Gangs of Lagos, Jagun Jagun & Other Nollywood Movies That Stole The Spotlight In 2023

The Nigerian film sector, popularly known as Nollywood, delivered exceptional local content to audiences within and beyond the country this year. A few of these movies made impressive box office figures, while others streamed on global platforms such as Netflix and Prime Video with great reception internationally.

Freshreporters.com takes a closer look at some top-notch Nollywood movies that hit the screen in 2023, including Jagun Jagun, an outstanding production from Femi Adebayo.

1. Jagun Jagun by Femi Adebayo

Jagun Jagun, an epic film directed by Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo, received immense praise both in Nigeria and beyond. The movie’s set design, storyline, cast selection and costumes were the talk of many; even music star Burna Boy commended Femi for a job well done. Adedimeji Lateef, Bimbo Ademoye,Fathia Balogun and Mr Macaroni were among the notable stars who featured in this noteworthy production.

2. She Must Be Obeyed by Funke Akindele

Funke, known for setting records with her films, exposed certain issues prevalent in the music industry such as bullying and insincere displays of affection. The movie was released soon after the passing of musician Ilerioluwa Aloba Mohbad due to alleged harassment. She Must Be Obeyed boasts a cast featuring renowned figures like Lateef Adedimeji, Nancy Isime, Veeiye, Waje and Mike Ezuronye among others.

3. Orisa by Odunlade Adekola

Included in this list of Yoruba epics is the movie Orisa. Its storyline revolves around a king who turned rogue and ceased to respect his people and deities, resulting in him being afflicted with insanity as punishment for his misdeeds. The film’s main character was portrayed by Odunlade, alongside other notable stars such as Femi Adebayo, Shaffy Bello, and Jide Kosoko among others.

4. Gangs of Lagos by Jadesola Osiberu

The utilization of the renowned Lagos masquerade, Eyo, in a particular scene caused quite a stir and garnered media attention for the movie. According to Legit.ng’s reports, Adebola Dosunmu – an esteemed traditional chief hailing from Lagos and also known as the Akinsiku of Lagos voiced his disapproval towards how this aspect was depicted within it. Certain individuals even went so far as requesting that “Gangs of Lagos” be prohibited altogether due to this controversy. The film boasted numerous notable stars such as Tobi Bakre, Iyabo Ojo, Adesua Etomi and Bimbo Ademoye amongst others involved in its production

5. Shanty Town by Chinenye Nworah

Shanty Town is a gripping Nigerian thriller that follows the plight of a team seeking to break free from their crooked and powerful kingpin, who wields political influence. Their quest for emancipation proves far-fetched as they encounter various obstacles along the way. Notably, one scene in Shanty Town became an online sensation; viewers were on edge during Nancy Isime’s intimate exchange with legendary actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD). Fans unanimously voted for this film over Brotherhood and Gangs of Lagos as Legit.ng readers’ top pick.

6. Enoch by Damilola Mike Bamiloye

Enoch recounted the birth, childhood, and ministry of Adeboye in a Christian film that documented Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye’s life as the general overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

7. Black Book by Editi Effiong

The movie featured RMD, a seasoned actor who played the protagonist out to seek vengeance following his son’s wrongful kidnapping charge. Other celebrated actors such as Kelechi Udegbe, Sam Dede and Shaffy Bello also starred in this film.

8. The Trade by Jade Osiberu

Jade Osiberu directed another crime film that recounted the tale of a shrewd abductor who managed to elude authorities for more than ten years. “The Trade” boasted a cast of renowned actors including Waje Iruobe, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Rita Dominic, Nengi Adoki as well as several others…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>