As Nigerian cinema continues to make waves internationally, three Nollywood films—The Man Died, The Weekend, and Mai Martaba—have been selected for screening at the prestigious Nollywood in Hollywood showcase, scheduled for February 28 and March 1, 2025, in California. This milestone highlights the growing influence of Nigeria’s film industry and its increasing appeal to global audiences.

The event, launched in 2018 by Nigerian-American filmmaker Ose Oyamendan, has become a key platform for connecting Nollywood with Hollywood. Through screenings at high-profile venues like the Egyptian Theatre and the Norris Theatre at the University of Southern California (USC), Nigerian filmmakers gain exposure to international distributors, casting agents, and industry executives. Beyond mere entertainment, Nollywood in Hollywood serves as a launchpad for Nigerian films to secure wider theatrical releases, streaming deals, and potential award nominations.

This year’s lineup showcases the diversity and depth of Nigerian storytelling. The Man Died, based on Wole Soyinka’s memoir, brings a harrowing historical account to the screen, while The Weekend delivers a gripping psychological thriller. Mai Martaba, a grand historical epic, underscores Nollywood’s evolving ability to tell stories on a cinematic scale that rivals Hollywood productions.

With Mai Martaba already in contention for the 2025 Oscars in the International Feature Film category, the industry is proving that it is not just about commercial success but also about earning critical acclaim on the world stage. The continued recognition of Nollywood at international film events signals a new era for African cinema—one where Nigerian stories are no longer just local narratives but global conversations.