In the ever-evolving landscape of Nollywood, few filmmakers carry as much weight, influence, and anticipation as Kemi Adetiba. Known for her bold storytelling, strong character arcs, and cinematic style, the King of Boys director has carved a unique lane for herself in Nigerian cinema. Now, with her new film To Kill a Monkey officially released today, July 18th, 2025, all eyes are once again on the self-proclaimed “storyteller supreme.”
A Title That Grabs You
Right from the title, To Kill a Monkey isn’t trying to blend in. It’s loud. It’s daring. And it promises a storyline unlike anything we’ve seen in recent Nollywood blockbusters. Kemi Adetiba has described the film as a psychological thriller filled with suspense, power play, and deep emotional conflict. It’s a cinematic experiment that leans into darker, more provocative themes.
The plot explores betrayal, survival, political tension, and the cost of silence, a compelling mix that sets the stage for high-stakes drama. With the success of King of Boys still resonating, this new outing feels like the next evolution in Adetiba’s storytelling arsenal.
A Queen of Her Craft
Kemi Adetiba has never been one to play it safe. From her breakout directorial debut in The Wedding Party, which became a box office sensation, to the gritty, politically charged world of King of Boys, she has constantly raised the bar. What makes her work even more impressive is the consistency of quality across storytelling, casting, visuals, and sound.
Her brand is now synonymous with excellence and edge, and To Kill a Monkey seems positioned to further strengthen that reputation.
Star Power Casting
This time, Adetiba assembles a powerful cast to bring her vision to life. The film features veteran actor Chidi Mokeme, the graceful Stella Damasus, and the ever-commanding Bimbo Akintola, William Benson, Bucci Franklin in key roles. Joining them are, Lilian Afegbai, Michael .O. Ejoor, and Damilola Adegbite; each bringing unique flair and depth to the screen.
With this cast, audiences can expect powerhouse performances, emotional complexity, and standout moments that will linger long after the credits roll.
Raising Nollywood’s Global Profile
Beyond entertainment, Kemi Adetiba represents something larger; the global ambition of Nollywood. With her international fan base, sleek production style, and ability to tap into culturally resonant stories, she’s helping reshape how the world views African cinema. Every project she releases becomes a cultural conversation, and To Kill a Monkey is no different.
Final Thoughts
To Kill a Monkey isn’t just another film — it’s another power move. A declaration that Nollywood isn’t just growing, it’s evolving. And at the helm of that evolution is a woman who knows exactly what she’s doing. It premieres on Netflix today!
Are you planning to see To Kill a Monkey? What are your expectations? Share your thoughts with us after you’ve seen the movie.