Entertainment (Commonwealth Union) _ With Nigeria steadily ascending the global entertainment ladder, Nollywood films are gaining much more attention under the spotlight. Ranging from comedy to Cannes features, Nollywood cinema has definitely upped its game.
Here is a list of 10 action movies to keep you on the edge of your seat.
- Eje ati Wura (2019)
Starring Bimbo Ademoye, Adesua Etomi, and Bisola Aiyeola, it is a crime action comedy directed by Kayode Kasum and written by Jadesola Osiberu and Bunmi Ajakaije. Following three sisters who accidentally come across $800,000 belonging to a crime boss, the showdown takes place when the mafia shows up looking for the money.
- Eje ati Wura (2011)
Following a group of friends setting out to collect gold for a client, this movie is sure to keep you clutching your popcorn. Boasting an impressive cast of Gentle Jack, Kelvin Ikeduba, Murphy Afolabi, and Taiwo Hassan, this movie sees the mission descend into a scramble of blood and betrayal as they hunt a traitor.
- Badcop (2023)
Directed by Abbey Abinbola, the film depicts a police officer who assists criminals for his personal gain. Portrayed by Allwell Ademola and Ademola Aderemi, this movie makes a blood-pumping action movie and takes a deeper look into corruption.
- House of Ga’a (2024)
One of the more recent Nollywood releases, House of Ga’a, is a story of royalty and betrayal where a man dethrones his king and obsesses over power. A historical drama set during the Oyo Empire, the film features actors such as Femi Branch, Toyin Abraham, and Bimbo Manuel.
- Amina (2021)
Based on a 16th-century warrior, the film directed by Izu Ojukwu stars Lucy Ameh as Queen Amina along with Ali Nuhu and Clarion Chukwurah. Following the story of a young Amina who aspires to become a warrior, the story is an inspiring portrayal of her ascension to the throne—a spectacular watch for people looking for a feminist action movie.
- Eagle Wings (2021)
One of Nollywood’s first films based on the military, this war action drama film stars Enyinna Nwigwe, Femi Jacobs, and Yakubbu Muhammed among its cast members. Based on the dedication, struggles, and sacrifices made by soldiers in Nigeria’s air force, this movie is an impressive and touching collaboration between the country’s military and film industry.
- Ratnik (2020)
Most specifically known as an apocalyptic science fiction dystopian action film, this movie is proof that Nigerian cinema is most definitely reaching new heights. Starring actors like Osas Ighodaro, Ani Iyoho, and Bolanle Ninalowo, this film is about a World War III fighter fighting to save her sister, who is facing a situation due to a chemical substance.
- Kesari: The King (2023)
Set in contemporary Nigeria, Kesari: The King follows an ancient god who has reappeared to use his criminally acquired loot to help the needy. In true Robin Hood fashion, the movie is an epic storyline portrayed excellently by Femi Adebayo, Ibrahim Yekini, and Fadeke Adesanya.
- Jagun Jagun (2023)
Directed by Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, Jagun Jagun follows a warlord who feels threatened by an avenging young warrior. Starring Femi Adebajo and Lateef Adedimeji, the film has won Best Indigenous Language Movie (West Africa) and the Best Costume Design award category at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, among other achievements.
- Gangs of Lagos (2023)
Produced and directed by Jadesola Osiberu, this film is a gripping Nigerian crime thriller starring an impressive cast that includes Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi, Iyabo Ojo, and Chike. Following three childhood friends in a gang-run neighborhood, their involvement in escalating gang wars will keep you hanging onto every scene.