Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing movie industries in the world, often referred to as Nollywood. Every year, Nollywood produces thousands of films that capture the hearts of both local and international audiences. From romantic dramas to thrilling action-packed stories, Nigerian filmmakers continue to push the boundaries of creativity. In this article, we will discuss the trending Nigeria movies that have been making waves in 2024.
1. Brotherhood
Brotherhood is one of the trending Nigeria movies this year. Directed by the talented Loukman Ali, this action-packed thriller follows the story of twin brothers who find themselves on opposite sides of the law. The film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the deep bond between siblings.
Viewers have praised Brotherhood for its fast-paced action sequences, emotional depth, and strong performances by actors like Tobi Bakre and Falz. The film’s cinematography is visually stunning, capturing the gritty world of crime in Lagos.
2. The Griot
Another film currently trending in Nigeria is The Griot. This drama delves into the art of storytelling, focusing on a quiet, humble man who possesses a great gift for telling stories. In many African cultures, a griot is a historian and storyteller who preserves the history and traditions of the people through oral narratives.
The Griot highlights the importance of storytelling in African culture and portrays how the protagonist, despite his talents, must overcome challenges to fulfill his destiny. Its rich cultural narrative and brilliant acting have earned the film widespread admiration from Nollywood fans.
3. The Set Up 2
After the success of The Set Up, the sequel, The Set Up 2, is another highly anticipated movie in Nigeria. Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, the movie picks up from where the first left off, continuing the suspense-filled tale of espionage, deception, and betrayal.
The film has been trending in Nigerian cinemas due to its gripping plot and star-studded cast, including Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Kehinde Bankole, and Jim Iyke. Fans of thrillers and crime dramas have especially enjoyed the twists and turns that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
4. Ijakumo: The Born Again Stripper
One of the most talked-about movies this year is Ijakumo: The Born Again Stripper. This movie is directed by Nollywood star Toyin Abraham and is packed with drama, suspense, and intrigue. The film tells the story of a pastor who falls in love with a stripper, and as their relationship unfolds, deep secrets from their past come to light.
The movie has sparked discussions for its bold themes and strong social commentary on religion, morality, and hypocrisy. Fans have applauded Toyin Abraham’s daring approach to storytelling and the stellar performances from the entire cast.
5. Shanty Town
Shanty Town is a Netflix original series that has captured the attention of Nigerian audiences. Although it’s a series rather than a film, its impact has been immense. The story revolves around a group of courtesans who attempt to escape from the grips of a notorious kingpin, facing numerous obstacles along the way.
The series addresses issues like human trafficking, corruption, and survival in a dangerous world. With a powerful ensemble cast that includes Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ini Edo, and Nancy Isime, Shanty Town is definitely one of the trending Nigeria movies to watch.
6. Anikulapo
Produced by Kunle Afolayan, Anikulapo is another Nollywood film that has been trending in Nigeria. This historical drama is set in ancient Yoruba land and follows the journey of a young man who is given a second chance at life after encountering a mystical bird.
The film has been lauded for its authentic depiction of Yoruba culture, stunning visuals, and captivating story. It explores themes of destiny, power, and love, making it a must-watch for fans of epic dramas.
7. The Black Book
The Black Book is an action-packed thriller that has taken Nollywood by storm. Directed by Editi Effiong, the film centers on a former military officer who embarks on a mission to avenge his son’s death. With its explosive action scenes and intense storyline, The Black Book has quickly gained popularity among fans of crime dramas.
The movie has been praised for its excellent cinematography, well-choreographed fight scenes, and strong performances from its cast, including Richard Mofe-Damijo and Sam Dede.
8. Palava
For those who enjoy light-hearted comedies, Palava is one of the trending Nigeria movies in 2024. Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, this film revolves around a family drama that unfolds after the patriarch of the family, a famous musician, announces his retirement. The news leads to chaos within the family, with hilarious and heartwarming moments.
Palava has been well-received for its humor, relatable characters, and feel-good storyline. It’s the perfect movie for viewers looking for a break from the usual intense dramas.
9. Gangs of Lagos
Gangs of Lagos is another film that has captivated Nigerian audiences this year. The movie, directed by Jade Osiberu, offers a gritty portrayal of gang life in Lagos. It follows the lives of three childhood friends as they navigate the dangerous streets of Isale Eko, a notorious neighborhood in Lagos.
The film has been praised for its raw depiction of life in the underworld, strong performances by the lead actors, and its emotional depth. It’s a film that not only entertains but also offers a thought-provoking commentary on the socio-economic realities in Nigeria.
10. Man of God
Man of God, directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, is another film making waves in Nigeria. The movie tells the story of a man who struggles with his faith and identity, torn between his religious upbringing and his desire to live a life of freedom. As he grapples with these internal conflicts, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
The film explores themes of religion, spirituality, and personal growth, making it a relatable and moving story for many viewers. Its strong narrative and emotional performances have made it one of the trending Nigeria movies in 2024.
The Impact of Nollywood
The success of these trending Nigeria movies highlights the incredible growth of Nollywood over the years. What started as a small industry with low-budget productions has now evolved into a powerhouse, producing films that rival Hollywood in quality and storytelling.
One of the factors contributing to the rise of Nollywood is the growing popularity of streaming platforms like Netflix. Many Nigerian films are now available to global audiences, increasing the visibility of Nollywood and helping it reach new heights.
Moreover, Nigerian filmmakers are now exploring a wide range of genres, from historical dramas to action-packed thrillers and light-hearted comedies. This diversity in storytelling has attracted a broad audience, both in Nigeria and abroad.
Conclusion
The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, continues to thrive and produce high-quality films that resonate with audiences around the world. From gripping thrillers like The Black Book to heartwarming comedies like Palava, the variety and creativity of Nigerian filmmakers know no bounds. The films mentioned in this article are just a few examples of the trending Nigeria movies that have made a significant impact in 2024. As Nollywood continues to grow, we can expect even more exciting films in the future, further cementing Nigeria’s position as a global player in the movie industry.
