The 2025 Nollywood in Hollywood showcase successfully concluded on March 1, 2025, leaving an indelible mark on the global film industry.
The event, which took place at the historic Egyptian Theater in Hollywood and the Norris Cinema Theatre at the University of Southern California (USC), celebrated the best of Nigerian cinema with screenings of “The Man Died,” “Mai Martaba,” and “The Weekend.”
The series of events kicked off on February 28 with the red carpet opening night screening of “The Man Died” at American Cinematheque’s Egyptian Theatre.
Directed by Awam Amkpa, the film, based on Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka’s harrowing prison memoir, follows his unjust imprisonment by a ruthless military regime determined to silence his voice.
After the screening, a Q&A panel was held, moderated by USC Professor and actor Bayo Akinfemi (Bob Hearts Abishola), with actor Abraham Amkpa representing the film.
Day Two of the showcase took place at USC’s Norris Cinema Theatre and began with a screening of director Prince Daniel’s “Mai Martaba,” a historical epic set in an ancient African kingdom, exploring love, greed, and power while showcasing rich cultural heritage.
As Nigeria’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars, the film has received critical acclaim.
An insightful Q&A with the filmmaker followed, moderated by Alessandro Ago, USC’s Executive Director of Film Programming.
Day Two concluded with a closing night screening of director Daniel Oriahi’s “The Weekend,” a riveting thriller about Nikiya, an orphan seeking family connections, who pushes her fiancé Luke to reconcile with his estranged family. As secrets emerge, disturbing truths lead to shocking twists. The film premiered at the Tribeca Festival.
A Q&A session with the film’s lead actress, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, followed, moderated by filmmaker Akin Omotosho (“Rise”, “The Ghost and the House of Truth”).
Founded in 2018 by Nigerian-American filmmaker Ose Oyamendan, Nollywood in Hollywood has continued its mission of cultural diplomacy by bringing the vibrancy of Nigerian storytelling to an international audience.
In collaboration with American Cinematheque and the USC School of Cinematic Arts, the showcase once again highlighted the artistic excellence and global influence of Nollywood.
Programme manager Unoma Ononye reflected on the event’s success, stating, “This has been one of our best showcases yet! The energy, the enthusiasm, and the reception from Hollywood and beyond reaffirm the growing importance of Nollywood on the global stage.”
Attendees included industry professionals, film enthusiasts, and key Hollywood players who
engaged in insightful discussions and networking opportunities with Nigerian filmmakers.
Since its inception, Nollywood in Hollywood has served as a bridge for Nigerian filmmakers to connect with top Hollywood agencies, management firms, casting agents, networks, and studios.
Past showcases have featured works from some of Nigeria’s most celebrated filmmakers, and this year was no exception. The 2025 event further solidified Nollywood’s presence in Hollywood, fostering meaningful collaborations and opening doors for Nigerian cinema on an international scale.
As the curtains close on this year’s event, the impact of Nollywood in Hollywood continues to resonate, paving the way for future collaborations and a deeper appreciation of Nigerian storytelling worldwide.
