Tunde Kelani, often called TK, is one of the best-known filmmakers working in the Yoruba language. His company, Mainframe Productions, has produced many films that are praised for their storytelling, music and use of Yoruba culture. This guide gives a short overview. Details follow common film records and may differ slightly between sources.
Who he is
Kelani began his career behind the camera as a cinematographer before turning to directing and producing. He is often described as a pioneer of quality Yoruba cinema and a champion of Nigerian stories told in Nigerian languages.
Films to know
| Film | Year |
|---|---|
| Ti Oluwa Nile | 1993 |
| O Le Ku | 1997 |
| Saworoide | 1999 |
| Thunderbolt: Magun | 2001 |
| Agogo Eewo | 2002 |
| Arugba | 2008 |
| Maami | 2011 |
| Dazzling Mirage | 2014 |
Years are as commonly listed; check an official film database for exact release details. For more titles, see our best Yoruba movies to watch.
What makes his films stand out
- Strong use of Yoruba language, proverbs and praise poetry; read about Yoruba proverbs.
- Rich music and drumming; see the Yoruba instruments.
- Stories about power, love, community and change.
Learn Yoruba from film
Watch with subtitles and pick up phrases from our guides to basic sentences and common words.
Frequently asked questions
What is Mainframe Productions? Tunde Kelani’s film company.
What is his best-known film? Saworoide is often named among the greatest Yoruba films.
Photo: Unsplash contributor, a cinema audience, illustrative; it is not a photograph of Tunde Kelani or his sets.
