As Detty December 2025 reaches full momentum across Nigeria, Abuja is preparing for one of its biggest music moments of the year. British-Nigerian star Skepta has landed in the capital ahead of his first-ever live performance in Abuja, where he will headline the Capital Machine block party alongside Nigerian rap heavyweight Odumodublvck.
The event, scheduled for December 18, 2025, is already generating massive attention online, with fans describing it as one of the most important UK–Nigeria hip-hop crossovers of the year.
Skepta, born Joseph Junior Adenuga to Nigerian parents, is one of the most influential figures in UK grime. Known globally for songs like Shutdown and That’s Not Me, he has built a career that blends music, fashion, and cultural leadership.
In 2025, he was named GQ Man of the Year, further cementing his relevance beyond music. His appearance in Abuja during Detty December carries symbolic weight, representing both a return to his roots and a growing global interest in Nigerian hip-hop culture beyond Lagos.
Videos shared online, including clips posted by Odumodublvck, show Skepta arriving in Abuja in high spirits, fueling anticipation for the night’s performance.
Capital Machine Block Party: What to Expect
The Capital Machine block party, presented by Anti World Gangstas, kicks off at 7 PM and is expected to run late into the night. More than a regular concert, the event is positioned as a cultural statement, merging UK grime with Nigeria’s evolving rap sound.
Odumodublvck, an Abuja native best known for Declan Rice, has long championed the city’s rap scene. In past interviews and posts, he predicted that global artists like Skepta would eventually tap into Abuja’s sound and energy. This collaboration brings that vision to life.
This collaboration goes beyond Detty December hype. It highlights Abuja’s rising importance in Nigeria’s music and entertainment landscape and shows how Nigerian rap is gaining global attention on its own terms.
Nigerian content creator Carter Efe has made history on Twitch after hosting Afrobeats superstar Davido on a livestream that reportedly pulled in record-breaking numbers across Africa.
The livestream, which aired earlier this week, quickly went viral on social media after reports confirmed that it attracted over 70,000 to 80,000 concurrent live viewers, a figure widely described as the highest ever recorded for a Twitch stream by an African creator.
While Twitch has not released an official continental ranking, multiple entertainment and tech platforms have cited the stream as a new benchmark for African livestreaming.
Carter Efe, known for his comedic skits and music releases, has been steadily building a presence on Twitch in 2025. However, the appearance of Davido; one of Africa’s biggest music exports, pushed his channel to an entirely new level.
According to reports, the livestream:
Peaked at 70,000–80,000+ concurrent viewers (reported estimates)
Triggered a massive surge in followers, pushing Carter Efe’s Twitch account past 400,000 followers
Became one of the most talked-about African digital events of the year
The stream featured free-flowing conversations, music discussions, jokes, and spontaneous moments that resonated strongly with fans across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Davido’s Influence and a Live Brand Moment
One of the most talked-about moments from the livestream was Davido’s real-time involvement in Carter Efe’s brand growth. During the session, Davido openly encouraged brand partnerships for the streamer, a move that highlighted how celebrity influence can translate instantly into digital value. He sent a direct message on the live stream to the CEO of Twitch urging him to increase the deal of the streamer and also called Martell for a possible ambassadorial deal for him.
While the exact numbers may vary across reports, one thing is clear:
Carter Efe’s Twitch livestream with Davido has changed the conversation around African livestreaming.
It shows that African creators can:
Pull global-level numbers
Attract mainstream celebrities
Turn livestreams into career-defining moments
As Twitch adoption continues to grow across the continent, this moment may be remembered as the stream that reset the bar.
Lagos witnessed a historic moment as Nigerian music superstars Davido and Wizkid both performed at the GTCO End-of-Year Party. The event, held in Lagos, became one of the biggest highlights of the 2025 Detty December celebrations and drew massive attention from fans, media, and social platforms.
The GTCO End-of-Year Party is an annual corporate event organized by Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) to celebrate the end of the year with customers, partners, and staff. Over the years, the event has grown into a major entertainment gathering, often featuring top Nigerian artists. However, this year’s edition stood out due to the presence of both Davido and Wizkid on the same stage.
The event took place in Lagos and attracted a large audience made up of music lovers, influencers, business leaders, and celebrities. Excitement was already high before the performances began, but it reached a new level when Wizkid and Davido both appeared.
Wizkid delivered a powerful performance, thrilling fans with some of his biggest hits. The crowd sang along as he performed with confidence and energy. His appearance officially signaled the start of Detty December, a period known for concerts, parties, and entertainment across Lagos.
Later in the night, Davido also took the stage and gave an equally energetic performance. Known for his strong stage presence, Davido performed several of his popular songs, keeping the audience fully engaged. Fans responded with loud cheers and excitement throughout his set.
What made the GTCO End-of-Year Party special was the fact that Davido and Wizkid both performed at the same event. The two artists are often seen as rivals by fans, even though both have contributed greatly to the global growth of Afrobeats. Seeing them perform at the same corporate event surprised many people and quickly became a trending topic online.
Videos from the event spread rapidly on social media platforms, with fans praising GTCO for bringing both stars together. Many described the moment as historic and a positive sign for the Nigerian music industry.
Christmas is widely known as a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. But for many viewers, the most meaningful films are not only those that focus on the manger in Bethlehem, but those that explore the full life and purpose of Jesus on earth; His teachings, miracles, compassion, and sacrifice.
Over the years, many movies have attempted to tell this story. Some focus only on the Nativity. Others concentrate entirely on the final days leading to the crucifixion. Very few manage to present a balanced and complete picture of Jesus’ earthly ministry in a way that feels respectful, engaging, and accessible to modern audiences.
This article brings together the best and most definitive movies and series about Jesus, selected for their accuracy, storytelling strength, and ability to show why His life still matters today. These are the films that go beyond Christmas tradition and help viewers understand the full story behind the season.
Why It’s Difficult to Tell the Full Story of Jesus on Screen
Telling the story of Jesus in a single film is not easy.
His life includes major events; His birth, baptism, teachings, miracles, conflicts with religious leaders, crucifixion, and resurrection. Compressing all of this into two or three hours often leads filmmakers to skip important moments or focus heavily on one part of the story at the expense of others.
This is why many Jesus films lean toward either:
The Nativity, because of its strong Christmas appeal, or
The crucifixion, because of its emotional weight
Only a few productions take the time needed to show the full journey. These are usually longer films or multi-part series, and they tend to leave a deeper impact on viewers.
The list below focuses on those rare projects that succeed in telling the whole story, making them especially meaningful to watch during Christmas.
1. Jesus of Nazareth (1977)
Jesus of Nazareth is widely regarded as the most complete and respected screen portrayal of Jesus Christ.
Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, this epic production follows Jesus from His birth in Bethlehem through His teachings, miracles, crucifixion, and resurrection. Its extended runtime allows the story to unfold carefully, without rushing key moments from the Gospels.
Robert Powell’s portrayal of Jesus is calm, restrained, and deeply reflective. Rather than relying on dramatic excess, the performance emphasizes compassion, authority, and quiet strength, qualities many viewers associate with Jesus.
What truly sets this film apart is its balance. It gives equal weight to:
The Nativity
Jesus’ public ministry
His relationships with disciples
His final sacrifice
The story begins with the events surrounding Jesus’ birth, making it a natural choice for Christmas viewing. From there, it guides viewers through the full meaning of why that birth mattered.
2. The Chosen (2019 – Still running)
The Chosen has reshaped how modern audiences engage with the story of Jesus.
Instead of focusing only on Jesus Himself, the series places strong attention on the people around Him; His disciples, followers, and those whose lives were changed by His presence. This approach makes His ministry feel personal and relatable, without losing its spiritual depth.
The series explores Jesus’ teachings and miracles gradually, allowing characters to grow and struggle in realistic ways. This slower pace gives viewers time to reflect on each moment rather than rushing through the story.
Production quality, performances, and writing have all contributed to its global popularity. It has become one of the most watched faith-based series in recent history.
The Chosen includes dedicated Christmas episodes that focus on Jesus’ birth, making it easy for viewers to start the story during the season and continue through His ministry afterward.
3. The Miracle Maker (1999)
The Miracle Maker offers one of the most emotionally engaging portrayals of Jesus’ ministry, presented through animation.
The film combines stop motion and traditional animation to tell the story of Jesus from childhood through His public ministry. Much of the story is seen through the eyes of a young girl, which brings a sense of innocence and curiosity to the narrative.
Despite its animation style, the film does not avoid serious themes. It handles Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and eventual death with sensitivity and depth, making it suitable for both children and adults.
The film connects the humility of Jesus’ birth with the compassion and sacrifice that defined His ministry, helping viewers understand the meaning behind the celebration.
4. The Visual Bible: Matthew (1993)
For viewers who value strict biblical accuracy, The Visual Bible: Matthew stands out.
This film presents the Gospel of Matthew word for word, with every line of dialogue taken directly from Scripture. There are no added scenes, no creative dialogue, and no reinterpretations.
Because of this approach, the film feels less like a traditional drama and more like a visual reading of the Gospel. It covers Jesus’ birth, teachings, miracles, and final days with clarity and faithfulness.
It allows viewers to experience the story of Jesus exactly as written in the Bible, starting from the events surrounding His birth.
5. Son of God (2014)
Son of God is a modern cinematic retelling of Jesus’ life, adapted from the television series The Bible.
The film focuses strongly on Jesus’ public ministry; His miracles, parables, and relationship with His disciples; while maintaining a clear and accessible narrative structure. This makes it a good option for viewers who may be new to biblical films.
Its pacing and visuals help connect Jesus’ teachings to modern audiences without going too far from the source material.
The film links Jesus’ birth to the purpose of His ministry, helping viewers reflect on why His arrival is still celebrated today.
6. The Nativity Story (2006)
Although The Nativity Story does not cover Jesus’ entire ministry, it remains one of the most important films to watch during Christmas.
Unlike many Nativity films, it gives proper attention to Mary and Joseph; their fears, faith, and obedience. The story is grounded and human, focusing on the reality of the journey that led to Jesus’ birth.
Understanding Jesus’ ministry begins with understanding His birth. This film provides the foundation upon which the rest of His life is built.
Which Jesus Movie Should You Start With?
Choosing the right film depends on what you’re looking for:
For a complete life story: Jesus of Nazareth
For a modern, relatable series: The Chosen
For families and younger viewers: The Miracle Maker
For strict biblical accuracy: The Visual Bible: Matthew
For a focused Christmas watch: The Nativity Story
Each offers a different entry point into the story of Jesus.
The Passion of the Christ (2004)
This movie was not included in the list because even as a very powerful depiction of Jesus, it focuses almost entirely on the final hours of Jesus’ life. It does not explore His birth, teachings, or public ministry.
For viewers seeking a full picture of Jesus’ earthly journey, it does not provide the balance needed for Christmas viewing.
Christmas is not only about remembering where Jesus was born, but understanding why He came.
These films help tell that full story; from the quiet moment in Bethlehem to the ministry that shaped history. Whether watched alone or with family, they offer a deeper way to reflect on the season and its meaning.
For anyone looking to go beyond tradition and truly engage with the story of Jesus, these are the best movies about Jesus and His earthly ministry to watch this Christmas.
Publisher’s Note: This article is part of our weekly #OpinionPiece series exploring the intersection of Afrobeats and Lifestyle. The views expressed are solely those of the series editor and are based on the artist’s factual public brand, partnerships and cultural impact in the year published (2025).
Introduction: A Different Kind of Empire
While the Nigerian entertainment industry often rewards spectacle and volume, Tems has built an empire on the exact opposite: substance, selective presence, and unwavering creative integrity. In 2025, her lifestyle was perhaps the most influential for a generation tired of the loud, often draining, noise of social media celebrity. Tems redefined luxury not as what you buy, but as the freedom to control your time, your narrative, and your peace.
This piece argues that Tems’s deliberate choices from her fashion to her career management have established a powerful new archetype: the Minimalist Maven whose true wealth lies in her independence.
The Luxury of Creative Control (The Ultimate Flex)
In an industry where young artists often face pressure to conform, Tems’s biggest factual lifestyle statement is her insistence on total creative control.
Even after achieving global fame, Tems consistently maintained a high level of control over her production, songwriting, and artistic direction.
Opinion Piece: I see this as deeply aspirational. For young, ambitious Nigerians, the dream is often to climb the ladder until they gain the power to call the shots. Tems achieved this power early, making her lifestyle the blueprint for uncompromising ambition. She showed that self-worth and artistic vision are non-negotiable assets.
Quiet Luxury: The Power of Understatement
Tems’s aesthetic, which has become hugely influential, champions quiet luxury; a philosophy that extends far beyond her wardrobe.
Fashion Aesthetic: Her fashion choices are famously understated: oversized blazers, tailored trousers, simple flowing dresses, and a distinct lack of heavy branding. Factually, she prefers designers and pieces that prioritize texture, silhouette, and quality over loud logos. This moved the fashion conversation away from the “loud luxury” of earlier Afrobeats stars.
The Lifestyle of Selectivity: Her public life is marked by selectivity. She doesn’t overshare. Her brand collaborations are highly curated, often with global high-end brands that align with her refined, artistic image. This scarcity of her presence actually elevates her value, proving that silence and focus can be more impactful than constant chatter. I personally admire how she makes an oversized t-shirt look more expensive than a branded sequined gown.
Wellness and Boundary-Setting: The Internal Lifestyle
Perhaps Tems’s most significant, yet subtle, influence lies in normalizing a lifestyle centered on mental health and clear boundaries. In recent times, she has been open about having to cancel shows or take breaks due to her vocal health. Factually, she prioritizes her physical well-being (which is tied to her instrument) above the demanding touring schedule.
Opinion Piece: In a culture that often demands productivity at the expense of health, Tems’s decision to openly prioritize her well-being serves as powerful permission for young fans to slow down and protect themselves. She embodies a lifestyle where self care is not a trend; it is the foundation of long term success. Her serene, grounded public demeanor is the aspirational output of a well managed inner life.
The Pinnacle of Quiet Power: MLS Club Ownership
The biggest factual marker of Tems’s refined, high-level lifestyle in 2025 was her move into the global sports business.
San Diego FC Stake: In February 2025, Tems became a Club Partner in the Major League Soccer (MLS) team, San Diego FC, through her company, The Leading Vibe. This historic move made her the first African female to hold ownership stakes in an MLS club, joining a group that includes actress Issa Rae and World Cup winner Juan Mata.
Opinion Piece: This investment is the ultimate proof of intentional living. It is not a music endorsement; it is a serious, long-term business investment that bridges global sports, community development (linked to the Right to Dream Academy), and African investment (via Pave Investments). I would argue that this showed the aspirational Nigerian youth that the real next level of success is strategic, diversified global business ownership, executed quietly and effectively. It repositioned her from a global music star to a pioneering African mogul.
Tems as the Global Curator: The Partnership Philosophy
In 2025, Tems’s approach to brand partnerships solidified her image as a global curator an artist who partners based on shared values and aesthetic alignment, rather than just fees. This lifestyle choice sets her apart from peers who often take on a high volume of local endorsements.
Her visibility at major global fashion weeks and her appearances in campaigns for brands like Louis Vuitton (LVMH) often appearing alongside established international icons was not just a celebrity endorsement. It was a stylistic endorsement of her. These brands were signaling an alignment with her elevated, global, and highly selective aesthetic.
Opinion Piece: I believe this selectivity is her most powerful business lifestyle move. She understands the power of scarcity. By limiting her exposure to only the most prestigious and globally recognized brands that match her minimalist vibe, she ensures her personal brand value remains exceptionally high. This teaches young entrepreneurs and creatives to be fiercely protective of their own brands.
The Travel and Locale Factor
When Tems is seen, it’s often in an international, high-art context whether performing in Paris, recording in London, or featuring in a Vogue shoot in New York. This lifestyle projects an image of an African artiste who operates without geographical limitations, a powerful aspiration for many Nigerians who see global travel and opportunity as the ultimate marker of success.
Tems’s collective choices create what I will call the “Tems Effect”: a complete redefinition of what success looks and feels like for a young, creative African woman.
Her influence is a direct rejection of the exhausting, “hustle culture” lifestyle often promoted in Nigeria. She proves that high achievement doesn’t require high anxiety.
The lifestyle she projects is one where your unique voice both literally and figuratively is your most valuable asset. She encourages her fans to tune out the noise and focus on cultivating their singular talent.
Tems’s influence in 2025 defined a significant shift in the aspirational Afrobeats lifestyle. She has shown that true global influence doesn’t require constant noise or flashy showoff. Instead, it requires creative integrity, thoughtful choices, and the luxury of self-control.
She is the Minimalist Maven who proved to a generation that your most valuable asset is your peace, and that being selective, not saturated, is not rooted out of the African Music industry.
Netflix has publicly stated that Warner Bros. movies will continue to be released in theaters, even as discussions and reports around a potential Netflix/Warner Bros. Discovery deal continue to dominate Hollywood conversations.
The announcement has sparked industry-wide debate, not because Netflix supports theatrical releases but because of how it plans to approach them, and what that approach could mean for the long-term future of Warner Bros. films.
Netflix’s Commitment to Theatrical Releases
Netflix executives, including co-CEO Ted Sarandos, have emphasized that the company has no intention of removing Warner Bros. movies from cinemas. According to Netflix, theatrical releases remain an important part of Warner Bros.’ identity and value as a studio.
This statement is significant. Netflix built its reputation on a streaming-first model, often giving films limited theatrical runs before moving quickly to digital release. Warner Bros., on the other hand, is one of Hollywood’s most historically theatrical studios, responsible for major cinema franchises and box-office-driven storytelling.
By committing to theatrical releases, Netflix is signaling that Warner Bros. movies will not become streaming-only titles.
What “Staying in Theaters” Really Means
While Netflix says Warner Bros. films will remain in cinemas, industry observers note that traditional theatrical windows may change.
Instead of long exclusive cinema runs lasting several months, Warner Bros. movies could follow a shorter theatrical window before becoming available on streaming. Netflix has previously described long windows as outdated and not consumer-friendly.
This suggests a future where:
Warner Bros. films still premiere in cinemas
Theaters remain part of the release strategy
Streaming access may arrive earlier than in the traditional model
For audiences, this could mean faster access at home. For cinemas, it raises questions about box-office sustainability.
What This Means for the Future of Warner Bros. Movies
1. Warner Bros. Keeps Its Big-Screen Identity
Warner Bros. has built its legacy on theatrical storytelling from franchise films to prestige cinema. Netflix’s position indicates that the studio’s cinematic DNA will remain intact, at least in the near future.
This matters for filmmakers who still design movies for the big screen and for audiences who value the theatrical experience.
2. A Hybrid Release Model Becomes the New Normal
Rather than choosing between theaters and streaming, Warner Bros. movies may increasingly follow a hybrid release strategy debuting in cinemas, then transitioning more quickly to Netflix.
This approach could redefine how success is measured, shifting focus from box-office totals alone to a combination of:
Theater performance
Streaming engagement
Global audience reach
3. Franchise Films Face a Turning Point
Major Warner Bros. properties including long-running franchises could be most affected. These films traditionally rely on extended theatrical runs to build cultural impact and revenue.
If theatrical windows shrink, Warner Bros. may need to rethink:
Marketing strategies
Budget expectations
How blockbuster success is defined in a streaming-driven era
A Defining Moment for Warner Bros. and Hollywood
Netflix’s pledge to keep Warner Bros. movies in theaters is more than a reassurance; it represents a transitional moment for Hollywood.
If the strategy succeeds, Warner Bros. could become the model for how legacy studios survive in a streaming-first world without abandoning cinema. If it fails, it may accelerate the decline of traditional theatrical dominance.
Either way, the future of Warner Bros. movies is likely to look different; not absent from theaters, but reshaped by a changing entertainment economy.
Nigerian Afrobeat sensation Omah Lay is getting ready for the release of his sophomore studio album, Clarity of Mind. Following his critically acclaimed debut Boy Alone, Omah Lay has continued to establish himself as one of Africa’s most compelling musical talents, blending Afrobeat, R&B, and soul influences.
Release Date Updates
Initially, the album was rumored to drop on May 16, 2025, but Omah Lay’s management later clarified that the date had not been officially confirmed. According to the latest press releases from Keyqaad and Warner Records, fans can now expect Clarity of Mind to arrive in early 2026.
This delay has only heightened anticipation, with fans eagerly awaiting updates on the full tracklist, collaborations, and production details.
Singles and Early Previews
Omah Lay has already released the single “Waist”, which serves as a preview of the album’s Afro-fusion style and introspective themes. Earlier tracks like “Moving” have also set the stage for what promises to be a project exploring growth, purpose, and self-reflection.
Music critics and fans alike are praising the single for its smooth production, catchy rhythms, and lyrical depth, further increasing excitement around the full album release.
The title Clarity of Mind suggests a more personal and introspective body of work, with Omah Lay diving deeper into themes of emotional growth, identity, and life experiences. This approach mirrors his earlier work, but promises an evolution in both sound and storytelling.
While the official tracklist is yet to be revealed, industry insiders anticipate collaborations with both Nigerian and international artists, making this already one of the most awaited Afrobeat releases of 2026.
Omah Lay’s Clarity of Mind is shaping up to be a milestone in his career, promising introspective lyrics, infectious Afrobeat rhythms, and global appeal. Fans should stay tuned for official announcements from the artist and his label regarding the exact release date and additional singles ahead of the full album launch and trust Streamdorm to keep you updated.
Netflix subscribers are set to lose one of television’s most popular long running fantasy series, as all 15 seasons of Supernatural are scheduled to leave the streaming platform this Thursday.
The news has sparked reactions across social media, especially among longtime fans who have relied on Netflix as the main home of the show for years.
Why SupernaturalIs Leaving Netflix
Supernatural, which aired from 2005 to 2020, is not a Netflix Original. The series was produced by Warner Bros. Television and made available on Netflix through a licensing agreement.
According to industry reports, the agreement has now expired, which means Netflix no longer has the rights to stream the show. As a result, all 15 seasons are being removed from the platform as part of Netflix’s regular content rotation.
Once it leaves Netflix, Supernatural is expected to be available on other streaming platforms linked to Warner Bros., although availability may differ depending on location.
For viewers who are yet to complete the series or those planning a full rewatch this week is the final opportunity to stream Supernatural on Netflix.
Netflix typically removes titles immediately after their final listed day, so episodes may no longer be accessible once Thursday ends.
Other Popular TV Shows Leaving Netflix Soon
Supernatural is not the only major title exiting Netflix this month. Several other well-known TV series are also expected to leave the platform due to expiring licensing deals.
These include:
How I Met Your Mother
The 100
Arrow
Evil
Downton Abbey
The removals highlight Netflix’s ongoing shift away from licensed content as more studios move their shows to in house streaming services.
Movies Also Leaving Netflix This Month
In addition to TV shows, Netflix is removing several popular films from its library, including:
The Goonies
Back to the Future trilogy
Beverly Hills Cop films
Exact removal dates may vary depending on region.
Why Netflix Keeps Losing Licensed Shows
Netflix has increasingly focused on producing original content, while licensed movies and TV series are rotated out when contracts expire.
As major studios prioritize their own platforms, long-running shows like Supernatural are less likely to remain on Netflix permanently.
The departure of Supernatural marks the end of an era for many Netflix viewers who followed the Winchester brothers’ journey across 15 seasons.
If the show is on your watchlist, now is the time to finish it.
Funke Akindele has once again reshaped the Nollywood box office landscape. Her latest film, Behind The Scenes, has reportedly crossed ₦200 million in cinema revenue within its opening weekend, setting a new benchmark for Nollywood releases in 2025.
According to FilmOne Entertainment, the distributor of Behind The Scenes, the movie crossed over ₦200 million at the Nigerian box office in its opening weekend, making it the biggest opening weekend of 2025 and breaking multiple box office records in just one weekend. Behind The Scenes achieved the milestone in just three days of nationwide cinema screenings, placing it among the strongest opening performances in Nollywood history.
A Record-Setting Opening
Industry reports indicate that the film not only surpassed the ₦200 million mark but also recorded one of the highest opening weekend admissions of the year so far. While full audited box office rankings are still being compiled, early data suggests the movie has broken multiple opening weekend performance records within the Nigerian cinema space.
This performance further reinforces Funke Akindele’s position as one of Nollywood’s most commercially reliable filmmakers, the box office queen.
Funke Akindele’s Expanding Box Office Legacy
This latest achievement adds to a growing list of commercial milestones for Akindele, whose previous releases have dominated cinema charts and redefined what is financially possible for Nollywood films. Over the past few years, she has repeatedly delivered record-breaking openings, making her projects major events in Nigeria’s theatrical calendar.
With Behind The Scenes still in its early cinema run, industry observers expect the film’s total gross to continue climbing in the coming weeks.
The reported ₦200 million opening weekend underscores a broader shift in Nollywood’s commercial power. It signals increasing audience turnout, stronger distribution structures, and the ability of Nigerian films to generate blockbuster-level revenue within a short timeframe.
Empire Magazine has officially named Ryan Coogler’s Sinners as its Film of the Year, marking the genre-blending drama as one of the most critically acclaimed movies of 2025.
The recognition places Sinners at the top of Empire’s annual list celebrating the year’s best films. Directed by RyanCoogler and starring Michael B. Jordan in a dual role, the movie has received widespread praise for its bold storytelling, striking performances, and cultural relevance.
Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan
Set in 1930s Mississippi, Sinners blends historical drama, supernatural horror, and music-driven storytelling. The film follows twin brothers who return to their hometown to open a juke joint, only for events to spiral after a supernatural presence disrupts the night. Critics have noted that the film uses horror elements to examine themes of race, identity, exploitation, and resilience.
Empire Magazine’s decision reflects a growing critical consensus around Sinners. Since its release, the film has featured prominently on year end best of lists and has generated strong awards-season buzz, particularly for Coogler’s direction and Jordan’s performance.
In its coverage, Empire praised the film for pushing genre cinema beyond conventional boundaries, blending spectacle with meaningful social commentary. The publication also highlighted the film’s cinematography, production design, and music, which play a central role in shaping its emotional and thematic impact.
The Film of the Year honour further positions Sinners as a major contender in the ongoing awards conversation and underscores Ryan Coogler’s reputation as one of contemporary cinema’s most influential filmmakers.
