The Story⚡
An international production has taken the top position at the box office in its opening week, outperforming several local films, including the newly arrived The Return of Omotara Johnson.
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Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, a large-scale adaptation of Homer’s ancient Greek epic poem, has made a strong impression in its opening week at Nigerian cinemas. It was released on July 17, 2026, and distributed by Filmone Entertainment at the cinemas, and has earned ₦129.95 million in its first week, bringing its cumulative total to ₦129.95 million. Several other films performed at the box office, and here are the top 5:
5. Reme & Nneoma
This drama serves as a contemporary Nigerian retelling of the biblical story of Ruth and Naomi. It follows two women, Nneoma and her daughter-in-law Remi, who are connected through family tragedy and choose to remain together in an Ikwerre community in Rivers State as they face widowhood, societal pressures, grief, and the possibility of new beginnings.
The cast includes Liz Benson as Nneoma and Bisola Aiyeola as Remi, with additional roles played by Tina Mba, Uche Montana, and others. Bikiya Graham-Douglas produced the film and Lyndsey Efejuku directed it. Released on June 26, 2026, it earned ₦13.96 million in its fourth week for a cumulative total of ₦98.68 million.
4. Moana
Disney’s live-action adaptation follows the daughter of a chief who sets out on a journey across the ocean to save her island. The film is a remake of the earlier animated version. It earned ₦17.44 million in its second week for a cumulative ₦61.73 million. It was released on July 10, 2026.
3. Call of My Life
This romantic comedy follows Soluchi, a call-center worker and hopeless romantic in Lagos who is recovering from a previous relationship. She begins to explore new possibilities after connecting with someone through her job. Uzoamaka Power stars as Soluchi and also wrote the film, with Andrew Yaw Bunting, Zubby Michael, Beverly Osu, and others in the cast. Dammy Twitch directed it, and Blessing Uzzi produced it. Released on May 15, 2026, it added ₦21.93 million in its tenth week, bringing its cumulative total to ₦789.83 million.
2. The Return of Omotara Johnson
The story follows Omotara Johnson, who has built a quiet life with her son after her earlier experiences. When her son faces a murder accusation, figures from her past return, leading to revelations involving betrayal and hidden secrets. Bukky Wright plays the lead role, with supporting performances by Richard Mofe-Damijo, Chidi Mokeme, Timini Egbuson, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Ali Nuhu, Shaffy Bello, Lilian Esoro, and others. Adeoluwa Owu directed the film. Released on July 10, 2026, it earned ₦23.84 million in its second week for a cumulative ₦64.20 million.
1. The Odyssey
Christopher Nolan’s adaptation of Homer’s epic poem follows Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, on his long and difficult journey home after the Trojan War as he encounters various trials, while his wife Penelope and son Telemachus deal with challenges at home. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, with Anne Hathaway as Penelope, Tom Holland as Telemachus, Robert Pattinson as Antinous, Zendaya as Athena, Charlize Theron as Calypso, and additional cast members including Lupita Nyong’o and John Leguizamo. Nolan wrote and directed the film, with Emma Thomas as producer. Released on July 17, 2026, it earned ₦129.95 million in its first week, reaching a cumulative total of ₦129.95 million.
In Summary
Whether you prefer the scope of The Odyssey, the emotional layers in The Return of Omotara Johnson or Reme & Nneoma, the lighter tone of Call of My Life, or the adventure in Moana, there are options worth experiencing on the big screen.
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