What Kept Me Up

Recently, it was announced that going forward, Netflix cancelled the production of some original Nollywood films and series. This might imply a surge in the number of Nollywood films released on YouTube. A few days ago, an article I wrote was published on What Kept Me Up. In the article, I wrote about what 40 Nigerians think about the YouTube craze. Many Nollywood films were released on YouTube this year, and one can't help but wonder what the Nigerian audience thinks about this. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/dDaBBnYh

From December 10th to 13th, the Alliance Française Lagos will host the fourth edition of the S16 Film Festival, celebrating auteur-driven and genre-blending films. Created by Abba T. Makama, C.J. “Fiery” Obasi, and Michael Omonua, the festival continues to champion the resurgence of indie cinema culture in Nigeria. Seyi Lasisi spoke with Makama and Omonua about curation, this year's themes, their vision and must-see films. 👉 Read more on our website: https://lnkd.in/eR4wJirf #S16FilmFestival #IndieFilm #NigerianCinema #AfricanCinema #FilmFestivals

Amid recent rumours, Netflix has clarified: "We are not exiting Nigeria. We will continue to invest in Nigerian stories to delight our members." Yet, the discussion raises questions about Netflix's evolving strategy in Africa's largest film market. ✅ Speculations arose after Kunle Afolayan's viral speech at Zuma Film Festival and signs of slowed commissioning of Nollywood originals. ✅ Fewer Nigerian titles are being licensed post-theatrically or promoted globally. ✅ The case of Lisabi, once teased as a global release, only received an African release—without explanation—has fuelled industry chatter. While the streaming giant remains committed, what does this mean for Nollywood's future on Netflix? Is the focus shifting elsewhere? #Nollywood #Netflix #StreamingWars #AfricanCinema https://lnkd.in/e_iC92pF

"It would cost $30-50M to produce Things Fall Apart. Nollywood simply can’t afford that yet." – Editi Effiong It must be noted that even Tunde Kelani’s Maami—despite critical acclaim—made only 11.9 million naira against a 30 million budget. Can Nollywood bridge the economic gap for bigger adaptations? Read the full analysis in our latest essay. https://lnkd.in/ewPZtCbS

The Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) has revealed its nominations for the 2024 edition, marking its 20th anniversary. See the full nominations representing Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda and Ghana in 26 categories. https://lnkd.in/e6tRh3AQ

We had a conversation with Ikeade Oriade founder of What Kept Me Up and a film journalist, about the crucial role of film reviewers and coverage in the African film industry. He shared some incredible insights, and if you missed the session, you can catch it on Substack: https://lnkd.in/g4qBqJev

How Rahama Sadau is Leading Kannywood To The World #Netflix #Nollywood https://lnkd.in/dynXQQ2x

Our founder and managing editor, Ikeade Oriade, is a part of the recognised 100 who are influential to the growth and greatness of Nollywood! Thank you to all our readers and community for keeping up with our work! 💜 Organized by YNaija and EbonyLife Media, #TheNollywood100 is a commendation aimed at recognising outstanding individuals who have significantly contributed to the Nigerian film industry through their talents, perseverance, and commitment.

We announced a new branding across our platforms over the weekend. With more vibrant colour combinations and logos, designed by Iyebiye Adeitan, our brand should be recognizable anywhere and anytime you see it at home and abroad. Our audience can look forward to more relevant reviews, film essays, trivia, news and quizzes in our bold colours. Anytime you are out there and you see our brand, it will be a reminder that U have been chosen to expand the Nigerian film conversation. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eAfEMN33