One of the highly anticipated features on Netflix by Native Media and Play Network, ‘Hijack ’93,’ has started streaming on Friday, October 25.
After the release of its trailer and announcement of release by the streaming giant, the film has generated a lot of buzz with many Nigerians excited about the film’s premise and significance.
At the heart of the film is a fictional retelling of the hijacking of a Nigerian Airways flight by a group of teenagers in 1993. It revisits the moment etched in the annals of Nigerian history, following four men who hijack an airplane, leveraging passengers onboard in the name of social change, in an effort to dismantle their military-backed government.
The film mirrors insight into both the hijackers’ desperation and the passengers’ struggle for survival, inviting the audience to reflect on the harsh realities and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in extreme circumstances.
The Story of Hijack ’93 will probably be its strongest advantage, as it will inspire nostalgia and much scrutiny from those who remember the event.
Netflix is set for the second edition of Lights, Camera… Naija.
According to a statement from the streaming platform, the event is billed for November 2, 2024, in Lagos.
The exclusive event will once again spotlight Nollywood’s finest, celebrating the trailblazers, behind-the-scenes heroes, and the on-screen stars who make the industry shine.
This year’s theme, Pioneers, Pillars, and Players, according to the statement, will pay tribute to the legends who laid the foundation of Nollywood, the off-screen masterminds—directors, producers, and crew members—who keep it running, and the vibrant actors who captivate audiences worldwide.
Some of the big names expected include Mallam, Segun Arinze, Femi Branch, Femi Adebayo, Taiwo Ajayi- Lycett, Ali Nuhu, Shaffy Bello, Ireti Doyle, Odunlade Adekola, Chinedu Ikedieze.
Following the success of last year’s event, which featured performances by Chike, Niniola, and DJ Sose, this year promises even more stars, electrifying performances, and, of course, the iconic Netflix red carpet.
Streaming platform Netflix has announced an increase in the price for its subscriptions in Nigeria, the Premium Plan formerly priced at N5,000 per month, is now available for N7,000.
With the implementation of the most recent price rise in April of this year, this is the platform’s second pricing adjustment in three months.
According to the pricing adjustment on the company’s website, the Standard plan subscription—which is popular among Nigerian consumers for its HD quality and multi-screen watching options—has increased from N4,000 to N5,500. This translates into a 37.5% increase.
Here’s a full list of the new subscription prices:
Bolanle Austen-Peters’ ‘House of Ga’a’ is set to lead new titles and returning titles that will debut on Netflix in July 2024.
According to a recent statement from the streaming platform, the feature will make its debut on July 26.
“Anticipate explosive doses of drama and action in House of Ga’a when it hits Netflix on July 26. In this film, Bashorun Gaa recounts the rise and fall of a ruthless kingmaker who wielded deceit and voodoo to reign, only to be undone by his own blood,” the statement read in parts.
Directed by Austen-Peters, ‘House of Ga’a’ is set in the 18th century Oyo empire and the historical drama stars an array of popular actors including Femi Branch, Mike Afolarin, Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, Ibrahim Chatta, Dele Odule, Bimbo Manuel, Lateef Adedimeji, Femi Adebayo, Gabriel Afolayan, Jide ‘JBlaze’ Oyegbile, Seun Akindele, Yemi Blaq, Adeniyi Johnson, Muyiwa Ademola, Willam Benson, Gbenga Titiloye, and Kunle Coker.
Other titles scheduled to debut on Netflix in July include ‘Sprint,’ where Elite sprinters navigate training, media scrutiny and fierce competition in this sports series following their race to become the world’s fastest humans; ‘Receiver,’ which follows the 2023 season of NFL receivers Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Davante Adams and Justin Jefferson;
‘Vikings: Valhalla: Season 3,’ ‘Lobola Man,’ ‘Chad Daniels: Empty Nester,’ ‘TP BON: Season 2,’
‘Find Me Falling,’ and ‘The Dragon Prince: Season 6.’
Other titles currently streaming on the platform include ‘Shina,’ ‘Kesari,’ ‘Postcards,’ ‘Strained’ and ‘Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story.’
Postcards, a series that follows a Nigerian single mother’s journey to India for a medical checkup, where she will end up touching the lives of everyone she meets, takes front seat on Netflix for the month of May.
The series is joined by the highly anticipated Bridgerton: Season 3.
In the series, a wallflower with a double life finds her light amid secrets and surprises, as a new crop of debutantes yearn to become the brightest of the ball.another series.
The two titles lead a long list of new titles making their entry on the global streaming platform.
Other series scheduled for the month of May on the streaming platform, according to a statement, include Beautiful Rebel, Super Rich in Korea, a Netflix Series exploring the lavish lives of multi-billionaires living in Korea, The Final: Attack, The Ultimatum: South Africa, Blood of Zeus: Season 2, Princess Power: Season 3, Tyler Perry’s The Single Moms Club, Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal, Rachel Feinstein: Big Guy, My Oni Girl, How to Ruin Love: The Proposal.
Other local titles currently streaming on the platform are Strained, Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story, Merry Men 3: Nemesis, Adire, and Dinner.’
Global streaming giant Netflix has released all the titles to stream on the platform in this month.
According to a recent statement from the streaming platform, for an interesting April, titles like ‘Strained,’ ‘Sherlock: Series 1,’ ‘Files of the Unexplained,’ ‘The Grimm Variations,’ are expected to take the spotlight.
Other titles include ‘Parasyte: The Grey,’ ‘The Antisocial Network: Memes to Mayhem,’ ‘Midsummer Night,’ ‘Crow Flies: Season 3,’ ‘Love, Divided,’ ‘Jimmy Carr: Natural Born Killer,’ ‘The Grimm Variations,’ ‘Rebel Moon,’ ‘CoComelon Lane: Season 2,’ ‘Adire,’ ‘Merry Men 3: Nemesis,’ ‘Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre,’ ‘A Taste of Sin,’ ‘Dinner,’ and ‘Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story,’ don’t miss these titles.
In the world of Nollywood, where creativity knows no bounds, The Black Book is a gripping crime thriller that has taken the film industry by storm since its Netflix release last September. Directed by Editi Effiong, the founder of Anakle Films, this movie has defied all odds with a ground-breaking budget of $1 million and nearly four years of production. But what sets it apart isn’t just the investment; it’s the captivating narrative, the exceptional cast, and the stark relevance to modern Nigeria.
The Black Book boasts an ensemble of veteran actors, including the likes of Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), Sam Dede, Norbert Young, Bimbo Akintola, Femi Branch, and Patrick Doyle, among many others. RMD’s portrayal of Paul Edima, the lead character seeking vengeance for his son’s murder, stands out. He shared how he was drawn to the role, thanks to a chance encounter with the director through his daughter. The role required significant physicality, prompting RMD to undergo rigorous training, including stunts with experts and military training with active U.S. Marines. Despite the challenges of COVID, his dedication shines through.
In a candid interview with Nollywire, Editi shed some light on the evolution of Nollywood and the intricacies of bringing this crime thriller to life. Effiong’s words offered a glimpse into the inner workings of the film industry and the dedication required to craft a compelling cinematic experience. Effiong made some remarks on the outstanding growth of Nollywood as an industry. He recognises the progress it has made, but he is also aware of the challenges it continues to face. Among the issues he highlights is the “leading man problem.” As the industry matures, Effiong notes that it is addressing this problem, striving to provide more nuanced and diverse leading roles to talented actors.
On casting, Effiong noted the importance of casting the right actor for the pivotal role of Paul Edima, the lead character in “The Black Book.” He spoke of the need for believability, explaining that not just anyone could embody this character. The actor had to be the right age and fit the role perfectly. The director’s commitment to authenticity and attention to detail shined through in his comments. He discussed the necessity of making Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD), who plays Paul Edima, lose some weight to effectively portray the character. Effiong’s dedication extends to every facet of the film, from the fight sequences to the small details, all in the pursuit of simplicity and authenticity.
Effiong reflects on the privilege of working on The Black Book and collaborating with a talented team. ‘’The Blackbook had 38 new sets built from scratch and they were taken down afterwards’’. He also expressed regret that Pat Nebo, the film’s production designer, did not live to see the project come to fruition. ‘’Nebo’s contribution to the film was undoubtedly significant, and his absence is deeply felt’’.
The use of realistic explosions in the movie is one noteworthy detail that Effiong discusses. He described the careful planning that went into these explosive scenes. Effiong and his team took numerous precautions to ensure safety and compliance with the law, obtaining permission from various military and law enforcement agencies. Local radio stations were even used to raise awareness about controlled explosions.
Effiong also opened up about a significant challenge he faced during the film’s production. On day 48, just after everyone returned from a COVID-related break, a pivotal explosion scene failed. The disappointment left Effiong deflated a rare occurrence for a director known for his resilience. However, he didn’t stay defeated for long. The next morning, he devised a new plan, split the team into two groups to shoot different scenes simultaneously, and ultimately decided to reshoot the explosion scene. To make it happen, he even contributed his personal funds. The determination paid off, and the successful explosion became one of the most memorable moments on set, marking a turning point and a testament to the director’s unwavering commitment.
In his remarks, Editi also highlighted that “The Black Book” has recently achieved a prominent position among the top trending content in South Korea. This achievement underscores the increasing demand for African narratives and prompts the need to accelerate the release of stories initially planned for the future. It signals a shift from crafting stories exclusively for local markets to creating narratives that can resonate globally. This shift also opens doors for larger budgets and more daring storytelling endeavors.
The vision involves substantial investments in crafting top-tier narratives that extend beyond Nigeria’s borders, reaching a worldwide audience. Streaming platforms play a pivotal role in swiftly sharing these stories with international viewers, a long-held aspiration of the Nollywood industry. The overarching mission is to become the storytellers for the next generation of African narratives, commencing this journey from Nigeria. The commitment lies in presenting these narratives with unwavering excellence, encompassing exceptional visuals, enthralling music, and world-class trailers that meet global standards.
Award-winning actor and movie producer Kunle Afolayan has revealed that Netflix, America streaming giant, has acquired his latest work ‘Mokalik’ and his other films.’ He disclosed in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) last Wednesday at the Alliance Francaise, Ikoyi, Lagos,
“I wish to inform you that Netflix has acquired ‘Mokalik’ and some other of my films,” he said.
However, Afolayan did not disclose the value paid for the acquisition, but added that the company has not announced when the films will be released on the platform.
Netflix had reportedly signaled that it planned to get serious about ordering/acquiring original series and films from the African continent, created by Africans.
‘Mokalik’, which is still running in the cinemas features Femi Adebayo, Ayo Adesanya, Faithia Williams and Lateef Oladimeji, singer Simisola Ogunleye, a.k.a Simi, in her debut acting role and Big Brother Naija ex-housemate, Tobi Bakre among other actors.
‘Mokalik’, written by Tunde Babalola and directed by Kunle Afolayan, is set in an automobile repair workshop (mechanic village).
The plot follows the story of an 11-year-old boy, Jaiye, from the middle-class suburbs, who decides to find his path in life as an apprentice at a mechanic workshop.
When his father arrives to take him home, Jaiye has to make up his mind if he wants to return to school or take on his apprenticeship full time.
“Visiting the mechanic workshop after about 15 years opened my eyes to a lot of things that I believe the world should know about our local auto car repairs industry,” Afolayan had said of the movie.
…Reveals pact with Canon, Netflix, Canal+, Air France, Pavilion Afriques…
Prolific filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan has unveiled trailers for his most anticipated movie, ‘Mokalik’ (Mechanic).
The two trailers which dropped on February 1, 2019 by 2pm, were accompanied with three posters, setting the pace for another round of media buzz for his latest effort.
“Mokalik’ stars awards-winning singer, Simi, alongside other prominent actors like Femi Adebayo, Charles Okocha, Faithia Williams, Lateef Oladimeji, and comic actors like Wale Akorede (Okunu), Ayo Ogunshina (Papa Lolo) and Dayo Akinpelu (Alabi Yellow).
The celebrated director is optimistic that the film will traverse commercial and artistic ends, having been provoked by the expectations of his diverse audience and fan-base across the world.
Afolayan who just returned from a meeting of his company, Golden Effects Pictures with Netflix in Amsterdam, Netherlands, disclosed that he is in talks with the world leading online streaming platform for the acquisition of ‘Mokalik’.
According to him, the deal with Netflix will include other works directed by him, including ‘The Figurine- Araromire’; ‘Irapada’; ‘Phone Swap’; ‘October 1’; ‘The CEO’, ‘The Bridge’ and the yet to released ‘Tenants of the House’.
“We are excited about having our other films, including ‘Mokalik’ on Netflix, as that will assuage our fans who have been sending messages from all over the world, complaining of not having access to our films,” he said.
For ‘Mokalik’ which was shot on EOS C300 Mark II, with Canon Cine lenses, the filmmaker says: “We are very delighted and grateful for the camera support extended to us by Canon Central and North Africa team here in Nigeria,” adding that, “EOS C300 Mark II – Stunning 4K quality and versatility allowed me as a producer to experience the creative vision in stunning cinematic details and provides footages, suitable for extensive post-production work.”
Senior Sales & Marketing Manager – B2C, Canon Central & North Africa, Mr. Amine Djouahra, expressed delight over the partnership, saying: “We are very proud to be part of this esteemed mainstream commercial and artistic movie, ‘Mokalik’, produced in Nigeria , one of the largest growing film industries in the world, and at Canon, we continue to listen to our customers when developing the product range to ensure our innovations meet their needs, enabling story tellers for creative filmmaking.”
Djouahra disclosed that Canon is looking at having a media screening of ‘Mokalik’ in Nigerai between March 19-21, 2019.
As part of the world slating for ‘Mokalik’, Afolayan, an Air France partner plans to have the film on several platforms including the French premium television channel, Canal+, which he said has showed interest in ‘Mokalik’ and ‘Odu’ (Capsule of Tales), a TV series in the works.
As Pavillon Afriques at the Marche du Film, Cannes Film Festival 2019, makes debut this May, Afolayan, on Thursday, was named Ambassador of the pavilion, and will be joining the showcase by other filmmakers from the continent by curating a Kunle Afolayan/Golden Effects Pictures retrospect. This is in addition to plans to get ‘Mokalik’ listed in the official selection of Cannes, among other major film festivals around the world.
A letter sent to the filmmaker reveals that Afolayan, having been listed as Ambassador on Pavillon Afriques – VIP page, is expected to wear a special ambassador’s tag during the event and function as a panelist on content sourcing, distribution and storytelling sessions among other roles.
Happy about the feats attained by the filmmaker, Commercial Director of Air France/KLM, Mr. Remco Bohre said: “Our partnership with Kunle Afolayan is another way of showing how excited we are, at Air France and KLM, about Nollywood and the Nigerian entertainment industry at large.”
‘Mokalik’ follows the career of an 11-year-old boy, Jaiye, from the middle-class suburbs who spends the day as a lowly apprentice at a mechanic workshop in order to view life from the other side of the tracks… When his father arrives to take him home, Jaiye has to make up his mind if he wants to return to school… or take on his apprenticeship full time.
With ‘Lionheart’ as her directorial debut, Nollywood actress Genevieve Nnaji, premiered her movie at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival, TIFF, in Canada.
The movie which stars Genevieve herself, Peter Okoye, NkemOwoh, Pete Edochie, Onyeka Onwenu and others, was reportedly acquired by Netflix hours before its TIFF premiere, making history as the first Netflix original film from Nigeria.
The movie, which had the chance to be screened and accepted internationally, before coming home, was rated top, coming from an actress who is known to be selective in scripts acceptance from the beginning of her career, which has made her one of the top rated actresses.
Some reviews have tongue-lashed Genevieve for not adhering to the processes involved in getting movies to the Nigerian cinemas. However, following a private screening on December 21, Genevieve announced that the film would finally be screened at selected cinemas.
Nnaji started her acting career as a child actress in the then popular television soap opera ‘Ripples’ at the age of 8. In 1998 at the age of 19, she was introduced into the growing Nigerian film industry with the movie ‘Most Wanted’. Her subsequent movies include: ‘Last Party’, ‘Mark of the Beast’ and ‘Ijele’.
In 2010 she starred in the award-winning film’ Ijé: The Journey’.
As at 2009, Nnaji was one of the best paid actresses in Nollywood.
Due to her contributions to the Nigeria movie industry, she became the first actress to be awarded Best Actress at the 2001 City Peoples Awards, the award ceremony that previously had only recognized politicians and business conglomerates. She was also the first actress to be awarded as Best Actress by the Censors Board of Nigeria in 2003.
