Top ten Nollywood films of 2024
This year has been a remarkable year for Nollywood, with films like ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ shattering records and ‘Ajosepo’ captivating audiences. From historical biopics to supernatural thrillers and family comedies, the Nigerian cinema continues to push boundaries and resonate with viewers locally and internationally.
In this article, BusinessDay curates the 10 top-rated Nollywood films of the year dating back from December 2023 to November 2024 based on their critical acclaim and box office dominance.
‘The Weekend’ by Daniel Oriahi
‘The Weekend,’ a 2024 horror movie, tells the story of Nikiya, played by Uzoamaka Aniunoh, the lead cast of Mami Wata by C.J. ‘Fiery’ Obasi. As she desires to meet the family of her fiancé, Luke, played by Bucci Franklin, finds herself in a different world of mystery and suspense.
The movie has been cited as one of the best movies this year, with near-perfect lighting, score, and great cinematography. Despite making over N8 million at the box office, the movie was selected to screen at international selection at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival in New York and the BFI London Film Festival, among many other international film festivals.
‘The Weekend’ topped the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards, getting 16 nominations, including ‘Best Achievement in Make-Up,’ ‘Best Achievement in Costume Design,’ and ‘Best Achievement in Visual Effects.’
The 16 nominations set a new record for Nollywood. Subsequently, it dominated the AMAA, winning ‘Best Achievement in Screenplay’ and ‘Best Film,’ among other awards.
‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’ by Bolanle Austen-Peters
The acclaimed biopic, ‘Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,’ has emerged as a cinematic triumph and a powerful tribute to a Nigerian icon. The film delves into the life and legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a trailblazing figure who challenged colonialism and patriarchy in Nigeria. Through masterful storytelling and compelling performances, the movie captures the essence of a woman who became a symbol of resistance and ignited a movement for social change.
The film has garnered widespread praise for its historical accuracy, artistic vision, and exceptional acting. Kehinde Bankole delivers a captivating performance as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, portraying her strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.
The supporting cast, including Joke Silva, further elevates the film with their nuanced portrayals of key figures in Ransome-Kuti’s life. The movie’s success at the box office and critical acclaim highlight its significance as both a historical document and a compelling piece of cinema. The movie currently streams on Prime Video.
‘A Tribe Called Judah’ by Adeoluwa Owu and Funke Akindele
‘A Tribe Called Judah’ is the story of Jedidiah Judah, a resilient single mother raising five sons from different fathers. The film explores the challenges of single parenthood and confronts the societal stigma associated with it. The film stars Funke Akindele, Jide Kene, Timini Egbuson, Tobi Makinde, Uzee Usman, Olumide Oworu, Uzor Arukwe, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Genoveva Umeh, among others.
The movie became the first Nollywood film to gross N1 billion nationwide in three weeks. It had a total revenue of N1.4 billion and sits at the top as the highest-grossing Nigerian movie. After its successful theatre run, the film is currently streaming on Prime Video.
‘Àjosepò’ by Kayode Kasum
The Nigerian comedy-drama, ‘Ajosepo,’ has quickly become a box-office success and a social media sensation. The film tells the story of a young couple, Dapo and Tani, whose wedding plans are upended by family secrets, tensions, and unexpected revelations.
With a star-studded cast featuring Timini Egbuson, Tomike Adeoye, Bisola Ayieola, Mercy Aigbe, Yemi Solade, and Mike Afolarin, ‘Ajosepo’ has captured audiences with its hilarious portrayal of family dynamics and cultural nuances. The film’s impressive opening week earnings of N51.9 million and total gross of N257.2 million highlight its popularity and commercial success.
Source: Anthony Udugba
