See list of 7 Best Nigerian Films of The Year 2022 – (Top Movies)
Nollywood’s activities have returned to pre-COVID levels in 2022 making it a less scary year for the industry.
This year saw a slew of excellent development and productions, but there wasn’t much enthusiasm for the box office, as most highly anticipated films opted for direct-to-stream releases.
With only a few days left till the end of the year, here’s a rundown of the best films that gave Nollywood fans something to rejoice about in 2022:
Below is our top picks for the 7 best Nollywood movies and Trending Nigerian films 2022 at the moment.
1. Chronicles of Ayinla
Tunde Kelani, a well known director, returned in 2021 to regain his spot as one of the best filmmakers the industry has ever produced, and his message was clear with ‘Ayinla.’
Much more than its nostalgic features, the non-biopic film based on the dying moments of legendary Apala singer Ayinla Omowura grabbed hearts. The picture, from acting to production design, reminds everyone of Kelani’s filmmaking standard, which is rarely surpassed in the industry. Tunde Kelani, a veteran director, returned in 2021 to regain his spot as one of the best filmmakers the industry has ever produced, and his message was clear with ‘Ayinla.’
Much more than its nostalgic features, the non-biopic film based on the dying moments of legendary Apala singer Ayinla Omowura grabbed hearts. The picture, from acting to production design, reminds everyone of Kelani’s filmmaking standard, which is rarely matched in the industry.
2. Breaded Life [movie]
Biodun Stephen chose April 2021, over four years after the release of ‘Picture Perfect,’ to finally give fans a much-anticipated spin-off (a series continuing the romantic comedy is available on streaming platform IrokoTV).
The film’s amazing influence on audiences during its theatrical run was unsurprising, as it crossed all the Ts for moviegoers.
7 Best Nigerian Films of The Year 2021 – (Top Movies)
The film’s premise revolves around a privileged brat who falls in love with a bread seller, much to the dismay of his snobbish mother, and stars Timini Egbuson in the lead role alongside Bimbo Ademoye, Tina Mba, and Bolanle Ninalowo, among others.
3. Juju Stories [tough Nollywood movie]
Fans of non-slapstick Nollywood films will agree that the CJs, Makamas, and Omonuas of the industry will have to rely on them for something new and intriguing.
A brief poll reveals that just a small percentage of film buffs are familiar with anthology films, which is what draws one’s attention to ‘Juju Stories.’
CJ Obasi, Abba Makama, and Michael Omonua directed the three-part anthology film, which deviates from the conventional by presenting the odd.
The film screened to positive reviews in Nigeria at the recently concluded AFRIFF, following its Halloween theatrical release in 12 African nations.
‘Juju Stories,’ starring Timini Egbuson, Paul Utomi, and Nengi Adoki, explores black magic, sometimes known as juju, in contemporary Lagos.
4. Prophetess
Soon after its April premiere, the sports-themed comedy directed by Niyi Akinmolayan became a box office hit. However, its status as one of the year’s best films is based on much more than its N131 million box office take.
Anthill Productions and Filmone experimented with a marketing strategy with ‘Prophetess.’ Prior to its debut, the production firms used traditional marketing methods, including as street rallies, handbills, posters, and other forms of publicity that are uncommon in Nollywood.
The contribution of the film’s topic to its popularity is an important point to consider. ‘Prophetess’ tells the story of a prophetess who gets herself into more trouble than she bargained for when she makes a false football prediction. It’s a comedy about everyday people in everyday situations, with football thrown in for good measure; everything a typical Nigerian cinemagoer wants to see.
5. La Femme Anjola
After a long wait, Mildred Okwo’s film noir was released on the big screen this year. The film, which stars Nonso Bassey, a former contestant on The Voice Nigeria, and Nollywood icon Rita Dominic, has gotten rave reviews from reviewers and moviegoers alike (just not the cinema-goers, if its box office numbers are anything to go by).
The criminal thriller tells the story of a young stockbroker who becomes entangled in a femme fatale’s sexual web. At this year’s AMAA, ‘La Femme Anjola’ received numerous nominations.
6. Eyimofe
‘Eyimofe’ (This is My Desire) by Chuko and Arie Esiri is the most talked about and rewarded film of the year. The film undoubtedly made a great effect, especially globally, with a 100% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Although the film’s box office reception was not as positive as predicted, it went on to be the second most nominated film at this year’s AMAA, winning four awards.
‘Eyimofe’ follows Mofe, a factory worker, and Rosa, a hairdresser, on their separate journeys to find a better life away from home.
7. Collision Course
Bolanle Austen Peters’ crew saves the business once more with a socially aware statement film.
The story revolves around a young singer whose life is turned upside down after an encounter with police officers.
The story, which was shot in the aftermath of the terrible #EndSARS protests, analyzes police violence before going a step further and making a case for the men in black themselves.
If you missed this year’s AFRIFF, you’ll have to wait for a date for the theatrical or VOD release of ‘Collision Course,’ as it’s only been shown at the festival thus far.
7 Best Nigerian Films of The Year 2021 – (Top Movies)
