I never thought this day would come but obviously, I am here and for that I am grateful. Before I see a movie, there is always a reason why I want to watch it. These ones, I didn’t bother with the question because I already knew the answer. I have been carried away with too many Hollywood and movies and I needed some form of mental cleansing.
Nollywood stands for Nigerian movie production and contrary to my belief we have the second largest film industry and have contributed significantly in revenues to the box office. However, the main reason I steered clear of Nollywood productions was how much of the repetitions it had back then. The storylines were always almost the same, but after these movies, I realise now that Nigerian movies have been severely underrated by yours truly.
Here are four Nollywood productions I watched (thanks to recommendations) that not only warmed my heart, but also gave insight to the heritage we hold as a Nation. I felt these four were light and just perfect for a get-away from what I am used to, taking me into what is known as the Giant of Africa - Nigeria.
The Griot (2021)
This movie tells the story of the timid Lakunle, a storyteller in the land of Wakajaye. Wakajaye is a small village known for its storytelling prowess and in this small village, Lakunle faces betrayal from his friend who steals his stories to impress a woman they both love.
I have to say that the simplicity of this movie was what moved me the most. One hour and forty-nine minutes of the most captivating colours, soundtracks and display of vivid culture. The storyline was very laid back, possessed the right amount of heartiness and intensity to leave you intrigued. It was a 7.5/10 for me and that was only because I did not like how it ended. However, I think I read the wisps of part two so maybe that might makeup for the lack of foresight - or maybe it was done on purpose as a precedent for the second part? Who knows? Watch and tell me what you think of it.
Strangers (2022)
This movie is based on true events and centers on a young boy in a remote village with a strange disease. Adetola would have been left for dead with this flesh eating disease that left him bedridden if not for the strangers that came into his life.
Now, I don’t know if I found this movie especially emotional because I was in my ovulation week but it did make me cry. Apart from the heart wrenching moments, watching a mother go through so much for the sake of her son, I have to say that the good deeds of the people touched my heart dearly. The fact that this was based on true events just made it all the more lovely. Yeah, I cried more than a few tears.
Strangers is the type of movie you watch when you feel down. It is comforting and has a soul. There are also scenes filled with mirth that leave you in pure bliss. One hour and thirty-one minutes of my time was spent well if I do say so myself. This is a solid 8/10 for me. Just because we need more films like this.
A Lagos Love Story (2025)
Romance sparks off between an aspiring event planner and a rising Afrobeats superstar in the beautiful city of Lagos. Promise Quest and ‘King Kator’ meet in the most “romantic” of ways and fall in love way too fast.
I have to say that maybe because it is Nigerian, the whole bumping into each other trope and the falling gimmick didn’t seem to tick me off as I thought it would. I don’t know. For some reason, it was endearing to watch my fellow Nigerian babe get captured via a 360 camera ‘staring into the eyes of her soon-to-be-loved’ and then get thrown off by a bouncer. Gosh! That was so satisfying. They actually captured it in the Nigerian way and it threw me off my seat.
The amount of laughter that came with this movie was perfect for me, that and the scenes that made me cringe a little. One thing stands though, Mike Afolarin is serious eye candy. I could stare at him all day. Not like I’m a fan all of a sudden just that, wawu, man got a serious face card! Anyway, I really enjoyed this movie and it is a 7/10 for me.
For me, who likes to watch the love story of K-pop idols, it was a nice change seeing it from the Nigerian perspective. There were of course flaws with the movie but they didn’t eclipse the entirety of the movie, thank God.
Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story (2023)
This movie tells of the apprentice system of the Igbo people - one of the predominant tribes in Nigeria. Áfàméfùnà is questioned from the beginning of the movie regarding the death of his friend Paul. Events unravel in the process. This movie is one of resilience, brotherhood and love.
This had to be the best movie I saw. I watched it twice and each time it still held the magic. For someone like me who is not adept at history, I learned some things from watching this movie. Apart from that, the thrill and the twists that came with the plot was very satisfying. It was perfect and I watched it once alone, and then with my family. It is 8.5/10 for me.
These are four Nigerian movies I recommend especially if you are like me and find yourself sinking into all things Nigerian for a period. I would like to know what you think if you have seen any of these movies.
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