top of page
Search

Nigerian Films Are Better Than African American Films

Writer: Dione RobinsonDione Robinson






On the left is an American film & on the right is a Nigerian Film.
On the left is an American film & on the right is a Nigerian Film.


Introduction 


When I started watching Nigerian films 20 years ago, I often thought they looked low-budget. Even the scripts were poorly written. However, despite these shortcomings, the plots were still compelling, even though they lacked depth. At the time, African American films were of slightly higher quality in terms of production, and they often showcased roles that had a degree of dignity and complexity. However, over the past two decades, Nigerian films have made remarkable strides, surpassing African American cinema in several key areas.


The Stagnation of African American Cinema 


African American films have historically adhered to a set of stereotypical tropes. From the ever-present depictions of drug dealers and criminals to the overused romantic simp themes, hypersexualized characters, and sports dramas, the industry has struggled to break free from these familiar narratives. Additionally, many African American films lean heavily into Christian-themed stories, often failing to explore a broader spectrum of experiences and perspectives within the Black community. These creative limitations have left Black American cinema feeling stagnant, with little innovation or growth.


The Evolution of Nigerian Cinema 


On the other hand, Nigerian cinema, also known as Nollywood, has undergone an impressive evolution over the past two decades. Despite often working with lower budgets compared to Hollywood productions, Nigerian filmmakers have managed to improve significantly in areas such as storytelling, cinematography, and overall production quality. The themes explored in Nollywood films have become more diverse and dynamic, moving away from the clichés that once plagued early Nigerian films.


Positive Representation in Nollywood 


One of the most commendable aspects of Nigerian films is their portrayal of Black men and women in diverse and respectable roles. It is common to see Nigerian actors playing doctors, lawyers, business moguls, and intellectuals—roles that challenge the negative stereotypes frequently associated with Black characters in Western films. Rather than glorifying degeneracy, Nigerian filmmakers often strive to tell stories that uplift and inspire, creating a more balanced and enriching cinematic experience.


Diversity in Nollywood Storytelling 


Moreover, the storytelling in Nigerian films has expanded to include a wide variety of genres. From political thrillers and historical epics to supernatural horror and complex family dramas, Nollywood has demonstrated a willingness to experiment with different narratives. This diversity keeps the industry fresh and engaging for audiences both in Africa and around the world.


The Repetitive Nature of African American Films 


In contrast, many modern African American films appear to be trapped in a repetitive cycle, recycling the same archetypes and tropes. The glorification of street life, the reinforcement of victimhood narratives, and the excessive focus on romantic melodrama have left the industry in a state of creative paralysis. While there are certainly exceptions, the mainstream output often lacks the richness and complexity that could elevate Black American cinema to greater heights.


Cultural Authenticity in Nigerian Films 


Another critical factor that sets Nigerian films apart is the sense of cultural authenticity they bring to the screen. Nollywood movies often reflect the realities of Nigerian society, incorporating traditional values, local dialects, and indigenous storytelling techniques. Even when tackling modern themes, Nigerian films maintain a connection to their roots, making them deeply relatable to their audience. In contrast, many African American films struggle to maintain a strong cultural identity, often prioritizing marketability over authenticity.


The Work Ethic and Productivity of Nollywood 


Additionally, Nollywood's work ethic and productivity are unmatched. The Nigerian film industry is one of the most prolific in the world, producing thousands of films annually. This high output allows for a greater variety of stories to be told, ensuring that audiences are consistently presented with fresh and diverse narratives. While some critics argue that the high volume of films can lead to inconsistencies in quality, the industry has nonetheless managed to refine its craft and produce standout films that compete on a global scale.


The International Success of Nigerian Cinema 


The international recognition of Nigerian cinema is another testament to its success. Nollywood films have gained prominence on streaming platforms like Netflix, exposing them to a global audience and proving that African storytelling has a place on the world stage. This international appeal has allowed Nigerian filmmakers to collaborate with other industries, further enhancing the quality and reach of their productions.


The Declining Impact of African American Films 


Conversely, African American cinema has struggled to maintain its global impact. While there are a few notable films that have achieved international acclaim, the industry as a whole has not seen the same level of consistent growth and innovation as Nollywood. Part of this can be attributed to the Hollywood system, which often dictates the types of stories that get funded and distributed. Many African American filmmakers find themselves constrained by the industry's commercial demands, limiting their ability to tell unique and culturally rich stories.


The Empowering Themes of Nigerian Films 


Furthermore, the themes explored in Nigerian films often emphasize resilience, family values, and self-determination. While the industry does not shy away from depicting struggles, it does so in a way that empowers rather than victimizes its characters. This contrasts with the often bleak and trauma-focused narratives in African American cinema, which can sometimes perpetuate a sense of hopelessness rather than inspire change.


Conclusion 


In conclusion, the evolution of Nigerian cinema has positioned it as a formidable force in the global film industry. Nollywood has surpassed African American cinema in terms of storytelling, thematic diversity, cultural authenticity, and overall impact. While African American films remain an important part of Black cinematic history, they must break free from outdated tropes and embrace a broader range of narratives to remain relevant. If the African American film industry can take inspiration from Nollywood’s resilience and innovation, it may once again rise to prominence. Until then, Nigerian films continue to lead the way in showcasing the richness and diversity of Black storytelling.


 
 
 

Comments


© 2023 by ETHEREALVERSELLC

  • Facebook
  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • TikTok
  • Twitter
  • Linkedin
  • Patreon
  • Beacon AI
  • images
bottom of page