The new year has ushered in a harsh reality for Nollywood: a scarcity of Netflix releases, intense competition for cinematic slots, and a pressing need for alternative distribution channels. Escalating production costs, inadequate compensation for writers, and lingering concerns about the industry’s long-term sustainability compound these challenges.
As your go-to newsletter for Nollywood insights, one of my key goals is to closely monitor how producers and investors navigate these challenges and adapt to the evolving landscape. Who will be the next disruptor to shake up the industry with a game-changing movie title?
I’ll be tracking the trends, successes, and setbacks to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date information on Nollywood’s journey in 2025
Top Story: Remembering Oluda Scribe (Olu Yomi Ososanya)
The Nigerian film industry mourns the loss of Oluda Scribe, a multifaceted creative professional. He was a screenwriter, director, and educator who served as Head of Directing at EbonyLife Academy.
Oluda Scribe was passionate about mentoring young filmmakers and sharing his knowledge through video essays, written articles, and film panels. His legacy will continue to inspire and educate future generations of filmmakers.
See below some tributes to the young filmmaker from the industry.
5 Major Business Headlines To Know
Here are the major news stories that made rounds last week.
“Something About The Briggs” Movie Readies January Debut:
“Something About The Briggs” is gearing up for its big screen debut on January 31st. Directed by Bukola Ogunsola, the movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Iyabo Ojo, Ariyiike Dimples, Gloria Anozie Young, Elma Mbadiwe, Rita Dominic, Stan Nze, Kaluikeagwu, Kenneth Okolie, Daniel Etim-Effiong, and Young Norbert.
The plot delves into the lives of the Briggs, a wealthy family with a picture-perfect facade. However, beneath the surface lies a web of secrets and scandals waiting to be exposed. As the story unfolds, the family’s intricate dynamics and hidden truths are revealed, threatening to upend their seemingly perfect world.
The star-studded title has been cleverly marketed as a family-friendly movie, emphasizing its suitability for all ages. This strategic marketing approach is expected to attract a wide audience, making “Something About The Briggs” a potential Nollywood hit
Nigerian Filmmaker Charles Uwagbai Picks up NAACP Nomination for “Kipkemboi”:
Nigerian filmmaker Charles Uwagbai has earned a prestigious NAACP nomination for Outstanding International Motion Picture for his movie “Kipkemboi.” This recognition is a testament to the global appeal of African stories and Uwagbai’s exceptional craftsmanship.
Kipkemboi is an action-packed thriller about a math genius from a small African village who develops an algorithm to play the stock market, attracting the attention of powerful forces. The film boasts a talented cast, including Thamela Mpumlwana, David Cubitt, and Kevin Hanchard, and was produced in collaboration with Canadian and Kenyan filmmakers. Notably, “Kipkemboi” was an official selection at the 2023 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and was shot on location in Kenya (Eldama Ravine and Nairobi) and Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, between 2022 and 2023.
Despite its festival recognition the film is still awaiting major distribution. Hopefully, this nomination will help secure a wider African and global release, making “Kipkemboi” accessible to more audiences and showcasing the talents of African filmmakers.
Nile Entertainment, Tribe Nation, Silverbird Joins February 2024 Big Screen Releases:
Nigerian film enthusiasts are in for a treat as three exciting movies join the February 2024 window.
Blackout, a thriller directed by Okechukwu Oku, is set to be released by Nile Entertainment. The movie stars Blossom Chukwujekwu and Beverly Osu.
Tribe Nation’s The Presidency is another highly anticipated release. Directed by Sampson Afolabi-Johnson, the movie stars Gideon Okeke and Fadekemi Olumide.
Lastly, Silverbird Distribution will be releasing Tarella, a captivating drama co-directed by Kayode Kasum and Loló Eremie. This African remake of the classic Cinderella tale is set in the mythical kingdom of Akkaya in West Africa, promising a fresh and exciting twist on a beloved story. The movie stars Okawa Shaznay and Timini Egbuson.
The above list joins Summer Rain distributed by Cinemax, Reel Love, and Lockdown Distributed by FilmOne. February is a packed feast for Nollywood lovers.
AMVCA 2025 – Submission To End Jan 31st
Don’t miss your chance to shine at Africa’s most prestigious awards event!
The Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) is still accepting submissions for the 11th edition. If you’re a filmmaker, producer, production company, or creator, make sure to submit your films, made-for-television movies, or television series that aired or were publicly screened between 1 December 2023 and 31 December 2024.
The submission window closes on Friday, 31 January 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute – submit your entries now and take the first step towards winning a coveted AMVCA plaque!
On a prediction level, there are 3 films with strong critical push – Daniel Oriahi’s “A Ghetto Love Story”, Bolanle Austen Peter’s “Funmilayo Ransome Kuti” Korede Azeez’s With Difficulty Comes Ease” and first feature project “Kill Boro”
Netflix Seeks New Head of Production for Middle East and Africa
Rosie Patchett, current Head of Production for Middle East and Africa at Netflix, is set to transition into a new role in Programme Management upon her return from parental leave in April. As a result, the streaming giant is now on the hunt for a talented and experienced professional to take on the critical leadership position.
The new Head of Production will lead a cross-functional team responsible for producing original content in the MEA region. The ideal candidate will have senior leadership experience in production management and strong knowledge of content production in the MEA region. The position is based in the Netflix Amsterdam office and reports to the Senior Director of Production for GEMS.
Two things stand out in this news headline, First is how a supersized continent is now grouped up with a geopolitical region that is known for war. Second is how the role is just too vast for just a single person to take up. The two points denote how Netflix has restaged its business investment into original productions going ahead in 2025/2026.
By The Numbers
Nollywood’s February 2025 box office lineup has expanded to 6 titles, marking a significant increase from last year’s 2 titles competing by mid-February. I will be closely monitoring the performance of these films, eager to see how the numbers and hits stack up.
Reaction Radar:
Marketing ad of the Week:
Drea Knows Best teams up with Sony to promote One of Them Days movie. In a viral clip with over 1.4M views, Drea teaches lead actors SZA and Keke Palmer some Nigerian pidgin phrases, making for a hilarious and refreshing cultural exchange.
This campaign stands out for its creative use of cultural fusion and influencer marketing. By partnering with Drea Knows Best, Sony is able to tap into the growing popularity of African culture and dialects, while also showcasing the movie’s leads in a fun and lighthearted way. The result is an engaging and shareable clip that generates buzz and drives interest in the movie.
Under the Radar:
The first set of Blackout movie Teasers is so good, but it is flying under the radar. The clip presents viewers with a disoriented woman’s world, which is promising. I’m super excited to see the trailer drop.
What I am watching: The Most Toasted Girl Season 1
Africa in Focus:
NBCUniversal Formats and African streamer Showmax announced a new format agreement last week, which will bring a South African Zulu-language adaptation of NBCUniversal’s hit US comedy Superstore.
Superstore marks the second comedy format adaptation from Showmax, which has also licensed The Office from the BBC. Superstore is licensed globally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal International Studios, which is part of Universal Studio Group. This will be the second non-English version of Superstore, following Supertitlán, the Latin adaptation of the format in Mexico.
The Showmax Original will be produced locally by Barkers Media.
Business Trade Press:
U.K. Launches Soft Power Council, Unveils $73M Creative Sector Funding Package.
Creative businesses and projects across the U.K. are set to receive government funding thanks to a £60 million ($73 million) investment package unveiled on Friday as the Labour Party administration pushes for growth in the sector as part of its bid to provide a boost to the broader economy.
The government has also launched a “Soft Power Council,” named after countries’ focus on using the appeal of their culture and creative works abroad to influence the world stage rather than using military and other forces.
Next Week Anticipation:
Official posters and trailers for all February releases
Thanks for Reading
Email me scoops at [email protected] or DM @shockng
