Kunle Afolayan’s talent has made him a celebrated name in the Nigerian film industry, and he is no stranger to creating stories that leave a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. His latest movie, Recall, premiered on November 7 at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), setting the stage for a powerful journey into psychological thriller territory.
With Recall, Afolayan explores the twists and turns of love and betrayal, capturing Lagos’s essence and the emotional intensity of his characters, led by Sharon Ooja. Afolayan’s knack for blending authentic African stories with universal themes has once again raised the bar for Nollywood. Yet, Recall is only the latest example of Afolayan’s unparalleled storytelling, joining a lineup of his acclaimed works that have reshaped Nigerian cinema.
1. The Figurine – The Film That Transformed Nigerian Cinema
First on the list of Afolayan’s must-watch movies is The Figurine (2009), a film often credited with helping launch the “New Nollywood” wave. Afolayan dared to take on a supernatural narrative that intertwines romance, ambition, and destiny, set against a haunting cultural myth.
The plot follows two friends who discover a statue that supposedly brings seven years of prosperity, only to find that it comes with a dark twist. The Figurine won multiple awards, including the Africa Movie Academy Award, and showcased Afolayan’s ability to merge folklore with psychological suspense. It’s a masterclass in cinematic storytelling, and it elevated Nollywood’s standards by drawing audiences both locally and globally.

2. October 1 – A Thriller Rooted in Nigeria’s Colonial History
Afolayan took a bold step with October 1 (2014), a murder mystery set in the final days before Nigeria’s independence. This film dives deep into the nation’s colonial history through the eyes of a police officer investigating a string of murders.
October 1 is an expertly crafted thriller, layered with themes of nationalism, identity, and social tension. Afolayan’s attention to period detail, from costumes to set designs, transports viewers back to the 1960s, creating an immersive experience that’s both visually stunning and emotionally gripping.

3. Swallow – A Journey Through Societal Expectations
With Swallow (2021), Kunle Afolayan dives into the harsh realities faced by Nigerian women in the 1980s, as they navigate a world of limited choices and mounting pressures. Based on Sefi Atta’s novel, Swallow tells the story of Tolani, a young woman who contemplates drug trafficking to escape poverty, only to face even more challenging questions about survival and morality.
This movie marked Afolayan’s Netflix debut, and his attention to character depth and narrative authenticity shines through. He captures the essence of Lagos life, with powerful performances that highlight the burdens of societal expectations. Through Swallow, Afolayan tackles sensitive issues with nuance, making it a must-watch for those looking to understand the complexities of Nigerian society.

4. Citation – A Global Take on Gender-Based Violence and Education
One of Afolayan’s most impactful films, Citation (2020), addresses a subject that resonates globally: the issue of sexual harassment in academic institutions. The story follows Moremi, a bright young student who takes on her professor in a fight for justice.
Citation demonstrates Afolayan’s commitment to shedding light on social issues while entertaining his audience, and it resonates with viewers across borders. The film received international praise, thanks to its relatable storyline and strong female lead. Shot in Nigeria, Senegal, and Cape Verde, Citation is a visually captivating film that proves Afolayan’s skill in balancing important social messages with cinematic beauty.

5. Aníkúlápó – Reviving Folklore for a Modern Audience
Aníkúlápó, one of Afolayan’s most recent successes, brings African folklore to life in a way that captivates both young and older generations. Set in a traditional Yoruba community, this Netflix original centers on a story of power, love, and consequence, following Saro, a young man with supernatural powers that set him on an unpredictable path.
With beautiful cinematography, intricate costume design, and a compelling story, Aníkúlápó showcases Afolayan’s dedication to cultural authenticity and storytelling finesse. The film’s success led to Netflix releasing a second season, underscoring Afolayan’s mastery of episodic storytelling that keeps audiences eager for more.

Afolayan’s influence stretches beyond Nigerian borders. He has consistently attracted international attention by making Nigerian stories accessible and relatable to global audiences. Afolayan’s partnership with Netflix and other platforms has expanded his reach, allowing him to showcase the richness of African storytelling on a world stage.
For film enthusiasts looking to dive into the evolution of Nigerian cinema, Afolayan’s work is an essential part of the journey. Whether it’s the suspense of The Figurine, the historical intrigue of October 1, or the societal challenges in Swallow, Afolayan’s films offer a compelling look at the intersections of culture, history, and human nature.
In a rapidly growing Nollywood industry, Kunle Afolayan’s contributions have set a benchmark for quality and creativity, proving that African filmmakers are more than capable of telling stories that resonate universally. With Recall, Afolayan continues to push boundaries, giving fans yet another reason to appreciate his work.
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