Edo-set mythological thriller ‘Idia’ has earned four nominations at the 2026 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), including Best Thriller/Horror Film, Best African Film, and a Best Actress nomination for Linda Osifo.
The film, which was released in cinemas on October 24, 2025, marks a notable festival milestone following its theatrical run across West Africa. Produced by Jasper Aziegbemhin and co-directed by Ese Ariremu and Jide ‘J Blaze’ Oyegbile, IDIA is a Golden Mhinutes Pictures production distributed by Silverbird Film Distribution.
Aziegbemhin described the recognition as a reflection of the effort behind bringing a culturally rooted horror story to screen. “There are countless moments of uncertainty, sacrifice, sleepless nights, and quiet prayers that no one ever sees,” he said. “Moments like this remind you why you keep believing.”
Osifo’s nomination highlights what the filmmaker describes as one of the film’s most striking performances. Playing the character “Rose”, Aziegbemhin noted that her portrayal blends “stealth and malevolence”, adding that the performance has continued to linger with audiences beyond its cinema run.
The nominations also recognise a wider ensemble that includes Gbubemi Ejeye, Mercy Aigbe, Tope Tedela, Temitope Aje, Adeola Awodein, and Lancelot Imasuen, alongside the film’s crew and its cultural grounding in Edo storytelling.
At its Lagos premiere, the filmmakers called ‘Idia’ a departure from conventional horror tropes, opting instead for a more psychological and culturally specific approach. “The scariest part about Idia is that we hinged on realism,” Aziegbemhin said. “Desire is something that is so normal and relatable, but we twisted it into something that could destroy.”
That emphasis on realism is paired with a narrative structure designed to gradually reveal its logic. “You’re watching these people and wondering why they’re behaving the way they are,” co-director Ariremu said at the premiere. “Then you get to that moment where everything makes sense.”
The film’s commitment to authenticity was also central to its development. Drawing on Edo cultural elements, including traditional masquerades, the filmmakers aimed to ensure cultural accuracy for local audiences. “Edo people are going to watch this film, and they know their culture,” Ariremu said. “If you see something you relate to, it deepens your connection to the film.”
Lead actor Gbubemi Ejeye, who plays the titular role, described her initial reaction to the script as unexpected but compelling. “I read it and thought, ‘What kind of madness is this?’” she said. “But as an actor, I wanted to experience that.”
With its TINFF nominations, ‘Idia’ continues to extend its reach beyond its initial theatrical release, positioning its blend of mythology and psychological horror within a broader international festival conversation.
