Beyond the Stars: The Key Creators Behind Blockbuster Successes

In the past few years, Nollywood has seen a new wave of success stories in blockbuster cinema, thanks to visionary creators who have pushed beyond conventional storytelling to deliver fresh, engaging, and culturally impactful films.

Blockbusters like Brotherhood, Tribe of Judah, Gangs of Lagos, Anikulapo, and King of Boys have not only broken records but also redefined what it means to be a Nigerian film creator in an era of global cinema competition.

Here’s a look at the key creators behind these hits and the secret ingredients that make their work stand out.

King of Boys (2018) Production Design: Abisola Omolade

Abisola Omolade is a talented production designer who played a crucial role in shaping the visual aesthetic of the King of Boys movie. Her work on Kemi Adetiba’s political thriller was instrumental in creating an environment that reflected the storyline’s intense power struggles and dark undercurrents. Omolade meticulously designed sets that mirrored the grandeur of the lead character Eniola Salami’s world, from the opulent interiors of her political empire to the gritty streets where much of her story unfolds.

Brotherhood (2022) Writers: Jade Osiberu & Abdul Tijani-Ahmed

Jade Osiberu played a pivotal role in the success of Brotherhood (2022), producing and creatively overseeing the film’s development. With her bold storytelling style and bringing authentic Nigerian stories to life, Osiberu’s involvement was instrumental in shaping Brotherhood into an intense, emotionally charged narrative.

On the other hand, Abdul Tijani-Ahmed, a talented Nigerian screenwriter, notably impacted Brotherhood (2022) with his script, which captured the emotional complexities of family, loyalty, and moral conflict.

Anikulapo (2022) Makeup Department: Hakeem Onilogbo

Hakeem Onilogbo, known as Hakeem Effect, is a leading force in Nollywood’s makeup and special effects industry, bringing life to Anikulapo through his remarkable talent. His work on Anikulapo, directed by Kunle Afolayan, was instrumental in crafting the film’s historical and mythical atmosphere. Beyond Anikulapo, Onilogbo has contributed his craft to other Nollywood blockbusters, including King of Boys, Oloture, and Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story. In King of Boys, he was responsible for the gritty, realistic portrayal of characters’ bruises, scars, and aging effects, which enhanced the film’s intense political drama.

Tribe of Judah (2023) Sound Department: Tunmise Daniel and Kolade Morakinyo

Tunmise Daniel and Kolade Morakinyo were instrumental in bringing Tribe of Judah to life, each contributing their unique talents to elevate the film’s production. Leveraging their extensive knowledge of Nollywood, they worked together to get the sound to life that is both visually captivating and narratively rich.  

Gangs of Lagos (2023) Stunt Coordinators: Tough Bone & Jean-Daniel Odiboh

In Gangs of Lagos, Tough Bone, and Jean-Daniel Odiboh teamed up as stunt coordinators to deliver some of the most compelling and intense action sequences in Nollywood’s recent history. Known for their exceptional stunt work, the duo brought a level of grit, realism, and precision that perfectly suited the film’s exploration