Nigerian films, often referred to as “Nollywood”, represent a vibrant and distinctive part of the African film industry. With a prolific and diverse production, Nollywood is the third largest film industry in the world in terms of number of films produced, behind only Hollywood in the United States and Bollywood in India.
Nigerian films are known for their compelling narrative, dramatic performances and for tackling a variety of social, cultural and political themes. Many Nigerian films are produced on modest budgets, but that doesn’t stop them from becoming box office hits and gaining international recognition.
One of the hallmarks of Nigerian films is their ability to tell stories that resonate with local audiences while simultaneously appealing to a global audience. The themes covered in films often reflect important social and cultural issues, such as family, love, corruption, religion and globalization.
Nigerian films are an essential part of global film culture, offering a unique and captivating perspective on life in Nigeria and exploring universal themes that resonate with people around the world. Check out 10 of the best productions in Nigeria to stream.
10 Best Nollywood Movies to Watch Online
1. Lionheart (2018)
Lionheart is a 2018 Nollyewood film directed by Genevieve Nnaji, who also stars in the film. The story revolves around Adaeze Obiagu (Genevieve Nnaji), a determined woman who fights to maintain her father’s transport company, Lionheart Transport, after he falls ill. Adaeze faces numerous challenges, including resistance from family members and competition from rival companies, as she navigates issues of gender and leadership in a male-dominated business environment.
Available on: Netflix
2. The King of Boys (2018)
King of Boys was released in 2018 and directed by Kemi Adetiba. The film is a political thriller set against the backdrop of Nigerian politics and organized crime. The story revolves around Alhaja Eniola Salami (Sola Sobowale), a businesswoman and powerful political figure known as the “Queen of the Underworld”. After years of power and influence, Eniola faces challenges that threaten her empire and her life.
Available on: Netflix
3. 1976 – Between love and revolution (2016)
1976 – Between Love and Revolution is a 2016 Nollywood film directed by Izu Ojukwu. The film is set during the events of the 1976 military coup in Nigeria and follows the story of an army officer, Captain Joseph Dewa (Ramsey Nouah), and his wife, Suzie (Rita Dominic), who are affected from political and military unrest. weather.
Available on: Netflix
4. Half a Yellow Sun (2013)
Half of a Yellow Sun is a 2013 British-Nigerian film directed by Biyi Bandele, based on the award-winning novel of the same name by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The film is set during the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), also known as the Biafran Civil War, and follows the lives of two sisters, Olanna (played by Thandie Newton) and Kainene (played by Anika Noni Rose). turbulent period in Nigerian history. The film’s title refers to the flag of the Republic of Biafra, which had half of its surface yellow.
Available for rental on: Google Play Films, Apple TV
5. Moremi’s lesson (2020)
Moremi’s Lesson is a Nollywood film directed by Kunle Afolayan, released in 2020. The film is a contemporary adaptation of the classic Yoruba story of Moremi Ajasoro, a legendary heroine revered in Yoruba culture for her courage and cunning.
Moremi is a historical and mythical figure of Yoruba culture, known for his courage and determination to protect his people of Ile-Ife Kingdom from their invading neighbors, the Igbo. She offers herself as a sacrifice to the invaders in exchange for information on their weaknesses and thus helps her people defeat them.
The film Moremi’s Lesson modernizes this narrative, bringing it to the present day and exploring contemporary themes, such as female power, corruption and social justice. The story follows a modern woman, inspired by Moremi, who faces similar challenges in defending her people from oppressive forces.
Available on: Netflix
6. The Gangs of Lagos (2023)
Gangs of Lagos is a Nollywood film released in 2023 directed by Jadesola Osiberu. The story follows friends Obalola (Tobi Bakre), Ify (Chike) and Gift (Adesua Etomi), residents of Isale Eko, a dangerous place run by gangs involved in politics.
After the murder of the adoptive father of the three, they decide to join the gang of the cruel Kazeem Olaotan. When the election period begins and the streets are painted red by the ruling gangs, Obalola, Ify and Gift find themselves involved in a gang war that reveals secrets capable of shaking the structures of Isale Eko, leading them to fulfill their destiny.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
7. Love Challenges (2020)
Love Challenges is a romantic film released in 2020, directed by Hamisha Daryani Ahuja. It is a film collaboration between Nigeria and India, which features a love story between a couple from different cultural backgrounds.
The film tells the love story between Nigerian lawyer Didi (Ini Dima-Okojie) and Indian businessman Raj (Ruslaan Mumtaz). The two meet by chance and, despite cultural differences and pressure from their respective families, begin a relationship.
Available on: Netflix
8. Eyimofe – This is my wish (2020)
Eyimofe – That’s My Wish is a Nigerian film released in 2020, directed by twin directors Arie and Chuko Esiri. The film is divided into two parts, each focusing on a different character, but interconnected. The first part follows the story of Mofe (Jude Akuwudike), a gas technician who struggles to obtain a visa to travel to Europe, in search of a better life for himself and his family. He faces several bureaucratic and financial obstacles while dealing with personal and family issues.
The second part focuses on Rosa (Temi Ami-Williams), an ambitious hairdresser who works hard to support her younger sister and dreams of leaving Lagos to start a new life in Italy. Throughout her journey she also faces significant challenges, including having to make difficult decisions to ensure a better future for herself and her family.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
9. For a better life (2019)
For a Better Life is a Nigerian film directed by Kenneth Gyang and released in 2019. The film tackles deep and often overlooked issues of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, providing a raw and realistic look at the underworld of human trafficking in Nigeria.
The plot follows the journey of a young journalist named Òlòturé (Sharon Ooja), determined to reveal the truth about human trafficking, even if it means infiltrating a prostitution ring. She goes undercover as a prostitute in search of a better life to investigate and document atrocities committed against vulnerable women.
Available on: Netflix
10. The Nigerian Prince (2018)
The Nigerian Prince is a 2021 Nollywood film directed by Biodun Stephen. The film is a romantic comedy that follows the story of a Nigerian prince named Ademola (Blossom Chukwujekwu), who is facing pressure from his family to get married.
Ademola travels to Ghana with his mother to find a suitable bride, but ends up falling in love with a woman named Mina (Toyin Abraham), who is a dancer at a nightclub. Mina initially has no idea that Ademola is a prince. As a romance blossoms between them, Ademola must deal with his family’s expectations and the complications that arise from his relationship with Mina.
Available on: Netflix
The post Nollywood: 10 Best Nigerian Cinema Movies to Watch Online appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
