The 96th Academy Awards unfolded in Los Angeles on March 10, 2023, spotlighting the finest cinematic achievements of the past year. A myriad of actors and films garnered nominations across diverse categories, each vying for the prestigious Oscars.
Beyond the glitz of Hollywood, the International Feature Film category offers a platform for global cinema to shine. These submissions, predominantly non-English, embody the rich tapestry of international filmmaking.
Nigeria’s vibrant film industry, Nollywood, has actively participated in this global stage. Yet, despite numerous submissions, no Nigerian film has clinched a spot among the final five nominees.
Here’s a glimpse at three notable submissions by the Nigerian Oscars Selection Committee (NOSC):
Lionheart – 2020
A landmark moment for Nigerian cinema arrived in 2019 with the submission of “Lionheart,” a family drama helmed by Genevieve Nnaji. This marked the first-ever Nigerian entry in the International Feature Film category. While a significant milestone for Nollywood, the film faced disqualification due to its predominantly English dialogue, falling short of the category’s criteria.
The Milkmaid – 2021
In 2021, the NOSC took a cautious approach with “The Milkmaid,” directed by Desmond Ovbiagele. This poignant narrative delves into the plight of two sisters amidst terrorism, predominantly spoken in Hausa. Despite its emotive storytelling, the film failed to advance to the final round of nominees, with the award eventually going to Denmark’s “Another Round.”
Mami Wata – 2024
After a hiatus in submissions for the 2022 and 2023 ceremonies, the NOSC returned with “Mami Wata” in 2023, directed by CJ Obasi. This fantasy film, celebrated for its cinematography, marked Nollywood’s first appearance at the renowned Sundance Film Festival. However, despite critical acclaim, “Mami Wata” didn’t secure a spot among the Oscar contenders, missing out on the coveted nomination.
While Nigerian cinema continues to garner international recognition, securing an Oscar nomination remains an elusive feat. Nonetheless, each submission underscores Nollywood’s evolving presence on the global stage, enriching the cinematic landscape with diverse narratives and perspectives.
