Nollywood, the second-largest film industry in the world by volume, has undergone a massive evolution over the last decade. No longer just a local industry, Nigerian movies are now making waves on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and international film festivals.

In the 1990s and 2000s, Nollywood was known for low-budget, fast-paced productions sold on CDs and DVDs. The 2010s ushered in "New Nollywood," characterized by high-quality scripts, better cinematography, and bigger budgets. Today, in the streaming era, Nigerian films are gaining global exposure through platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.

Nollywood’s global breakthrough has been marked by critically acclaimed films such as The Black Book (2023), which showcased Nigerian action cinema and became one of Netflix’s most-watched African films. Aníkúlápó (2022), a Yoruba epic fantasy, took African storytelling to new heights, while King of Boys (2018 & 2021) became one of Nigeria’s most celebrated crime thrillers. With international collaborations and growing investment, Nollywood is no longer just for Nigerians—it’s for the world.

The industry is seeing a major influx of investment, with streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime funding Nollywood productions. Some films now have budgets exceeding ₦1 billion ($1 million), and Nollywood stars are gaining international recognition, further cementing the industry’s global influence.

The future of Nollywood looks even brighter. More international co-productions are expected, allowing Nigerian filmmakers to work with global studios. Higher budgets will pave the way for epic action and historical films, expanding the industry’s creative possibilities. Nollywood actors are also breaking into Hollywood and other global markets, further elevating the industry’s reputation.

Nollywood is no longer an underdog. With its rich storytelling, bold creativity, and international recognition, it is fast becoming a dominant force in global cinema. The world is watching, and Nollywood is ready to shine.