MOVIES

Crime Thriller “Orah” To Open AFRIFF 2023

Published

1 year ago

October 27, 2023

Crime Thriller Orah To Open AFRIFF 2023 In Lagos | Fab.ng

The 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in November 2023 will kick off with “Orah“, a revenge thriller by Nigerian-Canadian filmmaker, Lonzo Nzekwe.

The film revolves around a Canadian taxi driver seeking vengeance against a Nigerian drug-trafficking ring responsible for her son’s death.

Lonzo Nzekwe, the writer and director, developed “Orah” over 11 years, with the story shifting to a revenge thriller after his brother was killed by a stray bullet from a now-defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) officer in 2016.

“I had to travel to Nigeria to get to the root of how my brother was killed. That’s when the rage I had inside, and the pain I saw on my mother’s face led to revenge thoughts, to getting my pound of flesh. I realised the only way to deal with that was to channel it through a film, and I poured everything into my script.”

His journey to Nigeria to understand his brother’s death fueled the film’s creation.

“Orah” aims to provide an authentic glimpse into the main character’s life and her quest for vengeance, creating a gripping crime thriller.

Crime Thriller Orah To Open AFRIFF 2023 | Fab.ng

Co-produced by Floyd Kane and Amos Adetuyi, the film will premiere at AFRIFF’s opening gala night on November 5, supporting indigenous projects as part of the festival’s vision.

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Chioma Ude, the founder and director of AFRIFF, highlighted the festival’s commitment to promoting African filmmaking and storytelling on a global scale saying,

“Filmmaking is evolving rapidly in Africa with Nigeria at the forefront of the renaissance and this year’s edition is designed to continue to reiterate the opportunities for African films and storytelling to reflect ‘global’ perspectives for the sustained success of more local films globally.

“We intend to continue to empower our storytellers to explore ideologies and techniques that connect with the larger global audience. Orah is positioned as the opening night film to drive this expectation.”

The lead role of Orah is portrayed by Oyin Oladejo, with support from talented actors like Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama, O.C. Ukeje, and others.

“Orah” was filmed in Canada and Nigeria in late 2022 and was screened at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September.

The film’s production involved Circle Blue Entertainment, Freddie Films, IronFlix Inc., Telefilm Canada, Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), ONCreates Film Fund, and Level Film as the Canadian distributor.

AFRIFF’s theme for this year is “Indigenous 2.0 Global“, and the festival will run from November 5 to November 11, showcasing numerous films from diverse storytellers.

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MOVIES

“Everybody Loves Jenifa” Becomes Nollywood’s Highest-Grossing Film Of All Time

Published

15 hours ago

January 8, 2025

Reporter

Everybody Loves Jenifa Nollywood’s highest-grossing film | fab.ng

Nollywood filmmaker Funke Akindele has achieved a historic milestone with her latest film, “Everybody Loves Jenifa.”

The film has officially broken box office records, surpassing the ₦1 billion mark to become the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time.

This groundbreaking achievement was announced by FilmOne, the film’s distributor, on their official Instagram page.

“Everybody Loves Jenifa” has officially hit a historic ₦1.466 billion and counting at the box office, making it the highest-grossing film of all time! A massive THANK YOU to our incredible audiences in Nigeria and Ghana for making this dream a reality. Your support is everything. On to even greater heights! Still showing in cinemas near you—experience the magic on the big screen,” the statement read.

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Akindele continues her reign as a dominant force in Nollywood with this latest triumph.

“Everybody Loves Jenifa” achieved this remarkable feat in less than two weeks, further solidifying her legacy of box office successes.

Last year, her film “A Tribe Called Judah” made history by becoming the first Nollywood film to surpass the ₦1 billion mark, firmly establishing her as the queen of Nigerian cinema.

In 2023, Akindele’s “Battle on Buka Street” also achieved record-breaking success, surpassing the previous record set by her own blockbuster, “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.”

The “Jenifa” franchise has transcended the realm of a mere movie series, evolving into a cultural phenomenon.

Akindele first introduced the iconic character “Jenifa” to audiences in the 2008 Yoruba-language film “Jenifa,” captivating viewers with her wit and charm.

The character’s popularity skyrocketed with the 2015 launch of “Jenifa’s Diary.” Interestingly, the series is a beloved television series that seamlessly blended humour with valuable life lessons.

With “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” Akindele elevates the character to new heights. She delivers a heartwarming and comedic story that resonates deeply with fans.

The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, featuring Funke Akindele as Jenifa, Folarin “Falz” Falana as Sege.

Also, Jackie Appiah, Nancy Isime, Stan Nze, Bisola Aiyeola, Patience Ozokwor, Chimezie Imo, and Isaac Olayiwola (Layi Wasabi) brought life to the movie.

Check out more movie updates here.

MOVIES

FG To Premiere TV Series, “Hidden Riches” On Mining Sector On January 25

Published

16 hours ago

January 8, 2025

Reporter

Hidden Riches: FG to premiere TV series on mining sector | fab.ng

Nigeria’s Federal Government will launch an ambitious television drama series focused on the nation’s mining sector, premiering “Hidden Riches” on January 25, 2025.

The Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dele Alake, unveiled the project Tuesday. He describes it as a creative exploration of Nigeria’s vast mineral resources and their transformative potential.

Take 7 Media has produced this groundbreaking series under the directorial vision of Bem Pever and Nwamaka Chikezie.

The drama will occupy a prime-time slot on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) network, airing every Saturday from 8:05 pm to 8:30 pm, reaching viewers across the nation.

“Hidden Riches” weaves together multiple storylines, following a diverse cast of characters including miners, political figures, environmental activists, and ordinary citizens.

These characters navigate the complex landscape of Nigeria’s mineral wealth. Also, it confronts challenges and seizes opportunities as they interact with the nation’s underground treasures.

The series delves deep into the intricate web of politics, power dynamics, and personal ambition surrounding Nigeria’s mineral resources.

Through its dramatic narrative, the show illuminates the mining sector’s potential as a crucial driver of economic diversification and sustainable development. It aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil.

A talented ensemble cast brings these stories to life. It features acclaimed performers Sydney Diala, Lara Owoeye-Wise, Iveren Antiev, and Alex Jibrin.

Their performances help spotlight the human elements within Nigeria’s resource management challenges and opportunities.

Minister Alake emphasises that beyond entertainment, “Hidden Riches” serves a vital educational purpose.

I am pleased to announce the debut of a TV drama series, “Hidden Riches,” which aims to uniquely tell the story of the complexities and potential of Nigeria’s mining sector.

Featuring a stellar cast that includes Sydney Diala, Lara Owoeye-Wise, Iveren Antiev, Alex Jibrin, among… pic.twitter.com/OZaQObzjUs

— Dele Alake (@AlakeDele) January 7, 2025

The series aims to inspire Nigerian citizens to engage actively with the mining sector. Further, it fosters an understanding of its role in building a sustainable economic future.

Through compelling storytelling, the show highlights how solid minerals could serve as a pivotal alternative revenue stream for Nigeria’s economy.

Check out more movie updates here.

MOVIES

Funke Akindele Breaks Records Again As “Everybody Loves Jenifa” Surpasses ₦1 Billion In 12 Days

Published

1 week ago

December 30, 2024

Reporter

Everybody Loves Jenifa Surpasses ₦1 Billion In 12 Days | fab.ng

The latest cinematic triumph by Funke Akindele, “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” has shattered box office records, surpassing the ₦1 billion mark in 12 days.

This unprecedented feat, achieved within two weeks, sets a new standard of success in Nollywood, a milestone many can only aspire to.

This achievement, however, is not a stroke of luck for the multi-talented actress, producer, and entrepreneur.

Akindele consistently dominates the Nigerian box office, as evidenced by her impressive track record.

Last year, her film “A Tribe Called Judah” made history as the first Nollywood film to cross the ₦1 billion threshold. Further, this solidified her reign as the undisputed queen of the big screen.

With “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” Funke Akindele unequivocally demonstrates that her success is not a fleeting phenomenon but a consistent pattern.

She has proven that she can replicate her triumphs repeatedly, shattering expectations and defying limitations.

The anticipation surrounding “Everybody Loves Jenifa” was palpable even before its official release. At an exhibitor soiree preceding the premiere, Akindele confidently made a bold proclamation, foreshadowing the film’s imminent success.

“I have faith that this film will make ₦5 billion,” she said.

While some may have initially dismissed her ambitions as overly ambitious, her resounding success has silenced all doubters.

A cursory glance at the list of Nollywood’s highest-grossing films reveals a recurring name: Funke Akindele. From “Omo Ghetto: The Saga” to “Battle on Buka Street” and now “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” she consistently reigns supreme at the box office.

This commercial success can be attributed to her unique ability to seamlessly blend humour, compelling drama, and relatable narratives into her films.

Furthermore, Akindele continually demonstrates her ability to evolve and adapt. Whether it’s through the enduring popularity of her iconic character Jenifa, her skilful assembly of all-star casts, or her innovative marketing strategies, she has mastered the art of staying relevant and captivating audiences across all age groups.

The “Jenifa” franchise transcends the realm of a mere movie series; it has become a cultural movement.

Jenifa, Akindele’s beloved character, first captivated the hearts of viewers in “Jenifa’s Diary,” a hit television series that delivered a potent blend of humour and life lessons.

With “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” Akindele has elevated her iconic character to new heights, crafting a narrative that is both side-splittingly funny and profoundly heartwarming.

Check out more movie updates here.