- Today, November 19, 2024 marks International Men’s Day in recognition of the bravery and strength of men across the world
- Nollywood as a film industry have also recognised these traits in men through titles like Blood Vessel, Gangs of Lagos and others
- TheRadar curated five Nollywood titles that celebrate the bravery and essence of being a man
You would agree that Nollywood's representation of men in films has consistently captured their daring and fearless nature.
As a medium of art and reflections of the larger society, Nollywood mirrors these traits through developed male characters that take even the most dangerous missions and become heroes.
According to the Times of India, International Men’s Day is celebrated to break down stereotypes, encourage conversations and build support systems for men to lead happier lives.
As today, November 19, celebrates men and their indelible contributions to society and unique challenges, TheRadar spotlighted 5 must-watch Nollywood titles with daring male lead characters.
5 Nollywood films to celebrate International Men’s Day
- Blood Vessel (2023)
The Blood Vessel movie directed by Moses Inwang sees six people—including five men fleeing a town devastated by oil pollution stow away on a mysterious ship. They do not realise the danger ahead. When the danger finally unfolds, it tests their bravery and survival instincts. It stars David Ezekiel, Ebele Okaro, Dibor Adaobi amongst others.
- The Black Book (2023)
Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD) embodied his role as a fearless former military officer turned deacon who has to fight through the corrupt police system to seek justice for his son. His son was wrongly framed for a kidnapping and killed. RMD as Paul Edima takes law into his hands and displays his bravery. The Black Book film is directed by Editi Effiong.
- Ahamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story (2023)
Starring Stan Nze as its lead actor, Ahamefuna story follows a hard-working Igbo man whose friend is found dead and he is taken in for questioning. His interrogation delves into the complex apprenticeship system of the Igbo tribe and most importantly reveals his bravery and hard work as a competent apprentice. It was directed by Kayode Kasum.
- Gangs of Lagos (2023)
Gangs of Lagos by Jade Osiberu starred Tobi Bakre as Obalola as the lead of the crime thriller. The story saw Obalola exhibit leadership roles and explore his masculinity as a man leading gang wars to fulfill his destiny. The story is thrilling, nitty and gripping.
- ‘76 (2016)
Starring Ramsey Nouah as its male lead character, the film ‘76 set against the backdrop of 1976 offers a gripping narrative around the aftermath of a military coup in Nigeria. The story follows the life of a brave young military officer, Joseph Dewa who was wrongly accused of being involved in a failed coup against the General Muritala Mohammed government. Revisiting history, Ramsey Nouah as Joseph Dewa showcased admirable bravery in the face of political unrest.
5 inspiring Nollywood films that advocate girl-child rights in Nigeria
TheRadar earlier reported that films as art never fail to mirror our realities, and Nollywood has been at the forefront of telling authentic stories that capture our struggles and experiences.
This quest for authenticity and representation of happenings in society have led to inspiring film productions that spotlighted the girl child and raised awareness about the struggles of an average girl child in Nigeria.
As October 11 marked the celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child, TheRadar curated 5 Nollywood titles to inspire Nigerians with its advocacy for the average girl child’s rights.
