Is Nollywood Better Than Hollywood? - Here's My Honest Take
- Simon Zaku
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
Have you ever caught yourself watching a Nollywood movie and thinking, "This is so fake," yet eagerly paid for a ticket to see the next CGI-packed Hollywood blockbuster?
Well, I’ve been there too.
But over time, I realized something: while we’re busy criticizing Nollywood, we’re overlooking its brilliance and potential.
Let me share why I think Nollywood deserves more love and why I believe it’s time we embrace Nigeria as the world’s real Wakanda.
My Personal Nollywood-Hollywood Journey
Growing up, Nollywood was the backdrop to countless weekends.
We’d watch the likes of "Living in Bondage", "The Figurine", or "Osuofia in London", and feel deeply connected to the stories.
But as I grew older and Hollywood blockbusters like "Avengers", "Avatar", and "Transformers" dominated cinemas, I began noticing how we Nigerians were quick to dismiss our own creations.
We’d say things like:
"Why does that ghost disappear like that? So fake!"
"Why is the sound of the gunshot so unrealistic?"
Yet, we’d turn around and willingly watch Thor throw a hammer across the universe, or aliens invade Earth, without batting an eye.
The Hollywood Illusion
Hollywood thrives on fiction and special effects. Think of:
1. "Avengers: Endgame" – Entirely built on the idea of superpowered beings fighting with futuristic weapons.
2. "Avatar" – A visual masterpiece, but ultimately a story set on a fictional planet with blue-skinned aliens.
3. "Fast & Furious" series - Cars flying between skyscrapers? Please.
These movies are fake - they’re meant to be.
And yet, they’ve grossed billions because Hollywood mastered the art of marketing, production budgets, and global distribution.
Nollywood: Authentic African Stories
Nollywood, on the other hand, often mirrors real African experiences:
Family dynamics in movies like "October 1" or "King of Boys".
Traditional and cultural stories like "Igodo" or "Anikulapo".
Political intrigue and corruption dramas like "Your Excellency".
Even with limited budgets and resources, Nollywood produces movies that resonate emotionally with its audience.
While the production may not match Hollywood's, the storytelling is raw, authentic, and uniquely African.
Endless Nigerian Stories Waiting to Be Told
In Taraba State and Northern Nigeria, the storytelling potential is immense.
From the captivating tales of the Mambilla Plateau to the heroic histories of the Jukun and Mumuye tribes, there’s no shortage of rich, untapped content.
And yet, we lack the investment to bring these stories to life on a global stage.
Imagine a movie about:
The Benue River’s significance in Taraba’s culture and economy.
A retelling of the Gashaka-Gumti National Park as a setting for an African mythical adventure.
Historical dramas based on Northern Nigerian kingdoms.
Nigeria: The Real Wakanda
When Marvel introduced Wakanda, the fictional African nation in "Black Panther", it struck a chord globally.
People were drawn to the idea of an African utopia filled with culture, innovation, and power.
But here's the thing: Nigeria could be the real-life Wakanda.
Our people, stories, and culture have everything Hollywood pretended to create. We just need the resources and vision to showcase it.
A Call to Action: Invest in Nigerian Stories
It’s time we stop waiting for foreign filmmakers to define Africa and take ownership of our narratives.
Just like how the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola attracts students globally, a thriving Nollywood ecosystem in Taraba or elsewhere can do the same.
Let’s create movies that not only entertain but also bring tourists, investors, and opportunities to our shores.
Partner with IBI Foundry to Make It Happen
At IBI Foundry, we’re passionate about turning untold Nigerian stories into global phenomena.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, investor, or creative visionary, we invite you to partner with us.
Let’s show the world that Nollywood, and Nigeria, have stories worth telling.
Over to you!
What are your thoughts on Nollywood vs. Hollywood?
Have a favorite Nollywood movie?
Drop it in the comments below!
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