Nigerian filmmakers have left an indelible mark on the global stage in a cinematic journey through the last decade. Leading the charge in 2023 is Funke Akindele’s record-breaking film, “A Tribe Called Judah,” a cinematic triumph that has smashed box office records with an astounding 1.236 billion naira. The film has shattered records by surpassing the 1-billion-naira mark within three weeks of its release. Akindele’s storytelling prowess and on-screen charisma continue to captivate audiences, solidifying her status as a Nollywood icon.
Other top-grossing Nollywood movies
Battle on Buka Street
The year 2022 witnessed the return of Akindele with “Battle on Buka Street,” a gripping tale that amassed 668.42 million naira. This back-to-back success highlights the actress’s ability not only to entertain but also to dominate the box office, showcasing her versatility in storytelling.
Christmas in Miami
In 2021, Ayo Makun took center stage with “Christmas in Miami,” a festive delight that brought in 265.58 million naira. Makun’s unique storytelling, combined with his knack for humor, resonated with audiences, marking yet another milestone in his illustrious career.
Omo Ghetto: The Saga
The year 2020 saw Akindele once again making waves with “Omo Ghetto: The Saga,” earning an impressive 636.13 million naira. This film not only shattered box office records but also showcased the industry’s appetite for narratives that reflect the diverse experiences of Nigerians.
Sugar Rush
In 2019, Abimbola Craig’s “Sugar Rush” sweetened the box office with 287.05 million naira. The film’s success signaled a growing openness to diverse storytelling, setting the stage for a new era in Nollywood.
Chief Daddy
Mo Abudu and Temidayo Abudu’s “Chief Daddy” in 2018, a comedy-drama film directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, earned 387.5 million Naira. The movie starred popular Nollywood actors and actresses like Funke Akindele Bello, Kate Henshaw, Nkem Owoh, Joke Silva, Patience Ozokwor, Richard Mofe Damijo and Falz the Bad Guy.
The Wedding Party 1 & 2
“The Wedding Party 2 “This 2017 romantic comedy-drama film was directed by Niyi Akinmolayan. The Wedding Party 2 is a sequel to The Wedding Party, which was released in December 2016 by Tope Oshin and brought in 433 million naira. Each year has been marked by outstanding contributions to Nigerian cinema.
Fifty
“Fifty” is a 2015 Nigerian romantic drama film, released on December 18, 2015. The movie brought in 80.03 million naira. The film is executive produced by Ebony Life TV CEO Mo Abudu and directed by Biyi Bandele
In 2014, the Nigerian romantic comedy film “30 Days in Atlanta,” written by Patrick “Koinage” Nnamani, produced by Ayo Makun, and directed by Robert Peters, was recognised as the highest-grossing film of all time in Nigerian cinemas, earning 163.35 million naira.
Half of a Yellow Sun
Andrea Calderwood’s “Half of a Yellow Sun” is a 2013 Anglo-Nigerian drama film directed by Biyi Bandele and based on the novel of the same name by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The movie earned 60 million naira making it the highest-grossing movie for the year.
The industry’s resilience and commitment to storytelling have made it a force to be reckoned with globally, promising more cinematic masterpieces in the years ahead.