- Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) has kicked off events for its 11th edition
- AMVCA has also announced its nominees list, including its coveted Best Film category
- TheRadar curated a list of 10 film titles that have won the Best Film categories at AMVCA
The ‘Best Film’ category for the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) remains one of its most coveted categories.
The category spans beyond Nigerian filmmakers but stretches out to determine the ‘Best Film’ across the African continent annually.
Some of the criteria for assessing these films includes storytelling, direction, stellar performances, universal significance, and cultural impact.
Following the recent unveiling of nominees for the 11th edition of the AMVCA, TheRadar spotlighted films that have won the Best Film category in the past 10 years.
10 films that have won AMVCA’s Best Film category
- Otelo Burning — South Africa (2013)
South African director Sara Blecher’s Otelo Burning is set against the 1988 Apartheid and tells the story of three young boys. The protagonist Otelo discovers a passion for surfing; however in the end, he has to choose between his passion and avenging the death of his brother.
- Contract — Ghana (2014)
The romance comedy film presents a heartwarming tale of a man who doesn't want marriage but wants a child. His attempt to try a surrogate mum makes him realise he can actually keep the relationship. Contract was directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso.
- October 1 — Nigeria (2015)
Capturing the backdrop of Nigeria’s Independence Day in October 1960. October 1 is a thriller and mystery film directed by Kunle Afolayan. It stood out for its relevance and ability to blend historical events with fiction.
- Dry — Nigeria (2016)
The Nollywood drama captures the untold realities of child marriage and Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) in Northern Nigeria. It was directed by Stephanie Linus.
- ‘76 — Nigeria (2017)
‘76 was also set during a turbulent military era in Nigeria. It follows a soldier who was wrongly accused of a coup plot. He must fight against all odds to prove his innocence. It was directed by ace director Izu Chukwu.
- 18 Hours —Kenya (2018)
The Kenyan medical drama 18 Hours is about a rookie paramedic determined to save a critically injured victim. The movie emerged as the first Kenyan title to be recognized at the AMVCA as it won the Best Film category.
- Living in Bondage: Breaking Free — Nigeria (2020)
The Nigerian thriller was a sequel to the original 1992 classic title Living in Bondage. Directed by actor-turned-director Ramsey Naouh, the plot captures an ambitious young man who turns to occult means out of desperation to make money.
- Amina — Nigeria (2022)
Amina, The Nigerian epic film chronicles the legendary life of Queen Amina of Zazzu who is known as modern-day Zaria. It is a tale of power, bravery and legacy.
- Anikulapo — Nigeria (2023)
In 2023, Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo won the AMVCA Best Film. It follows the story of Saro who had a mystical power to bring the dead back to life. The film features Bimbo Ademoye and Kunle Remi with its cultural themes.
- Breath of Life — Nigeria (2024)
The last film to win the coveted Best Film category at AMVCA was Breath of Life. The Nigerian drama captures a once-wealthy man who withdraws into himself following a tragic event. His life takes a turn when a young servant Elijah comes into his life. Starring Chimezie Imo, the film stood out for its powerful storytelling.
What film will win the 2025 Best Film category?
All the AMAA’s Best Film winners over the years
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier spotlighted all Best Film category winners of the annual Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) since its inception.
Kicking off with Dickson Iroegbu’s film The Mayors as its first recipient in 2005, AMAA has recognised numerous African films in the Best Film category for years.
