MOVIES

3 Nigerian Books Successfully Adapted Into Films Available On Netflix

Published

3 months ago

February 10, 2024

Nigerian Books Adapted And Available On Netflix | Fab.ng

Have you ever wondered how classic Nigerian books come to life on the big screen? Movie adaptations take hidden gems from novels and plays and turn them into exciting films everyone can enjoy.

In Nigeria, talented writers like Kola Akinlade (Owo Eje), Akinwunmi Ishola (Saworoide), Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Half of a Yellow Sun), and Ibiere Addey (Crystals in the Mud) have seen their works transformed into captivating movies.

Want to experience this magic yourself? Here are three amazing Nigerian novels and plays that have been adapted into films and are currently streaming on Netflix:

1. Swallow

“Swallow,” written by Nigerian-American author Sefi Atta in 2012, is a gripping story about a young woman named Tolani. Set in the bustling city of Lagos and known for its challenges and opportunities, Tolani navigates life as a middle-class woman grappling with survival in a corrupt environment. Desperate to make ends meet, she gets entangled in the dangerous world of drug smuggling.

Fast forward to 2021, and award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan brought this tale to life on Netflix. The film boasts a talented cast featuring Niyola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, and Ijeoma Grace Agu, each bringing their own depth and energy to the characters.

Watch the trailer below:

2. God’s Waiting Room

Author Yewande Zaccheus poured her personal journey with infertility into a powerful four-part novel. This story then blossomed onto the screen in 2021 as the movie “The Wait,” directed by the talented duo Fiyin Gambo and Yemi Morafa.

The film follows two couples desperately longing for a baby and a dedicated doctor who strives to help them achieve their dream. It’s an emotional journey exploring themes of faith, family, and perseverance.

Get ready to be touched by the performances of Nse Ikpe-Etim, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ini Dima-Okojie, Kate Henshaw, Joke Silva, Chimezie Imo, Jimmy Odukoya, and Meg Otanwa, who bring these characters to life with depth.

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Since January 2023, you can catch “The Wait” on Netflix and lose yourself in this beautiful story that resonates with many hearts.

Watch the teaser below:

3. Death and the King’s Horseman

Playwright Wole Soyinka crafted a powerful story based on a real event from history. In “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman,” we meet Elesin, a loyal horseman tasked with a sacred duty following the King’s death. Tradition calls for him to perform ritual suicide, joining his ruler in the afterlife. However, things take a dramatic turn when British colonial authorities intervene, preventing Elesin from fulfilling his sacred vow.

Fast forward to 2020, and this captivating tale was brought to life on screen as a movie collaboration between EbonyLife and Netflix. The film, titled “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman,” was directed by the late, talented Biyi Bandele.

Odunlade Adekola, Shaffy Bello, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omowunmi Dada, Jide Kosoko, Kevin Ushi, and Brymo each bring their unique talent to the characters, making this film a must-watch.

The movie has themes of tradition, cultural clash, and the complexities of duty in this thought-provoking film adaptation. “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman” is sure to leave you pondering long after the credits roll.

Watch the trailer below:

I’m sure you would like to catch up with these movies, especially because it’s the weekend! Grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be transported to new worlds and thrilling stories thanks to these fantastic Nigerian film adaptations!

For more movie updates, check here.

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ENTERTAINMENT

“I’ll Pick Any Marvel Series” – Ruby Akubueze

Published

36 mins ago

May 15, 2024

Reporter

Ruby Akubueze wants to feature in a Marvel project | fab.ng

Ruby Akubueze, a Nollywood actress, aspires to be part of any Marvel Studios project under Disney Entertainment. She gained recognition for her role as Frances in the television series MTV Shuga. It explores the experiences of young individuals dealing with love, desire, and the complexities of maturing.

In an interview, Akubueze expressed her ambition to work on an international platform, particularly mentioning her desire to join a Marvel series. “I’ll pick any Marvel series; I have always wanted to be on a Marvel project,” she said.

Ruby Akubueze is well-known for portraying Oby in the 2023 Netflix film, Ijogbon.

Kunle Afolayan directed the movie. The movie revolves around four teenagers who stumble upon a bag of diamonds, leading to unexpected consequences. Akubueze described her role in Ijogbon as the most challenging one she has encountered in her acting career.

“It was a lot emotionally, physically, and given the time of the year we were filming, it was challenging because the sun was always scorching and we were always filming outdoors.

“We had like a few scenes indoors, and every day you wake up, we are filming outside and next thing is you would hear the director say, ‘Oh, so you guys are going to start running from here to here,’ and I am like ‘Oh my gosh, again!’

“Like we were always running, it was challenging but it was the most fun I had,” she said.

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A post shared by Pulse Nigeria (@pulsenigeria247)

The 26-year-old talked about the actresses who influenced her decision to become an actress. She said that she admires both Nigerian actress Ireti Doyle and American actress Angelina Jolie.

“In the Nigerian space, I will say Ireti Doyle. I watched her growing up in Fuji House of Commotion, and she was like a family fav and there is Angela Jolie in the foreign space,” she said.

MOVIES

Funke Akindele Announces An Upcoming Film “Finding Me”

Published

4 hours ago

May 15, 2024

Reporter

Finding Me: Funke Akindele announces an upcoming film | fab.ng

Nollywood star Funke Akindele is drumming up excitement for her upcoming film project titled “Finding Me.” On May 14, 2024, she took to Instagram to unveil the film’s name creatively.

Akindele also works behind the camera as a filmmaker. She shared two eye-catching transition videos featuring fellow Nollywood actors Femi Adebayo and Joseph Benjamin, stating, “FINDING ME!!!!!!!!!! 👀👀👀👀👀👀.”

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A post shared by Olufunke Akindele (@funkejenifaakindele)

In the video, the Nollywood actors changed outfits – from suits to traditional attire, and finally ending with “Finding Me” t-shirts. The clips offer hints about the film’s atmosphere or the actors’ roles, but they cleverly keep the plot under wraps.

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A post shared by Olufunke Akindele (@funkejenifaakindele)

This creative reveal has successfully piqued fans’ interest and generated buzz for “Finding Me.” Produced by Akindele’s own production company, FAAN, details about the film’s plot and release date are still under wraps.

Everybody loves Jenifa

Akindele also has another exciting project in the works! Just a month ago, she announced a new film titled “Everybody Loves Jenifa.” This upcoming movie serves as a spin-off from the highly successful “Jenifa” franchise. For fans eagerly awaiting Jenifa’s return to the big screen, the wait won’t be too long: “Everybody Loves Jenifa” is slated to premiere in December 2024.

A look at Funke Akindele’s accolades

Funke Akindele is a force to be reckoned with in Nollywood. Her impressive resume speaks for itself:

Producer: She’s the brains behind the beloved “Jenifa” franchise, a testament to her talent for creating content that resonates with audiences.
Director: Her directorial skills were instrumental in the success of “A Tribe Called Judah.” It holds the record for the highest-grossing Nigerian film ever, raking in over ₦1.4 billion.
Box office domination: Akindele is also behind two other top-grossing Nigerian films: “Battle on Buka Street” (₦668 million) and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” (₦636 million).
Award-winning actress: Akindele is the most decorated actress at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) with a staggering five wins. These awards recognise her exceptional talent in comedic roles, spanning projects like “The Return of Sheri Koko,” “Jenifa’s Diary,” and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.”

With a string of successful films, upcoming projects, and a collection of awards under her belt, Funke Akindele is undoubtedly a major player in the Nollywood scene. Fans eagerly await what “Finding Me” and “Everybody Loves Jenifa” have in store.

Check out more movie updates here.

MOVIES

Tiwa Savage’s “Water and Garri” Makes Top 10 In 14 Countries

Published

6 hours ago

May 15, 2024

Reporter

"Water and Garri" makes top 10 in 14 countries | fab.ng

On May 13th, 2024, Tiwa Savage took to her social media platform to express her delight at the international success of her film “Water and Garri.” The movie, which marks her debut as an actress, has clearly struck a chord with audiences around the world.

The true measure of its global appeal lies in its impressive performance on Prime Video. It climbed the ranks to land a coveted spot in the top 10 most-watched films in 14 countries. This achievement is a testament to the film’s quality and the power of Savage’s star power, both in her native Nigeria and on the international stage.

With “Water and Garri” making waves, fans can’t wait to see what exciting projects Savage tackles next, whether it’s captivating audiences with her music or dazzling them on screen.

“Top 10 in 14 countries Thanks to the WAG family worldwide for the love and support. Continue streaming WaterandGarri on @PrimeVideo❤️🙏🏾,” Savage stated.

Top10 in 14 countries

Thanks to the WAG family worldwide for the love and support

Continue streaming WaterandGarri on @PrimeVideo ❤️🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/w5EHvFCnMF

— Tiwa Savage ⚔️ (@TiwaSavage) May 13, 2024

These 14 countries include Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, the Benin Republic, Rwanda, and Togo. It extends beyond the African continent to Georgia, Zambia, Cyprus, Uganda, Ukraine, Tanzania, Qatar, and South Africa. The film’s themes clearly resonate with a wide international audience.

So, what’s the story behind the buzz in “Water and Garri”?

“Water and Garri” follows the journey of Aisha, played by Tiwa Savage herself. Aisha is an ambitious fashion designer. After 10 years of living in the United States, she returned to her Nigerian hometown due to a family loss. However, upon arrival, she’s met with a harsh reality: the place she once knew is now grappling with escalating violence and tension. This homecoming story promises a powerful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

The film boasts an impressive team behind the scenes as well. Meji Alabi directed this thrilling film, while Unbound Studio and JM Films produced it. “Water and Garri” was brought to life in Cape Coast, Ghana. The cast features talented actors like Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde, along with the leading lady herself.

But wait, there’s more! During a press conference for “Water and Garri,” Tiwa Savage shared exciting news with fans. She revealed that she’s already diving into her next film project, hinting at a busy future filled with both music and cinematic endeavours.

She said,

“We are already working on another script. I can’t give too much away, but this one is going to be special.”

This is fantastic news for fans who are eager to see Tiwa Savage continue to captivate audiences on both the music scene and the silver screen.

Get more updates here.