Nollywood: A Reflection of Nigeria

For Nigeria and its people, Nollywood acts as a lens, capturing and reflecting the lives and times of over 200 million people, speaking up to 500 distinct languages, united by one national identity.

The term Nollywood was coined by New York Times journalist, Norimitsu Onishi, referring to the buzz of activity surrounding straight-to-video, mass-produced films that were crafted by Nigerian artists and told stories pertinent to local audiences. Today, it stands as the second-largest film industry in the world. As they say in Lagos, a city that typifies and inspires Nollywood, “Naija no dey carry last.”

Nollywood Begins in the 1960s and 1970s

Film as a language in Nigeria developed at a regional level. Traditional drama troupes across the country transitioned from the stage to the screen during the 1960s and 1970s. Eventually, production localized in cities like Lagos, Onitsha, and Abuja, as amateur producers saturated the market with VHS tapes and later VCDs, of films inspired by the communities they served.

Chris Obi Rapu’s Living in Bondage (1992), regarded as one of the very first films of modern Nollywood, originated from a traditional southeastern troupe performing on tape.

Filmmakers developed a symbiotic relationship with their surroundings, using their cities as muses, amplifying their quirks and wonders. Lagos, in particular, magnifies this creative method. The city’s skyline, beaches, and nightlife hold a significant role in shaping and reflecting how Nigeria is represented in cinema.

Lagos: The Unofficial Star of Nollywood Movies

Lagos is Africa’s second-most populous city and the commercial capital of Nigeria. It serves as a regional hub for trade and culture, with life here exhibiting a distinct fast-paced energy.

Whether you’re exploring the burgeoning art scene or indulging in fusion cuisine, Lagos presents unmatched vibrancy. One of the best ways to explore the city is via an Okada or Keke (motorcycle taxi). This informal transportation network provides a fast means to navigate and discover the dense streets of Lagos.

Motorcycles and tricycles navigate through traffic jams or bumpy backroads quicker than traditional vehicles, often at a fraction of the cost. In many Nollywood films, the ritual of hailing an Okada, negotiating fares, and the spontaneity of an adventurous ride are recurrent themes.

Nigerian filmmakers consistently incorporate this unique experience, creating an immediate sense of place for viewers. Okada rides highlight the functional value of film and accentuate the cultural context of the city, making these experiences resonate deeply.

In Nollywood productions, the environment frequently serves as a recurring theme, framing the narratives of the diverse people residing in the city. While these films often center on moral or lesson-driven plotlines, they simultaneously showcase an honest portrayal of their environment, providing a distinctive tone to the cinema.

Must-Watch Nollywood Films

A Lagos wedding, irrespective of its size, is an event not to be missed. Kemi Adetiba’s star-studded The Wedding Party (2016) is a modern classic that exemplifies the industry at its best in terms of production and storytelling.

The splendor of an upscale Yoruba and Igbo wedding highlights the fashion, cuisine, music, and humor that define a Lagos wedding. Director Kemi Adetiba expertly portrays Lagos as a place of refuge and joy.

Another film to consider is Genevieve Nnaji’s Sharon Stone (2002), which beautifully captures the essence of Nollywood and its narrative style centered around Lagos. The film follows a woman embodying independence and strength while exploring love in the vibrant city.

Nollywood’s Impact on Global Culture

Lagos may not be perfect, but it emanates an electric vibe that leaves a lasting impression. Through Nollywood, viewers gain insight into the unique characteristics of this city and the people who inhabit it.

Witnessing love stories, traditional festivities, and the vibrant city life through film opens up a window into Nigeria’s culture and its diverse population.

Stay tuned for more exciting stories from some of the world’s most captivating destinations.