Nollywood has been making waves with blockbuster films that showcase the industry’s impressive evolution over the years. Nigerian movie producers have capitalized on December as a prime release month, leveraging the festive season’s heightened audience engagement.
Last December, Funke Akindele set a high standard with her extensive public relations (PR) and marketing campaign for A Tribe Called Judah, which was released in cinemas and earned a staggering N1.5 billion at the box office. Other actresses, such as Mercy Aigbe and Wunmi Toriola, followed suit by releasing their films in the same month.
This December, Ms. Akindele is back with another highly anticipated release, kicking off her PR efforts well in advance. However, she’s not the only one; several other exciting films, including Alakada, Thin Line, and A Christmas in Lagos, are also set to hit theaters. Let’s take a closer look at what’s coming our way!
Everybody Loves Jenifa
If you’re active on social media, you’ve likely seen celebrities sporting matching merchandise with the phrase, “Everybody Loves Jenifa.” When Ms. Akindele releases a film, it’s always a major event. Her marketing prowess led to a surge in ticket sales for her previous movie, A Tribe Called Judah. To achieve another milestone, Ms. Akindele has crafted a meticulous marketing strategy for her upcoming movie, set for release in cinemas on December 13.
The film will feature fan favorites like Falz, Omotunde “Lolo” Adebowale-David, and Olayode Juliana, alongside new faces such as Chimezie Imo, Layi Wasabi, Bisola Aiyeola, Jackie Appiah, and Omowunmi Dada.
Alakada: Bad and Boujee
Produced by Toyin Abraham, the first Alakada sequel in 2009 was a blockbuster, thanks to its engaging plot. The Nollywood actress, who also stars in the movie, has been strategic in its marketing and PR campaigns.
Alakada: Bad and Boujee will be the fifth film in the popular Alakada series, following Alakada (2009), Alakada 2 (2013), Alakada Reloaded (2017), and Fate of Alakada: The Party Planner (2020). Although no specific release date has been announced, the movie is expected in cinemas this December.
Thin Line
Thin Line is a Mercy Aigbe-produced film scheduled for release in December 2024. Her previous movie, Ada Omo Daddy, was a hit, and this upcoming film may follow suit. The movie stars Iyabo Ojo, Jaye Kuti, Yvonne Jegede, Uche Montana, Niyi Johnson, and Uzor Arukwe. While the exact release date remains unannounced, it’s anticipated to premiere in December.
A Christmas in Lagos
Jade Osiberu’s new movie, A Christmas in Lagos, set to release on Prime Video in December, has already generated significant media attention. This holiday comedy weaves together interlocking stories against the backdrop of Lagos’ vibrant “Detty December” festivities, following four friends as they navigate friendship, love, and loss during the holiday season. Osiberu has promised that the film will be “the most heartwarming and beautiful film ever.”
The star-studded cast includes Teniola Aladese, Shalom Obiago, Shaffy Bello, Rayxia Ojo, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Wale Ojo, and more. Nigerian musical stars like Ayra Starr, Adekunle Gold, Wurld, and Ladipoe also make appearances, adding to the film’s excitement.
