The Most Epic African Movies to Watch on Netflix Because The Future of African Cinema is Bright and Full Promise

Film Lovers, Gather Around! If your January plans don’t include African movies, are you even doing it right? Netflix is kicking off the new year with incredible productions like Kemi Adetiba’s “King of Boys: The Return of the King” and Niyi Akinmolayan’s latest, “Lisabi: A Legend Is Born.” It’s the perfect time to dive into Nollywood and South African movie archives.

African cinema is projected to experience significant investment growth, starting at $1.2 billion in 2025 and reaching $6.8 billion by 2035. This increase is fueled by technological advancements, greater accessibility to global streaming platforms, and the rising demand for diverse storytelling. The audience for African films is expected to expand rapidly, growing from 250 million viewers in 2025 to over 1 billion by 2035. This growth reflects the increasing popularity of African films worldwide and the continent’s burgeoning middle class. Additionally, African cinema’s global recognition is anticipated to rise, with Oscar nominations for African films projected to increase from 3 in 2025 to 15 by 2035.

From romantic comedies to gripping dramas, we’ve curated a list of some of the most thrilling African movies you can stream on Netflix starting this January. The future of African cinema is undoubtedly bright and full of promise.

King of Boys: The Return of the King

Kemi Adetiba’s iconic King of Boys crime-thriller franchise is making a grand return in 2025. While we eagerly await the sequel, now is the perfect time to revisit the original film—or watch it for the first time! Featuring stellar performances by Sola Sobowale, Toni Tones, Reminisce, and Titi Kuti, this power-packed political drama will leave you at the edge of your seat.

Lisabi: A Legend Is Born

A prequel to Niyi Akinmolayan’s 2024 hit Lisabi: The Uprising, this film delves into the origins of the legendary folk hero, Lisabi. With a star-studded cast including Odunlade Adekola, Lateef Adedimeji, Olayode Juliana, and Adebimpe Oyebade-Adedimeji, it’s a mesmerizing tale of resilience and heroism. Currently trending as Nollywood’s number one title on Netflix, this epic drama is a must-watch!

Aki and Pawpaw (Comedy)

This hilarious comedy follows two mischievous brothers on a quest for social media fame after crossing paths with a powerful influencer. With laugh-out-loud moments from beloved stars Chinedu Ikedieze, Osita Iheme, Amaechi Muonagor, and Chioma Okafor, it’s the perfect pick for a lighthearted movie night.

Heart of the Hunter

Set in South Africa, this gripping action drama revolves around a retired assassin whose peaceful life is disrupted when he receives a desperate call from the daughter of an old friend. As he delves into a kidnapping case, he uncovers a conspiracy rooted in the government.

Can You See Us (Drama)

This emotional drama tells the story of a boy with albinism who is rejected by his father at birth. The film beautifully captures his journey through a childhood filled with bullying, tragedy, and hope. Featuring a stellar cast led by George Sikazwe, Thabo Kaamba, and Ruth Jule, it’s an inspiring tale of resilience.

Òlòtūré (Crime)

This intense drama follows a journalist who goes undercover as a prostitute in Lagos to expose the dark world of human trafficking. Starring Omoni Oboli, Omowumi Dada, Sharon Ooja, and Beverly Osu, Òlòtūré is a raw and powerful film that sheds light on a harrowing social issue.

Blood Vessel

Directed by Moses Inwang, this mystery thriller tells the story of six individuals who flee a polluted town, only to find themselves on a ship filled with unexpected dangers. Starring Francis Duru, Jide Kene Achufusi, Dibor Adaobi, and John Dumelo, Blood Vessel is packed with suspense and shocking twists.

Lisabi: The Uprising (Historical Drama)

A classical Yoruba epic, Lisabi: The Uprising is set during the golden age of the Oyo Empire. The story revolves around Lisabi, a brave man who leads a rebellion against the oppressive Ilaris, the king’s ruthless tax collectors. With spiritual and physical fortitude, Lisabi challenges tyranny in this gripping tale of resistance.

Umjolo: My Beginning, My End!

Zuko Nodada’s Umjolo: My Beginning, My End! is a poignant romantic drama that explores relationships tested by betrayal, self-discovery, and the allure of new possibilities. This 2024 release is a captivating exploration of love, morality, and the search for true happiness.

Citation

Written by Tunde Babalola and directed by Kunle Afolayan, Citation tells the harrowing story of Moremi (Temi Otedola), a university student who speaks out after being sexually assaulted by a professor. This socially relevant drama, featuring Jimmy Jean-Louis, Gabriel Afolayan, and Bukunmi Oluwashina, won Best International Film at the 2022 National Film Awards.

In Line
Directed by Tope Oshin, this gripping drama follows a man released from prison who expects to resume his life with his family and business, only to find that everything has changed. His wife is secretly plotting revenge for the years of abuse she endured, making his return to normalcy increasingly elusive. The film stars Adesua Etomi-Wellington and Uzor Arukwe.

My Village People
A comedy that blends the charm of classic Nollywood with modern cinema, ‘My Village People‘ offers a humorous take on village life with drama and unexpected twists. The film stars Theresa Edem, Bovi Ugboma, and Venita Akpofure.