Recently, Nollywood has rekindled its love for epic storytelling, bringing history to life through detailed costumes, landscapes, and set designs that capture the essence of bygone eras. This trend has redefined the way stories are told on screen, allowing viewers to experience the beauty and intensity of Nigeria’s history firsthand.

Some films don’t just tell stories, they become time machines, evoking nostalgia and immersing us in Nigeria’s cultural past. These films stand out not only for their period-accurate costumes and nostalgic set designs but also for how they capture the essence of a different time, making viewers feel like they’re peering into history itself.

Here, we explore some standout films that vividly evoke the past, blending nostalgia with historical richness in unforgettable ways:

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti (2023)

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti takes us on an enchanting journey into Nigeria’s past, with vibrant visuals, captivating costumes, and authentic language that seamlessly transport us to the era of this iconic activist. Through strategic shifts in colour and tone, the film guides us through different stages of Funmilayo’s life, while also, taking us through the transition of time from her youthful days to her final moments. As the last scene unfolds, ending abruptly like Funmilayo’s life itself, we are left deeply moved, inspired, and longing for more, as though her story is still waiting to be fully told.

October 1 (2014)

October 1 takes us back to Nigeria on the brink of independence, with stunning attention to historical detail. Set in 1960, the film masterfully portrays the era through accurate costumes, locations, and the tense atmosphere leading up to the country’s freedom. The use of language, culture, and political context brings the period to life, while the narrative of a nation on the cusp of change unfolds against the backdrop of a gripping mystery.

October 1 not only provides a vivid snapshot of a crucial moment in Nigerian history but also evokes a deep sense of nostalgia, reminding us of the past while engaging with the present.

Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)

Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel, Half of a Yellow Sun provides a stirring portrayal of Nigeria during the civil war in the 1960s. With its rich cinematography and period-accurate settings, the film beautifully reimagines the era, transporting viewers to a time of intense social and political upheaval. This film doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of war but presents them alongside moments of resilience and love, reminding us of the lasting impact of history on individual lives.

76 (2016)

Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, 76 follows the story of a soldier entangled in the events of a military coup. Through meticulous attention to detail in costumes and setting, the film captures the tense, somber atmosphere of 1970s Nigeria, making the historical events feel immediate and immersive. Its success lies in how it revives the complexities of the time, magnifying military culture, and offering us a window into the emotional and political landscapes that shaped a generation.

Ayinla (2021)

Directed by Tunde Kelani, Ayinla is a visual and musical journey into the life of Ayinla Omowura, a celebrated Nigerian musician. Set in the late 20th century, the film’s vibrant costumes, music, and dialogue bring to life the cultural pulse of the period. Beyond nostalgia, Ayinla captures the spirit of a different time in Nigerian music, giving audiences a taste of the rhythms and vibes that shaped the era’s popular culture.

Invasion 1897 (2014)

Set in Benin at the end of the 19th century, Invasion 1897 tackles the significant and still relevant issues of colonization, cultural looting, and the restitution of stolen artifacts. While its cinematography and acting may fall short of expectations, the film’s exploration of Britain’s invasion of Benin and the looting of its cultural heritage makes it a vital addition to Nollywood’s historical narratives.

By bringing these themes to the screen, the film sheds light on ongoing efforts to reclaim Nigeria’s cultural artifacts, offering a compelling revisit to this painful yet crucial part of history.

House of Ga’a (2024)

House of Ga’a takes us straight into the heart of the ancient Oyo Empire, bringing to life the political and cultural dynamics of Yoruba pre-colonial society. The film follows Bashorun Ga’a, a powerful warrior whose ambition alters the kingdom’s power structure, leading to betrayal, rebellion, and a dramatic fall from grace. With its not-so-accurate portrayal of royal politics, fictionalized family conflict, and traditional customs, House of Ga’a captures the essence of a bygone era.

While the film may not offer a precise historical account, its elaborate costumes, immersive settings, and depiction of time-honored practices create a compelling and somewhat believable representation of Yoruba history.

The Amazing Grace (2006)

The Amazing Grace transports us to the era of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, telling the story of John Newton, a British slave trader whose journey to Nigeria takes a life-altering turn. Directed by Jeta Amata, the film captures the brutality of slavery and the cultural upheaval caused by colonial influence, as traditional Nigerian practices and beliefs were replaced by Western ways. The film vividly portrays the horrors of the slave trade while reflecting on faith and redemption.

The Amazing Grace remains a significant reminder of this dark chapter in history and its enduring impact.

House of Secrets (2023)

House of Secrets offers a fresh cinematic experience, blending nostalgia with intrigue. Set between two timelines, 1999 and the present, the film uses black-and-white scenes to evoke the past, a colour coding that distinguishes the flashbacks from the present. The plot, which begins in 1999, stages a world to help Sarah uncover her memories.

The accurate portrayal of the era created to deceive Sarah, and us, by a group with ulterior motives, from costumes to set design, convincingly immerses both Sarah and the audience in a time long gone, making it a captivating journey through time.