Fresh talent dwells...

Some may be puzzled and stare in bewilderment. Some may smile, feeling the same way. What is Nollywood you ask? Good question.

Nollywood is the most popular and affectionate term for the Nigerian film Industry. It is the world's third biggest film industry, to Bollywood and Hollywood and is also the fastest growing. With (positive) representation of black people people of the African Diaspora,  mostly non-existent outside of Africa, Nollywood offers us a fair and expressionistic view of ourselves. Combining provocative socioeconomic issues with eloquent scripts; Nollywood films are known to evoke emotion and thoughts in the audience. Akin to any other film industry; there are varied categories (drama, romance, comedy etc) however the most noticeable difference is the language-English or Yoruba. Nollywood allows us as a people to connect with our brothers and sisters and tells stories with realism and versatility.

Many household names have made Nollywood much appreciated worldwide as distributers operate across Western Europe, U.S.A. and Canada as well as the Motherland.

It is difficult to determine who are Nigeria's elite actors and actresses when fresh talent is emerging so quickly. Although, the definite A-Listers have been given the pseudonyme; G-Five. Possibly a political pun, these elite are; Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Stella Damasus-Aboderin, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) and Ramsey Nouah. Their previous roles have proved why they are all national treasures; they are seasoned in their craft and all possess versatility.

In addition, there are many other actors and actresses who have made their imprint in the Nollywood Industry such as; Stephanie Okereke, Rita Dominic, Nkem Okor, Jim Iyke, Steph-Nora Okere, Emeka Enyiocha, Chidi Mokeme, Pat Attah, Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Bob Manuel-Odokwu, Zack Orji, Patience Ozokwor and others.

Due to the controversial ban that took place in 2005, many fans have been deprived of new movies including the highest paid actors and actresses due to dubious politics. The primary motive was supposedly to restore order to the industry which had been "threatened" by the exoribitant fees and wanton behaviour of certain Nollywood stars. Some argue that it was justified, some argue that it wasn't. But, fear not people; with the majority of Nollywood films taking anywhere from three to ten days to shoot, there are plenty to watch.

As much as I am enamoured with an industry that has a respectful representation of my people, I have one complaint. The Videos/VCDs.DVDs seldom have synopses written on the back which means that word of mouth is what motivates most buyers. This hinders people from making good choices about which movies they purchase and are at times disappointed. I plan to help the Industry and the consumers by writing up detailed and thorough reviews for your benefit (as well as adding news on future releases.)

Forgive me for using the term "blockbuster" too loosely in some cases but you know what I mean.

Please click here for reviews.

GAMES WOMEN PLAY 1 & 2

HONEY 1 & 2

PROMISE ME FOREVER 1 & 2

MASTER STROKE 1 & 2

DARKEST NIGHT 1 & 2

OSUOFIA IN LONDON 1 & 2

OFFICIAL PROSTITUTE 1 & 2

CRITICAL DECISION 1 & 2

WHEEEL OF CHANGE

LAST GIRL STANDING 1 & 2

THE COMFORTER 1 & 2

SHARON SHONE

SHARON STONE 2

SHARON STONE IN ABUJA (3)

PRIVATE SIN 1 & 2

PARADISE OF SHAME

UNPREDICTABLE 1 & 2

THE BRIDESMAID

BREAK UP 1 & 2

LOVE, SEX & MARRIAGE

GOD LOVES PROSTITUTES 1 & 2

LOVER BOY IN GHANA

THE SISTERHOOD

To be continued.