In the ever-evolving landscape of Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, a subtle yet profound transformation is underway. Once characterized by rapid production and formulaic storytelling, Nollywood is now embracing a new era. An era where compelling narratives and well-crafted scripts take center stage. This shift is not merely a trend but a testament to the industry’s maturation and its commitment to producing films that resonate deeply with audiences both locally and globally.
The Script Evolution: From Quantity to Quality
Historically, Nollywood’s prolific output was its hallmark. Films were churned out at an impressive pace, often prioritizing quantity over quality. While this approach made Nigerian cinema accessible and relatable, it sometimes compromised the depth and originality of the stories told. However, as the global cinematic landscape evolved, so did Nollywood. Filmmakers began to recognize that a strong script is the backbone of any successful film. This realization sparked a movement towards more thoughtful, nuanced, and innovative storytelling.
Today, Nollywood is witnessing a renaissance in scriptwriting. Writers and directors are delving into complex themes, exploring diverse genres, and crafting characters that reflect the multifaceted nature of Nigerian society. This evolution is not just about improving the quality of scripts but also about elevating the entire filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production, ensuring that every aspect of the film contributes to a cohesive and impactful narrative.
The Role of AI in Scriptwriting
In this digital age, technology plays an increasingly significant role in the creative process. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are now being utilized to assist in script development, offering writers insights into narrative structures, character development, and dialogue pacing. These tools analyze vast amounts of data to identify patterns and trends, providing valuable feedback that can enhance the storytelling process.
While AI is not a replacement for human creativity, it serves as a powerful ally, enabling writers to refine their scripts and explore new possibilities. This integration of technology into scriptwriting reflects Nollywood’s commitment to innovation and its desire to stay at the forefront of global cinema.
Notable Nollywood Films Reflecting the Shift Towards Stronger Scripts
The following films exemplify Nollywood’s dedication to storytelling excellence, each offering unique narratives that have garnered both critical acclaim and audience appreciation:
1. The Black Book (2023)
Directed by Editi Effiong, The Black Book is a high-octane action thriller that tells the story of a retired hitman turned deacon who returns to his violent past to avenge the wrongful death of his son, absolve him, and give him a proper burial. The film became the first Nigerian movie to reach No. 3 on Netflix’s global charts, amassing over 20 million views. Its success marked a significant milestone for Nollywood on the international stage.
2. Breath of Life (2023)
BB Sasore’s Breath of Life is a spiritual drama that explores themes of destiny and purpose. Narrated by Elijah, the story follows Timi, a young man who excelled academically, spoke 16 languages and became the first African clergyman in the Church of England. After marrying Bridget and having a daughter, he returns to Nigeria, living a fulfilling life until tragedy strikes.
Released on Amazon Prime Video, it topped streaming charts in Nigeria and Ghana. At the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, the film won Best Movie, Best Director, and Best Lead Actor, among other accolades.
3. Adire (2023)
Directed by Adeoluwa Owu, Adire tells the story of a former sex worker who starts a lingerie business using traditional adire fabric, empowering local women. The film won Best Cinematography at the 16th Best of Nollywood Awards and was praised for its compelling narrative and strong performances.
At the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA), Kehinde Bankole received Best Lead Actress for her performance in same movie.
4. To Kill a Monkey (2025)
Kemi Adetiba’s To Kill a Monkey is a cybercrime drama that delves into the complexities of modern-day crime. The limited series which is on Netflix is about a struggling father, Ephe, who is drawn into the world of cybercrime after a chance encounter with a friend. The crime and thriller series explores the moral compromises and increasing danger he faces as his new lifestyle conflicts with his family life.
The series became the highest-watched Nigerian show of the year, reflecting its widespread acclaim. It has led to strong anticipation for potential nominations at future awards ceremonies like the Africa Magic Viewes’ Choice Awards.
5. My Father’s Shadow (2025)
Akinola Davies Jr.‘s My Father’s Shadow is an intimate portrayal of a father and his two sons during the 1993 Nigerian election crisis. The brothers witness both the city’s magnitude and their father’s daily struggles as political unrest threatens their journey home.
The film made history as the first Nigerian film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival’s Official Selection, screening in the Un Certain Regard section.
6. Hijack ’93 (2024)
Hijack ’93, directed by Robert O. Peters, recounts the hijacking of a Nigerian Airways flight in 1993. The film achieved significant success on Netflix, amassing 7.3 million views and securing a spot in the Top 10 across 61 countries.
7. Battle on Buka Street (2022)
Funke Akindele’s Battle on Buka Street is a comedic yet poignant tale of two women vying for dominance in a Lagos street market. The film became the highest-grossing Nigerian film of all time with ₦668 million at the box office.
8. Gangs of Lagos (2023)
Directed by Jade Osiberu, Gangs of Lagos is a gritty crime drama set in the heart of Lagos. The film earned ₦230 million in Nigeria and received critical acclaim for its cinematography and storytelling. It won Best Young/Promising Actor and Best Visual Effects at the 2023 African Movie Academy Awards.
9. Jagun Jagun (2023)
Jagun Jagun, directed by Tope Adebayo, is a historical epic that follows the journey of a young warrior in ancient Nigeria. The film dominated the 2024 Best of Nollywood Awards with six wins, including Best Indigenous Film and Best Director.
10. The Trade (2023)
Kunle Afolayan’s The Trade is a gripping tale of human trafficking and its impact on individuals and families. The film was recognized for its impactful narrative and contribution to raising awareness about human trafficking.
Global Recognition and Future Outlook
The international success of films like My Father’s Shadow and The Black Book underscores Nollywood’s growing influence on the global cinematic landscape. These films have not only captivated audiences but have also opened doors for Nigerian cinema in prestigious international film festivals and streaming platforms.
Looking ahead, Nollywood’s commitment to storytelling excellence is poised to continue its upward trajectory. With advancements in technology, a focus on script development, and a diverse pool of talented filmmakers, the industry is well-positioned to produce films that resonate with global audiences.
Conclusion
Nollywood’s journey from prioritizing quantity to emphasizing quality storytelling marks a pivotal milestone in its development. The films highlighted in this article exemplify the industry’s dedication to crafting narratives that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and culturally significant. As Nollywood continues to evolve, its focus on strong scripts will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of Nigerian cinema.
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