Nollywood movies continue to thrill audiences with bold storytelling, cultural richness, and an expanding global reach. Yet, many film projects, filmmakers, and actors remain in the shadows. These “silent” works—films that may have had festival runs or limited cinematic appearances—often go unnoticed, receiving little support or recognition.

Unlike the high-grossing blockbusters and celebrated directors, these films tend to slip past audiences without leaving a mark. These are strong nollywood movies that stand out for their storytelling and performances; however, factors such as lesser-known casts and limited marketing often hinder their success. That’s why we’ve put together a list of movies we can’t wait for Nigerians to discover.

I Do Not Come to You by Chance

Adapted from Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s award-winning novel, I Do Not Come to You by Chance confronts one of Nigeria’s most controversial realities, “Yahoo Yahoo.” It has already made waves at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). Directed by Ishaya Bako and co-written with Chika Anadu, the film follows a young man who finds himself trapped in internet fraud as he struggles to support his family.

Nigerians will experience a film that combines raw family drama with the urgent social commentary of survival in today’s economy. This is a story that demands attention because it mirrors the challenges many Nigerians face.

Phoenix Fury 

Ifeoma Chukwuogo’s Phoenix Fury has already carved its place in Nigerian film history. Winning Best Feature Film, Best Director, and a ₦4.5 million prize at AFRIFF 2024, it represents a daring new voice in Nollywood. Critics praise its storytelling, visual strength, and fearless originality. Expected to continue its international festival tour, Phoenix Fury promises to offer a cinematic experience unlike anything audiences have seen. Nigerians should see it because it places the country’s filmmaking on the world stage while proving that homegrown stories can resonate universally.

Headless

Headless made a striking debut on AFRIFF’s opening night. Leaving everyone in awe and eager. The thriller follows a Nollywood film producer whose life unravels when police discover a decapitated head in his car trunk. Featuring strong performances from Gideon Okeke, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Baaj Adebule, and Femi Branch. The film blends suspense with sharp social commentary. Nigerians should see it because it dares to blur the line between fiction and reality, exposing the dark corners of ambition, crime, and survival.

A key highlight of the feature is Adebule’s portrayal, marked by the physically challenging position he maintained from start to finish. However, this didn’t stop his delivery and performance.

The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos

Directed and Written by The Agbajowo Collective—including James Tayler, Temitope Ogungbamila, Bisola Akinmuyiwa, Elijah Atinkpo, Tina Edukpo, Samuel Okechukwu, and Mathew CerThis stylish and energetic film captures Lagos in all its grit and glamour.

The film centers on Jawu (played by Temiloluwa Ami-Williams), a single mother living in the waterfront informal settlement of Agbojedo. Her community faces imminent forced eviction. When she discovers a hidden stash of “blood money” linked to corrupt politicians, Jawu becomes an unlikely catalyst for resistance.

Following the rise of a powerful female figure in the city’s underworld, it combines action, drama, and satire. Nigerians should see it because it challenges gender stereotypes while showcasing Lagos as a character in its own right—chaotic, bold, and unforgettable.

The feature kick-started its festival run at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival and then AFRIFF later that year. However, no details or news on its cinematic or streaming release as been announced so far.

Over the Bridge

Over the Bridge tells the story of an ambitious man whose life spirals after a major financial scandal. A corporate thriller at heart, it exposes the dangers of greed, corruption, and the fragile line between success and downfall. Nigerians should see it because it mirrors real events in the country’s financial world, offering both caution and reflection.

The anticipation of its release has lingered on for two years now. The film premiered in the United Kingdom in October 2023, before making its Nigerian debut at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) the following month. In 2024, it travelled to the New York African Film Festival, further extending its reach into the diaspora. And then FESPACO in February 2025.

The strength of Over the Bridge lies not only in its story but also in its performances. Ozzy Agu, in the lead role, delivers a deeply nuanced portrayal of Folarin, capturing both his outward confidence and his private vulnerability. Supporting performances by Nollywood veterans such as Joke Silva, alongside rising stars like Chimezie Imo and Elma Mbadiwe, add texture and depth to the narrative. Together, the cast bridges generations of Nigerian actors, further enriching the film’s character dynamics.

Nile Entertainment recently announced September 5, 2025, as the nationwide cinematic release for Over The Bridge.

My Father’s Shadow

The film started its journey in February 2025, with a distribution rights acquisition by MUBI, a global streaming service. This spanned across North America, the UK, Ireland, and Turkey. And then an Un Certain Regard section at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in May 2025. It also broke history when it won the Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or, during the festival.

My Father’s Shadow was co-written by Davies Jr. and his brother Wale Davies. The feature is set against the backdrop of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election. It tells the story of two young brothers, Remi and Akin, who spend a day in Lagos with their estranged father, Folarin. The cast includes English actor Sope Dirisu, Godwin Chiemerie Egbo, Chibuike Marvellous Egbo, Uzoamaka Aniunoh and Winifred Efon.

The feature is set to debut locally on September 19, 2025 and will be distributed by Film One.

77

77: The FESTAC Conspiracy. Directed by Izu Ojukwu, this film is sequel to 76. The initial story was a depiction of the 1976 Nigerian coup. However, 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy shifts the focus to the 1977 FESTAC event. As it explores African identity, unity, and the political struggles of the time.

The plot follows a former soldier who becomes involved in a revolutionary movement challenging Africa’s political systems. The film touches on deep themes of loyalty, moral conflict, and cultural identity. It paints a vivid picture of the political unrest during the late 1970s.

The cast includes Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic, Ibinabo Fiberesima and Nigerian musician Seun Kuti.