July may have brought grey skies and colder mornings, but Nollywood is keeping things hot. From powerful dramas to steamy thrillers and heartfelt debuts, this month’s film and TV lineup is packed with stories worth staying in (or going out) for.
Here’s your guide to the must-watch Nigerian movies and series dropping this month.
Out in the Darkness – July 4 (Cinemas)
Directed by Sarah Kwaji (debut)
Starring Kehinde Bankole, Deyemi Okanlawon, Bimbo Akintola
This powerful drama explores postpartum depression through the eyes of a young mother battling emotional distress and hallucinations. As her loved one struggles to understand her experience, the film offers a raw, emotional look into maternal mental health. Premiered at NollywoodWeek Paris.
Midnight in Shangisha – July 4 (Cinemas)
Directed by Pen Pusher Pro & Sosofisa
Starring Sola Sobowale, Baaj Adebule, Lanre Adediwura, Tina Mba, Martha Ehinome Orihere
Set over one chaotic night in Shangisha, this film weaves a tale of unexpected events and colliding lives. If you’re into suspense and grounded in Lagos storytelling, this one is for you.
Lost Days – July 11 (Prime Video)
Directed by Wingonia Ikpi (debut)
Part of the First Features Project by Native Filmworks and MichelAngelo Productions
After surviving lymphoma, Chisom returns to her hometown, Abeokuta, hoping to rebuild her family bonds. But when she suddenly disappears, her loved ones are forced to confront long-buried emotions and secrets. A drama rooted in grief, healing, and reconciliation.
Zikoko Life – July 12 (Zikoko YouTube)
Anthology directed by Victor Daniel, Olamide Adio, Uzoamaka Power, Dika Ofama
Starring Michelle Dede, Tolu Asanu, Caleb Richards, Ifeoma Fafunwa, Baaj Adebule
A three-part anthology exploring love, faith, and bodily autonomy:
- What’s Left of Us: A married woman reclaims control of her body.
- My Body: A couple explores intimacy within faith.
- Something Sweet: A 40-something woman finds love with a younger man.
Catch this thought-provoking series for free on Zikoko’s YouTube channel.
Dear Future, Me – July (Africa Magic Showcase)
Created by Precious Okpala
Starring Austine Onuoha, Johnson Ibeh, Patience Ene Ujah
Told through letters written to their future selves, this drama series follows people navigating regrets, hope, and life-changing decisions. Emotional, introspective, and deeply relatable.
Bendel Girl – July 18 (Cinemas)
Directed by Gbenga Kayode (debut)
Co-produced by Bukola Oloyede
Starring Saskay Jonah, Tolu Tinde, Tolani Baj, Tope Tedela, Jibola Dabo
A man’s obsession with a mysterious girl from his past threatens everything he holds dear. Will it destroy or redeem him? The debut from Big Brother Nigeria director Gbenga Kayode.
Ewo (Forbidden) – July 18 (Cinemas)
Produced by Riverside Productions
Starring Bimbo Ademoye, Tina Mba, Moyo Lawal, Saidi Balogun, Jaiye Kuti
A compelling look at the tension between tradition and personal freedom. In a society where customs are everything, choosing your own path isn’t easy—and sometimes, it’s forbidden.
To Kill a Monkey – July 18 (Netflix)
Created by Kemi Adetiba
Starring William Benson, Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Ireti Doyle, Bucci Franklin
When Efemini reconnects with an old friend, he’s pulled into the dark world of cybercrime. This eight-part Netflix crime thriller explores identity, greed, and the high cost of survival in the digital underworld.
Ireke: Rise of the Maroons – July 25 (Cinemas)
Directed by Gbolahan Peter Macjob
Starring Tobi Bakre, Faithia Balogun, Bolanle Ninalowo
Set during the British colonial slavery era, this sweeping epic follows Prince Atanda, betrayed and sold into slavery in Jamaica. As he joins the Maroons and fights for freedom, love and resistance rise from the ashes.
Marked – July 31 (Netflix)
Created by Akin Omotoso
Starring Lerato Mvelase
Babalwa is an ex-cop mother racing against time to save her daughter’s life. This six-episode Netflix drama is packed with grit, tension, and emotional urgency.
From first-time directors to returning legends, Nollywood is going full throttle this July. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartfelt drama, social commentary, or crime thrillers, there’s something new to watch every single week.
So… which one are you watching first?
