From time immemorial, Nollywood has consistently produced back-to-back masterpieces, and honestly, some of these movies do not get enough praise. Even in a time when resources were so little, the creativity of these incredible actors and actresses still shone through, ensuring that our childhoods were memorable.
From horror that’d keep you up at night, to romance thrillers that’d leave you teary, in this article, we’ve taken a time travel and compiled 25 of some of the best Nollywood classics from the golden age.
Brotherhood Of Darkness (1996) (Source: Nollywood Prime Tv)
A chilling tale of power, secrecy, and dark forces, Brotherhood of Darkness follows a young man who unknowingly joins a dangerous cult in his pursuit of wealth and success. As he rises, he realizes the price of power is far deadlier than he imagined. This movie, released in the early 2000s, featured veteran actors like Patrick Doyle, and Zack Orji. Brotherhood of Darkness remains one of Nollywood’s most gripping occultic thrillers, a film that still haunts viewers today.
2. August Meeting
August Meeting – Credit YT/Yummy Nolywood Movies
A powerful and deeply cultural drama, August Meeting is a movie that explores the dynamics of women coming together to fight oppression and empower their communities. This planned annual meeting leads to an intense power tussle between the oppression fighters. It is set in a traditional Igbo society, it tells the story of wives who challenge long-held patriarchal customs in their village. The film, starring Liz Benson, Rita Edochie, and Ngozi Ezeonu, remains a relevant feminist classic.
3. End Time (1999)
End-Time, Pastor Weaver, A Kenneth Nnebue Flim – Credit: YT/Brother Kenneth Nnebue
This movie is one of those unsettling religious thrillers Nollywood excelled at in the early 2000s. It follows a charismatic pastor who is not what he seems, luring his congregation into a web of deception, false prophecies, and manipulation. Released in 1999, starring Clem Ohameze, Zack Orji, and Jide Kosoko, Pastor Weaver (End Time) is a masterpiece and a classic example of Nollywood’s fearless storytelling about religious exploitation.
4. Karishika (1998)
Karishika: Satan Is In Trouble (1998/1999) – Source: Wikipedia
Looking for a horror movie that will keep you up at night thinking about the possibilities of it happening in real life, then you need to see Karishika. In this 1998 supernatural horror film, Lucifer dispatches Karishika, portrayed by Becky Okorie, to Earth to lead souls astray and swell the ranks of hell. Her malevolent mission wreaks havoc on unsuspecting individuals, exploiting their deepest desires and weaknesses.
The film features Bob-Manuel Udokwu as Pastor Evarist and Sandra Achums as Bianca. Karishika remains a standout in Nollywood’s horror genre, its chilling narrative and memorable performances leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
5. Blood Money (1997)
Blood Money, 1997 – Source; Wikipedia
A gripping crime thriller, Blood Money follows the dark journey of a desperate man who after being scammed, reunites with his former schoolmate and police chief who becomes a millionaire profiting off the organ trade. After persuasion and pressure, he turns to ritual killings for wealth but soon faces terrifying consequences. Released in 1997, it featured Nollywood legends like Kanayo O. Kanayo, Zack Orji, and Sam Dede. The film remains a cautionary tale that cemented Kanayo’s reputation as Nollywood’s “ritual movie king.”
6. Oracle
Oracle Movie Poster – Credit; FB/The-Classic-Nollywood
In Oracle, a gripping Nollywood supernatural drama, themes of fate, betrayal, and dark forces take center stage. The film follows two best friends, played by Charles Okafor and Tony Umez, who swear an oath of loyalty at a sacred shrine. Years later, one betrays the other, setting off a chain of terrifying supernatural events. When the betrayed friend tries to walk away, the vengeful spirits of the shrine refuse to let him go, unleashing horror upon him and his family. Featuring legendary actors like Pete Edochie, Chinyere Wilfred, and Patience Ozokwor, Oracle remains a chilling classic, known for its intense storytelling and haunting atmosphere.
7. Living in Bondage (1992)
Living In Bondage – 1992 – Source; Wikipedia
Before Nollywood became the powerhouse it is today, Living in Bondage set the stage. Released in 1992, this psychological thriller redefined Nigerian cinema with its chilling tale of greed and consequences. It follows Andy Okeke (Kenneth Okonkwo), a desperate man who joins a secret cult and sacrifices his wife for wealth, only to be tormented by her vengeful spirit. With unforgettable performances from Kanayo O. Kanayo, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, and Ngozi Nwosu, the film became a cultural phenomenon. Its impact was so profound that it inspired a 2019 sequel, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, proving that some stories never lose their grip.
8. Nneka the Pretty Serpent (1994)
Nneka The Pretty Serpent – 1994 Nollywood Movie – Source; Wikipedia
A cult classic in Nollywood’s supernatural horror genre, Nneka the Pretty Serpent (1994) tells the story of Nneka, a woman possessed by marine spirits and tasked with seducing and destroying powerful men. Played by Ndidi Obi, Nneka’s eerie charm and snake-like transformations made the film unforgettable. With its mix of suspense, mysticism, and dramatic exorcism scenes, this thriller cemented its place in Nollywood history and inspired a 2020 remake.
9. Last Burial
The Last Burial, 2000 Nollywood Movie – Source; Wikipedia
A chilling drama based on real-life events, Last Burial follows the eerie story of a wealthy businessman whose occult practices lead to his corpse refusing to stay buried. Starring Clem Ohameze and Kanayo O. Kanayo, the film, released in the early 2000s, is one of Nollywood’s most memorable supernatural horror stories. It still leaves audiences talking about the dark realities of ritual wealth.
10. RattleSnake (1995)
Rattlesnake, 1995 – Source; Wikipedia
A crime thriller with depth, RattleSnake is a Nigerian action film written and directed by Amaka Igwe and produced by Austin Awulonu It tells the gripping story of Ahanna, a young man who turns to armed robbery as a final resort to be able to feed his siblings after life deals him a tough hand. Released in 1995, it starred Francis Duru, Nkem Owoh, and Anne Njemanze. The film was so iconic that it inspired a 2020 remake. The original, however, remains a classic example of Nollywood’s golden-era storytelling.
11. The Price (1999)
The Price, Old Nollywood Movie – Credit: Pulse NG
Released in 1999, the Nollywood drama The Price, directed by Teco Benson, Richard Mofe-Damijo delivers a compelling performance as Pastor Ken, a devout leader whose life unravels after a false accusation of assault by a church member, portrayed by Eucharia Anunobi Ekwu. This accusation leads to his suspension and public disgrace, challenging his faith and resilience. The film also features notable performances by Justus Esiri and Ejike Asiegbu.
12. Isakaba (2001)
Isakaba, 2001 Nollywood Movie – Source; Zikoko
Produced in 2001, Isakaba is a classic action movie that follows the story of a community vigilante group, the Bakassi Boys, who fight crime and corruption in society using supernatural powers. But the group also instills fear in the community. Amaechi Muonagor, Susan Obi, Sam Dede and Chiwetalu Agu star in the film.
13. Ijele
Ijele, Nollywood Movies – Source: Zikoko
Ijele follows the story of a love-struck son of the gods, who would go to any length for the pretty Oma (Genevieve). When Oma falls ill and is on the verge of death, Ijele refuses to take on another woman as a wife and travels through forbidden forests to find a cure for her. Directed by Fred Amata, it stars Olu Jacobs, Genevieve Nnaji, Sam Dede, Eucharia Anunobi, and Sam Loco Efe.
14. Osuofia In London (2003)
Osuofia In London – Source: Zikoko
A Nollywood comedy classic, Osuofia in London (2003) follows the hilariously chaotic journey of Osuofia, a simple but cunning villager played by Nkem Owoh. When he learns of his wealthy brother’s death in London, he embarks on an eye-opening trip to claim his inheritance. However, things take an unexpected turn when his late brother’s wife challenges his claim, leading to a series of culture-clash misadventures. Also starring Francis Odega and Cynthia Okereke, the film became an instant hit for its witty humor, memorable one-liners, and Owoh’s unforgettable performance. It remains one of Nollywood’s most beloved comedies.
15. Aki Na Ukwa (2003)
Aki Na Ukwa, 2003 – Source: Zikoko
The gods of memes Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme cemented their careers in Nollywood with this movie. The comedy follows the story of two mischievous brothers, PawPaw and Aki, who cause chaos in their home and the entire village.
This comedy classic also featured Amaechi Muonagor, Oby Kechere, and Frances Nsokwu.
16. Blood Sisters (2003)
Blood Sister, 2003 – Source: Wikipedia
This unforgettable 2003 drama starring Genevieve Nnaji and Omotola Jalade Ekeinde tells the story of two sisters torn apart growing up in a world of poverty. Selfish desires and jealousy become the main issue of their household. With a high IMDB rating, the film’s emotional weight and outstanding performances make it a timeless classic.
17. Igodo: The Land Of The Living Dead (1999)
Igodo: The Land Of The Living Dead, 1999 – Credit: YT/Your Village People
A blend of adventure, horror, and tradition, Igodo is a 1999 Nigerian adventure film that was produced by Don Pedro Obaseki and directed by Andy Amenech It follows the story of warriors sent on a dangerous quest to retrieve a mystical sword that could save their cursed village. With an all-star cast including Sam Dede and Pete Edochie, this film remains a standout in Nollywood’s folklore storytelling.
18. Diamond Ring (1998)
Diamond Ring, 1998 Nollywood Movie – Source: Wikipedia
A 1998 classic thriller film directed by Tade Ogidan, Diamond Ring (1998) is a gripping supernatural thriller about Chidi, a spoiled university freshman who steals a ring from the corpse of Mrs. Gladys to prove himself to a secret cult. But the theft unleashes a vengeful spirit, leading to eerie deaths and a mysterious illness. Starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Teju Babyface, and Sola Sobowale, this Nollywood classic blends horror and suspense in a way that still captivates audiences today.
19. Egg Of Life (2003)
Egg Of Life (2003) – Source: Zikoko
Egg of Life is a captivating Nollywood epic that follows a brave group of young girls on a perilous journey into the dreaded evil forest to retrieve a mystical egg—the only cure for the dying prince. Directed by Andy Amenechi, this gripping tale of courage, sacrifice, and destiny features an ensemble cast, including Nkiru Sylvanus, Clarion Chukwura, Funke Akindele, Padita Agu, and Pete Edochie. A timeless classic, it remains one of Nollywood’s most unforgettable adventure dramas.
20. Tom & Jerry (2003)
Tom and Jerry, 2003 – Source: Zikoko
Tom and Jerry (2003) is another hilarious classic from Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme, following the chaos they bring wherever they go. This time, they torment their blind grandfather with endless mischief, pushing him to the brink. Frustrated, he sends them off to live with their mother—who happens to run a brothel—only for more trouble to unfold. Featuring comedy legends like Sam Loco-Efe, Ada Ameh, and Nkechi Asiegbu, this film delivers nonstop laughs and remains a fan favorite in Nollywood’s golden era of comedy.
21. State of Emergency (2004)
State Of Emergency (2004) – Source: Wikipedia
State of Emergency (2004) is a gripping Nollywood action thriller that throws viewers into the chaos of a high-stakes hostage situation. When a group of heavily armed robbers storms a government building, they take top ministers captive, demanding a ransom from the state. Tension rises as authorities scramble to resolve the crisis before it’s too late. Packed with suspense and intense action, featuring Ejike Asiegbu, Bimbo Manuel, and Saint Obi, this film remains one of Nollywood’s standout crime thrillers from the early 2000s.
22. When The Sun Sets (1993)
When The Sun Sets (1993) – Credit: Pulse NG
When the Sun Sets (1993) is a classic Nollywood romance that beautifully captures love, heartbreak, and destiny. Starring Kate Henshaw and Bob-Manuel Udokwu, the film follows a young couple whose love is tested by societal expectations and personal struggles. As they navigate the challenges of their relationship, fate takes an unexpected turn, leading to an emotional and unforgettable climax.
23. Glamour Girls (1994)
Glamour Girls (1994) – Sourrce: Wikipedia
Glamour Girls (1994) is a bold and unforgettable Nollywood classic that explores ambition, wealth, and the price of luxury. The film follows young women drawn into a world of escorting in their pursuit of financial independence, challenging Nigeria’s traditional societal norms. With a star-studded cast featuring Liz Benson, Eucharia Anunobi, and Zack Orji, Glamour Girls became a cultural phenomenon and decades later, it remains a defining film in Nollywood’s golden era.
24. Keeping Faith (2002)
Keeping Faith (2002) – Source; Pulse NG
Keeping Faith is a romantic drama that follows Nadine (Genevieve Nnaji), a woman whose world shatters when she discovers her lover is married. In the aftermath, she finds solace in the charming Princewill Sampa (Richard Mofe-Damijo), but doubt creeps in when friends convince her to use a love potion on him. Now, she’s trapped in uncertainty—does he truly love her, or is it just the jazz? Featuring stellar performances from Bimbo Akintola, Funlola Aofiyebi, Ego Boyo, and Joke Silva, this Amaka Igwe classic remains one of Nollywood’s most memorable love stories.
Mortal Inheritance is a powerful tale of love, resilience, and the fight against fate. It follows Kemi (Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde), a young woman battling sickle cell anemia, who finds love in Chike (Fred Amata), a man determined to stand by her despite the odds. But her health hangs by a thread and society’s doubts weigh on her. Directed by Andy Amenechi, this emotional Nollywood classic remains a landmark film, tackling themes of hope and survival with unforgettable performances.
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