The British Film Institute (BFI) has officially selected the Nollywood film “The Weekend“.Daniel Oriahi directed the film. It is to screen at the prestigious 68th edition of its London Film Festival. The BFI Film Festival in London will occur from October 9th to October 20th, 2024.
The lineup for the festival boasts an impressive 255 titles, including features, shorts, series, and immersive works. They represent a diverse range of 80 countries and feature 64 languages.
Following the successful premiere of his new feature film on August 30th, 2024, Oriahi took to Instagram to share the exciting news of The Weekend‘s selection for the BFI Film Festival. The film garnered a remarkable ₦8 million at the box office.
“I am deeply honoured and proud to announce that The Weekend has been officially selected to screen at the 2024 BFI London Film Festival, the largest film festival in the UK. This selection comes as The Weekend continues to break box office records for its genre in Nollywood. The Weekend will be showcased in the BFI (LFF) Cult Section alongside some of the most anticipated thrillers and horror films of the fall season. I am equally thrilled to join the ranks of extraordinary new wave Nigerian filmmakers like @kennethgyang @fierycj @abbatmakama @mikegouken @damiorimogunje and @chukoesiri , whose works have graced past editions of this prestigious festival,” he said.
Oriahi began his filmmaking journey by producing and directing Misfit.
This is a psychological horror film, as his debut feature on a limited budget. He has also directed other notable works, including Taxi Driver: Oke Ashewo in 2015 and Sylvia in 2018.
The selection committee for the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival in New York reviewed numerous submissions. They chose Oriahi’s comeback film, The Weekend, for screening at the festival. This selection made The Weekend the only Nollywood film to feature at the international event this year.
The Weekend is a gripping psychological thriller that follows Nikiya Talabi, an orphan girl yearning for family. Nikiya visits her fiancée’s seemingly perfect family, only to uncover their sinister secret. The film boasts a talented cast. This includes Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Bucci Franklin, Meg Otanwa, Keppy Ekpeyong Bassey, Gloria Anozie-Young, and Damilola Ogunsi.
Filmone’s drama-thriller “Farmer’s Bride” stars Tobi Bakre and Gbubemi Ejeye. They command attention in the intense new trailer. Set to release in cinemas on September 27th, the film combines elements of love, betrayal, and supernatural revenge, promising an exciting storyline.
Adebayo Tijani and Jack’enneth Opukeme directed the movie which features an ensemble cast. This cast includes Femi Branch,Mercy Aigbe, Efe Irele, and Wunmi Toriola.
The plot transports viewers to 1980s Ibadan, where the story centres on Funmi, a young woman trapped in an unwanted marriage. Funmi, played by Gbubemi Ejeye, is forced into a union with Odun, portrayed by Tobi Bakre, a wealthy yet lonely farmer.
While Odun offers her financial security, Funmi’s heart belongs to someone else. Her emotional turmoil deepens as she struggles to cope with a life she didn’t choose, and her resentment toward Odun intensifies.
As Funmi finds herself torn between duty and desire, she becomes involved with another man who ignites a passion in her that Odun never could. This affair pushes her into a precarious situation, where the consequences of her choices begin to take a dangerous turn. The film explores themes of loyalty, desire, and the supernatural, as Funmi’s decisions spiral into a web of deadly repercussions.
“Farmer’s Bride” not only delves into the complexity of relationships but also incorporates elements of supernatural vengeance. This adds depth and intrigue to the plot. The film promises gripping performances from the cast. Indeed, with visually striking scenes and a gripping storyline, the film will keep the audience on edge.
As the September 27 release date approaches, viewers can expect a compelling mix of love, betrayal, and the haunting consequences of difficult choices.
Genesis Pictures and Silverbird Distribution have joined forces to co-distribute “The Waiter,” the latest film from popular comedian Ayo ‘A.Y’ Makun. Corporate World Entertainment produced the action-comedy. It is a deep dive into the country’s socio-political issues.
Nnaeto Orazulike of Genesis Pictures and Isabella Okechukwu of Silverbird Distribution released a joint statement about the partnership. Orazulike emphasized their goal to reach global audiences. Okechukwu highlighted how this collaboration would set new standards for film distribution in Nigeria and create fresh revenue streams.
AY expressed his gratitude for the partnership. He sees it as a significant step forward for Nigeria’s film distribution industry. The comedian-turned-filmmaker has made a name for himself in Nollywood with his ability to blend humour and compelling narratives.
Dubbed the “Gensilver deal,” this partnership could reshape Nigeria’s cinema landscape. Genesis and Silverbird’s combined market shares now position them to challenge FilmOne’s long-standing dominance in the industry. This deal might usher in a new era of cooperation and innovation within Nollywood, promoting fair revenue sharing and collaborative trade.
AY has left an indelible mark on Nigerian film and entertainment. His debut film, “30 Days in Atlanta,” became one of Nollywood’s highest-grossing films in 2014. He followed this success with “A Trip to Jamaica” in 2016 and “Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons” in 2018. Each release has consistently delivered box office hits.
“The Waiter” is set to hit theatres in December.
Films from Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, and Mercy Aigbe will create a competitive month for Nigerian cinema. This lineup promises an exciting end to the year for Nollywood fans.
The co-distribution agreement between Genesis Pictures and Silverbird Distribution marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s film industry. It demonstrates a move towards more collaborative and innovative approaches to film distribution. This partnership could potentially increase the reach of Nigerian films both domestically and internationally.
As the Nigerian film industry continues to grow and evolve, deals like this may become more common. They offer a way for companies to pool resources and expertise. This potentially leads to better promotion and wider distribution of Nollywood films. This could, in turn, lead to increased revenue and recognition for Nigerian filmmakers and actors.
The success of “The Waiter” and the Gensilver deal will be closely watched by industry insiders. If successful, it could pave the way for more such partnerships in the future.
Showmax has unveiled the trailer for its Nigerian telenovela’s final season, Wura Season 3. The season will premiere on September 23, 2024, and air two new episodes each week.
The trailer picks up where the previous season left off, with the town of Iperindo abuzz anticipating Tumi and Jeje’s wedding. However, unforeseen circumstances threaten to disrupt their union, as ghosts from their pasts resurface.
Meanwhile, Wura’s carefully constructed empire faces a looming threat from her enemies, who are closing in and ready to strike.
The award-winning drama returns with thrilling plotlines, drawing viewers deeper into the intense world of Wura. Power, betrayal, and dark secrets collide in this gripping series finale, promising the most captivating conclusion yet.
The showrunner, Rogers Ofime said,
“The finale is packed with compelling plots and intricate character developments that will leave fans in awe.”
“The entire production team has given their all, and I can confidently say that this season will deliver breathtaking performances that will linger in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll,” he added.
“Wura” burst onto screens in 2023…
Introducing viewers to Wura-Amoo Adeleke the formidable CEO of Frontline Gold Mine, Season 1 showed her ruthless drive to protect her empire at any cost. She often crossed ethical lines, making enemies as she fought to secure her legacy.
Season 2 explored Wura’s complex personal life, especially her family relationships. Dark secrets emerged, threatening the carefully constructed world she had built. Dramatic twists and intense confrontations kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
The show’s popularity soared, becoming the most-watched title on Showmax in Nigeria. It garnered a devoted following and critical acclaim. Lead actress Scarlet Gomez received nominations for her powerful performance. In 2023, she was up for Best Actress at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs) and for Acting at The Future Awards Africa.
The series continued to impress in 2024. It earned nominations for Best Writing TV Series and Best Scripted Series at the AMVCAs. “Wura” also took home the prize for Best Web Series at the 2024 Gage Awards.
This Nigerian drama adapts the hit South African telenovela “The River,” which earned an International Emmy nomination. The story unfolds in Iperindo, Osun state, where the discovery of gold binds and divides the community.
Wura Season 3 promises to raise the stakes even higher. Fans can look forward to returning performances from the talented ensemble cast. Scarlet Gomez leads, joined by Yomi Fash-Lanso, Martha Ehinome, Ray Adeka, and many others.
The upcoming episodes in Wura Season 3 will deliver more. This includes the drama, suspense, and unexpected twists that viewers have come to love.
As “Wura” enters Season 3, it shows no signs of slowing down.
The series continues to captivate audiences with its gripping storytelling and complex characters. With each new episode, it cements its place as a must-watch Nigerian drama. Fans eagerly anticipate what shocking revelations and power struggles await in the gold-rich world of Iperindo.
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