These 5 Nollywood Films Deserve a Spot on Your July Watchlist

July is turning out to be a genuinely brilliant month for Nigerian cinema. Whether you are in the mood for a gripping thriller, a quiet emotional drama, or a large-scale epic, there is a fantastic selection on the big screen right now. Here are five films to add to your cinema watchlist before the month is out.

The Return of Omotara Johnson

Nearly two decades after Bukky Wright made Omotara Johnson one of the most unforgettable characters in Yoruba cinema, “O.J.” is back. Directed by Adeoluwa Owu and produced by Bukky Wright, this crime drama follows a changed woman who has left her criminal past behind to build a quiet life around her son. When he is accused of murder, old enemies resurface and hidden betrayals explode. Now showing in cinemas nationwide, Wright is joined by a powerhouse cast including Richard Mofe–Damijo, Nse Ikpe–Etim, Chidi Mokeme, Timini Egbuson, Shaffy Bello, and Ali Nuhu. Now showing in cinemas nationwide.

Njem: The Journey

After premiering at AFRIFF 2025 to strong reception, “Njem: The Journey” is finally making its way to Nigerian cinemas this July. Directed by Uche Chukwu, the film follows a young man whose dream of moving abroad is complicated by loss, love, and the difficult choices that follow. Starring Chimezie Imo, Rotimi Salami, Kelechi Udegbe, Tomi Ojo, Tana Adelana, Abayomi Olukanmi, and Goodness Emmanuel, it is the kind of story that hits close to home for anyone who has ever wrestled with the pull between staying and leaving.

On Different Grounds

Mildred Okwo returns to the…