Photo Credit: Movie Set, Pinterest

By: Olusoga Sarah 

When you hear “Nollywood,” what might come to mind is a crying angel or a ghost hidden in smoke, familiar stereotypes from its earlier days. But recently, Nollywood has raised the bar, delivering quality productions that are making waves globally and securing its place among the top three film industries in the world.

Nigerian films are now gaining international recognition, appearing in global cinemas and topping charts on major streaming platforms like Netflix and Prime Video.

A remarkable aspect of Nollywood’s growth is its thematic range, from romance and spirituality to family, crime, culture, and even sci-fi, all while maintaining storytelling rooted in Nigerian experiences.

To appreciate this evolution, here are five standout films that showcase the depth and progress of Nollywood storytelling.

LISABI (A Legend Is Born)

An epic production by Oyebade Bimpe and Victoria Akujobi, Lisabi brings to Netflix the powerful story of the father of Egbaland, a brave warrior who led his people in their quest for autonomy from the Oyo Empire. Directed and co-written by Niyi Akinmolayan, the film features Nollywood icons like Ibrahim Chatta, Lateef Adedimeji, and Odunlade Adekola. Upon release, Lisabi soared to the No. 1 spot on Netflix’s film chart and won the award for Best Indigenous Language Film (West Africa) at the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. More than just entertainment, the film serves as a cultural preservation effort, told through instructive storytelling.

KANTAGARI GOES TO TOWN

Released on Prime Video in January 2025, Kantagari Goes to Town is a gripping fusion of crime investigation and family drama. The story follows Kantagari, a retired police officer, who is summoned to Abuja following the mysterious death of his cousin, Chief Bello. What begins as a simple family meeting to read a will quickly escalates into a tense manhunt, as Kantagari works to expose the killer and unravel the secrets surrounding his cousin’s death. The film features screen legends such as Segun Arinze, Ireti Doyle, and Victor Panwell, and is directed by Reuben Being.

LOVE IN EVERY WORD

Love in Every Word gave rise to the now-iconic line, “Achalugo, I am going to marry you”. The statement was a bold declaration that struck a chord with many viewers. Released on YouTube in March, the film went viral, racking up over 5 million views in just three days.

Set in a typical Nigerian environment, the film explores the challenges of two people from different backgrounds navigating between love and societal expectations. Directed and produced by Omoni Oboli, it features Uzor Arukwe and BamBam in leading roles. The film ignited online debate over the ideals of the Nigerian man and woman in romantic relationships.

MAKEMATION

Makemation stands out for its genre, one of the first Nigerian sci-fi films. Directed by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, the film explores the intersection of technology and youth development within a distinctly local context.

It had the second-highest debut of 2025, grossing ₦50 million in its first weekend. Its story follows Zara, a 17-year-old from a struggling background who wins a scholarship to a tech school and fights her way to the top. The film cast includes Tomi Ojo, Ibrahim Chatta, Chioma Akpotha, and others.

RECALL

Known for blending African spirituality with modern themes, Kunle Afolayan returns with Recall. The story of a woman who wakes up on her tenth wedding anniversary with no memory of her life so far. As the truth is slowly revealed, it becomes clear that her marriage was not built solely on love, but on juju (a spiritual pact that must be renewed every ten years). The film delves into the enduring influence of traditional beliefs in contemporary relationships.

‘Recall’ earned over ₦190 million in its opening weekend.

In retrospect, for Nollywood fans, the first half of 2025 has been exciting. It is a reminder of how far the industry has come and a promise of even more productions to see in the months ahead.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR

Olusoga Sarah Kehinde is a Veterinary Medicine student, writer and a passionate Nollywood enthusiast.