Africa’s film industry is booming, with Nollywood (Nigeria), Wakaliwood (Uganda), and South Africa’s film industry producing globally acclaimed movies. African cinema tells authentic stories, from history and culture to politics and daily life.
The Woman King (2022) – 🇧🇯🇺🇸
Inspired by the real-life Dahomey Amazons, an all-female warrior unit in 19th-century Benin.
Starring: Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu
Lionheart (2018) – 🇳🇬 Nollywood
Nigeria’s first-ever Netflix original film, directed by Genevieve Nnaji, showcasing a strong female lead in business and family struggles.
Queen of Katwe (2016) – 🇺🇬 Uganda
Based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl from Uganda who becomes a chess champion.
Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo
Tsotsi (2005) – 🇿🇦 South Africa
Oscar-winning crime drama about a young gangster in Johannesburg who steals a car and finds a baby inside.
Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film
Half of a Yellow Sun (2013) – 🇳🇬 Nigeria
Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s novel about the Nigerian Civil War.
Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton
