Yoruba movies are among the most loved films in Africa. They grew from travelling theatre into a thriving film industry that tells stories in the Yoruba language and carries Yoruba culture to millions of viewers on cinema screens and streaming platforms. This guide covers the history, the pioneers and a short watch list.
From Theatre to Film
Yoruba film grew out of the popular travelling theatre of the mid-twentieth century. Hubert Ogunde founded the first professional Yoruba theatre company, and Duro Ladipo won fame with the opera Oba Koso, about the king Ṣàngó. Moses Olaiya (Baba Sala) brought comedy to the screen and Ade Love became a leading film actor and producer. Learn more about Ogunde in our list of famous Yoruba people.
The Video Film Boom
In the 1990s the arrival of cheap video technology opened the door to a wave of Yoruba-language video films, which became part of the wider Nigerian film industry known as Nollywood. Read the background at Wikipedia’s Nollywood page.
Key Filmmakers and Stars
- Tunde Kelani: director of acclaimed films such as Saworoide (1999) and Agogo Èèwò, known for Yoruba culture and politics.
- Kunle Afolayan: director of Figurine (2009) and the Yoruba-language film Anikulapo, which reached Netflix audiences.
- Funke Akindele: actor and producer behind the Jenifa franchise and the hit Omo Ghetto: The Saga.
- Odunlade Adekola, Toyin Abraham and Femi Adebayo: leading names in modern Yoruba cinema.
Must-Watch Yoruba Films
- Saworoide (1999): a political drama about kingship and power.
- Figurine (2009): a supernatural thriller that mixes Yoruba folklore with modern life.
- Anikulapo (2022): a Yoruba-language fantasy drama.
- Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020): a comedy that drew huge audiences.
Why Yoruba Cinema Matters
Yoruba films keep the language alive, showcase Yoruba fashion, proverbs and music, and help diaspora families stay connected. If you are learning the language, our guide to learning Yoruba suggests using films for listening practice. Actors with Yoruba roots also feature in stories like Ramsey Nouah’s Yoruba heritage. Explore more in our Movies category.
Yoruba Movies FAQs
Who is the father of Yoruba theatre and film?
Hubert Ogunde is widely regarded as the father of Yoruba professional theatre.
Is Yoruba cinema part of Nollywood?
Yes, Yoruba-language films are an important part of the wider Nigerian film industry.
Where can I watch Yoruba movies?
Many are available on streaming services such as Netflix and Prime Video, as well as on YouTube and in cinemas.
