Here, we explore the best African movies on Netflix 2023. African cinema has been growing in popularity around the world in recent years, with more and more people turning to African movies to experience the rich cultural diversity and unique storytelling that the continent has to offer. Netflix has become a key player in making African movies more accessible to global audiences. In response to the growing demand, Netflix has expanded its collection of African movies and currently offers a diverse selection of films from across the continent.
The movies on this list represent some of the best African movies on Netflix 2023. They come from a range of countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, Ghana, Malawi, Lesotho, France, and Zambia. Each movie provides a unique perspective on African culture, history, and contemporary issues. They showcase the creativity, talent, and passion of African filmmakers and actors, and offer a window into the complexities and diversity of the continent.
Some of the movies on this list have already gained international recognition and acclaim, while others are emerging talents that are just starting to make a name for themselves. Regardless of their level of recognition, all of these movies have been selected for their quality, cultural significance, and relevance to contemporary African issues.
From the hilarious comedy of ‘Chief Daddy‘ to the poignant drama of ‘The Burial of Kojo,’ from the historical epic of ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ to the surreal fantasy of ‘I Am Not a Witch,’ there’s something for every taste on this list. Whether you’re interested in exploring African history, social issues, or just want to be entertained, these movies are sure to offer something new and exciting.
So, if you’re looking for a new cinematic adventure, consider checking out one or more of these African movies on Netflix. They offer a unique and inspiring glimpse into the rich and diverse cultures of the continent and are sure to leave you feeling entertained, enlightened, and inspired.
Lionheart (Nigeria)
Lionheart surely one of the best African movies on Netflix. It is a heartwarming Nigerian movie that explores the story of Adaeze, a young woman who steps up to the plate to save her father’s struggling transportation company when he falls ill. In a male-dominated industry and society, Adaeze has to prove herself and navigate through various challenges to ensure the company’s success and her father’s recovery.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (Malawi)
Based on a true story, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a captivating movie that showcases the remarkable ingenuity and resilience of a 13-year-old Malawian boy, William Kamkwamba. In the face of a devastating famine, William embarks on a mission to build a windmill from scratch to save his family and community. It would be wrong to say this is not one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023.
Atlantics (Senegal)
Atlantics is a mesmerizing Senegalese movie that explores the struggles of young women who are forced into arranged marriages and subjected to patriarchal oppression. Set in Dakar, the film follows Ada, a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after her lover disappears at sea.
The African Doctor (France)
Though a French movie, The African Doctor remains one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023. It is a heartwarming French movie that tells the story of Seyolo Zantoko, a Congolese doctor who moves to a small French village in the 1970s with his family. The movie explores the challenges the family faces as they try to integrate into the village and Seyolo’s struggles to gain acceptance as a doctor.
The Burial of Kojo (Ghana)
The Burial of Kojo is a stunning Ghanaian movie that tells the story of Esi, a young girl who embarks on a mystical journey to save her father, Kojo. Set in Ghana, the movie explores the themes of family, love, and sacrifice against a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and stunning visuals.
Half of a Yellow Sun (Nigeria)
Here is another classic film and one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023. The movie, Half of a Yellow Sun is a poignant Nigerian movie that is based on the best-selling novel by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. The film tells the story of two sisters, Olanna and Kainene, who navigate their lives during the Nigerian Civil War in the 1960s. The movie explores the themes of love, betrayal, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.
The Wedding Party (Nigeria)
The Wedding Party is without doubt one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023. It is a hilarious Nigerian movie that takes a lighthearted look at the chaos and drama that ensue during a Nigerian wedding. With a star-studded cast and a captivating storyline, the film is a fun-filled ride that will have you laughing and crying in equal measure.
Silverton Siege (South Africa)
‘Silverton Siege‘ is a movie based on a true story set in South Africa during apartheid. It follows the story of three freedom fighters who become involved in a hostage situation at a national bank after a failed mission. The film features intense and engaging moments of action and tension, with believable and emotionally charged performances from the actors. Overall, the movie is well-crafted and thought-provoking, exploring the complexities of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Catching Feelings (South Africa)
Catching Feelings is a romantic South African movie that follows the story of a young couple, Max and Sam, as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. Set in Johannesburg, the film explores the themes of love, infidelity, and the complexities of modern relationships.
I Am Not a Witch (Zambia)
I Am Not a Witch is a captivating Zambian movie that tells the story of a young girl, Shula, who is accused of witchcraft and sent to a witch camp. The film explores the themes of superstition, tradition, and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in society.
The First Grader (Kenya)
The First Grader is an inspiring Kenyan movie that tells the story of an 84-year-old Kenyan man, Kimani Maruge, who enrolls in primary school for the first time to learn how to read and write. Set against the backdrop of post-colonial Kenya, the film explores the themes of education, resilience, and the power of determination.
Chief Daddy (Nigeria)
Chief Daddy is a hilarious Nigerian movie that follows the story of a wealthy patriarch, Chief Beecroft, and his family as they navigate the chaos and drama that ensue after his sudden death. With a star-studded cast and a captivating storyline, the film is a fun-filled ride that will have you laughing and crying in equal measure.
The Delivery Boy (Nigeria)
The Delivery Boy is a powerful Nigerian movie that tells the story of Amir, a young runaway who gets involved with a terrorist group and is tasked with delivering a bomb to a target in Lagos. Set against the backdrop of the bustling city, the film explores the themes of terrorism, redemption, and the power of forgiveness.
Sakho & Mangane (Senegal)
‘Sakho & Mangane’ is a crime thriller TV series in Dakar, Senegal, where two detectives with different methods investigate murders with supernatural elements. Set against Dakar’s vibrant culture, it showcases the diversity of Senegal. Overall, it’s an innovative take on the crime thriller genre.
Potato Potahto (Ghana)
Potato Potahto is a lighthearted Ghanaian movie that explores the challenges of divorce and blended families. The film tells the story of a divorced couple who decide to share their home and raise their children together, but soon find that their new arrangement comes with its own set of challenges.
Five Fingers for Marseilles (South Africa)
‘Five Fingers for Marseilles’ is definitely one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023. It is a Western-style action film from South Africa that follows a group of childhood friends who band together to protect their town from a corrupt police force. It explores themes of identity, community, and justice while highlighting South African resilience. With a mix of Western and African folklore, it’s a unique and compelling film that addresses important issues in post-apartheid South Africa.
Supa Modo (Kenya)
Supa Modo is a heartwarming Kenyan movie that tells the story of a young girl, Jo, who dreams of becoming a superhero. Set against the backdrop of a rural Kenyan village, the film explores the themes of hope, resilience, and the power of imagination.
October 1 (Nigeria)
October 1 is a thrilling Nigerian movie that tells the story of a British police officer, Danladi Waziri, who is sent to investigate a series of murders in a Nigerian village in 1960. The film explores the themes of colonialism, nationalism, and the struggle for independence in Nigeria.
Amandla (South Africa)
‘Amandla’ is a documentary film that showcases the powerful impact of music in the South African anti-apartheid movement. Through interviews, archival footage, and live performances, it highlights the role of music in inspiring and mobilizing people against apartheid. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in the role of music in social and political change.
Keteke (Ghana)
Keteke is a charming Ghanaian movie that tells the story of a young couple, Boi and Atwei, who are on a journey to give birth to their first child. Set against the backdrop of Ghana’s rural landscapes, the film explores the themes of love, family, and the challenges of parenthood.
The Girl in the Yellow Jumper (Lesotho)
‘The Girl in the Yellow Jumper’ is a Ugandan film about a hitchhiker named Jim who is given a ride by a police officer named Patrick. During the ride, Jim recounts his bizarre experiences of being kidnapped, and the film is written and directed by Loukman Ali, who utilizes various narrative styles throughout the movie.
Shanty Town (Nigeria)
Shanty Town falls into this category of eye-pleasing movies whose production is top-notch. Other than the obvious, the skill of projecting themes and insight into the movie through the camera lens evades the scenes in Shanty Town.
Sembene! (Senegal)
Sembene! is a compelling Senegalese documentary that tells the story of Ousmane Sembene, a pioneer of African cinema and one of the most important African artists of the 20th century. The film explores Sembene’s life, his work, and his influence on African culture and politics.
Knuckle City (South Africa)
Knuckle City is a gripping South African movie that tells the story of a boxer, Dudu Nyakama, and his family as they navigate the challenges of poverty, crime, and corruption in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The film explores the themes of violence, masculinity, and the impact of apartheid on South African society.
AnÃkúlápó (Nigeria)
‘AnÃkúlápó’ is a 2022 Nigerian epic fantasy film produced by Kunle Afolayan and distributed by Netflix. It follows the journey of a young man named Oye who battles supernatural beings to save his people from a powerful deity. Directed by Mildred Okwo and co-written by Tunde Babalola, the film showcases Nigerian culture and explores themes of bravery, heroism, and self-discovery. It was released on September 30, 2022, and surely one of the best African movies on Netflix 2023.
In conclusion, Netflix has expanded its collection of African movies and offers a diverse selection of films from across the continent. These movies represent some of the best African movies on Netflix 2023, showcasing the creativity, talent, and passion of African filmmakers and actors, and offering a window into the complexities and diversity of the continent.
From heartwarming comedies like ‘Lionheart’ to poignant dramas like ‘The Burial of Kojo,’ there’s something for every taste on this list. Whether you’re interested in exploring African history, social issues, or just want to be entertained, these movies are sure to offer something new and exciting. So, if you’re looking for a new cinematic adventure, consider checking out our picks for the best African movies on Netflix 2023.
