BrandIconImage presents a curated selection of the top ten highest-rated Nollywood films released between December 2023 and November 2024, ranked according to critical acclaim and box office performance.
- Director: Daniel Oriahi
- Writers: Freddie O. Anyaegbunam Jr., Vanessa Kanu, Egbemawei Dimiyei Sammy
- Stars: Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Gloria Anozie, Keppy Ekpenyong-Bassey
The 2024 horror film "The Weekend" follows the journey of Nikiya, portrayed by Uzoamaka Aniunoh, who is known for her role in C.J. ‘Fiery’ Obasi's "Mami Wata." Eager to connect with her fiancé Luke's family, played by Bucci Franklin, Nikiya unexpectedly enters a realm filled with intrigue and tension.
The film has been recognized as one of the year's finest, featuring nearly flawless lighting, an exceptional score, and impressive cinematography. With box office earnings exceeding N8 million, it has been chosen for international screenings at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival in New York and the BFI London Film Festival, along with numerous other global film festivals.
‘The Weekend’ led the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards with 16 nominations, including categories such as ‘Best Achievement in Make-Up,’ ‘Best Achievement in Costume Design,’ and ‘Best Achievement in Visual Effects.’ This remarkable tally marks a new milestone for Nollywood. Ultimately, it triumphed at the AMAA, securing awards for ‘Best Achievement in Screenplay’ and ‘Best Film,’ among others.
- Director: Bolanle Austen-Peters
- Writer: Tunde Babalola
- Stars: Kehinde BankoleJoke SilvaIyimide Ayo-Olumoko
- Grossing: ₦157,096,847
The highly regarded biopic, ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,’ stands out as a remarkable cinematic achievement and a heartfelt homage to a prominent Nigerian figure.
This film explores the life and enduring impact of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a pioneering individual who confronted colonialism and patriarchy in Nigeria. With its exceptional storytelling and powerful performances, the film encapsulates the spirit of a woman who became a beacon of resistance and sparked a movement for social reform.
The film has received extensive acclaim for its fidelity to historical events, artistic direction, and outstanding performances. Kehinde Bankole shines in her role as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, effectively conveying her strength, determination, and steadfast dedication to justice.
The supporting cast, including Joke Silva, enhances the film with their insightful portrayals of significant individuals in Ransome-Kuti’s journey. The film's commercial success and critical recognition underscore its importance as both a historical narrative and an engaging cinematic work. It is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.
- Directors: Funke AkindeleAdeoluwa Owu
- Writers: Funke AkindeleAkinlabi IsholaCollins Okoh
- Stars: Jide Kene AchufusiKevwe Deborah AdegbajuFunke Akindele
- Grossing: ₦1,404,187,806
'A Tribe Called Judah' tells the compelling story of Jedidiah Judah, a determined single mother who is raising five sons, each from different fathers. The film delves into the difficulties of single parenthood while addressing the societal stigma that often accompanies it.
Featuring a talented cast that includes Funke Akindele, Jide Kene, Timini Egbuson, Tobi Makinde, Uzee Usman, Olumide Oworu, Uzor Arukwe, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Genoveva Umeh, the movie has garnered significant attention.
Remarkably, it became the first Nollywood film to achieve N1 billion in gross revenue within just three weeks, ultimately amassing a total of N1.4 billion, making it the highest-grossing Nigerian film to date. Following its successful theatrical release, the film is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
- Directors: Kayode Kasum
- Writers: Dare Olaitan, Stephen Okonkwo
- Stars: Ronke Oshodi, Timini Egbuson, Kanaga Jr., Bisola Aiyeola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ibrahim Yekini, Muyiwa Ademola, Adewale Ayuba, Gbohunmi David, and Lizzy Jay
- Grossing: ₦257,254,189
Kayode Kasum is set to launch 2024 with his new project, ‘Ajosepo.’ This follows a triumphant 2023, marked by the success of box office hits such as ‘Afamefuna,’ ‘Something Like Gold,’ and ‘Love, Lust and Other Things.’
The Nigerian comedy-drama, ‘Ajosepo,’ has rapidly emerged as a box-office hit and a viral sensation on social media. The narrative revolves around a young couple, Dapo and Tani, whose wedding plans are disrupted by hidden family secrets, rising tensions, and unforeseen revelations.
Featuring a talented ensemble cast that includes Timini Egbuson, Tomike Adeoye, Bisola Ayieola, Mercy Aigbe, Yemi Solade, and Mike Afolarin, ‘Ajosepo’ resonates with audiences through its humorous depiction of family relationships and cultural intricacies. The film's remarkable opening week revenue of N51.9 million and a cumulative gross of N257.2 million underscore its widespread appeal and financial success.
- Directors: Kenneth Gyang
- Writers: Mo Abudu; Heidi Uys
- Stars: Sharon Ooja, Omoni Oboli, Beverly Osu, Ikechukwu Onunaku, Adebukola Oladipupo, Daniel Etim Effiong, Patrick Doyle, Bucci Franklin, Stan Nze, Amarachukwu Onoh, Pearl Wats
Building on the success of the 2020 film ‘Òlòtūré,’ which featured Sharon Ooja as an undercover sex worker risking everything to unveil a human trafficking operation, the sequel titled ‘Òlòtūré: The Journey’ continues the narrative from the original film.
This limited series, which premiered on Netflix on June 28, chronicles Òlòtūré’s expedition to Europe as she persists in her battle against human trafficking.
The storyline delves into various themes, including human trafficking, betrayal, and the struggle for survival faced by the main characters.
- Directors: Kunle Afolayan
- Writers: Kunle Afolayan and Sola Dada
- Stars: Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, Sola Sobowale,Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Taiwo Hassan
The highly anticipated Netflix series ‘Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre’ marks the return of the beloved character Aníkúlápó. Continuing from where the acclaimed film concluded, the series follows Saro (Kunle Remi) as he grapples with his newfound immortality and the emotional aftermath of losing Arolake (Bimbo Ademoye).
Saro's adventure takes him to the enchanting city of Ojumo, where he encounters supernatural entities, unearths ancient mysteries, and confronts a fate that exceeds his wildest dreams. During his journey, he finds comfort and ignites a new romance with the fierce and mysterious Princess Omowunmi, portrayed by Eyiyemi Afolayan, the daughter of the renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan.
With breathtaking visuals, engaging drama, and an element of romance, ‘Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre’ offers fans of Nollywood a rich blend of fantasy, romance, and Yoruba mythology.
- Director: Biodun Stephen
- Writers: Gift Collins, Biodun Stephen
- Stars: Isaac AbrahamLilian AfegbaiOluchukum Akinbueze
A beloved housekeeper brings joy until the wife returns, stirring tension and rivalry for affection within the family.
Biodun Stephen, a prominent filmmaker in Nollywood, presents her latest family comedy-drama, following the success of her award-winning film, ‘Sista.’ Titled Momiwa, the story centers on a dedicated housekeeper who exudes positivity.
However, the unexpected return of her employer's estranged wife disrupts the harmony, forcing her to manage the ensuing chaos.
This film embodies the essence of classic Nollywood drama, making it a must-watch for audiences. The cast features Blessing-Jessica Obasi in the leading role, alongside Iyabo Ojo and Uzor Arukwe, among others. The movie is now available for streaming on Prime Video.
- Directors: Jack'enneth Opukeme, Adebayo Tijani
- Writer: Jack'enneth Opukeme
- Stars: Mercy Aigbe, Tobi Bakre, Femi Branch
- Grossing: ₦164,143,345
‘Farmer’s Bride’ is a gripping narrative of love, betrayal, and the supernatural, set against the backdrop of 1980s Ibadan. This film has captured the attention of audiences and achieved remarkable success as one of Nigeria’s top-grossing movies.
The plot revolves around Odun, a prosperous yet solitary farmer who marries a young woman named Funmi in search of comfort and companionship. However, their marriage is fraught with difficulties as Funmi struggles to find joy and ultimately embarks on a clandestine affair with Odun’s nephew.
Released on September 27, 2024, and currently screening in cinemas across the country, the film has received acclaim for its engaging narrative and outstanding cast, featuring talents such as Tobi Bakre, Gbubemi Ejeye, Femi Branch, Mercy Aigbe, Efe Irele, and Wumi Toriola.
With box office earnings reaching N138 million, ‘Farmer’s Bride’ has firmly established itself as a commercial triumph and a significant contribution to the Nigerian film industry.
- Directors: Kayode Kasum, Yolanda Okereke, Abisola Omolade
- Writers: Olanma Pearl Awa-AgwuEsther KokoriJack'enneth Opukeme
- Stars: Daniel AbuaLateef AdedimejiVenita Akpofure
- Grossing: ₦132,020,689.93
Demi and Kanla are living the dream. Their fashion business is booming, and their friendship bond is unbreakable.
This film represents Deyemi Okanlawon’s first venture as a film producer. On its premiere date, February 14, 2024, it generated N7.6 million in ticket sales, followed by N10.4 million from advanced screenings, ultimately concluding its theatrical run with a total of N132 million.
Directed by Kayode Kasum, the story centers on two best friends and business partners whose bond is challenged when they both develop feelings for the same woman, resulting in a love triangle. The cast features Timini Egbuson, Deyemi Okanlawon, Buhle Samuels, Ireti Doyle, and Lateef Adedimeji.
- Director: Adeoluwa Owu
- Writer: Anthony Kehinde Joseph
- Stars: Bukunmi Adeaga-IloriFemi AdebayoLateef Adedimeji
- Grossing: ₦357,711,417
Queen Lateefah chronicles the journey of Lateefah Adeleke, a 30-year-old entrepreneur who asserts that she has traveled extensively and enjoys a prestigious social standing. Her meeting with Jide Rhodes, a 35-year-old businessman, brings to light her concealed truths.
Produced by debut filmmaker Wumi Toriola, Queen Lateefah has achieved a total revenue of N269.53 million. The film features a talented cast, including Kunle Remi, Femi Adebayo, Nancy Isime, Bimbo Manuel, Elvina Ibru, Enioluwa, and Gbubemi Ejeye.
The narrative is simple, yet the conclusion is surprising. You may think you know how her journey will unfold, but it takes an unexpected turn. Each scene was purposeful, contributing to the overall story without any extraneous elements. The plot was intricately crafted, and I found it to be quite engaging.