Niyi Akinmolayan is set to capture audiences once again with his latest film, ‘Lisabi: The Uprising.’ This Netflix production, a prequel in a two-part historical epic, is a collaborative effort by Akinmolayan’s Anthill Studios and Lateef Adedimeji’s AL Notions Studios, with a script penned by Akinmolayan and Yinka Olaoye. The film delves into themes of freedom and human resilience.
After several collaborations on most of the epic Nollywood hits, acclaimed director Niyi Akinmolayan, known for hits like The Wedding Party 2, The Prophetess, and Chief Daddy, has officially joined the growing list of film directors creating ambitious, larger-than-life epic films.
‘Lisabi: The Uprising’ transports viewers to the 18th-century Oyo Empire, a powerful state that expanded the influence and rule of the Yoruba people across Western Africa, from the seat of the Alaafin to the present-day Republic of Benin.
Among its subjects were the Egba people, who endured the harsh taxation until they found a saviour in Lisabi, a farmer who would change their fate. Portrayed by Lateef Adedimeji, who also serves as an executive producer, Lisabi inspires his fellow farmers to rise up against Alaafin’s reign and fight for their freedom. This pivotal moment in Yoruba history culminated in the defeat of over 6,000 Oyo soldiers, marking the end of centuries of Alaafin’s dominance and cementing the decline of the Oyo Empire.
The trailer is electrifying, offering a glimpse of the intense and ruthless battles that await. ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’ boasts a star-studded cast, including Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Itele Yekini, Ibrahim Chattah, Mo Bimpe, Eniola Ajao, and Liquorose Afije, all of whom deliver riveting performances.
Set for a global release to Netflix’s more than 270 million subscribers across 190 countries on September 29, 2024, both fans and critics are eagerly anticipating how Akinmolayan’s storytelling prowess will bring this powerful chapter of history to life.
