly tries to interfere with what his evil brother is doing.



Wale Adetula is evidently facing a hurdle, unlike Saro in Anikulapo. He has a deadline and the stakes are high for him, which adds to the tension for the viewer.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Thriller &#8211; King of Thieves</h3>



King of Thieves did not intend to scare viewers, but all elements of it have some sort of fear. It generally portrays the presence of a big evil &#8211; so does that make &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; horror?



Agesinoke is a big evil &#8211; the thief and his bandits that hunt victims in the village.



The movie further shows a bunch of gory sides while thrilling and shocking viewers in every slide. At the climax, there are several confrontations with the evil Agesinoke, some escape and survival.



Even with these elements, King of Thieves is simply meant as a thriller not horror or mystery.

Best Themes to Choose From in Nigerian Movies – Mystery, Horror and Thriller

The real Golden Age of Nollywood, the Nigerian Film Industry is happening now. About 35 years ago, it was almost impossible to envision Nollywood where it is today.



But right here and now, there is proof that Nollywood hasn&#8217;t witnessed success at any point in history as it is today.



There is a mass appeal for Nigerian cinema, massive box office records, constant release of films, screenings in international film festivals, huge and loud budgets, big studios and international collaborations as well as recognitions just to name a few.



This did not happen in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Age_of_Nigerian_Cinema">the Nollywood of the late 50s to 80s</a> which is the known golden era and the time of theatre releases.



The Nollywood that exists today was formed out of nothing &#8211; not from big investment initiatives or even government efforts.



The industry was nurtured by ordinary nationals who wanted to entertain while making money. So they started making and marketing tapes and then the Nigerian cinema found itself in the video boom era.



This was the time when the Nollywood that is famous today was originally controlled by just a few business moguls.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image.jpg" alt="Golden Age of Nollywood" class="wp-image-990" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" title="My project-1 (1).png"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Golden Age of Nollywood</figcaption></figure>



They were popular for the productions and for being able to pay top actors. This set of producers and executives opened the doors to opportunities.



However, the industry suddenly developed a lot of components around the 2010s, which was not always the case.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Nollywood</h2>



A significant factor in the new age of Nollywood worth noting is the sudden funding from the government.



The Creative and Entertainment Industry Intervention Fund, NollyFund, and Project Nollywood are some of the government initiatives that revised the industry and its standards.



They <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/exploring-original-film-production-options-for-nollywood-with-prime-video-netflix/">helped in the acquisition of infrastructure, production of high-quality films of today as well as in proper networking and distribution</a> across the country.



During this time several filmmakers also benefited from the grants and got assistance to get formal training in film schools.



Just about one year from the first government funding, in 2007, three movies were released out of the project &#8211; Caught In The Middle, 100 Days In The Jungle and Letters to a Stranger.



These and <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/">others that followed are generally classified as Nollywood movies of the new era</a> largely for their improved quality and bigger budgets.



The Golden Age is also characterised by technological advances, achievement, and statistics which is what gave digital cinematography movies like those their sparkles.



They captured and locked in a new set of audience.



In this age, the new golden age which is also characterised by theatre releases, there are also standards and structures in place.



These will sound better in history than the previous golden age of Nollywood.



Film Industry members have had quite a number of conversations on this topic and came up with the name &#8220;New Nollywood.&#8221;

Now is the Best Time to Get Into Nollywood Movies

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

The empowerment of women in Nollywood, like in many film industries around the world, is an ongoing process with both positive steps and challenges. While Nollywood has made progress in certain areas, there is still work to be done to ensure that women have equal opportunities and representation within the industry. 



There are two key aspects to this &#8211; the positive and the negative. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Positive Aspects</h2>



Increasing Female Representation: Nollywood has seen an increase in the number of female filmmakers, directors, producers, and writers in recent years. Women are taking on more prominent roles behind the scenes, contributing to the creative process.



Strong Female Characters: Nollywood has produced films with strong and complex female characters who break away from traditional gender stereotypes. These characters can serve as role models for women and girls.



Stories Empowering Women: Some Nollywood films focus on women&#8217;s empowerment and address issues such as gender equality, domestic violence, and female entrepreneurship. These films can raise awareness and encourage discussions about these topics.



Supportive Networks: Women in Nollywood have formed networks and organizations to support and empower each other. These networks provide opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy for gender equality.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges and Areas for Improvement</h2>



Gender Disparities: Despite progress, there are still significant gender disparities in Nollywood. Women continue to face challenges in accessing funding, getting their films distributed, and breaking into leadership roles.



Stereotyping: Some Nollywood films perpetuate gender stereotypes and objectify women. This can reinforce harmful perceptions of women&#8217;s roles and capabilities.



Equal Pay: There are reports of gender-based pay disparities in Nollywood, with male actors and directors often earning more than their female counterparts for similar roles and work.



Limited Access to Resources: Women in Nollywood may have limited access to resources such as equipment, funding, and training compared to men. This can hinder their career advancement and creative opportunities.



Lack of Gender Diversity in Storytelling: While there are films that focus on women&#8217;s issues, there is still room for more diverse storytelling that portrays a wide range of female experiences.



Institutional Support: There is a need for more institutional support from both the government and the private sector to promote gender equality in Nollywood. Policies and initiatives can help address some of the industry&#8217;s gender disparities.



While Nollywood has made strides in empowering women within the industry, there are still challenges and areas for improvement. 



Achieving greater gender equality in Nollywood and ensuring that women have equal opportunities will require continued efforts, advocacy, and collaboration from all stakeholders, including filmmakers, industry associations, and policymakers.

Women Empowerment in Nollywood

Nollywood generally has a strong influence on society. In politics, the Nigerian movie industry has and continues to have a significant impact. Nollywood, as a powerful cultural and media force in Nigeria, has the ability to influence public opinion, shape political discourse, and impact political outcomes.



Whether that is a good thing for society, is yet to be known. Explore the topic more on this page to see how Nollywood gets involved in politics.



Political Themes in Films: Nollywood has produced films that address political themes, such as corruption, governance, electoral processes, and social justice. These films often reflect the concerns and frustrations of the Nigerian people and serve as a platform for critiquing political issues.



Awareness and Engagement: Nollywood films can raise awareness about political issues among the general population. They provide a medium through which complex political topics can be made accessible and relatable to a wide audience.



Influencing Public Opinion: Nollywood stars and filmmakers are often public figures with substantial followings. Their political views and endorsements can sway public opinion and influence voters&#8217; choices during elections.



Advocacy for Social Change: Some Nollywood actors and filmmakers use their platforms to advocate for social and political change. They engage in activism, support social causes, and call for accountability and transparency in government.



Mobilization and Civic Engagement: Nollywood personalities have been known to participate in voter education campaigns, encouraging citizens to register and vote. They can motivate young people and other demographics to become politically engaged.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-1.png" alt="Nollywood in Politics" class="wp-image-885" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-1.png 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-1-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nollywood in Politics</figcaption></figure>



Contesting Elections: Some Nollywood actors and filmmakers have entered politics themselves by running for political offices. Their popularity and fan base can give them an advantage in elections, and they can potentially bring fresh perspectives to governance.



Political Funding: Nollywood personalities have occasionally provided financial support to political candidates or parties. Their financial contributions can have an impact on campaign resources.



Impact on Policies: Nollywood&#8217;s portrayal of social and political issues can put pressure on policymakers to address certain problems. It can also influence policy debates and discussions within the government.



Challenges and Controversies: Nollywood&#8217;s involvement in politics has also faced challenges, including controversies over partisan endorsements, allegations of bias, and debates about the ethical responsibilities of artists in politics.



Reflection of Societal Concerns: Nollywood&#8217;s engagement with political themes often reflects the concerns and frustrations of ordinary Nigerians. It can amplify these voices and contribute to a broader public conversation about governance and accountability.



It&#8217;s important to note that Nollywood&#8217;s impact on politics is complex and multifaceted. While it can serve as a vehicle for positive change and civic engagement, it also faces criticism and challenges related to biases, commercial interests, and the potential for reinforcing certain narratives.



Nollywood&#8217;s involvement in politics has had a discernible impact on Nigerian society and politics, both in terms of raising awareness about political issues and influencing public opinion and discourse. The industry&#8217;s role in politics continues to evolve and shape the political landscape in Nigeria.

What Happens When Nollywood Gets Involved in Politics

Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, has a unique and dynamic structure that is shaped by both its commercial nature and the politics of the industry. Here&#8217;s how the Nigerian movie industry has functioned over the years.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Structure of Nollywood</h2>



Content Diversification: Nollywood produces a wide range of film genres, including drama, romance, comedy, action, horror, and more. This diversity caters to a broad audience and reflects the multifaceted nature of Nigerian society.



International Appeal: Nollywood films have gained popularity not only in Nigeria but also among African diaspora communities and international audiences. This global reach has contributed to the industry&#8217;s influence.



Low-Budget Filmmaking: Nollywood is known for its low-budget filmmaking approach. Many films are produced on tight budgets, with limited resources, and often within short timeframes. This cost-effective production model has allowed the industry to thrive and produce a large number of films.



Prolific Output: Nollywood is one of the most prolific film industries globally, churning out a vast number of films annually. This high output contributes to the industry&#8217;s visibility and influence.



Independent Filmmaking: Nollywood is characterized by independent filmmaking, with many filmmakers functioning as writer-director-producers. This allows for creative control but also presents challenges related to funding and distribution.



Distribution: Nollywood films are distributed through a variety of channels, including cinemas, DVDs, television, and more recently, streaming platforms. The industry has a strong presence in informal distribution networks, including street vendors.



Local Languages: Many Nollywood films are produced in local languages, reflecting Nigeria&#8217;s linguistic diversity. This has contributed

New Structure of Nollywood. Photo: Unsplash/Valery Fedotov

The New Structure of Nollywood

The politics in Nollywood revolve a lot around the challenges posed by piracy, government regulation, funding, gender representation, quality standards and distribution. These issues are continually open for discussion, however, they can cause tension among filmmakers in several ways:



Most people in Nollywood get involved in illegal distribution and piracy, stifling creative freedom and impeding the growth of the industry. Unauthorized duplication and distribution of films result in substantial revenue losses for filmmakers and production companies. 



Copyright and intellectual property issues from the lack of robust copyright enforcement mechanisms in Nigeria make it difficult for filmmakers to protect their intellectual property. 



Hence, investment is often sparse for Nollywood. Access to funding and investment opportunities can be a challenge in Nollywood sometimes. Many rely on personal savings or informal funding sources, while formal financing options are limited.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-1.jpg" alt="Politics of Nollywood" class="wp-image-897" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-1.jpg 800w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-1-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



Government regulations through censorship boards and regulations also have their impacts on Nollywood and how its politics play out. 



The distribution of Nollywood films, especially in international markets, can be a complex and competitive process. Filmmakers often face challenges in securing distribution deals and fair revenue-sharing agreements.



Gender disparities exist within Nollywood, with men occupying more leadership roles both in front of and behind the camera. There have been efforts to address gender representation and promote inclusivity.



Nollywood has sometimes been criticized for prioritizing quantity over quality. The pressure to produce films quickly and within budget constraints can affect production values.



Some Nollywood personalities have entered politics, and their involvement can influence the industry&#8217;s dynamics. Their political affiliations and actions can impact the perception of the industry.



In managing these issues, the administrative body of Nollywood employs a cooperative system that enables it to remain vibrant and influential in Nigerian and global cinema.

The Politics of Nollywood

Writer-director, Obi Emelonye has set a straight target to bring the Oscars to Nollywood. During the screening of The Oratory, Obi Emelonye insinuated that he is making movies that would compete at the Oscars someday. 



The director appears to understand the constraints, limitations, as well as the fierceness of the Oscars competition. 



In Nollywood, the race for the Oscars is on. Between <a href="https://nollymania.com/the-real-reason-lionheart-was-disqualified-for-oscar-2020/">previous Nollywood submissions</a> and upcoming ones, someone has to be able to do this sometime soon.



To make it to the Oscars, Obi Emelonye could have several hurdles ahead of him, much more to win it and be the first one to bring it to Nollywood.



Awards are important for directors as much as they are for actors as it gives credibility and acceptance. It’s a banner that says, &#8220;I am up for potential big film deals and opportunities.&#8221; 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Win an Oscar Award in Nollywood </h2>



Establish Good Relationships: Making or appearing in more TV shows and episodes can only get one far enough. 



However, creating bonds, networking and connecting beyond Nollywood could be a healthier choice for anyone who targets the Oscars. 



Have a Personality: Be selective about movies and series to make or be in. This probably doesn&#8217;t matter much when operating locally in Nollywood, but to stand a chance at the Oscars, this is a subject to consider.



Seek professional advice from people who have won: This could come at a high cost. Also, some of them might be out of reach, so it is ok to hire someone with connections to demonstrate the path to the top



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Obi Emenonye&#8217;s Movies/Series List</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li class="">Black Mail</li>



<li class="">Badamasi </li>



<li class="">Money Miss Road </li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What movies/series by Obi Emelonye are available on Netflix</h3>



Crazy,&nbsp;Lovely,&nbsp;Cool&nbsp;is one of the modern and ongoing coming-of-age TV series in Nigeria.







<h3 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;The Oratory&#8221;: From the streets of Lagos by Obi Emelonye</h3>







<figure class="wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The Oratory Movie Trailer" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yYLXuwkE048?start=2&#038;feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Oratory is proving to be a unique piece.</figcaption></figure>







Obi Emelonye employs a religious tone in this reinterpretation of the figure of Saint John Bosco. The Oratory takes on the story of the street children of Lagos who are often named in several street crimes. 



This outstanding initiative has generated interest since its first screening.



It is a collaboration with Father Cyril Odia, a Salesian priest, based in Ireland, who is the executive producer and adviser of the film. 



Premiered in Dublin and Italy in September 2021 and October 2021 respectively with positive critical feedback. In November 2021, The Oratory screened in cinemas in Nigeria.

Obi Emelonye Sets Target Straight for the Oscars

The dialogue about home-grown video streaming platforms in Nigeria is likely the most intermittent topic in the new Nollywood. It always fails to generate much interest for its slippery characteristics &#8211; quite a hard feat to achieve. 



People who often raise or have something to say about home-grown video streaming platforms also fail to justify the idea correctly. 



Home-grown video streaming platforms in Nigeria are essential in the evolution and transition plan for Nollywood. 



In Nollywood, several facets including film production were transformed a few years ago by the rise of video streaming platforms. 



Entertainment engagement was proliferated in Nigeria through access to the internet and the overall use of smart devices. Consequently, video-on-demand began to surge bringing with it personalized content.<span style="font-size: inherit; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Web (West European)&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, sans-serif; white-space-collapse: collapse;">&nbsp;



The Nollywood Study Centre, NSC, is taking this topic more seriously exploring it during a recent forum with the theme, &#8220;Challenges and Opportunities for Home-grown Video Streaming Platforms in Nigeria.&#8221; A few guest speakers who contributed include Jason Njoku &#8211; iRokoTV and Mr<span style="font-size: inherit; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Web (West European)&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, sans-serif; white-space-collapse: collapse;"> Blessed Idornigie &#8211; Ibaka TV.



These names are significant in home-grown streaming platforms in Nigeria. 



They had taken the reins to entertain a diverse audience and foster culture-rich and relevant content across Africa and beyond.



However, international brands including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+, could be inhibiting the expansion for these local platforms. 



The <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-african-filmmakers-can-approach-the-international-market-enyinna-nwigwe-questions-on-afro-cannes-2023/">hope in the Nigeran film industry persists</a>, nonetheless.



Its entertainment landscape is dynamic and vibrant and reflects the changing trends and expectations of its audiences.



There are potential opportunities that were discussed at the forum. But also, it is noteworthy that <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/digital-media/video-on-demand/video-streaming-svod/worldwide" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the projected value of the Video Streaming (SVoD) market</a> will be in the range of US$137.00bn by 2027.<span style="font-size: inherit; font-family: &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Web (West European)&quot;, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, sans-serif; white-space-collapse: collapse;">&nbsp;



There were also strategy proposals on how to overcome the challenges &#8211; both technically and organisationally for sustainable video-on-demand growth in Nigeria.

Essential Topic in the Growth of Nollywood

One Overlooked But Essential Topic in the Growth of Nollywood

Right now, it&#8217;s hard not to love Khanyi for being the one person who sees and can say the truth about the Zari/Annie fight &#8211; &#8220;She just wants in.&#8221;



In another opinion, Zari is hoping that Tuface will come for her &#8220;the boss lady&#8221; because for some reason she thinks she is better than Annie.



This is the one reason the fight with Zari was so unnecessary.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Annie takes on Zari in YFA</h2>



Now in the middle of the <a href="https://decider.com/2023/05/31/young-famous-african-season-2-netflix-review/">Young, Famous &amp; African, YFA</a> &#8211; 1, Zari, the ex-girlfriend and baby mama of Diamond Platnumz makes up all these lies about <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/actorsPg/annie-macaulay-idibia/">Annie</a> Idibia.



She takes it too far when she calls Annie a liar in front of her husband Tuface, and how this all started is irrelevant now.



What&#8217;s in this fight is what&#8217;s more disturbing.



Zari claims to know Tuface before Annie, but we know a liar when we see one. This is simply a clear indication of Zari&#8217;s interest in Annies&#8217;s man.



A woman like Zari would say something like that to oppress, and she deserves to be ignored. The problem is this, Annie did not ignore her.



Why come down to Zari&#8217;s level Annie?



Whether Tuface would ever have an interest in a woman like Zari, doesn&#8217;t matter and Annie shouldn&#8217;t have gone into that fight.



Annie had every right to ask how a person, any person at all knows her husband. It was a simple question with no hate attached to it. But Zari just proves she is a real hater with all the shit she says about Annie.



Khanyi who sort of feels <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/annie-idibia-or-nadia-nakai-someone-was-being-judgmental-at-khanyi-mbaus-ball-night/">she already knows Annie just from the ball</a> night, was clearly mistaken. This couple has issues, but they never fall out of love.



Good thing Khanyi appears to have gotten that now anyway.



Surprise? She gives Annie her support after she gets an assurance that &#8220;Innocent (Tuface) is a good man.&#8221;



It&#8217;s a good thing Annie is getting her confidence back and on YFA, she is starting to set the record straight.

The Zari, Annie Fight Was Unnecessary And Here’s Why – Young, Famous & African (YFA)

It is time to open a conversation on the Young, Famous &amp; African series.



Aside from being the first that put the lifestyle of African celebrities on TV, it is also the first where relationship and family issues play out in front of fans.



This conversation opens with <a href="https://culturays.com/moviewikiafrica/actorsPg/annie-macaulay-idibia/">Annie Macauley-Idibia</a> who appears to be unable to let go of previous infidelity issues in her relationship with Tu Face.



Annie still feels shame and embarrassment and cries from talking about things that happened before they got married.



The couple had met in the early 2000s and were a bit back and forth before getting engaged and finally married in 2014.



All the marital issues that Annie had laid out on social media prior to Young, Famous &amp; African, she takes into account on the show.



So now, she is in the midst of other celebrities who have their own issues and she felt the need to spill hers first?



These are a bunch of judgemental people who find comfort in each other&#8217;s suffering.



In season one of <a href="https://decider.com/2023/05/31/young-famous-african-season-2-netflix-review/">Young, Famos &amp; African</a>, Khanyi Mbau&#8217;s jaws dropped from listening to Annie discuss these issues.



But it is not for the reason that most might think, it is mostly related to Annie&#8217;s weakness, naivety and insecurity.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://nollymania.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/remake-26.jpg" alt="Khanyi Mbau's Ball Night YFA 1" class="wp-image-10765" style="aspect-ratio:1.841409691629956;width:650px;height:auto" title="yfa1.JPG"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Anie Idibia has so much to tell on YFA</h2>



Annie talks about the pain she had to endure when he found out about the other kids Tu Face had before her first with him.



The host responded with surprise saying &#8220;That&#8217;s why you are so closed, that&#8217;s why you take everything personally.&#8221;



It sounded bad, Annie is in for a shocker!



The other components of this conversation will look at an obvious controversy about Annie&#8217;s marriage to Tu Face &#8211; kids.



Annie Idibia&#8217;s response to Diamond Platnumz having &#8220;four, maybe six&#8221; kids is &#8211; &#8220;the first thing that came to my mind is, this is wrong.&#8221;



Coming from Annie, this is sort of a shocker.



If anything, the host, Khanyi is the proud one, which is sort of contradictory to what Annie thinks. Annie is the one who could not hold back when Khanyi talks about her daughter living alone. She responded by saying &#8220;At fifteen a girl is too young to live alone.&#8221;



Annie may be naive and still so reserved but she is rather the forward one.

Annie Idibia or Nadia Nakai – Someone Was Being Judgmental at Khanyi Mbau’s Ball Night

Cinemas in Africa saw a rush during the 2022 holidays.



This gave a boost to a few films like The Stand Up <a href="https://nollymania.com/nigerian-movies-production-companies/">from FilmOne</a>, and Catfish Christmas, from Blue Pictures that had been struggling.



However, other films have been assembling cinema-goers and have kept that rate after the holidays.



Rising: City of Dreams &#8211; A tribute to eastern boys who make it to the top of the area boys ring in western Nigeria, Wedding in Nigeria, which has a cliched storyline, woke and a number of movies in the theatre, appear to be the people&#8217;s least favourites.



Here is a different list of popular movies in Africa now.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Woman King</h3>



Inspired by the story of a female warrior from The historical Dahomey Kingdom.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">King of Thieves</h3>



The Kingdom of Ajeromi comes under attack from a formidable and unforgiving terrorist group.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Brotherhood</h3>



This is the story of two brothers. Being each other entirety and surviving the most challenging days of their lives together, were tested by the hard decisions of life, choosing between good and evil.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Battle on Buka Street</h3>



A <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-is-getting-a-boost-from-making-comedy-recent-records-show/">Nigeria street food fight narrative</a> focused on rivalry in the streets of Lagos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Avatar &#8211; The Way of the Waters</h3>



Now in its third week, continues on a good run at the box office. Jake Sully and Ney&#8217;tiri are <a href="https://fandomwire.com/avatar-3-villains-in-the-seed-bearer/">faced with a war against humans</a>, again.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Black Panther: Wakanda Forever</h3>



The aftermaths of the death of King T&#8217;Challa. The women in Wakanda along with, M&#8217;Baku take up the reins to keep their kingdom safe from invaders.



The next phase isn&#8217;t going to be easy, and they will need to keep Nakia and Everett Ross close for this new phase.

Films Mostly Popular In Africa In 2022

A team of talented filmmakers from the US and Nigeria are coming together to develop narratives and epic stories from Africa and here are some of the most relevant ones.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Queen Nzinga &#8211; A drama about a 17th-century African warrior Queen</h3>



This is an African princess story based on the life led by the determined Queen Nzinga from Angola.



She is known to have gone through a sort of transformation to become a fearless warrior queen and was able to wage a guerrilla war ferociously for 40 years against Portuguese slavers and other enemies of her kingdom.



Queen Nzinga is <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/nollywood-remakes-or-originals-what-is-best/">currently under development</a> at Starz and Curtis, and Lionsgate, in partnership with Ebonylife Media.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Fall of the Billionaire Gucci Master &#8211; Untitled Film</h3>



On another international co-production with Will Parker Productions in Hollywood, EbonyLife Studios is developing a project that will tell <a href="https://nollymania.com/abbas-ramon-hushpuppi-inspires-new-netflix-movie/">the story of Abbas Ramon</a>, a Nigerian Instagram influencer and known fraudster.



The project is yet untitled, however, is said to be <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-01-13/the-fall-of-the-billionaire-gucci-master">based on Evan Ratliff’s Bloomberg article</a>, “The Fall of the Billionaire Gucci Master”.



The project is set up at Universal Pictures. The story of Ramon Abbas becoming a flamboyant figure that calls himself Hushpuppi but subsequently, a prisoner after being apprehended by the FBI from his Dubai home for fraud and internet scams.



Abbas Ramon is alleged to have laundered millions of dollars from different organisations and individuals.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Dahomey Warriors &#8211; Series inspired by events Dahomey</h3>



EbonyLife Studios, in an extended deal with Sony Pictures, will co-produce a series about the Dahomey Women.



This was also the first project announced in 2018 as part of a development deal between the two studios.



The Dahomey Warriors was a West African military group constituting of only females who fought to secure their homes and people. The series will be set in the Kingdom of Dahomey.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Reclaim &#8211; A story about theft committed by Britain when it ruled Nigeria</h3>



In another recent deal, EbonlyLife Media and BBC Studios Drama Productions are setting up an action-adventure series project titled, &#8216;Reclaim.&#8217;



The six-part thriller series is about a woman who is handed a task by her dying father, an art collector who wishes to reclaim four beautiful ivory masks of Queen Idia, the first Queen Mother of the 16th century Benin Empire on display in museums in Britain, Germany, and the United States.



In other to get this task done, she assembles a team &#8211; a prominent art burglar, Matthew Jones, an art expert Xena Kanene, scam artist, Hector Mawusi and logistics handler Lindiwe Radebe to help her on the heist.



Reclaim hopes to depict lost pride, colonialism and more.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Biafra &#8211; The Story of the Igbo People</h3>



The BBC recently announced a collaboration with David Oyelowo to tell the story of &#8216;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-story-of-biafra-and-its-people-david-oyelowo-the-bbc-working-on-a-new-series/">Biafra</a>&#8216;, Nigeria&#8217;s secessionist state&#8217; in a limited series.



&#8216;Biafra&#8217; &#8211; the movie draws a theme from both family and self-discovery as a possible mirror into the conflicted identity of inhabitants of the Igbo state.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nigeria 2099 &#8211; A Futuristic Nigeria in View</h3>



Mo Abudu and Heidi Uys both are set to executive produce a futuristic film set in 2099 Nigeria.



It is going to be a narrative about a local police officer in a shanty district of Lagos.



Assigned to protect an American businessman on visits to the country, however, he uncovers a global conspiracy in the process.

5 Nollywood Movies, African Films and Stories to Look Forward to in the Next Years

Yetide Badaki is taking a step into the comic book world with the development of Naija Vamp, a Nigerian vampire story into a TV series.



The actress is teaming up with Payback Entertainment, the company founded by Prentice Penny (Insecure) and Sebastian Jones (Stranger Comics).



Naija Vamp comes with <a href="https://deadline.com/2022/12/yetide-badaki-nigerian-vampire-tv-series-prentice-penny-1235192349/">a description that says it is an irreverent love letter</a> to all those who have ever felt bothered. It is about a vampire that searches for love beyond all flesh, eternal love.



More so, Naija Vamp is a coming-of-age film. Bisi, the blood-thirsty lead character in Naija Vamp has an undead family heritage that allows her to turn 40 once again.



However, she struggles with her family&#8217;s expectations of all vampire descendants as well as accepting/discovering who she is in a new world.

New Nigerian TV Series and Shows Premiering in 2023

Filmmakers always look forward to taking their work global and getting recognition. However, they fail to come through many times even for a film that gives them a lot of pride.



Rejection is a common thing in the field and many good films have gone unrewarded and uncelebrated.



The Oscars&#8217; rejections and snubs for a film or an entire people can feel particularly cold.



The first <a href="https://nollymania.com/the-real-reason-lionheart-was-disqualified-for-oscar-2020/">Nigerian film to have a taste of the Oscars snub was &#8220;Lion Heart&#8221;</a> by Genevieve Nnaji. &#8220;Lion Heart&#8221; is a contemporary movie with a strong female lead.



The film failed to meet the language specification of the Oscars and was dropped early in the race.



However, &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; the Yoruba folklore thriller that led the selection list for Nigerian movies, was also dropped on the entry-level.



The team in Nigeria did hope that &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; would be considered for a spot on the nominees&#8217; list of the international language of the Oscars.



The <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/be-the-first-nollywood-oscar-winner/">Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences</a> has now processed all the films it received during the submission for the 2023 Oscars.



It named several films and filmmakers on its 95th annual awards nominations list and African movies are just as scarce as ever.



Did &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; have the prospect to be an Oscar contender? The answers to that question are contained in the eligibility section of the Academy&#8217;s documents.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What is the Nigerian movie industry missing?</h3>



Some of the crucial things about eligibility for an Oscar nomination include considering the big idea behind the selection.



The Oscars&#8217;, is too complicated for African Cinema because even the Black Cinema in the United States, home of the Academy, barely makes it to the list.



There is the subject of diversity, strong female leads and more, that a film should imbue if it must contend at the Oscars.



With the significance of the &#8220;Lion Heart&#8221; rejection in mind, what is diversity in the Nigerian movie context?



Nigerian films are mostly regional &#8211; a Yoruba film does not infuse the Igbo or Hausa languages, hence making such diversity impossible.



With this subject alone, the Oscars nominee list could still be out of reach for years to come for Nigerian movies.



&#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; fell off the consideration list of International Feature Film from films like; “All Quiet on the Western Front,” Germany “Argentina, 1985,” Argentina “Close,” Belgium “EO,” Poland “The Quiet Girl,” Ireland.

“King of Thieves” Meets The First Specification For The Oscars, But There Are More

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

Web series in Nollywood represent a relatively recent and exciting development within the Nigerian film and entertainment industry. 



These online series have gained popularity and have brought a fresh perspective to storytelling and content distribution. Here are some key points to understand about web series in Nollywood:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Emergence and Growth: Web series in Nollywood began to gain traction in the late 2010s. As internet access and digital platforms became more widespread in Nigeria, filmmakers saw an opportunity to reach a global audience through online streaming.</li>



<li>Low Production Costs: Web series are often produced with more modest budgets compared to traditional Nollywood films. This allows for greater creative freedom and experimentation, as well as a lower financial risk for producers.</li>



<li>Diverse Genres: Nollywood web series cover a wide range of genres, including drama, comedy, romance, crime, and science fiction. This diversity caters to a broad and varied audience.</li>



<li>Episodic Format: Web series are typically released in episodic format, with each episode ranging from a few minutes to half an hour or more in length. This format encourages binge-watching and engagement with the storyline over an extended period.</li>
</ol>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image-culturays-1.jpg" alt="Nollywood Web Series" class="wp-image-1111" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image-culturays-1.jpg 800w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image-culturays-1-300x300.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image-culturays-1-150x150.jpg 150w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-image-culturays-1-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nollywood Web Series</figcaption></figure>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Engagement with Digital Audiences: Nollywood web series leverage social media and online platforms to engage with their audiences. Filmmakers often interact with fans, share behind-the-scenes content, and gather feedback through these digital channels.</li>



<li>Exploration of Contemporary Themes: Many web series in Nollywood focus on contemporary issues and relatable themes, making them highly relevant to a younger and more digitally connected audience.</li>



<li>Casting and Talent: Web series provides opportunities for emerging actors and actresses to showcase their talent and gain recognition in the industry. Some well-known actors from traditional Nollywood have also been part of web series projects.</li>



<li>Global Accessibility: One of the significant advantages of web series is their global accessibility. Viewers from around the world can access Nollywood web series through streaming platforms, YouTube, and other digital channels.</li>



<li>Monetization: Web series creators have various monetization strategies, including subscription-based models, advertising revenue, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Some series are available for free, while others require a subscription or a one-time payment to access premium content.</li>



<li>Quality Improvement: As the popularity of web series has grown, so has the investment in production quality. Many web series now feature higher production values, improved cinematography, and better storytelling techniques.</li>



<li>Recognition and Awards: Nollywood web series have received recognition at international film festivals and awards. This recognition further validates their place within the broader film and entertainment landscape.</li>
</ol>



Web series in Nollywood represent a dynamic and evolving aspect of the industry. They have provided opportunities for emerging talent, allowed for the exploration of diverse themes, and expanded the reach of Nigerian storytelling to a global audience. 



As technology and digital infrastructure continue to improve, web series are likely to play an even more prominent role in Nollywood&#8217;s future.

Web Series Will Likely Play Prominent Roles in the Future of Nollywood

There are no debates about the role of Nollywood in spotlighting African pride and identity through its films and storytelling. The industry has contributed to showcasing African pride and identity in several ways including:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Authentic Representation: Nollywood has been instrumental in depicting authentic African stories, cultures, and traditions on the screen. This authenticity resonates with African audiences, allowing them to see themselves and their diverse experiences portrayed accurately.</li>



<li>Promotion of Local Languages: Many Nollywood films feature local languages, showcasing linguistic diversity across the continent. This promotes linguistic pride and encourages the preservation of indigenous languages.</li>



<li>Exploration of African History: Nollywood has produced historical dramas and biopics that explore important events and figures from African history. These films help educate both Africans and the global audience about their heritage and historical achievements.</li>



<li>African Fashion and Style: Nollywood often incorporates vibrant African fashion and style in its films, showcasing traditional and contemporary clothing, hairstyles, and accessories. This has contributed to the global recognition and appreciation of African fashion.</li>



<li>Cultural Traditions and Rituals: Many Nollywood films explore African cultural traditions, rituals, and customs, shedding light on practices that are important to various communities. This helps foster a sense of pride in cultural heritage.</li>
</ol>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-2.png" alt="Nollywood African Pride" class="wp-image-1113" style="object-fit:cover;width:600px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-2.png 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-2-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></figure>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pan-African Collaboration: Nollywood often collaborates with actors, directors, and producers from different African countries, promoting pan-African unity and cooperation in the film industry. This strengthens the sense of a shared African identity.</li>



<li>Positive Role Models: Nollywood has created iconic characters and heroes that embody values like resilience, courage, and determination. These characters serve as positive role models for African youth.</li>



<li>African Diaspora Connections: Nollywood&#8217;s themes and stories resonate with African diaspora communities worldwide. It helps bridge the gap between Africans on the continent and those in the diaspora, reinforcing a shared sense of identity and pride.</li>



<li>Addressing Contemporary Issues: Many Nollywood films tackle contemporary issues facing African societies, such as governance, corruption, poverty, and healthcare. These films encourage discussions about these challenges and potential solutions.</li>



<li>Showcasing Beauty and Natural Landscapes: Nollywood often showcases the natural beauty of African landscapes, from scenic countryside to bustling cities. This promotes a sense of pride in the continent&#8217;s geography and natural resources.</li>



<li>Global Recognition: Nollywood&#8217;s global success and recognition have elevated African cinema on the world stage. This recognition reinforces the idea that African stories and perspectives are valuable and worthy of international attention.</li>



<li>Empowerment of African Filmmakers: Nollywood has inspired a new generation of African filmmakers to tell their own stories and contribute to the industry. This empowerment is crucial for preserving and promoting African identity.</li>
</ol>



Nollywood has played a pivotal role in spotlighting African pride and identity by representing the continent&#8217;s rich cultural tapestry, historical narratives, and contemporary issues. 



Through its films, Nollywood celebrates African diversity, encourages cultural preservation, and fosters a sense of unity and pride among Africans and the global African diaspora.

The African Pride and Identity Spotlighted By Nollywood

Nollywood movies could be the most important medium influencing and reflecting beauty standards in Nigerian and African societies. 



The industry continues to portray different beauty standards that evolve into specialities of their own.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Beauty Standards as Seen in Nollywood Movies</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Skin Tone: Historically, there has been a preference for lighter skin tones in many African societies due to colonial influences and cultural biases. In Nollywood, this preference has sometimes been reflected in the casting of lighter-skinned actors and actresses in leading roles. However, there has been a growing awareness and movement to celebrate and embrace darker skin tones in recent years.</li>



<li>Hairstyles: Nollywood movies often feature a variety of hairstyles, from traditional braids and weaves to natural afros and locs. These styles reflect the diversity of African hair and beauty choices, and they have contributed to the popularity and acceptance of various hair textures and styles.</li>



<li>Body Shape and Size: Nollywood movies have typically featured characters with different body shapes and sizes, reflecting the diversity of African bodies. However, like in many other film industries, there has been a tendency to prioritize slimmer figures in leading roles. Nevertheless, there is a growing movement within Nollywood to promote body positivity and inclusivity.</li>



<li>Fashion and Clothing: Nollywood films often showcase African fashion and traditional clothing, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the continent. This has contributed to the promotion of African textiles, patterns, and designs as symbols of beauty and identity.</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="903" height="606" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/beauty-standards.jpg" alt="Bauty Standards in Nollywood. Photo: Unsplash/Jess Bailey" class="wp-image-1119" style="aspect-ratio:1.7191977077363896;object-fit:cover;width:621px;height:auto" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/beauty-standards.jpg 903w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/beauty-standards-300x201.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/beauty-standards-768x515.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 903px) 100vw, 903px" /></figure>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Makeup and Beauty Products: Makeup and beauty products play a significant role in Nollywood, as characters often wear makeup to enhance their features. The industry has also witnessed the rise of makeup artists who specialize in creating diverse looks, from traditional to contemporary.</li>



<li>Scars and Imperfections: Nollywood films have occasionally portrayed characters with scars, birthmarks, or imperfections, helping to challenge conventional beauty standards by showing that beauty comes in various forms.</li>



<li>Facial Features: Nollywood celebrates a range of facial features, including different nose shapes, lip sizes, and eye colors. This diversity reflects the multicultural nature of Nigerian and African societies.</li>



<li>Age and Aging: While there is often a focus on youthful beauty in the film industry, Nollywood also features older characters who are portrayed as wise, dignified, and beautiful in their own right. This helps challenge ageist beauty norms.</li>



<li>Regional and Cultural Variations: Nollywood movies often depict characters from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds in Nigeria and across Africa. These regional differences are reflected in beauty standards, attire, and aesthetics.</li>



<li>Evolution of Beauty Standards: Nollywood films also reflect changing beauty ideals over time. As societal attitudes evolve, so do the beauty standards depicted in these films, gradually becoming more diverse and inclusive.</li>
</ul>



It&#8217;s important to note that Nollywood, like any other film industry, is not monolithic, and there is a wide range of perspectives and portrayals of beauty within its films. 



Moreover, there is a growing awareness within Nollywood about the importance of promoting diverse and inclusive beauty standards that reflect the richness of African cultures and identities.

Beauty Standards According to Nollywood Movies

African cuisine and food culture are often prominently featured in Nollywood movies, reflecting the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the African continent. Here&#8217;s how African cuisine and food culture are portrayed in Nollywood films:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Celebration of Traditional Dishes </h2>



Nollywood films frequently showcase traditional African dishes from various regions and ethnic groups. These dishes include jollof rice, pounded yam and egusi soup, fufu and okra soup, waakye, and many more. The preparation and presentation of these dishes are often depicted in detail, celebrating their cultural significance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Family and Community Meals</h2>



Nollywood films often emphasize the importance of family and community gatherings around meals. These scenes highlight the role of food in bringing people together, fostering bonds, and sharing stories and experiences.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Street Food and Snacks</h2>



Street food and snacks are commonly featured in Nollywood films, showcasing the vibrant street food culture in African cities. Scenes might include characters enjoying suya (grilled meat skewers), akara (bean cakes), puff-puff (doughnuts), or roasted plantains from street vendors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Weddings and Festivals</h2>



Weddings and festivals are frequent settings for elaborate and colorful displays of African cuisine. These scenes often include scenes of food preparation, serving large groups of people, and traditional rituals associated with food.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Use of Local Ingredients</h2>



Nollywood films emphasize the use of locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. This promotes the importance of sustainability and the preservation of indigenous food resources.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Regional and Cultural Diversity: </h2>



Nollywood recognizes the diverse culinary traditions across different African regions and ethnic groups. Films may highlight unique flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques specific to particular cultures.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1060" height="595" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/food-nollywood.jpg" alt="Food in Nollywod Movies. Photo: Unsplash/R. du Plessis" class="wp-image-1123" style="object-fit:cover;width:620px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/food-nollywood.jpg 1060w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/food-nollywood-300x168.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/food-nollywood-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/food-nollywood-768x431.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1060px) 100vw, 1060px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">New Nollywood Movies</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Food as a Symbol </h2>



Food is often used symbolically in Nollywood movies to convey themes, emotions, and cultural values. For example, a shared meal might signify reconciliation, love, or forgiveness.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Global Influences</h2>



Some Nollywood films also reflect the influence of global cuisine and culinary trends, particularly in urban settings. This reflects the evolving food culture in African cities influenced by globalization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cooking Competitions</h2>



Cooking competitions, similar to those seen in reality TV shows, have been featured in Nollywood movies. These competitions add an element of drama and competition to the portrayal of food culture.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Culinary Entrepreneurship</h2>



Nollywood films sometimes feature characters who are culinary entrepreneurs, such as chefs or restaurant owners. This highlights the role of food as a livelihood and an industry.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Food and Identity</h2>



Food is often tied to characters&#8217; identities, reflecting their cultural backgrounds and personal stories. It&#8217;s a way to explore characters&#8217; journeys and connections to their heritage.



Nollywood entertains audiences from a whole lot of angles and offers a means of celebrating African cuisine and food culture. They provide a platform for showcasing the diverse and vibrant culinary traditions of the continent, promoting cultural exchange, and preserving the rich heritage of African food.

The Food Culture in Nollywood Movies

Nollywood can indeed influence the growth of tourism in Nigeria in several ways. While it&#8217;s important to note that Nollywood is just one factor among many that contribute to tourism, its impact on promoting Nigerian culture, showcasing the country&#8217;s diverse landscapes, and attracting international attention can be significant. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cinematic Tourism Promotion </h2>



Nollywood often uses scenic locations in Nigeria as backdrops for its films. These locations, ranging from natural landmarks to historical sites, become visually appealing to viewers. When viewers recognize these places in films, they may be inspired to visit them in real life, boosting tourism to these destinations.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural Representation</h2>



Nollywood films frequently highlight Nigerian cultures, traditions, and festivals. This portrayal can pique the interest of travelers looking to experience and immerse themselves in Nigerian culture firsthand. Tourists are drawn to the opportunity to participate in local celebrations and events depicted in Nollywood movies.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Showcasing Diversity</h2>



Nigeria is a culturally diverse nation with many ethnic groups and languages. Nollywood films often reflect this diversity, showcasing different aspects of Nigerian culture. This diversity can attract tourists interested in exploring the multifaceted nature of Nigeria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Boosting Local Economies</h2>



The presence of film crews in various regions for Nollywood productions can stimulate local economies by creating jobs, generating income for small businesses, and improving infrastructure. This economic activity can indirectly support tourism development in those areas.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Film Tourism Packages</h2>



 Tour operators and travel agencies may create film-themed tourism packages that allow visitors to explore locations featured in popular Nollywood films. This can offer a unique and immersive experience for tourists.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1025" height="660" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-tourism.jpg" alt="Tourism Nollywood. Photo: Unsplash/
sheyi owolabi" class="wp-image-1127" style="object-fit:cover;width:623px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-tourism.jpg 1025w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-tourism-300x193.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-tourism-768x495.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1025px) 100vw, 1025px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nollywood Film Festivals</h2>



Nigeria hosts several film festivals, including the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). These festivals attract filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the world, contributing to the growth of the tourism and hospitality sectors in host cities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Film Tourism Marketing</h2>



Collaborative efforts between the Nigerian government, tourism boards, and the Nollywood industry can lead to effective marketing campaigns promoting film tourism. These campaigns can target international audiences interested in experiencing Nollywood&#8217;s world of storytelling and the beauty of Nigeria.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">International Exposure</h2>



Nollywood&#8217;s global reach means that its films are accessible to audiences worldwide. When international viewers are exposed to Nigeria&#8217;s culture, landscapes, and people through Nollywood films, it can create a positive image of the country and generate curiosity among potential tourists.



However, it&#8217;s essential to recognize that while Nollywood can play a significant role in promoting tourism, it&#8217;s just one piece of the puzzle. Developing and sustaining a thriving tourism industry also requires infrastructure development, improved services, safety measures, and effective marketing strategies by the government and private sector.



The ability of the industry to showcase Nigeria as a culturally rich country, diverse in landscapes, and traditions through films can undoubtedly contribute to the growth of tourism in Nigeria. 



Collaborative efforts between the film industry and the tourism sector, as well as investments in infrastructure and marketing, can further enhance the positive impact of Nollywood on the country&#8217;s tourism industry.

How Nollywood Can Influence Tourism in Nigeria

Nollywood has had a significant influence on film education in Africa in various ways. While formal film education institutions exist, Nollywood&#8217;s impact has been more informal and grassroots, contributing to the growth of the African film industry. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Accessible Learning Material</h3>



Nollywood provides a wealth of accessible learning material for aspiring filmmakers. The industry&#8217;s prolific output means that there is a vast archive of films, documentaries, and interviews with directors and actors that can serve as educational resources for filmmakers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hands-on Learning</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s low-budget, do-it-yourself approach to filmmaking has inspired many young filmmakers across Africa to pick up cameras and start creating. This hands-on learning experience is valuable for those who may not have access to formal film schools.



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



Nollywood&#8217;s success has demystified the filmmaking process for many Africans. It has shown that filmmaking is not solely the domain of Hollywood or other well-established industries but can be pursued by determined individuals with a passion for storytelling.



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



Nollywood&#8217;s emphasis on independent filmmaking has encouraged filmmakers to think creatively and find innovative solutions to production challenges. This self-reliance fosters resourcefulness and adaptability.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural Exploration</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s focus on African stories, cultures, and languages encourages filmmakers to explore and preserve their own cultural heritage. This helps create a diverse and authentic body of work.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Entrepreneurship</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s success stories, such as that of prolific director and producer Kunle Afolayan, have inspired entrepreneurial endeavours in the film industry. Filmmakers often take on multiple roles, including directing, producing, writing, and marketing their films.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="800" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-2.jpg" alt="Nollywood Growth" class="wp-image-1129" style="object-fit:cover;width:623px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-2.jpg 800w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-2-300x300.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-2-150x150.jpg 150w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/nollywood-image-culturays-2-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



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



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Film Festivals and Networking</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s presence at international film festivals and events has opened doors for African filmmakers to network and learn from their global counterparts. This exposure to international cinema can broaden perspectives and enhance filmmaking skills.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Technology and Innovation</h3>



Nollywood filmmakers have embraced digital technology, contributing to a shift away from traditional film cameras. This has made filmmaking more affordable and accessible, further encouraging new talent to enter the industry.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Film Schools and Training Programs</h3>



Some film schools and training programs in Africa have incorporated Nollywood as part of their curriculum. They analyze Nollywood films, study its production methods, and draw lessons from both their successes and challenges.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Challenges and Critique</h3>



Nollywood&#8217;s growth has also highlighted areas where improvement is needed, such as scriptwriting, production quality, and distribution. This self-awareness has driven filmmakers and institutions to address these issues and strive for higher standards.



While Nollywood&#8217;s impact on film education is significant, it&#8217;s important to note that there is still a need for formal film education institutions to provide structured and comprehensive training for aspiring filmmakers. Nollywood&#8217;s influence is complementary to traditional film education and has helped foster a thriving and dynamic film industry in Africa.

How Film Education Has Grown in Nollywood and Africa

African film funding and production face several challenges that can impact the industry&#8217;s growth and sustainability. These challenges are often complex and interconnected, and they vary from region to region within the continent. 



To understand how to get film funds in Africa, it is important to look at the challenges first.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Overview of the Challenges to Film Fund in Africa</h2>



Limited Financial Resources: One of the primary challenges is the limited availability of financial resources for film production. Funding for African films is often inadequate, and filmmakers may struggle to secure the necessary budgets for their projects.



Access to Technology: While access to<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-filmmaking-techniques-in-nollywood-have-changed/"> filmmaking technology has improved</a>, some regions still face challenges in accessing and affording modern equipment and post-production tools.



Lack of Government Support: In some African countries, there is a lack of government support for the film industry. This includes insufficient funding, limited access to grants, and a lack of incentives for private investment in filmmaking.



Inadequate Infrastructure: Many African countries lack the necessary infrastructure for filmmaking, such as well-equipped studios, post-production facilities, and specialized training institutions. This can hinder the quality and efficiency of film production.



Piracy: Piracy is a significant issue in Africa, with unauthorized distribution and reproduction of films leading to revenue losses for filmmakers. The absence of robust copyright enforcement mechanisms exacerbates this problem.



Limited Access to Distribution: African filmmakers often struggle to secure distribution for their films, both domestically and internationally. This limits the visibility and reach of African cinema.



Market Fragmentation: Africa is a diverse continent with numerous languages, cultures, and markets. Filmmakers face challenges in targeting diverse audiences and distributing films effectively across the continent.



Cultural and Regulatory Hurdles: Filmmakers may encounter cultural or regulatory obstacles in <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/best-themes-to-choose-from-in-nigerian-movies-mystery-horror-and-thriller/">depicting certain themes</a>, stories, or content that are perceived as controversial or offensive.



Festival Circuit Costs: Participating in international film festivals is essential for exposure and networking, but the costs associated with festival submissions, travel, and marketing can be prohibitive for many African filmmakers.



Stereotypes and Bias: African filmmakers sometimes face biases and stereotypes in the international film industry, which can make it challenging to secure funding and distribution deals.



Language Barriers: The use of multiple languages in Africa can create challenges in subtitling or dubbing films for wider distribution, limiting accessibility to non-local audiences.



Training and Skills Development: There is a need for more comprehensive training programs and resources to develop a skilled workforce in various aspects of filmmaking, from directing to technical roles.



Despite these challenges, African cinema continues to thrive and produce critically acclaimed films. 



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Access Funds for Films in Africa </h2>



Solutions to these obstacles include increased government support, <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-film-collaborations-is-crucial-for-africa/">international collaborations</a>, private sector investment, and the development of strong film institutions and organizations to advocate for the industry&#8217;s needs. 



Additionally, the rise of digital platforms and streaming services has created new opportunities for African filmmakers to reach global audiences and secure funding for their projects.

Best Way to Access Film Fund in Africa

There is a chance that the next set of best African filmmakers will spring from the upcoming Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) with its new offering to younger filmmakers. 



For IATF2023, CANEX, a division of the <a href="https://nollymania.com/afreximbank-schedules-canex-to-hold-virtual-forum-for-creatives-in-africa/">African Export Import Bank (Afreximbank)</a>, will have a film competition and screening initiative for short films. 



The Afreximbank has called it CANEX Shorts and it a going to be an engaging competition that will recognise the work of young filmmakers in Africa. More so, it will guarantee them a spot to showcase at CANEX at IATF2023.



The Afreximbank is inviting creatives in the film industry between the ages of 18 and 29 to submit films with length of 5 minutes via Filmfreeway: &nbsp;<a href="https://filmfreeway.com/CANEXShorts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://filmfreeway.com/CANEXShorts</a>.



The selection committee will further consider, curate and send its result to the jury. Only 10 short films will make the screening at the CANEX at IATF2023. 



Winners will be announced in 3 categories:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Best Feature</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Best Documentary</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Best Animation</li>
</ul>



There winning filmmakers will get an invite to CANEX at IATF2023 to showcase their films. They can network, connect, and pursue prospective film projects.



Winners will also get cash prizes.



CANEX, is the largest gathering of creatives in Africa. The 2023 edition, of CANEX, is set to hold alongside the Intra African Trade Fair 2023 in Cairo, from 9 – 15 November.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to participate in CANEX Shorts</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Only Africans can participate in the CANEXShorts competition. It accepts submissions from all over the globe.</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">It accepts only films with a length of 5 minutes.</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">The accepted age is between 18 – 29</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Films must not be free of any rights issues</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">All languages are accepted with subtitles for non-English films</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Including a digital link during the submission</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">One filmmaker can only submit once</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Filmmakers who make the selection phase will have to sign a release/rights agreement</li>



<li style="font-size:clamp(14px, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 3.2px) * 0.208), 16px);">Intending participants should have a functional bank account that allows for international transactions.</li>
</ul>

CANEXShorts to Give Nollywood, African Creatives a Chance

Networking as a filmmaker is a piece of advice that can never be overstated. The Afro Cannes is one platform where this is inherent with more Africans finding a stage to network and connect.



May 17th is the first day of Afro Cannes 2023 for all filmmakers who have common interests and want to network. The event holds at the Hotel Gray d&#8217;Albion and will last until May 19th.



There are ongoing panel discussions, debates as well as master classes some of which are also available to join online.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Afro Cannes 2023 &#8211; Enyinna Nwigwe sits with Jana Wolff</h2>



Moving from the local film market up to the international stage is a hurdle that all kinds of filmmakers hope to cross at one point in their careers.



At this time, African filmmakers are starting to master the field &#8211; understanding the demand for African movies as well as the market. They are starting to vend made-in-Africa movies more to the outside world.



Enyinna Nwigwe who is also a moderator of the 2023 Afro Cannes presented a related question to Jana Wolff.



The actors asked &#8220;How best will you advise the average filmmakers from Africa to access the international market? What should they look out for and what boxes should they tick?&#8221;



In her answer, Jana Wolff the Head of Marketing &#8211; EFM/Berlinale, Germany mentions it is about preparation.



This is an important move for <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/considering-indie-filmmaking-in-nigeria-with-the-2023-sundance-film-festival/">filmmakers who want to attend festivals or film events</a> looking for opportunities to level up in their careers.



What preparations are needed when meeting with people at film festivals?



Much of Jana Wolff&#8217;s speech was focused on preparing in a good way;



&#8220;Try to set up meetings upfront.&#8221;



&#8220;Say who you are, what you do and never make anything too long.



She also talks about attaching some visual materials and making everything short &#8211; emails, videos, PDFs and more.



When Wolff talks about being present at the festivals, networking is her watchword. With little preparation, it is also possible to just walk around and meet people and establish connections.



This she said, is the most important thing in attending festivals like Afro Cannes.



Jana Wolff further provided some useful information for filmmakers to join film conferences in Berlin, to connect and participate in.

How African Filmmakers Can Approach the International Market – Enyinna Nwigwe On Afro Cannes 2023

Eastern Nigeria has a phenomenal film history and a legacy it maintains, so it is probably shocking to see that the region waited too long to debut a film festival.



For four years running, a group with common interests have been meeting annually under the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival (ENIFF) banner to fill the cracks that several filmmakers have previously found themselves in. 



There are several people who are thankful not just for the proximity, but also for the opportunity this opens against the struggle of getting accepted into top international film festivals. Not everyone in Nollywood has been lucky to get into a top international film festival. ENIFF solves that problem. 



Networking is also&nbsp;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/how-african-filmmakers-can-approach-the-international-market-enyinna-nwigwe-questions-on-afro-cannes-2023/">something that filmmakers are able to get out of the ENIFF festival</a>&nbsp;as it further makes provision for lectures in masterclasses and workshops by local and international filmmakers. More so, among the large row of Nollywood international film festivals, headquartered within the country, not one makes more provision for female filmmakers like the ENIFF.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="801" height="504" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/eniff-nadia-denton.jpg" alt="Nadia Denton gave the 10 Steps to Creating Social Impact with your Film on ENIFF in 2020" class="wp-image-1139" style="object-fit:cover;width:623px;height:350px" title="vallopes.JPG" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/eniff-nadia-denton.jpg 801w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/eniff-nadia-denton-300x189.jpg 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/eniff-nadia-denton-768x483.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 801px) 100vw, 801px" /></figure>



ENIFF Festival It is an impressive feature that Nollywood debuts at least one film festival every other year. In its fourth year, it is not unlikely that ENIFF might still need an introduction. 



The ENIFF is a film platform based in Easern Nigeria and makes provision for all African filmmakers who want to be seen and heard. 



The ENIFF 2022 edition featured entries from across Africa. 



Here is a quick cover of the film festival that crowned &#8220;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/the-best-winners-at-the-amvca-2023-that-should-have-happened/">Black Mail</a>&#8221; by Obi Emelonye, &#8220;<a href="https://africologist.com/">The Africologists</a>&#8221; by Valeria Lopez and others in the 3rd edition. Both films piqued interest. 



The Afriolocologist a chronological timeline documentary about the existence of humanity and its beginning in Africa was particularly intriguing. The other five colourful titles — &#8220;Echezona&#8221;, &#8220;Ruri&#8221;, &#8220;Beauty&#8217;s Keeper&#8221;, &#8220;The Ugly Truth&#8221; and &#8220;The Road Less Cycled&#8221; were among the biggest attractions of the 2022 ENIFF. 



There is much to be said for ENIFF as the festival shows signs of consistency in the cinematic universe. Entertainers are optimistic about the 2023 ENIFF festival. There’s an online ticketing system for screenings.



It will be interesting to see what films will enter the 2023 ENIFF feature film competition. Narrative Feature, Narrative Short, Documentary (Feature &amp; Short), Animation, Acting, Directing, and Cinematography. The 2023 ENIFF festival takes place November 21 – 25, 2023.

ENIFF: The Film Festival Filling Gaps and Giving Priority To Female Filmmakers

Many people may already know &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; (Agesinkole) as one of Nigeria&#8217;s submissions for the next Oscars &#8211; Academy Awards.



As <a href="https://www.indiewire.com/feature/2023-oscars-best-international-feature-film-predictions-1234741873/">a local language film, (foreign language in the Academy) most people would not have predicted its performance at the cinemas</a> or even outside.



From April of 2022 when it was released, to the end of the year, &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; recorded ₦320,805,150. Though it is over ₦150 million short of &#8220;Battle on Buka Street&#8221; (₦541,108,176) the 2022 highest-grossing Nigerian movie, &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; is relevant for a number of things that it represents.



The first on that list is local language representation.



Films made in local Nigerian languages are often not the ones that make it mainstream. On that side, only Nigerian movies made in English, a common language that everyone shares and understands make it.



Recognition is often localized for films like it.



&#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; is set in a rustic environment, one that is yet to see civilization, portraying the most ancient Yoruba practises, most of which are new to millennials.



The film is about conquest, defeat and strength more than it is about revenge.



To describe &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; in a Western way, would be to say that it is a cowboy African movie.



The 2023 <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/good-african-movies-that-lost-at-the-amaa-awards-in-2022">Academy Awards</a> nominee list was released recently and &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; did not make it.



However, the infusion of several artistic concepts appears to have skyrocketed &#8220;King of Thieves&#8221; into the list of highest-grossing Nollywood movies of 2022.

Box Office Numbers for 2022 Reveal Big Surprises for Nollywood

For about three months after its release, &#8220;Brotherhood&#8221; was rated the highest-grossing Nigerian movie in 2022.



The movie earned ₦327,306,92 by its last cinema run in several other African countries &#8211; Cameroon, Benin Republic, Burkina Faso, Togo, Nigeria, Niger Republic, Senegal, Congo, Rwanda, Gabon, Guinea, and Madagascar. It was produced by Greoh Studios and released on 23 September 2022.



At this time, <a href="https://nollymania.com/nollywood-movies-success/">Greoh Studios is rising rapidly into the elite spot of studios</a> in Nigeria.



In &#8220;<a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/4-nollywood-studios-whose-2022-movies-are-on-the-top-10-movies-of-all-time/">Brotherhood</a>&#8220;, twin brothers Wale Adetula and Akin Adetula witnessed the murder of their parents before fifteen.



One twin appears to find a decent path in life, but his brother does not do too well in making decisions and becomes a criminal.



While in different professions, their paths crossed and difficult decisions have to be made by the twins. Brotherhood features cultism with a group it calls &#8216;Ojuju Boys&#8217;.



By the end of 2022, Battle on Buka Street by top Nigeria studio FilmOne, surpassed to win the spot of the highest-grossing movie of the year.



However, Greoh Studios is chasing the spot again as it anticipates new high-standard movies within its deal with Amazon Prime.

What Studios in Nigeria Made the Highest-Grossing Films of 2022

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

The BBC says that it is working on a limited series about &#8216;Biafra&#8217;, Nigeria&#8217;s secessionist state with David Oyelowo standing as the Executive Producer.



Events in the movie take place in locations around Nigeria and the UK, the timelines would comprise the present day, and the 1967-70 Biafra war and the story are told by a young Black British woman.



&#8216;Biafra&#8217; &#8211; <a href="https://deadline.com/2022/12/david-oyelowo-bbc-biafra-fremantle-richard-johns-argo-films-1235198690/">the movie draws a theme from both family and self-discovery</a> as a possible mirror into the conflicted identity of inhabitants of the state, the Igbos.



They are the predominant folks of the eastern region of Nigeria where Biafra is located.



Biafra lingers, <a href="https://nollymania.com/nigeria-is-60-in-2020-independence-day-films-to-watch-on-youtube/">though the history it shares both with Nigeria and the UK appears to be tucked up</a> in an enigma. The unrest and agitation of the last years from the Igbo people is a reflection of their anger from the complexities of the civil war.



In the leadership of freedom fighter, Nnamdi Kanu, the government has further put up resistance to this movement.



&#8216;Biafra&#8217; is an ideal that will, for the first time compile a chronological narrative of the supposed fallen state.



Laurence Olivier Award-winning writer, Bola Agbaje will write the script and Ngozi Onwurah is standing both as co-developer of the script and as director.



&#8216;With this series, we are setting ourselves the mission of telling an incredibly powerful story about discovering and reclaiming a lost identity and a forgotten history.&#8217; &#8211; David Oyelowo.

The Story of Biafra and its People – David Oyelowo, the BBC Working on a New Series

The African Film City project commences soon, and the Lagos State governor, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has confirmed this. The project is a $100m construction project that will sit on the north side of the Lekki Lagoon in Epe Town. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Facilities to Expect in the New African Film City</h2>



The one big idea behind the project is the improvement of content creation and originality in Nollywood. The African Film City will offer the continent a stage to take off and rise to the edge of the world with its originality. 



There is a lot of creative excellence and assurance coming from the continent and it has been in need of filmmaking facilities like the proposed African Film City for too long. 



A project of this scale where ‘Made in Africa’ content will be made will return positive results in the long run. 



Studios are the foremost items on the list of facilities coming with the African Film City. The governor promised that some of the facilities will be ready for use by 2024.



Typically, these studios will comprise makeup rooms, stores and props department, pre and post-film production facilities, dressing rooms and more



Job opportunities will also open in several props, legal, music, auditing, sales and marketing, and IT departments for people who might want to get jobs.



There is also the possibility of a film school &amp; training programs as the governor promised a raise in the support for upcoming entertainers and film producers.



Most commonly, a film city includes outdoor locations like river beds, and forest and mountain areas for scenes that might need them.



Studios in the United States have also agreed with the Lagos State government to come to the film city to help elevate morales.



Aside from enhancing creativity, the African Film Center is the attraction that Nigeria needs to become the film hub of the continent.

Lagos Film City – The Future for Nollywood and the Continent

Streaming platforms have had a mixed impact on Nollywood, with both positive and negative aspects to consider.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Positive Impact of Streaming Platforms on Nollywood</h2>



Wider Global Reach: Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and iROKOtv have provided Nollywood films with a global audience. This has allowed Nollywood to reach viewers in the African diaspora and international audiences who might not have had access to Nigerian films otherwise.



Monetization: Streaming platforms offer a new revenue stream for Nollywood filmmakers. Licensing deals with these platforms can provide substantial income for filmmakers, helping to fund future productions and improve production quality.



Quality Control: Streaming platforms often have higher standards for video and audio quality, which has encouraged Nollywood filmmakers to improve their production values. This has led to better cinematography, sound, and overall production quality in many Nollywood films.



Market Expansion: Streaming platforms have expanded the market for Nollywood films, making them accessible to a wider range of viewers. This increased demand can encourage more diverse storytelling and genres within the industry.



Data and Analytics: Streaming platforms provide filmmakers with valuable data and analytics on viewer preferences and behaviors. This information can help filmmakers make more informed decisions about content creation and marketing.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/remake-1-2.png" alt="" class="wp-image-144" style="width:623px;height:auto"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Negative Impact of Streaming Platforms on Nollywood</h2>



Piracy: Streaming platforms can indirectly contribute to piracy, as some viewers may choose to pirate films rather than pay for subscriptions or individual rentals. Piracy can result in lost revenue for filmmakers.



Market Competition: The influx of international content on streaming platforms can make it more challenging for Nollywood films to stand out. Local filmmakers may face increased competition from high-budget international productions.



Monetization Challenges: While streaming platforms offer monetization opportunities, the revenue distribution models can sometimes favor the platforms over content creators. Filmmakers may receive a smaller share of the profits.



Cultural Appropriation: Some critics argue that streaming platforms can perpetuate stereotypes and cultural appropriation in the portrayal of African stories. They may prioritize content that aligns with Western expectations rather than authentic African narratives.



Impact on Cinemas: The availability of Nollywood films on streaming platforms can affect cinema attendance in Nigeria. Some viewers may opt to stay home and watch films on their devices instead of going to the cinema.



While streaming platforms offer opportunities for wider global reach and revenue generation, they also present challenges related to piracy, market competition, and cultural representation. 



Ultimately, the impact on Nollywood depends on how effectively filmmakers and the industry navigate these opportunities and challenges.

Are Streaming Platforms Good for Nollywood?

The economics of Nollywood is a complex and multifaceted subject that encompasses revenue generation, production budgets, and box office success. Nollywood operates within a unique economic framework characterized by low budgets, high production output, and diverse revenue streams. 



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quick Overview of the Economics of Nollywood </h2>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Low Production Budgets:</li>
</ol>



Nollywood is renowned for its low production budgets. Many films are produced on shoestring budgets, which has allowed the industry to thrive and produce a large number of films. Low production costs are achieved through cost-effective strategies, such as using inexpensive equipment, employing independent filmmakers, and shooting on location.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="2">
<li>Abundant Production:</li>
</ol>



Nollywood is one of the most prolific film industries globally, producing hundreds of films annually. This high output is made possible by the low-budget model and the industry&#8217;s ability to quickly produce films.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="3">
<li>Diverse Revenue Streams:</li>
</ol>



Nollywood generates revenue through various channels, including the following: Cinemas: Some Nollywood films are released in cinemas, where they earn box office revenue. However, cinema releases are not as common as other distribution methods.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="300" src="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood.png" alt="Economics of Nollywood" class="wp-image-1069" style="object-fit:cover;width:611px;height:350px" srcset="https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood.png 300w, https://content.culturays.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/nollywood-150x150.png 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Economics of Nollywood</figcaption></figure>



DVD Sales: Historically, DVD sales were a significant source of revenue for Nollywood. Vendors, including street sellers, played a crucial role in distribution.



Television Broadcast: Nollywood films are often broadcast on Nigerian and international television channels. This includes both free-to-air and cable/satellite networks.



Streaming Platforms: In recent years, Nollywood has expanded its presence on streaming platforms like Netflix, iROKOtv, and Amazon Prime Video, generating revenue through licensing deals.



Product Placement and Sponsorships: Some films include product placements and sponsorships from brands and companies, providing additional revenue. Film Festivals and Awards: Nollywood films can earn revenue through participation in film festivals and winning awards.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="4">
<li>Box Office Success:</li>
</ol>



Nollywood&#8217;s box office success is typically measured in terms of earnings from cinema releases. However, box office revenue is not as prominent in Nollywood as it is in some other film industries.



Success in Nigerian cinemas is often influenced by factors such as star power, marketing, and film quality. Some Nollywood films have achieved significant box office success domestically.



<ol class="wp-block-list" start="5">
<li>Challenges:</li>
</ol>



Nollywood faces several economic challenges, including: Piracy: Illegal duplication and distribution of films result in revenue losses for filmmakers.



Copyright Issues: The lack of robust copyright enforcement mechanisms hinders filmmakers&#8217; ability to protect their intellectual property.



Funding: Access to funding and formal financing options can be limited for Nollywood filmmakers, leading to reliance on personal savings and informal sources.



While the industry faces challenges such as piracy and funding constraints, its ability to produce a large volume of films and access global distribution platforms has made it a significant player in the global film market. The economics of Nollywood continue to evolve as the industry adapts to changing distribution models and international partnerships.

The Economics of Nollywood

Nollywood has a notable presence and participation in international film festivals, which play a crucial role in showcasing Nigerian cinema to global audiences, fostering collaborations, and providing opportunities for recognition and exposure. 



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF)</h3>



AFRIFF is one of the most significant film festivals on the African continent. Nollywood films regularly feature at AFRIFF, with Nigerian filmmakers and actors participating in various capacities. The festival provides a platform for Nigerian and African films to be screened and celebrated, promoting cross-cultural exchange.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cannes Film Festival</h3>



Nollywood films have made appearances at the Cannes Film Festival, one of the world&#8217;s most prestigious film festivals.



Selected Nigerian films have been screened in various sections, including the Marché du Film, where they can attract international buyers and distributors.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)</h3>



TIFF has featured Nigerian films in its lineup, allowing Nollywood to gain exposure to international audiences and industry professionals. Nigerian filmmakers have participated in TIFF&#8217;s industry events and networking opportunities.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale)</h3>



Nollywood films have been included in the Berlinale&#8217;s Panorama section, which focuses on independent and art-house cinema. Nigerian filmmakers have used the festival as a platform to engage with global film industry stakeholders.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Pan-African Film and Television Festival of Ouagadougou (FESPACO)</h3>



FESPACO, held in Burkina Faso, is one of the most significant festivals for African cinema. Nigerian films have competed in various categories and received recognition at the festival.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Collaboration Opportunities</h3>



Participation in international film festivals provides Nigerian filmmakers with opportunities for collaborations, co-productions, and funding partnerships. It also enables Nigerian actors and directors to interact with their counterparts from around the world, fostering creative exchanges.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Awards and Recognition</h3>



Nigerian films have received awards and nominations at international film festivals, highlighting the quality and creativity of Nollywood productions. Such recognition can enhance the global reputation of Nigerian cinema.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Promotion of African Culture</h3>



Nollywood films screened at international festivals often depict Nigerian and African culture, traditions, and social issues. This helps promote and preserve African cultural heritage.



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



Participation in international film festivals can contribute to the professional development of Nollywood stakeholders by exposing them to international industry standards and best practices.



While Nollywood may have a huge presence at international film festivals, however, the industry also faces challenges, such as limited funding for festival submissions and the need for greater government and industry support to facilitate participation. 



Nevertheless, Nollywood continues to make strides on the global stage, with filmmakers and actors from Nigeria actively engaging with the international film festival circuit.

Nollywood at Different International Film Festivals

The Big Brother Naija, BBN theme of the week is inspired by Nollywood film productions. The house was transformed into a movie production location and housemates were placed in roles that are considered suitable for them if they were cast in a blockbuster Nollywood movie.



Housemates are seriously closing in on the week&#8217;s movie wager presentation deadline as they each take on nominated roles and scripts.



The assumed Nollywood roles and characters of BBN housemates are reflections of their personalities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Village Elder Characters &#8211; Frodd,&nbsp;Seyi, and Adekunle</h2>



These housemates who are in line to get this role right &#8211;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/frodd/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Frodd</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/seyi/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seyi</a>, and Adekunle in replication of the likes of Pete Edochie and Olu Jacobs. They are considered the ones with the old souls, the kind of elders that experienced life from different angles.



The Village Elder Character is generally wisdom personified. He is the one that lends knowledge to the younger generation after him and has a lot of lessons to share,



The BBN housemates nominated for this role appear to possess these characteristics.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Sorority Sisters &#8211; Alex,&nbsp;Doyin,&nbsp;Ilebaye&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tolanibaj</h2>



Some of the chicky girls in the house &#8211; <a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/alex/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alex</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/doyin/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Doyin</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/ilebaye/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ilebaye</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/tolanibaj/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tolanibaj</a> are just enough to fit into roles popularly designed for Ini Edo, Uche Jumbo, and Dakore Akande.



Several movies with this group of known actresses were often made with a target &#8211; campus life. 



In the BBN house, the personalities of the nominated housemates appear to align with the sorority sisters&#8217; role. A kind of role that is dynamic and can only be delivered by a person with authenticity. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The &#8216;Abroad&#8217; Boyfriend Characters &#8211; Ike,&nbsp;Kiddwaya, and&nbsp;Neoenergy</h2>



This set of characters in Nollywood is portrayed in many different ways. The BBN Nollywood production decide to go with the set of characters that who have lived in Western countries and then return to Nigeria with new accents and slang.



The nominees for the roles of the abroad boyfriend are&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/ike/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ike</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/kiddwaya/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiddwaya</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/neoenergy/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Neoenergy</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Sexy Siren Character &#8211; Angel,&nbsp;Ceec, and&nbsp;Venita</h2>



The character is notable for her fierceness and Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic, and Omotola Jalade-Ekehinde are popular in these roles. 



It is a popular winning role in Nollywood where only the best has won. She is the successful businesswoman who makes an impact with every step and there&#8217;s proof that Angel,&nbsp;Ceec, and&nbsp;Venita are all that.



They illustrate strength and independence which is what&#8217;s necessary to play powerful female characters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Comedic Funny Man and Woman Character &#8211; Mercy Eke,&nbsp;Uriel, and&nbsp;Whitemoney</h2>



In a house filled with different characters and personalities, there&#8217;s always a Mr Ibu, Mercy Johnson, and Funke Akindele. One thing stands out with these Nollywood names &#8211; they lighten the atmosphere.



<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/mercy-eke/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mercy Eke</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/uriel/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Uriel</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/whitemoney/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Whitemoney</a> are the nominees for these roles in the BBN All Stars house. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Lover Boy&nbsp;Characters &#8211; Cross,&nbsp;Pere, and&nbsp;Soma</h2>



This character is hugely personified. In Nollywood, Pat Attah, Ramsey Noah, Emeka Ike, and Chidi Mokeme were some of the actors that became synonymous with the lover boy character.



The same can almost be said of <a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/cross/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cross</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/pere/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pere</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dstv.com/africamagic/en-ng/show/big-brother-naija/season/8/housemates/soma/op_profile" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Soma</a> in BBN house. They are winning viewers with cute alluring personalities. They are also flirtatious in nature which is a big trait of this Nollywood character.

Explore the Hillarious Celebration of Nollywood by the All-Stars BBN Housemates

Awards a proof of credibility for actors and crew members of film productions. It carries so much capacity to upgrade, market and improve the financial, political and social status of a winner. 



Nollywood is yet to welcome its first Oscar winner. Anticipation started growing after the Academy elected a committee in Nollywood and has been that way ever since.



The <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/lionheart-still-the-one-hit-title-of-nollywood/">committee has been part of the decision-making for Nollywood movies like King of Thieves and</a> <a href="https://culturays.com/nollywood/news/lionheart-still-the-one-hit-title-of-nollywood/">Lionheart</a> which were both dropped. The one category that is open to Nolywood in the Oscars is the Foreign Language but this appears to also be a challenge in Nollywood.



Several Nollywood movies are made in English and the category expects more than five per cent of the film to be in a different language. This was the case for Lionheart leading to its disqualification. 



Winning an Oscar may not also be about skills in the job, but more of a popularity contest and there are ways to win an Oscar.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Win an Oscar Award in Nollywood</h2>



Grow Connections: Get involved in more than just making movies and TV shows as this can only get one far enough. 



Start by creating bonds, networking and connecting with directors, producers, and writers outside Nollywood if the target is the Oscars.



Learn about other film industries that have won the International Language Oscars and see what they did well. Stock up on good film ideas and get more international collaborations. 



Have Some Standards: Make good movies that can stand the test with previous winners of the International Language category of the Oscars. Set a standard for every film and go spend the right amount to upgrade it.



Seek professional advice from people who have won: Winning the Oscars is not cheap for anyone. It will always cost something both time and money to get the kind of guidance needed to win. 



Reach out to previous winners or even hire someone with connections to demonstrate the path to winning. 



The race to make <a href="https://nollymania.com/king-of-thieves-meets-the-first-specification-for-the-oscars-but-there-are-more/">an Oscar-winning film</a> is on in Nollywood. Some industry people have accepted the responsibility of producing Oscar-winning movies making it closer to Nollywood than ever.



Nollywood can hope and look forward to the best of people like Obi Emelonye, Femi Adebayo and more in this Oscar race.

Be the First Nollywood Oscar Winner

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?

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;.