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The Best Of Nollywood Cinema In 2025 (So Far)

Let’s dive into the magic of Nigerian cinema. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these! 
Noghama Ehioghae
By
Noghama Ehioghae
Noghama Ehioghae is a Nigerian pharmacy student with a deep passion for art, storytelling, creative directing, and styling. Creativity is at the core of everything she...
5 Min Read
The Best Of Nollywood Cinema [Credit: X/@TheRixelStudios]

Ready to spice up your movie nights? Forget those same old boring flicks; these top 5 Nollywood cinema hits of 2025 are here to serve you drama, romance, and all the juicy tea you didn’t know you needed.  From sizzling romances to thrilling twists, these movies bring the perfect blend of laughter, tears, and jaw-dropping moments. So grab your popcorn, call your crew, and get ready to binge the freshest Nollywood gems that everyone’s talking about. Let’s dive into the magic of Nigerian cinema. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these! 

Labake Olododo

This is an epic drama that was directed by Biodun Stephen but produced by Iyabo Ojo. This was a combo we never knew we needed because Labake Olododo did not come to play in delivery from plot to cast to costume!

It’s about Labake, a fearless warrior who challenges societal norms and fights against injustice in her community. 

The cast includes Iyabo Ojo, Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Mercy Aigbe, Kunle Afolayan, Mr Macaroni and many others.

Why Watch: Labake Olododo features a star-studded cast from the Yoruba Nollywood tribe, and it offers a comfortable watch with its costumes and CGI effects.

Red Circle

Now, Red Circle is a crime thriller and differs significantly from Labake Olododo, directed by Akay Mason.

The plot follows Fikayo Holloway, a journalist from a wealthy Lagos family, who delves into an investigation that entangles her with a dangerous crime ring, leading to life-altering consequences.

The cast includes Folu Storms, Bukky Wright, Lateef Adedimeji, Timini Egbuson, Tobi Bakre, Femi Branch, Debo Adedayo (Mr Macaroni), Omowunmi Dada, Ruggedman, and Mike Afolarin.

Why Watch: Red Circle has a very leading title in the first place and a very aesthetic cast as well. The costume department was also impressive, and if you like suspense and crime-solving sort of plots. Then you will enjoy this.

Makemation

This one’s a wild ride, and yes, it’s as juicy as the title suggests. This is both sci-fi (tech) and a family drama, and was created and produced by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji. 

Makemation centres on a brilliant young girl in rural Lagos who uses her tech knowledge to navigate the challenges she and her family face, marking Africa’s first AI-themed feature film.

Makemation features actors like Richard Mofe-Damijo, Shaffy Bello, Tomi Ojo, Yvonne Jegede, Tony Umez, Jide Kosoko and many others.

Why Watch: Makemation offers you a full cast ranging from old Nollywood actors to content creators to Gen-Z actors. If you’re a tech bro or sis, this is your style.

Asoebi Diaries

Asoebi Diaries is a perfect blend of culture, comedy, crime and romance. It was directed by Biodun Stephen.

AsoEbi Diaries follows the journey of Elizabeth Gomez. Once enveloped in affluence, Elizabeth’s world crumbles following a family scandal. Determined to reclaim her status, she leverages her impeccable fashion sense and the unwavering support of her friends. As she navigates the intricate web of Lagos high society, Elizabeth finds herself entangled in a complex love triangle.

Asoebi Diaries features Shaffy Bello, Bukky Wright, Chizzy Alichi, Bukunmi ‘KieKie’ Adeaga-Ilori, Daniel Lloyd, Kalu Ikeagwu, and Queen Salawa Abeni.

Why Watch: Asoebi Diaries’ plot is somewhat relatable, and aside from that, it shines in cast and costume. It’s a fun watch, no need for suspense, just fun drama.

Reel Love

Reel Love is a typical romance drama that’s got you swooning and cheesing and was produced by Timini Egbuson. It follows the story of Tomide, a popular relationship influencer whose carefully curated online persona is jeopardised after a heated public altercation with Rachel, a shop assistant. The incident goes viral, leading to backlash and loss of brand deals. To salvage his reputation, Tomide’s fiancée, Imani, suggests he stage a fake romantic relationship with Rachel.

Reel Love features actors like Timini Egbuson, TJ Omusuku, Funke Akindele, Ademoye, Shaffy Bello, Dakore Akande, Muyiwa Ademola and many others.

Why Watch: Reel Love offers modern romance, somewhat relatable themes, a star-studded cast, and if you’re a big fan of Timini, then this is for you. 

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Noghama Ehioghae is a Nigerian pharmacy student with a deep passion for art, storytelling, creative directing, and styling. Creativity is at the core of everything she does, and she embraces life with an adventurous spirit, constantly seeking new experiences, as she believes exploration is essential for personal growth. I’m dedicated to living life fully, navigating the world with curiosity and an open heart. Always eager to learn, express myself, and inspire others. She aspires to become a seasoned writer while practicing pharmacy, aiming to make meaningful contributions to society.