Nollywood movies you can’t miss this December

Nollywood is getting ready for a packed December as several new films and series line up for release in cinemas and on streaming platforms. This year’s line-up looks wider than usual, with many titles competing for viewers as people settle into the festive season. From comedies to thrillers, Weekend Trust brings you all the Nollywood […]

Nollywood is getting ready for a packed December as several new films and series line up for release in cinemas and on streaming platforms. This year’s line-up looks wider than usual, with many titles competing for viewers as people settle into the festive season. From comedies to thrillers, Weekend Trust brings you all the Nollywood blockbusters hitting your screens this season.

 

This Is Not a Nollywood Movie

‘This Is Not a Nollywood Movie’ takes a playful but direct look at the industry, blending action and comedy in a way that sets it apart from the typical December releases. The film looks at Okechukwu, a once-promising Igbo-language director who has struggled to regain his footing after a string of setbacks. Hoping to stage a major comeback, he begins work on a new production that he believes will restore his reputation. But what starts as an ordinary film shoot quickly goes off track. The director is suddenly kidnapped, throwing the entire crew into confusion and turning the story into a chain of chaotic and humorous events.

The film is written and directed by Wale Ojo, who also leads the storytelling with a tone that mixes satire and fast-paced comedy. Ojo describes the project as an explosive piece of work designed to keep viewers laughing while also pushing them to think about how Nollywood defines itself. The film uses familiar industry stereotypes but presents them in a more exaggerated and surprising manner, which is likely to appeal to both casual audiences and those who regularly monitor industry trends. Beyond cinema listings and streaming platforms, many Nollywood fans now rely on independent entertainment discovery platforms such as 36vibes to track new releases, explore cast details, and follow trending movies.”

A major attraction for audiences will be the cast, as the film features respected actors such as Bimbo Akintola, Julius Agwu and Hanks Anuku, alongside other well-known faces who bring energy and nostalgia to the project. The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on December 5, 2025.

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King of Boys 3

The long-awaited King of Boys 3 is set to hit cinemas on December 25, 2025. Fans of the franchise will not be disappointed, as this final chapter promises the twists and high-stakes drama that made the first two films a hit. Scheduled as a major Christmas release, the film serves as a special treat for viewers who have been eagerly awaiting its arrival. The story continues the journey of Eniola Salami, exploring her rise in politics, the enemies she faces, and the challenges of holding power while confronting past threats. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition remain central, keeping audiences invested in the fate of the controversial yet compelling character. Sola Sobowale reprises her role as Alhaja Eniola Salami, with fans speculating about the return of other key cast members. With its reputation for strong performances and gripping storytelling, King of Boys 3 is set to be one of the most anticipated Nollywood releases this December.

 

 Behind the Scenes

Funke Akindele, who has built a strong reputation for dominating the December film window, is set to return this year with a blockbuster, Behind The Scenes. The comedy-drama touches on family, friendship, love and the tensions that come with them. It also offers a closer look at the lives of film crew members, showing the pressures and small victories that usually stay out of public view. The project is expected to blend humour with a few emotional moments. Akindele leads an impressive cast that includes Tobi Bakre, Iyabo Ojo, Scarlet Gomez, Ibrahim Chatta, and Uche Montana. Uzor Arukwe, Destiny Etiko, Victoria Adeleye, Ini Dima Okoji, Dele Odule, Adebayo Adebowale (Mr. Macaroni), Afeez Oyetoro, Handi Danbaki, Wanni Danbaki, Ejiro Onojaife, and Akinyoola Ayoola Kamo are among the cast members. Ahead of its release, the movie is already creating curiosity thanks to this mix of well-known actors.

 

Colours Of Fire

Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, this fantasy drama tells the story of a warrior caught in an age-old rivalry between clans. His world turns upside down when he falls in love with a woman from the enemy clan, forcing him to make a difficult choice between loyalty to his people and a forbidden romance The film features a strong cast, including Uzor Arukwe, Mercy Aigbe, Osas Ighodaro, Ibrahim Chatta and Gabriel Afolayan, bringing both experience and star power to the story. Early reactions from entertainment platforms and fans online suggest that the movie is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Nollywood releases for December 2025. Teasers have already created buzz with glimpses of elaborate costumes, immersive settings and high-stakes drama. The film is scheduled for release on December 24, 2025.

 

A Very Dirty Christmas

Christmas is usually about fun and togetherness, but in this comedy, a family reunion sparks secrets, arguments, and laughter, showing that holidays are never as simple as they seem.  The cast includes Eucharia Anunobi, Femi Branch, IK Ogbonna, Lateef Adedimeji, Ini Edo, Nancy Isime, Taye Arimoro, Josephina Otabor (Phyna), and Wumi Toriola, bringing both humour and warmth to the story. Set to hit cinemas nationwide on December 16, 2025, the movie promises a festive treat for viewers looking for laughter, surprises, and family fun this Christmas season.

 

Oversabi Aunty

Toyin Abraham’s Oversabi Aunty is also one of the December films to look out for. The story centres on a meddlesome aunt whose interference causes chaos during a large multicultural wedding, mixing humour, family drama and cultural clashes. The film promises a light-hearted yet engaging take on family dynamics and celebrations. Starring in this comedy are Toyin Abraham, Tana Adelana, Mike Ezuruonye, Jemima Osunde, Queen Nwokoye, Ngozi Ezeonu and Efe Irele, bringing together familiar faces from across Nollywood. Audiences can catch the film in cinemas nationwide starting December 19, 2025.

 

2024 release stats

Nollywood closed 2024 on a strong note as new releases in December pushed cinema earnings to their highest level in five years. Data from the Nigerian box office showed that films screened during the festive period generated over N2.8 billion, with more than 537,000 tickets sold nationwide. The performance marks the industry’s strongest December since 2019.

The standout film of the month was Everybody Loves Jenifa, released on December 13. The comedy, led by Funke Akindele, set multiple records within its first two weeks. It crossed N500 million in 12 days, the fastest any Nollywood film has achieved this figure. By the 19th day of release, the film had earned more than N1 billion, making it one of the highest-grossing titles in the country’s cinema history. Throughout the holiday period, cinemas reported high turnout, with the film attracting both older and younger viewers familiar with the Jenifa franchise.

Another major release was The Waiter, which entered cinemas on December 20. The film, driven by AY Makun’s star appeal, recorded steady attendance through Christmas and into the New Year. Its earnings rose above N300 million during its early run. Audience reception remained positive, reflected in a 7.3/10 rating on IMDb, indicating strong approval among viewers.

Also released on December 20 was Alakada: Bad and Boujee. The film benefitted from the popularity of the Alakada series and performed well across major cinemas. It closed December with over N205 million in ticket sales and recorded an IMDb rating of 7.9/10. Like other comedic titles, it drew significant family and youth audiences during the festive break.

Other December releases included Thinline, One Night Guests, and Christmas in Lagos. While these films did not match the earnings of the top titles, they contributed to the wider mix of holiday offerings. Christmas in Lagos, in particular, drew attention for its availability on Amazon Prime Video and early awards-season mentions.