If you’re a horror fan, you know there’s nothing better than a movie that sends shivers down your spine. And who says you have to wait until Halloween to enjoy a good scare?
Nollywood has delivered some truly terrifying films, blending supernatural folklore, eerie suspense, and psychological thrills in ways that will keep you on edge.
Whether you love eerie suspense, terrifying jump scares, or stories that linger in your mind long after the credits roll, we’ve got you covered. From supernatural nightmares to psychological thrillers, here are five movies that every horror lover will enjoy.
Living in Bondage: Breaking Free
Inspired by the 1992 classic ‘Living in Bondage’ directed by Chris Obi Rapu, the sequel follows the life of an ambitious mentee whose rise to power deepens his involvement with an occult. The movie features some of the cast from the first film, like Kenneth Okonkwo, Kanayo O Kanayo, and Bob-Manuel Udokwu. It also introduces new faces to the franchise, including Nancy Isime, Jide Kene Achufusi, Ramsey Nouah, and Enyinna Nwigwe.
Directed by Ramsey Nouah, the film retains some of the qualities of its prequel. It is thrilling and sinister, thus making it the perfect horror watch. It is currently streaming on Netflix.
Nneka The Pretty Serpent
Released in 1994, the two-part movie written and directed by Zeb Ejiro is centred on Nneka, a beautiful but mysterious woman who is actually a serpent spirit in human form. She seduces wealthy and powerful men, leading to their ruin and destruction.
Starring Ndidi Obi, Ngozi Ezeonu, Sam Loco Efe, and Kanayo O. Kanayo, the movie is hailed for starting the demon-possessed storylines. While the CGI of the movie might distract you a bit, some of the scenes are quite chilling. You can add it to your YouTube watchlist.
The Origin: Madam Koi Koi
The Netflix horror series proves a perfect watch or rewatch. It stars Martha Ehinome, Jude Chukwuka, Ireti Doyle, Chuks Joseph, Omowumi Dada, and Deyemi Okanlawon, amongst others. The show draws from the popular Madam Koi Koi myth that every Nigerian student is familiar with.
In this on-screen version, a vengeful spirit hovers around a boarding school, exerting justice on sexual offenders. Depending on how well you handle your horror, the series can leave you jittery or a little disturbed.
Ile Owo
More of a thriller, this Dare Olaitan film embodies some of the elements of the horror genre. Starring Efa Iwara, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, Tina Mba, and Ademola Adedoyin, the Netflix film tells the story of a young nurse who has found no luck in love till she meets a “perfect” handsome billionaire only to discover his family harbours dark secrets. Although many will shelf it in the thriller section, the horror shines through some of its spooky props.
Juju Stories
Written by the Nigerian new wave cinema collective, Surreal16, this three-part anthology film streaming on Prime Video explores stories of juju rooted in Nigerian folklore and legends. It includes some of the popular stories like ‘Yam’ where a person becomes cursed after picking a mysterious yam. ‘Love Potion’ follows a young woman who, desperate for the affections of a man, resorts to using a love potion. However, the consequences of meddling with supernatural forces are dire, and the story gradually spirals into a nightmare of obsession and possession.
Directed by Abba Makama, C.J. Obasi, and Michael Omunua, it showcases performances from Belinda Agedah Yanga, Paul Elvis Poko, Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Nengi Adoki, Timini Egbuson, and other household names. While it deviates from the typical jump-scare in most horror films, it is still able to do its job.
There you have it: 5 movies for horror fans! So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a spine-tingling experience. Happy watching, horror fans!
