A Nigerian fashion designer has shared an emotional and powerful review of the newly released movie 'The Herd' that has resonated deeply with many viewers across the country. Tianah Jubilee expressed that watching Daniel Etim-Effiong's directorial debut felt like witnessing Nigeria's collective cry for help.
The Herd: More Than Just Entertainment
The crime thriller, which became available for streaming on Netflix on November 21, 2025, after its initial cinema release on October 17, has struck a chord with Nigerian audiences. The film is set in Ekiti state and follows the harrowing story of a wedding celebration that turns into a fight for survival when the couple and other travelers are kidnapped by gunmen disguised as herdsmen.
Jubilee took to Facebook to share her profound reaction to the movie, stating that it represents much more than just a fictional story. "Watching The Herd on Netflix feels like watching Nigeria cry out loud," she wrote in her viral post. "It's painful... because this movie isn't just a story. It's our reality."
A Mirror to Nigeria's Painful Reality
The fashion designer elaborated on how the film captures the emotional weight of the challenges facing many Nigerian families today. She described the movie as portraying the fear, loss, and unanswered questions that have become part of daily life for numerous citizens.
"When you watch it, you feel the weight of this country," Jubilee expressed. "You feel the helplessness. You feel the truth we are all trying so hard to survive." Her review highlights how the film manages to convey the emotional toll of the security situation in Nigeria, making it relatable to viewers who have experienced similar anxieties.
Jubilee particularly noted the filmmaker's foresight, suggesting that Daniel Etim-Effiong seemed to have anticipated the current situation in the country. "It's almost as if the filmmaker knew what was coming... like he saw the storm before it arrived," she observed.
Call to Action for Nigerian Viewers
The fashion designer strongly encouraged Nigerians to watch the film to gain a deeper understanding of the country's situation beyond what news reports typically convey. She emphasized that the movie provides an emotional perspective that news coverage often lacks.
"If you want to understand what is happening in Nigeria today, not from the news, but from the heart, please watch The Herd," she urged. "It will break you... and open your eyes at the same time."
Her final message served as both a recommendation and a call to awareness: "Go and watch it. Let it speak to you. Let it remind you that what we are living through is real, and something has to change."
Audience Reactions and Broader Context
The heartfelt review has generated significant reactions on social media, with many users expressing their intention to watch the film. Comments like "I need to see the film" from Tambel Walter and "Yea, I saw it yesterday and I said to myself, may Etim saw a vision before going for this storyline" from Chinem Mike Ochoma reflect the growing interest in the movie.
However, 'The Herd' has also faced some backlash, particularly from viewers in northern Nigeria who feel the portrayal of certain characters reinforces negative stereotypes. The controversy has sparked discussions on social media platforms, with some groups even calling for the removal of the film from Netflix.
Despite the mixed reactions, the movie continues to attract significant attention, having garnered over 30 million views since its release, demonstrating its impact on Nigerian audiences and the broader conversation about the country's security challenges.
