The Nollywood biopic “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” achieved an impressive double-digit box office success in its opening week.
Directed and produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters, “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” grossed ₦71 million at the Nigerian box office in its first week. This milestone was announced by FilmOne, a Nigerian distribution and production company, on Instagram on Monday, May 27, 2024.
“Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti hit it big last weekend! 🙌 This movie has amassed over 71 million Naira at the box office. Thank you, Nigeria, for showing love and support for this iconic movie. Let’s keep it going,” FilmOne wrote.
This early success highlights the strong demand among Nigerian audiences for films that are both meaningful and entertaining, challenging the notion that movies with serious themes can’t perform well in local cinemas.
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The film chronicles the life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the mother of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. It follows her journey from being the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School to her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti. Funmilayo was a fierce advocate against injustice and founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union, leading to significant conflicts with traditional and colonial authorities.
The cast features Omowunmi Dada, Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Adunni Ade, Iyimide Ayo-Olumoko, Ibrahim Suleiman, and Iremide Adeoye.
Premiered at the 12th edition of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2023, the film won awards for Best Overall Feature Film and Best Screenplay.
