Yoruba cinema has produced some of Nigeria’s most memorable films, mixing folklore, politics, comedy and family drama in the Yoruba language. This list of the best Yoruba movies is a starting point for new viewers. Availability on streaming platforms changes, so check where to watch before you plan a movie night.
Must-Watch Yoruba Films
- Saworoide (1999): Tunde Kelani’s political drama about kingship, power and the people.
- Agogo Èèwò (2002): another Tunde Kelani film, about a sacred bell and the abuse of power.
- Thunderbolt: Magun (2001): a story built around a Yoruba spiritual belief and its dangers.
- Maami (2011): a moving drama about a mother’s love and a child’s journey.
- Figurine (2009): Kunle Afolayan’s supernatural thriller mixing folklore and modern life.
- Jenifa (2008): Funke Akindele’s comedy about a village girl in the city, which grew into a franchise.
- Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020): a hit comedy with huge audiences.
- Anikulapo (2022): a Yoruba-language fantasy drama that reached Netflix viewers.
Some entries are mixed English and Yoruba; check subtitles and language options before you watch.
Directors and Actors to Know
- Tunde Kelani: known for stories rooted in Yoruba culture.
- Kunle Afolayan: a leading director and actor, whose father Ade Love was a pioneer of Yoruba film.
- Funke Akindele: actor, producer and director behind major Yoruba hits.
- Toyin Abraham, Odunlade Adekola and Femi Adebayo: prominent names in modern Yoruba cinema.
How to Choose a Yoruba Movie
- For folklore and spirituality: try Figurine, Anikulapo or Thunderbolt: Magun.
- For politics and drama: start with Saworoide.
- For comedy: try Jenifa or Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
- For learning Yoruba: pair a film with our beginner’s guide to Yoruba.
Learn More
Read the history of Yoruba movies, the folk stories behind many plots in Yoruba folktales. Browse our Movies category and see the Nollywood overview on Wikipedia.
Best Yoruba Movies FAQs
What is the best Yoruba movie?
Saworoide is widely praised, while Figurine and Anikulapo are also popular choices.
Where can I watch Yoruba movies?
Many are on Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube and in cinemas, but availability varies.
Who is the father of Yoruba cinema?
Hubert Ogunde is regarded as the father of Yoruba professional theatre, with Ade Love among film pioneers.
