2024 was a good year for Nollywood movies. Two films from the year entered the industry’s top 10 earners. Some directors did their best work, one getting a call from Tribeca. The industry also got its most ambitious project in years, earning two wins at the Africa International Film Festival in the process.
Below, Film Efiko (belatedly) spotlights the standout Nollywood films of 2024.
1. A Ghetto Love Story
Daniel Oriahi has two films on this list. His A Ghetto Love Story, executively produced by comedian Basketmouth, hits all of its mark on the way to an ending few viewers will guess. Since his first picture, Misfit, from more than a decade ago, it has been clear that Oriahi likes a dark tale told slowly. His two films from 2024 will please those craving something similar from Nollywood.
2. Phoenix Fury
Phoenix Fury is the most ambitious film from a Nigerian filmmaker in at least a half-decade. The story follows the long suffering Ifeatu from youth to adulthood over two countries, Uzoamaka Aniunoh and Ama K. Abebrese bringing the character to life. Written and directed by Ifeoma Chukwuogo, it is an epic story told with obviously epic resources. It is an AMVCA 2025 nominee. Last year, it was the big winner at AFRIFF’s Globe Awards.
3. With Difficulty Comes Ease
Korede Azeez presents the management of grief as felt by a widow navigating a life with her mother-in-law. It’s a subject that could easily become saccharine but Azeez’s steady hand and Uzoamaka Aniunoh’s handling of the lead character’s emotional situation never lets the viewer forget that what we are watching is more human than symbol.
4. Farmer’s Bride
A married woman falls in love with her husband’s relation. What could go wrong? The answer supplied by directors Jack’enneth Opukeme and Adebayo Tijani is, A lot of things. Farmer’s Bride puts Femi Branch, Gbubemi Ejeye, Efe Irele, Tobi Bakre, and Mercy Aigbe together. The product is a confident domestic thriller set in a village. The last scene doesn’t exactly come off but not in a way that undermines all of the magic that has gone before.
5. The Weekend
Trino Studios worked with director Daniel Oriahi back in 2018, producing the underrated Sylvia. They reunite on this one. As said, Daniel Oriahi likes a dark tale told slowly. The Weekend, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, follows a couple on its way to meeting the parents. Once there, it becomes clear why this is the first time in years their son has come visiting. Nollywood hasn’t quite figured out fluid cinematic violence, but one scene of violence here is about as effective as anyone has come in recent times. Starring Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Bucci Franklin, Ekpenyong Bassey Inyang, Meg Otanwa, and Gloria Anozie-Young.
6. Ajosepo
Nollywood loves its shiny comedies, a fact of Nigeria’s watching habits that has taken Kayode Kasum into the mainstream. With Ajosepo, he tamps down on the colour and deepens the comedy somewhat. The result is a rewatchable comic drama around sex. The film’s cast includes Tomike Adeoye, Mike Afolarin, Mercy Aigbe, Bisola Aiyeola, and Timini Egbuson.
