Since its founding in 2013 by Serge Noukoué and Nadia Shakur, NollywoodWeek (NOW) Film Festival has championed itself as a professional yet accessible venue for Nigerian filmmakers to connect with audiences in Paris. The 2025 edition reaffirmed this mission with a programme featuring 30 films from 8 countries across five packed days.
The festival drew a diverse crowd—filmmakers, film lovers, and curious minds—from across the globe. Attendees didn’t just come for the screenings; panel conversations became timely events, with festival guests attending with questions that sparked meaningful exchanges about topics that range from distribution to music in film.
Guests included 2025 festival ambassador Aïssa Maïga, actress-producer Lala Akindoju who served as a juror, panel members Yasmina Fagbemi, Gabriel Souleyka, Akotchaye Oko, Dolapo Amusat, as well as filmmakers Biodun Stephen, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, and Dolapo Adigun.
While audiences in the halls responded well to titles Trade By Bata and closing night film Olumotan, my standout films included diasporic horror short film Cut Me If You Can and the charged opening night feature The Legend of The Vagabond Queen of Lagos, a showcase of the festival’s balance of mainstream titles and more experimental, non-traditional storytelling.
The full winners at the 12th edition of the NollywoodWeek Film Festival includes (with jury notes on their decision):
Feature Film Category
Jury Prize: Legend of the Vagabond Queen
A powerful and visually striking film that captivated the jury with its original storytelling and compelling characters.
Special Mention: The Dog
For its sensitive and nuanced approach to a personal narrative, praised for its artistic direction and authenticity.
Audience Award: For Amina
A true audience favourite, this poignant film deeply moved viewers with its sincerity and the remarkable performances of its cast.
Short Film Category
Jury Prize: The Screen Test
A daring and thought-provoking film that intelligently questions the notion of representation on screen.
Special Mention: Cut Me If You Can
For its formal originality and distinctive tone, this work stood out for its creativity and narrative control.
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