As December 2025 unfolds, Nigeria's vibrant film industry, Nollywood, is concluding a remarkable year. A collection of powerful movies has captivated audiences, sparking discussions long after their initial release. From gritty crime narratives and heart-wrenching family sagas to epic historical tales, these films defined the cinematic landscape. If you missed any during the busy year or wish to revisit them, now is the perfect time to catch up before the calendar turns.
The Thrillers and Dramas That Gripped the Nation
Kemi Adetiba's crime thriller, To Kill a Monkey, was an undeniable standout. The film immerses viewers in the shadowy world of Lagos cybercrime through Efemini, a gifted tech graduate whose brilliance leads to his ruin. Powered by compelling performances from William Benson and Bucci Franklin, this movie remained a hot topic for months. You can stream it exclusively on Netflix.
Another film that left audiences on edge was The Herd, directed by Daniel Etim Effiong. This tense story transforms a post-wedding road trip into a brutal fight for survival, exploring deep themes of fear and trust. With a strong cast including Genoveva Umeh, it ignited serious conversations about national insecurity and personal trauma. This film is also available on Netflix.
Baby Farm disturbed viewers with its bold exploration of baby trafficking. Its unflinching narrative and strong social message ensured it stayed in the public eye throughout the year. This provocative film can be found on Netflix.
Cultural Epics and Relatable Comedies
For lovers of history and tradition, Lisabi: A Legend is Born was a visual masterpiece. This epic continues the saga of the legendary Egba warrior, Lisabi, celebrated for his resistance against oppression. Rich in Yoruba culture and folklore, its stunning visuals made it a favorite. Stream this historical journey on Netflix.
Offering a mix of humor and poignant reality, Owambe Thieves became one of the year's most relatable comedies. It follows a struggling couple who, after one poor decision, get entangled in theft at a lavish party. Its blend of comedy and desperation resonated widely on social media. Catch it on Kava TV.
Another culturally significant film, Labake Olododo, told the powerful story of a fearless female warrior confronting betrayal and rigid traditions. Its themes of strength and defiance made it a standout in the traditional drama genre. This film is available on Kava TV.
Romance, Influence, and Family Secrets
The romantic drama A Lagos Love Story, set during the bustling Lagos Art and Culture Week, beautifully captured the chaotic charm of finding love in the city. Jemima Osunde and Mike Afolarin delivered tender, emotional performances, making it ideal for December viewing. Stream it on Netflix and Prime Video.
Reel Love tapped directly into modern influencer culture and the curation of online personas. Timini Egbuson shone as a relationship influencer coerced into a fake romance, a plot that deeply resonated with young audiences navigating digital-age love. Find this relevant story on Kava TV.
In I Am Anis, Shaffy Bello delivered one of her most intense performances. The film tackles heavy themes of shame, survival, and societal judgment when a woman's past is dramatically revealed at a family ceremony. Watch it on Circuits TV.
Finally, Family Brouhaha delved into the explosive mix of family, wealth, and hidden secrets. Featuring powerful acts from veterans like Joke Silva and Shaffy Bello, it masterfully portrayed the underlying tensions that surface in large family gatherings. This ensemble drama is streaming on Circuits TV.
This diverse lineup of films proves Nollywood's strength in storytelling across genres. As 2025 winds down, these streaming platforms offer the perfect opportunity to experience the stories that shaped the year's cultural conversations.
