The new Nollywood biopic Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti has made a splash at the Nigerian box office, grossing N32 million (USD 71,000) in its opening weekend (May 17-19, 2024).
This impressive debut not only places the film at the top of the weekend charts but also sets a new record for the highest-grossing opening weekend for a biopic in Nigeria, according to the Nigerian Box Office (NBO).
Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, the film chronicles the life of the remarkable Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a renowned educator, political activist, and women’s rights advocate who also happens to be the mother of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Here are some key details about the film’s success:
Box Office Domination: “Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti” dominated the box office for its opening weekend, continuing the trend of Nollywood films leading the charts in 2024.
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This year, Nollywood films have topped the box office for 11 out of 21 weekends so far, surpassing last year’s total of 14 out of 52 weeks.
Award-winning team: The film is directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, a prominent figure in Nollywood, and features Kehinde Bankole, the 2024 AMVCA Best Actress winner.
Stellar Cast: The biopic boasts a strong ensemble cast, including veteran Nollywood actors and rising stars.
Compelling story: The film explores significant moments in Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s life, highlighting her education, marriage, fight against colonialism and patriarchy, and the creation of the Abeokuta Women’s Union.
Beyond the numbers:
The success of Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti signifies more than just box office figures. The film sheds light on the inspiring story of a powerful Nigerian woman and her lasting impact on the country.
