Nollywood has delivered an amazing selection of movies in 2024. From exciting historical stories to touching romances, thrilling action, and meaningful social dramas.
Join us as we explore the top 10 Nollywood movies of 2024, spotlighting the brilliant creators, compelling narratives, and exceptional performances that have made these films as standouts in a thriving and competitive industry.
1. SEVEN DOORS
Seven Doors tells the intriguing story of a young man Oba Adedunjoye (Femi Adebayo) who is invited to a village to claim his birthright as the ruler of an ancient kingdom. As he steps into this new world, he finds himself faced with unexpected trials and hidden secrets that force him to question everything he thought he knew about his past and destiny. The film skillfully weaves themes of mystery, self-discovery, and the complexities of leadership, all while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
From the moment the the king arrives Ilara village, Seven Doors takes the audience on a suspenseful journey, filled with twists and turns. The Film explores King Adedunjoye’s (Femi Adebayo) internal struggles as he faces more difficult decisions that not only endanger his own life but also the fate of those around him.
One of the most captivating moments in the film occurs when the Oba Adedunjoye (Femi Adebayo) begins to open the metaphorical doors that reveal dark secrets about his ancestors and the kingdom he is meant to rule. These revelations drives the story forward, creating a suspense that builds with new discovery.
The cast delivers exceptional performances, with each actor bringing depth to their characters. The chemistry between the the King and his Queen, Amaka Adedunjoye ( Chioma Chukwuka) adds emotional weight to the film, as each character plays a crucial role in the unfolding mystery. The director (Femi Adebayo) expertly balances moments of intense drama, giving the film emotional depth while maintaining its thrilling pace.
Seven Doors is a truly a masterpiece that explores the complexities of identity, fate, and power. With its compelling storyline, strong performances, and suspenseful atmosphere, it is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking films that challenge perceptions and deliver unforgettable experiences.
2. HOUSE OF GA’A
House of Gaa is a captivating drama explores into the world of power, ambition, and the complex relationships that shape the course of history. The film follows the rise of a powerful leader within the kingdom of Oyo, whose quest for dominance becomes both his strength and his undoing. Amid political intrigue and personal betrayal, House of Gaa explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the costs of ambition.
The movie presents a tense and engaging narrative as the protagonist (Femi Branch) ascends to power after a major victory. However, the road to greatness is not easy. As Gaa consolidates his influence, he faces opposition from both internal and external forces, including fierce rivals and the Oyo Mesi council. With every decision, his grasp on power tightens, but the cost is high, leading to betrayals and the eventual unraveling of everything he worked for.
What stands out in House of Gaa is its intense exploration of the human side of ambition. The film doesn’t simply focus on the political maneuvers of the main character but also delves into his internal struggles, the personal relationships that shape his path, and the sacrifices he makes along the way. Every betrayal, every alliance, feels like a direct result of the character’s pursuit of something greater than himself leading to tragic consequences that challenge the very nature of loyalty and power.
The film’s performances are exceptional, with the cast delivering powerful portrayals of their complex characters. The chemistry between the actors brings the tense political drama to life, ensuring the audience is fully invested in the fates of the characters. The storytelling is sharp, engaging, and full of twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The movie’s lush cinematography and intricate storytelling were praised by critics, cementing its place as one of the most ambitious Nollywood productions of the year.
3. LISABI
Niyi Akinmolayan’s historical drama about the 18th-century, Which brought the oppression between the leaders and masses .
Lisabi tells the intriging story of Lisabi, a courageous leader determined to defend his people and preserve the values of his land. The explains bravery, leadership, and the complexities of power, set against the backdrop of Yoruba history. With a powerful cast including Lateef Adedimeji and Ibrahim Chatta the film explores the intricacies of loyalty, honor, and the weight of leadership in a time of great unrest.
From the opening scene to the final moments, Lisabi captures the audience with its intense narrative and outstanding performances of an hardworking, comfortable farmer. The storyline is rich and layered, focused on the rise of a hero who is as much a symbol of strength as he is a reminder of the personal sacrifices required in the fight for justice. As Lisabi confronts external enemies and internal struggles, his quest to protect his people becomes a powerful commentary on what it means to be a leader and a warrior.
One of the film’s standout moments is when Lisabi takes a stand against killing of his friend. The tension in this scene manifested as Lisabi faces not only physical battles but also the emotional toll of leadership. The way the film handles Lisabi’s inner conflict and loyalty to his people offers an emotional depth that elevates it beyond a traditional action-packed epic.
The cast delivers exceptional performances that bring the characters to life with authenticity and passion. The ensemble cast ensures that every character, from allies to adversaries, plays a crucial role in the development of the story. The director’s skillful handling of action sequences and dramatic moments adds a level of intensity that makes Lisabi a memorable viewing experience.
Lisabi is a remarkable film that combines historical drama with compelling action, exploring the complexities of leadership, power, and loyalty. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in Nigerian history, heroism, and the timeless struggle for justice. The film’s powerful storytelling, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes make it an unforgettable addition to Nollywood cinema.
4. AFAMEFUNAM
Directed by Kayode Kasum, explores the quest for economic independence Igbo boys navigating the complexities of apprenticeship. The film explores into their ambitions, the sacrifices that define their path to success, and the inevitable betrayals they face in interactions with characters like Afam, Paulo, Obum, Chike, and their counterparts within Odogwu’s business empire.
Afamefunam is not just a film, it’s an experience that leaves you reflecting on the power of heritage, the choices we make, and the legacies we leave behind. Watching it will open your eyes to the richness of African storytelling while sparking meaningful conversations about life, culture, and identity.
The film boasts exceptional performances from its cast, whose portrayals of their characters bring depth and authenticity to the story. These performances elevate the film’s emotional weight, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
The cinematography and production design of Afamefunam are visually stunning. The film captures the vibrancy and richness of its setting, using striking visuals to enhance the storytelling and immerse the viewer in its world.
While deeply rooted in Nigerian culture, the themes explored in Afamefunam are universal, making it relevant to audiences around the world. Its exploration of love, loss, and personal growth transcends cultural boundaries, making it a film with global appeal.
5. OLOTURE: THE JOURNEY
This film portray the life of a journalist who went undercover as a prostitute to expose the harsh realities of human trafficking but discovers a world filled with exploited women and ruthless violence.
Set in Nigeria, Oloture tells the story of a young journalist who enters the dangerous world of trafficking to reveal the truth. Unprepared for the brutality of traders and pimps, she finds unexpected friendship with Blessing, Linda, and Beauty, the women she lives with. However, she struggles to cope as she gets drawn deeper into their world. Her search for the truth comes at a great cost, taking her to the edge of no return.
With its strong performances, particularly from the lead actors ( Sharon Ooja, Beverley Osu, Adebukola Oladipupo, Efa Iwara ) and a plot that delves into complex societal issues, Oloture has earned a spot as one of 2024’s standout movies.
Raising Awareness: Oloture shines a spotlight on the harrowing realities of human trafficking, shedding light on a topic that is often hidden in plain sight. Watching the film helps bring awareness to this global issue, prompting conversations about how to tackle it.
Powerful Storytelling: The narrative is gripping, emotional, and deeply human, providing a raw portrayal of the strength and resilience of the characters. It’s a story that resonates with viewers on an emotional level, urging empathy and understanding.
Inspiring Action: By educating viewers on the complexities and dangers of trafficking, the film encourages people to take action. Whether through supporting organizations, spreading awareness, or being more vigilant in their communities, Oloture empowers viewers to make a difference.
Cultural Significance: The film explores Nigerian society and its challenges, offering an important cultural perspective. For those interested in African cinema or global social issues, Oloture provides a vital window into the struggles faced by marginalized individuals.
6. HIJACK 93
This thrilling action movie is based on the real-life hijacking of a Nigerian airline in the 1990s. With edge-of-your-seat suspense, Hijack 93 recounts the tense events, highlighting the bravery of the passengers and crew while exploring themes of survival, heroism, and national pride.
Hijack 93 is based on the real-life events surrounding the hijacking of a commercial plane in 1993, which escalated into a life-or-death situation for both the passengers and the crew. Watching the film allows viewers to witness the terrifying reality of this hijacking and the heroism that emerged in the face of extreme danger.
The film’s pacing and narrative structure are designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. With high tension and constant suspense, Hijack 93 immerses viewers into the psychological and emotional strain of the hijacking, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Human Resilience and Heroism: One of the key themes of the film is the resilience and bravery of ordinary people who rise to extraordinary challenges. The passengers and crew of the hijacked plane demonstrate incredible courage, highlighting the power of human determination and solidarity in times of crisis.
7. FUNMILAYO RANSOME KUTI
Fumilayo Ransome-Kuti is a Nigerian biopic that brings to life the extraordinary story of Chief Fumilayo Ransome-Kuti, the legendary mother of Fela Kuti. The film traces her journey from being the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School to her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti. It highlights her courageous leadership in organizing a protest of over ten thousand women advocating for the abolition of unfair taxes, voting rights, and greater representation of women in government. The film also delves into the mysterious circumstances surrounding her death after an encounter with unknown uniformed men, an event that was immortalized in her son’s music.
Set against the backdrop of the 1970s in Abeokuta, the movie explores the rise of Nigerian women’s activism, showcasing how Fumilayo balanced her roles as an activist, wife, and mother. It reveals the brave spirit of a woman who played a pivotal role in shaping Nigerian history.
Filmed in Abeokuta, the cinematography beautifully captures the town’s landscape and atmosphere, giving viewers an authentic sense of place. The costumes further enhance the immersion, faithfully recreating the 1970s era and transporting the audience back to the time when these significant events unfolded.
Kehinde Bankole plays a significant role in Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, delivering an outstanding performance that captures the essence of the iconic activist. Known for her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity, Kehinde Bankole brings a unique power to her role. Her portrayal of Fumilayo Ransome-Kuti resonates with strength, resilience, and grace, key attributes of the woman who led a monumental movement for women’s rights in Nigeria.
Bankole’s performance shines as she embodies Fumilayo’s journey from a young, determined woman to a fearless leader in the fight for justice, highlighting her unwavering spirit and her ability to balance activism, motherhood, and marriage. Kehinde’s nuanced portrayal allows the audience to connect deeply with Fumilayo’s struggles and triumphs, bringing the character to life in a way that feels both powerful and relatable.
8. LIFE & DIRT
The movie Life and Dirt dig into the themes of ambition, trust, and the risks of chasing quick financial gains. It tells the story of two men, Chidi Mokeme and Bovi, who devise a get-rich scheme. However, their journey takes an unpredictable turn as they face unforeseen challenges that test both their plans and their friendship.
The film tackles important social issues such as poverty, class struggles, and the impact of personal choices. By showcasing the everyday challenges faced by individuals, Life & Dirt resonates with viewers on a personal level, encouraging reflection on their own lives and the world around them.
Strong Character Development: The film features well-developed, multidimensional characters whose personal journeys drive the narrative. Whether dealing with family dynamics, romantic entanglements, or personal dilemmas, the characters’ emotional growth and struggles create a strong connection with the audience.
Stunning Cinematography and Production: Life & Dirt benefits from solid production values, with impressive cinematography, music, and set design that create an immersive experience. The visuals complement the emotional tone of the story, adding depth and authenticity to the film.
Timely and Relatable Themes: The film’s themes of ambition, resilience, and the impact of one’s decisions are universally relatable. As people navigate their own personal and professional challenges, Life & Dirt provides insight and emotional resonance,
Captivating Performances: The cast especially Bovi and Docas Shola Fapson delivered a strong performances that bring the characters’ struggles and triumphs to life. The emotional intensity and authenticity in the performances make the film all the more compelling and impactful.
9. BREATH OF LIFE
This movie isn’t just a film; it’s a soul-stirring experience that inspires, educates, and entertains. Breathe of Life explores deep into themes of faith, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. Breath of Life follows the journey of Timi, a former gifted clergyman whose life is shattered after the brutal murder of his family. His path to redemption hinges on the guidance of his new mentee, Elijah. The film stars an impressive cast, including Chimeze Imoh , Demoa Adedoyin, Eku Edewor, among others.
One of the first things that stood out to me in Breath of Life was the brilliant use of color to reflect the emotions of the characters. Black was used to symbolize darkness and grief, while blue and white represented hope and new beginnings. Timi, for instance, wears only black from the day his family is killed until he meets Elijah. After their encounter, the colors of his attire begin to lighten, symbolizing his emotional transformation. This subtle yet powerful use of color is a technique that only a few Nollywood filmmakers have truly mastered. The stunning locations across Lagos and Ibadan also contributed to bringing the beautiful cinematography to life, adding depth and meaning to the visual storytelling.
Thoroughly enjoyed the way the story unfolded across different timelines in Breath of Life. Elijah’s narration was especially captivating, soothing and steady, it guided the audience through the entire film without any confusion. The storytelling flowed effortlessly, with each shift in time adding depth to the narrative, ensuring that the audience remained fully engaged. The seamless transitions between past and present helped build a stronger connection to the characters and their journey, making the film a truly immersive experience.
The casting in Breath of Life was exceptional. Chimezie Imoh truly shone as the lead. He is such a natural and emotive actor, perfectly embodying the character of Elijah. His portrayal brought the character to life in a way that felt deeply authentic. The use of an inhaler as a prop for Elijah was a clever touch, symbolizing his shyness and innocence, while foreshadowing the life-changing challenges he was about to face.
Chimezie also had remarkable chemistry with his co-actors, Genoveva Umeh and Wale Ojo, creating an engaging dynamic that enhanced the emotional depth of the film.
Anna’s wardrobe was spot-on every detail, from her outfits and shoes to her hair, makeup, and earrings, was perfectly styled, adding an extra layer of polish to her character.
Although Eku had fewer lines in the film, her presence was undeniably strong. We felt her absence when she wasn’t on screen, which speaks to her skill as an actress. She’s truly one of Nollywood’s underrated talents.
10. A TRIBE CALLED JUDAH
A tribe called judah: A Tribe Called Judah tells the compelling story of Jedidiah Judah, a determined single mother raising five sons from different fathers. The film delves into the complexities of single parenthood and addresses the societal stigma often attached to it. With a stellar cast featuring Funke Akindele, Jide Kene, Timini Egbuson, Tobi Makinde, Uzee Usman, Olumide Oworu, Uzor Arukwe, Nse Ikpe-Etim, and Genoveva Umeh, the film explores family dynamics, personal growth, and the strength of a mother’s love.
The film captivated me from start to finish. Every element was executed brilliantly—the storyline was compelling, and the dialogue sharp and engaging. Despite the chaotic nature of the plot, the film maintained a clear focus on one central theme: the struggles of a single mother raising five sons. While tackling weighty issues, the film seamlessly blended humor into every scene, making it both emotionally resonant and entertaining.
One of my favorite moments came early in the film when we were introduced to each character. In a particularly memorable scene, Jedidiah is insulted while out with her youngest son, and he calls his four brothers, who immediately drop everything to defend her. This opening scene perfectly set the tone, offering a glimpse into the tight-knit bond of the Judah family and grabbing our attention right away.
The cast delivered exceptional performances. Each actor brought depth and authenticity to their roles, and the directors did an excellent job of ensuring a balanced ensemble performance, with no one overshadowing the others.
Uzor Arukwe’s portrayal of Chigozie was a standout for me. His accent, facial expressions, and wardrobe were spot-on, bringing to life the character of a self-centered Igbo trader. Arukwe’s versatility as an actor shines through, further solidifying his place as one of my favorite Nollywood talents.
Funke Akindele also delivered an extraordinary performance in A Tribe Called Judah, showcasing her remarkable acting range. As Jedidiah Judah, a resilient single mother raising five sons from different fathers, Funke brings an unmatched depth to the character. Her portrayal is both powerful and heartfelt, effortlessly capturing the struggles, sacrifices, and strength of a woman who is constantly fighting against societal expectations while striving to provide a better future for her children.
A Tribe Called Judah is a remarkable film that blends humor, drama, and family dynamics with powerful performances. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates heartfelt stories and exceptional Nollywood filmmaking.
