Nollywood Films and Series Creating Buzz in 2024

As 2024 unfolds, Nollywood films and series continues to capture the hearts of global audiences with a diverse range of films and series, showcasing the industry’s evolution in storytelling, production quality, and the sheer talent of its filmmakers and actors. Here are some of the most anticipated and trending releases that are making waves across streaming platforms and beyond.

ALSO READ: ’70 looks good on you’: Veteran Nollywood actor Pappyluwe Clocks 70

1. ’77: The Festac Conspiracy

One of the most talked-about films of the year is ’77: The Festac Conspiracy, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Izu Ojukwu. Known for his previous work on ’76, Ojukwu brings another politically charged thriller to the screen. This time, the story dives into the intricacies of the 1977 Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC), an event that celebrated African culture but was fraught with behind-the-scenes political tension. With star actors Ramsey Nouah and Rita Dominic in leading roles, audiences are excited to see how this follow-up to ’76 will portray this significant cultural moment in African history. The film promises to blend suspense, political intrigue, and a deep reflection on Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

2. Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre

After the success of Anikulapo in 2022, Netflix has greenlit a continuation with the series Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre. The original film, directed by Kunle Afolayan, told the mystical tale of Saro, a man brought back to life by a mythical bird. The upcoming series dives deeper into the supernatural world, with Kunle Remi reprising his role as Saro and Bimbo Ademoye returning as the charismatic Queen Arolake. This expansion into a series format allows for a richer exploration of the mythology behind the story, promising even more intrigue and adventure for fans. The collaboration between Nollywood and Netflix continues to elevate the industry’s global standing.

3. Oloture: The Serialized Journey

Another Netflix project, Oloture, is set to captivate audiences once again, this time in a serialized format. Originally released as a feature film in 2020, Oloture follows the harrowing story of a Nigerian journalist who goes undercover to expose the dark world of human trafficking. With powerful performances from Sharon Ooja and Beverly Osu, the film drew significant attention for its gritty portrayal of a critical social issue. Now, the serialization promises to delve even deeper into the characters’ lives, the trafficking networks, and the emotional toll on those involved. Fans are eagerly anticipating how this longer format will further explore the complexities of the story.

ALSO READ: What’s Next for Nollywood in 2024?

4. Slum King

For fans of intense drama, Slum King is another series that has been trending in Nollywood circles. This gritty drama explores the life of a man rising from the slums of Lagos to positions of power, all while dealing with the challenges of his environment. The show portrays a complex character arc, full of raw emotion and intense conflict. Slum King showcases the resilience of the human spirit, and its compelling narrative has drawn viewers from across the continent. It is a standout show on Showmax, appealing to fans who love stories of survival, ambition, and personal redemption.

5. Visa on Arrival

On the lighter side, Visa on Arrival continues to win hearts with its hilarious take on the day-to-day drama of a visa processing office. A lighthearted comedy series, it features a cast of eccentric characters that find themselves in bizarre, awkward, and often relatable situations. With its humor and quick-witted dialogue, the series offers a refreshing break from the heavier narratives dominating the screen. Visa on Arrival is a reminder of Nollywood’s strength in delivering comedy that resonates with its audience, making it a fan-favorite across various demographics.

ALSO READ: ‘You have tattoos’: Fans react as Regina Daniels shares stunning photos on birthday

Nollywood’s Global Impact in 2024

As the year progresses, it’s clear that Nollywood is not only solidifying its place within Africa but is also continuing to make significant strides on the global stage. With major platforms like Netflix and Showmax investing in more Nollywood content, the quality of films and series coming out of the Nigerian film industry has dramatically improved, reaching a wider audience than ever before.

The industry’s ability to tackle diverse genres—from political thrillers and supernatural adventures to hard-hitting dramas and lighthearted comedies—demonstrates its growing versatility. With both established stars like Ramsey Nouah and Rita Dominic, and newer talents such as Kunle Remi and Sharon Ooja, Nollywood is filled with actors and filmmakers who are breaking boundaries and pushing creative limits.

What’s Next?

With more projects in the pipeline, Nollywood is showing no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a fan of intense dramas, mystical adventures, or laugh-out-loud comedies, there is something for everyone in the latest offerings from Nollywood. As audiences eagerly await the next big releases, it’s clear that 2024 is shaping up to be another landmark year for Nigeria’s ever-evolving film industry.

So, which of these Nollywood films and series are you most excited about? Share your thoughts, and don’t forget to follow your favorite Nollywood filmmakers and actors as they continue to make waves both at home and abroad!