Some of our best Nollywood movies clocked twenty this year; the likes of Aki na Ukwa, Egg of Life etc. and I can’t help remembering and smiling at the laughter, suspense, and entertainment they brought to our screens.
I wonder if the cast and crew knew then that what they were doing would hold such an impact in our society.
Because it does, and that is the reason we even have anything to dissect( yes, that’s what we are about to do)
Without further ado, this is how well these 20 year old Nollywood classics have aged!
7. Blood Sisters
First up, we have the thrilling drama of “Blood Sisters” which explored the complexities of sibling relationships and kept us at the edge of our seats.
Since its huge success in 2003, it has won the prestigious African Movie Academy Award for Best Screenplay and gotten a 2022 remake named Nigeria’s first Netflix original series that streamed 11 million hours within the first four days of its release.
6. Abuja Connection
In its heyday, this suspenseful film had delved into the dark underbelly of crime and corruption. Fast forward to the present, “Abuja Connection” has been selected as Nigeria’s official entry for the Oscars. The film’s powerful narrative and exceptional performances have captivated audiences both locally and internationally, shining a spotlight on the talent and storytelling prowess of Nollywood.
5. Aki na Ukwa
How can we forget the movie that introduced a new era to us? The Nigerian family com did not only set off a once-in-a-century collab, it also launched the careers of Nollywood legends, Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedezie.
After its huge success post-release, it got a 2021 remake- Aki and Pawpaw- that grossed ₦136,379,049 at Box Office. It also formed the basis for the first ever Nollywood gaming app- Aki and Pawpaw epic run.
4. Glamour Girls
This movie had taken us behind the scenes of the glamorous world of beauty pageants, showcasing the highs and lows of fame and fortune. Fast forward to today, it has a modern-day remake that sadly, did not do as well as its prequel did.
3. Egg of life
Pete Edochie, Funke Akindele, Nkiri Sylvanus etc all did a thing with the mystical story of a fabled egg. Unfortunately, despite the fact that a sojourn into the world of folklore would have been welcomed, the rumor about the Egg of Life getting a remake never made it to reality.
2. 2 rats
Another 2003 gem was the rib-tickling flick- “2 Rats- which explored the ups and downs of life, friendship, and of course, cheese-stealing shenanigans with slapstick humour.
Apart from the bottomless memes (which I’m forever grateful for mind you), 2 rats is still frozen in time.
- Above Death: In God We Trust
The intense thriller “Above Death: In God We Trust.” was as gripping as it was thought provoking- exploring the depths of faith, betrayal, and redemption. Presently, “Above Death” has the prestigious African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in bag; recognizing the exceptional performance of the lead actor.
As we celebrate these remarkable films, it’s evident that their impact has transcended time. From sequels and animated adaptations to awards and Hollywood remakes, the legacy of these movies lives on.
