Most Nollywood films were initially released in cinemas before their availability on streaming platforms to be viewed by those who must have missed them when they screened and to be seen again by those who saw them during their theatrical run. 

As the films transition from the big screen to digital platforms, Nollywood audiences in the diaspora also have the chance to experience them on Prime Video and Netflix. Below are 2023 Nollywood cinema-released movies currently available to stream.

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2022 Nollywood Films Already Streaming on Netflix and Prime Video

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2023 Nollywood Movies on Prime Video

The Trade

The Trade, directed by Jadesola Osiberu, is a gripping story loosely inspired by the real-life exploits of a notorious kidnapper in the Southern part of Nigeria. Blossom Chukwujekwu delivers a terrific performance as Eric, the brain and strength of the kidnapping ring who demands millions of dollars in ransom from the families of his victims. The film delves into the intense world of crime and power dynamics as it follows the captivating narrative of Eric’s enigmatic personality as the police try to capture him. Director Osiberu skillfully weaves a tale that explores the complexities of the criminal underworld, making The Trade a thought-provoking experience.

Love in a Pandemic

Love in a Pandemic, directed by Akay Ilozobhie, unfolds a unique romantic tale during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bolanle, played by Nancy Isime, accidentally dials the wrong digit of her boyfriend’s number, connecting her with a stranger, Alex (Deyemi Okanlawon). As their phone conversations evolve into a blossoming friendship, the film explores the challenges and uncertainties of love in a time of global crisis. Written by Amaka Chioka and Abosi Ogba, the movie navigates the delicate balance between fantasy and reality, questioning the durability of connections formed in the midst of uncertainty.

To Freedom

To Freedom is a somber psychological thriller that unfolds the haunting tale of Tobi (Daniel Etim-Effiong) and Shola (Osas Ighodaro). Tobi’s world shatters when Shola mysteriously vanishes during a routine trip to the mall. Despite societal pressure to accept her presumed demise after a year-long search, Tobi clings to the belief that his wife is alive, haunted by cryptic signs only perceived by him. As his mental health deteriorates, the film takes an unexpected turn, delivering a twist that transforms the narrative. To Freedom is directed by Biodun Stephen. 

Big Love

In the romantic comedy Big Love, director Biodun Stephen reunites the Breaded Life leads, Bimbo Ademoye and Timini Egbuson. Big Love revolves around Adina, portrayed by Bimbo Ademoye, a single mother facing the challenge of embracing a new romantic relationship. Opposite her is Timini Egbuson who plays Adil, the affluent lover trying to win her heart, after reconnecting at a graduate training camp. The cast also includes Jaiye Kuti, Shaffy Bello, Lateef Adedimeji, Kalu Ikeagwu, and Teniola Aladese.

Mikolo

Mikolo, Niyi Akinmolayan’s children’s adventure fantasy film, unfolds a captivating story as two youngsters, Funke (Pamilerin Ayodeji) and Habib (Mofiyinfoluwa Asenuga), explore their grandmother’s (Ayo Mogaji) hometown in Ondo during a holiday and stumble upon the enchanting Irumole forest. Brimming with magical beings, their journey introduces them to a mystical creature named Mikolo. Drawing inspiration from Stephen Spielberg’s 1982 Sci-Fi E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, the film presents the kids aiding Mikolo in returning to its home. Akinmolayan, the writer and director for this Anthill Studio film, brings this vibrant tale to life, featuring Daniel Etim Effiong, Femi Adebayo, Yvonne Jegede, and Yemi Elesho.

A Weekend To Forget

In this suspenseful tale, seven long-lost friends gather for a weekend retreat, only to face unexpected challenges as ancient conflicts and lingering problems resurface. Directed by Damola Ademola, the film stars Elozonam Ogbolu as Ferdy, a returnee with ambitious business plans; Daniel Etim Effiong as Shima, a sought-after realtor accompanied by his wife Layo (Ini Dima-Okojie); Tito (Stan Nze), the face of Nollywood with a promising career; and his fiancée/manager, Ndali (Erica Nlewedim). Neo Akpofure portrays Bem, an aspiring high roller, whose past alongside the presence of his girlfriend Lisa (Uche Montana) adds to the intrigue. Secrets and unresolved traumas intertwine among the seven, reaching a boiling point when one of them meets a mysterious demise. A Weekend To Forget is produced by Chinaza Onuzo and Zulu Oyibo, in collaboration between Inkblot Productions and FilmOne Studios.

Half Heaven

The Cameroon-selected movie for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th (2024) Academy Awards, Half Heaven, is set in the dangerous and unforgiving neighbourhood of Mboko, where pastor Luma (Steve Fonkam) goes to preach the gospel of salvation of Christ but encounters a lot of challenges which he overcomes with the help of a prostitute. Written by Proxy Buh (credited as Buh Melvin) and directed by Enah Johnscott, the movie explores the power of faith, human connection, and the transformative journey of self-discovery. Although not a Nollywood film, Half Heaven  (as a special mention) stars our own Chidi Mokeme.

Orisa

Orisa is a Yoruba language film directed and produced by Odunlade Adekola. In a similar fashion to King of Thieves, Adekola and Femi Adebayo reprise familiar roles where we have seen them before in this tale of royalty to redemption. Orisa also stars Muyiwa Ademola, Shaffy Bello, Dele Odule and Binta Ayo Mogaji.

Hotel Labamba

Biodun Stephen’s 2023 comedy murder mystery revolves around an exclusive hotel, Hotel Labamba, where a person turns up dead. This leaves everyone at the hostel as suspects in the investigation. Hotel Labamba stars Lilian Afegbai, Bolaji Ogunmola, Bimbo Ademoye and Lateef Adedimeji. 

The Bloom Boys

In the pursuit of a billionaire match, Kemi’s high-society background triggers a twist of fate with a tech entrepreneur, revealing a lurking villain. 

Xela is credited as the film’s director with a cast lineup that includes Fehintola Olutokun, Timini Egbuson, Bolanle Ninalowo, Tóbi Bakre, MC Lively and Tina Mba. The Bloom Boys premiered in cinemas in July 2023. 

The Two Aishas

Starring Rahama Sadau and Maryam Booth as the titular Aishas, The Two Aishas follows two friends who come to loggerheads when their husbands contest for the same gubernatorial seat.

The Kujus Again

 A sequel to Biodun Stephen’s beloved ensemble comedy Introducing The Kujus, The Kujus Again sees the family reunite for Mauyon and Lily’s wedding. When their initial plans go awry, the couple embraces the detour as an opportunity to connect as a family. But things do not go as planned as Maugbe and Chuks fall into debt, losing all of the wedding money. 

Along with some happy developments, the film also features surprising breakup updates. The sequel features Bisola Aiyeola, Kunle Remi, Sophie Alakija, Timini Egbuson, Bimbo Ademoye reprising their roles with the addition of Don Jazzy to the cast. 

Different Strokes

In Different Strokes, four different friends wish to be happily married, but achieving this goal just might prove to be a bit more difficult than anticipated. 

The film was one of several Biodun Stephen-directed theatrical projects of 2023, starring Mercy Johnson Okojie, Jim Iyke, Adedimeji Lateef, Deyemi Okanlawon, Lilian Esoro, Lilian Afegbai and Mosun Oduoye (who doubles as the film’s producer). Different Strokes premiered in cinemas in March 2023

Small Talk

In this 2023 comedy movie, a driver’s oversharing about his boss’ return to the country leads to a robbery, getting him entangled in an investigation. 

Written and directed by Biodun Stephen, Small Talk cast features a number of skitmakers including Adebowale “Mr Macaroni” Adedayo, Lasisi Elenu, Isbae U, The Korexx and Lizzy Jay, alongside Timilehin Ojeola, Moet Abebe and Taye Arimoro. 

2023 Nollywood Movies on Netflix

Adire

This movie follows Adire (Kehinde Bankole), a sex worker turned entrepreneur who moves to a small town in Oyo to launch her own lingerie business. As she attracts men at a local bar with her seductive dressing style, she also draws the ire of a self-righteous preacher’s wife played by Funlola Aofiyebi. Directed by Adeoluwa Owu (The Griot and the co-director of Funke Akindele’s hit movie A Tribe Called Judah), Adire is FilmOne’s debut original, the first in their line-up for in-house originals. The film isn’t just about the conflict of morality, it’s a light-hearted drama about women’s rights and empowerment in a conservative and patriarchal society. 

Merry Men 3: Nemesis

This third installment of the comedic action franchise helmed by Moses Inwang, features an ensemble cast including Ayo Makun, Ramsey Nouah, Sam Dede, Segun Arinze, Ireti Doyle, Chidi Mokeme, Nadia Buhari, Jide Kosoko, Ufuoma McDermott, Iyabo Ojo, Francis Onwochei, Regina Daniels, and Caroline Hutchings. The plot revolves around Dafe (Chidi Mokeme), seeking revenge on Ayo (Ramsey Nouah) for an incident in Russia that nearly cost him his life. Dafe also directs his anger toward corrupt politicians, attributing their dishonesty to his mother’s demise. 

Kesari: The King

Kesari (Ibrahim ‘Itele D Icon’ Yekini) is an indefatigable robber who wields mystical power over the police force. The crime drama film is co-directed by Tope Adebayo and Ibrahim ‘Itele D Icon’ Yekini and co-produced by Itele d’Icon Film Production and FilmOne Production. Although partly in Yoruba language, it is not an epic title like King of Thieves by Femi Adebayo or Orisa by Odunlade Adekola, which have proven to have a favourable acceptance within the audience at the Nigerian box office. Kesari, which premiered in cinema across the country on the 25th of August, 2023, boasts a stellar cast of Ibrahim Yekini, Odunlade Adekola, Femi Adebayo, Yvonne Jegede, Kelvin Ikeduba, Adebowale Adebayo, Boma Akpore, Femi Branch, Bolaji Ogunmola, Deyemi Okanlawon, and Adebayo Salami. After an initial January 28 announcement which has been cancelled, Kesari is now expected to be released on Netflix later this year.

Afamefuna: An Nwa-Boi Story

This film transports the viewers into the world of the Igbo apprenticeship system through the lives of Afam, his co-apprentice Paulo and their master, Odogwu. Paulo who has been a skilled apprentice of Odogwu for much longer teaches Afamefuna the ropes of business and life. Understandably so, Paulo and Afam’s friendship does not survive when Odogwu settles Afam before Paul. This past is revisited years later when Paul’s corpse is discovered and Afamefuna becomes a suspect in the investigation. 

The film which pays homage to an age-old Igbo tradition was directed by Kayode Kasum. Afamefuna features Kanayo O. Kanayo, Stan Nze, Alexx Ekubo, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Paul Nnadiekwe and Chuks Joseph. 

As more 2023 Nollywood films arrive on streaming services, the list will be updated.

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