By Oghenekevwe Kofi
July 18, 2025, is shaping up to be one of the most explosive days in Nollywood history as four highly anticipated releases drop simultaneously across cinemas and streaming platforms. From gritty political drama to supernatural thrillers and Netflix originals, this is not just a movie weekend—it’s a cultural moment.
Leading the charge is Kemi Adetiba’s much-hyped “To Kill a Monkey”, an eight-part crime thriller series premiering on Netflix. Known for redefining Nigerian storytelling with King of Boys, Adetiba returns with a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and the unrelenting thirst for power. With slick cinematography and a killer cast, this series is poised to dominate your weekend binge list.
Meanwhile, in cinemas nationwide, “Freedom Way” brings timely social commentary to the big screen. Starring Mr Macaroni in a career-defining role, the film follows the cascading consequences of a government okada ban as it upends the lives of nine Lagosians. It’s a story of survival, resistance, and the everyday heroism of the common man—earning it early accolades including an AMVCA win.
Next is “ÈWÒ”, a Yoruba-language epic that dives into the haunting clash between love and tradition. Directed by Ekene Som Mekwunye and produced by veteran Saidi Balogun, the film combines sweeping visuals with raw emotion as two lovers fight against centuries of cultural obligation. With a stellar cast including Bimbo Ademoye, Akin Lewis, and Tina Mba, ÈWÒ promises to be both a box office hit and a critical darling.
Finally, there’s “Bendel Girl”, a supernatural mystery that has tongues wagging on social media. When a girl who vanished in 1985 reappears in 2024, the boundaries between past and present unravel. With Gbenga Kayode making his directorial debut and Big Brother alumni in key roles, this film fuses nostalgia, suspense, and Afrofuturist intrigue in a way rarely seen in Nollywood.
Whether you’re heading to the cinema or staying glued to your screen, July 18 is not the day to blink. Nollywood is firing on all cylinders, and you won’t want to miss a second of the action.
