As Valentine’s Day casts its spell of romance across the globe, Film Efiko has curated a list of African films about love in its myriad forms. Each film on our list can be streamed now on Showmax, Netflix, Apple TV, Prime, or Tubi.
1. Isoken (2017, Nigeria)
Director: Jadesola Osiberu
A modern romantic comedy, Isoken follows the journey of a successful, 34-year-old woman who finds herself at the center of her family’s concerns. Her mother, eager to see her daughter married, sets her up with Osaze, a prospect deemed suitable by her family’s traditional standards. However, fate has other plans, and Isoken unexpectedly falls deeply in love with Kevin, forcing her to navigate the complexities of her family’s expectations and her own desires.
The film stars stars Dakore Akande, Joseph Benjamin, Funke Akindele, and Jemima Osunde. Stream and watch Isoken on Netflix.
2. Atlantics (2019, Senegal)
Director: Mati Diop
Blending elements of romance, Atlantics explores themes of migration, loss, and the enduring power of love. Set in a rapidly evolving urban landscape, the film tells the story of a young woman, Ada, and her partner, Souleiman, struggling in the face of employment, class, migration, crime, family struggles, and ghosts.
The film stars Ibrahima Traore, Mame Bineta Sane, Amadou Mbow, Aminata Kane, Ibrahima Mbaye, and Diankou Sembene. Atlantics is currently streaming on Netflix.
3. Intlawulo (2024, South Africa)
Director: Thandokazi Msumza
Intlawulo is a drama that tells the story of Bucks, a young man consumed by guilt and regret. As he tries to make amends to the family of his deceased best friend, he finds himself unexpectedly falling in love with his friend’s sister. This complicated web of emotions forces Bucks to confront his past and navigate the balance between seeking forgiveness and following his heart.
The film stars Grace Bible Church Choir, Tshepiso Jeme, Ornette Bradley Mackay, and Kea Masango. Watch Intlawulo on Showmax.
4. Rafiki (2018, Kenya)
Director: Wanuri Kahiu
In Rafiki, Wanuri Kahiu crafts a courageous story of forbidden love between two young women in a conservative society. With vibrant visuals and narrative, the film has sparked conversations about love and acceptance in Kenya, reaffirming the universal right to love freely.
The film stars Samantha Mugatsia, Sheila Munyiva, Neville Misati, Nini Wacera, and Muthoni Gathecha. You can stream Rafiki on Tubitv.
5. The Wedding Party (2016, Nigeria)
Director: Kemi Adetiba
The Wedding Party is a cinematic celebration of love and unity. Set against the backdrop of a lavish Nigerian wedding, the film captures the joyous chaos and heartfelt moments that mark the union of two families, resonating with audiences across the continent and beyond.
The cast includes Adesua Etomi, Banky Wellington, Richard Mofe Damijo, Sola Sobowale, and Iretiola Doyle. Stream the film on Prime Video.
6. A Tale of Love And Desire (2021, Tunisia)
Director: Leyla Bouzid
A Tale of Love and Desire unfolds the romance between Ahmed, a young Frenchman of Algerian descent, and Farah, a Tunisian girl. Ahmed finds himself irrepressibly drawn to Farah, particularly after discovering a collection of sensual and provocative Arab literature that awakens his desires.
The film’s cast includes Sami Outalbali, Zbeida Belhajamor, Diong-Kéba Tacu, Aurélia Petit, Mahia Zrouki, and Bellamine Abdelmalek. You can stream A Tale of Love And Desire on Tubitv.
7. Inxeba (The Wound) (2017, South Africa)
Director: John Trengove
A provocative exploration of love intersecting with tradition, Inxeba (The Wound) challenges conventional narratives about masculinity and intimacy in modern South Africa. The film’s storytelling invites viewers to reconsider how cultural rituals shape—and sometimes complicate—the pursuit of love.
The film’s cast includes Bongile Mantsai, Niza Jay Ncoyini, Sibabalwe Esbie Ngqayana, Halalisani Bradley Cebekhulu, and Inga Qwede. You can watch the film on Apple TV.
8. A Naija Christmas (2021, Nigeria)
Director: Kunle Afolayan
A Naija Christmas, is a Nigerian rom-com directed by Kunle Afolayan. In this film, a mother presents her three sons – Ugo, Obi, and Chike – with a Christmas challenge: whoever brings home a wife first will inherit the coveted family house. As the brothers embark on their mission, unexpected romantic entanglements ensue.
Featuring Abayomi Alvin, Kunle Remi, Efa Iwara, and Rachel Oniga, A Naija Christmas delivers a blend of love and romance. A Naija Christmas is available for streaming on Netflix.
9. Aloe Vera (2020, Ghana)
Director: Peter Sedufia
Aloe Vera showcases the power of love. Set against the backdrop of a Ghana culture, the film tells the story of a courageous couple from feuding families who dare to defy the odds and become beacons of hope for unity. As the couple’s bond grows stronger, it becomes the catalyst for reconciliation, bridging the gaps between their warring families and inspiring a divided community to come together in peace and harmony.
The casts include Aaron Adatsi, Ngozi Viola Adikwu, Benjamin Adaletey, Ben Affat, Kobina Amissah-Sam, and Rhoda Okobea Ampene. You can watch Aloe Vera on Netflix.
10. Trading Places (2023, South Africa)
Director: Thabo Mashaila
In the South African drama Trading Places, a married couple, Nandi and Siya, find themselves at a crossroads, their relationship strained to the breaking point. However, an unexpected turn of events prompts them to swap lives, leading to a profound rediscovery of each other. As they rekindle the flame that once burned bright, Trading Places offers a heartwarming exploration of second chances and the transformative power of reconnection.
Featuring Didintle Khunou, Thabo Rametsi, Xolani Nhlapho, Zigi Ndlhovu, Zikhona Bali, the film is a must-see for anyone who believes in the redemptive power of love. You can stream the film on Netflix.
