Fashion & Film: The Greatest F’s to give
Nobody taught you to have taste. You just have it. You know when something looks right. You know when a character walks into a scene and the whole film shifts because of what they’re wearing. You know when someone steps onto a red carpet and the room changes. You can’t always explain it, but you feel it immediately, and once you feel it, you can’t unfeel it. That’s fashion. That’s film. And honestly? That’s Lagos on a good day. These two things have been running the world quietly for longer than most art forms that get more credit. Because fashion and film don’t ask you to pay attention, they just make you. A great costume does the same thing a great scene does. It bypasses every logical part of your brain and goes straight to the part that responds. You’re not thinking, “wow, that’s good storytelling.” You’re just moved. Convinced. Sold. And you don’t even know when it happened. Which is why when these two things decide to fully commit to each other, the result is almost unfair to everything else. The Devil Wears Prada did it in 2006 and rewired an entire generation. Twenty years later, the sequel walked back in and said we’re not done talking. And genuinely? The conversation is better this time. Miranda Priestly is back. And if you thought you had her figured out from the first film, the sequel has something to say about that. The characters you fell in love with or loved to hate are all back, too, and none of them are who they were. Life happened. Careers evolved. Power shifted. The industry changed. And everybody in that film is dealing with the gap between who they thought they’d become and who they actually are. That’s what makes it so watchable. It’s dressed beautifully because, of course, it is, but underneath all of it, it’s really asking the same questions fashion has always asked. Who are you deciding to be? What are you willing to wear to tell the world that? And when everything around you changes, what do you hold onto? The Devil Wears Prada has always understood that fashion is never just about the clothes. The sequel just says it louder. And then Lagos. April 29th. Filmhouse IMAX Lekki. The Nigerian premiere of one of the most fashion-forward film franchises ever made. Listen. You already know how Lagos does these things. But this one felt different because the assignment wasn’t just “look good.” The assignment was to respond to a film that is literally about what fashion means. And Lagos responded. Akin Faminu in a cowrie shell vest that could only have come from one place in the world. Stephanie Coker in Fruché white and satin black, sharp and sculptural, the kind of look that makes you realise structure is its own kind of confidence. Idia Aisien. Nicole Chikwe. Mai Atafo, in tailoring, reminded everyone that tailoring is a whole conversation by itself. Nobody was performing. That was the thing. Every look felt like a decision, not a display. Lagos fashion at its best doesn’t chase anything; it just shows up as itself and lets that be enough. And on a night built around a film about exactly that identity, confidence, what you wear when you know exactly who you are, it landed perfectly. The South Africans were online comparing their red carpet to ours by the next morning. We’ll leave that there. The premiere was one night. The film is still here. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is showing at Filmhouse Cinemas right now, and this is genuinely one of those films that needs the full experience. The big screen, the sound, the seats, the whole thing. Fashion and Film. They’ve always been the greatest F’s. Now you know why. The Devil Wears Prada 2 is now showing at Filmhouse Cinemas. Get your tickets.
This is Why You Can’t Stop Watching Horror Alone
Let’s be honest. You’ve seen a horror trailer, said “that looks scary, I’m not watching that,” and then somehow ended up in a cinema seat surrounded by your friends two weeks later. Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. There’s something about horror films that makes us abandon all sense of self-preservation and dive straight in, as long as we’re not alone. But why is that? Why do we suddenly become brave when there are five of us stuffed into a row, sharing one bucket of popcorn and taking turns covering our eyes? It’s actually science. (Sort of.) When we watch something scary together, our brains do something pretty interesting, we sync up. Shared fear creates a kind of emotional bonding that’s hard to replicate anywhere else. One minute you’re acquaintances, the next you’re clutching a near-stranger’s arm because something just crawled out of a sarcophagus. There’s also the safety-in-numbers thing. Logically, we know nothing is going to reach through the screen and grab us. But emotionally? Our bodies aren’t entirely convinced. Having people around us sends a quiet signal that we’re okay, that the threat isn’t real — and that if something does happen, at least six of us are going down together. And then there’s the pure, unmatched joy of watching your friend lose it. Come on. Half the fun of watching horror in a group is the reactions. The person who screams at literally everything. The one who acts tough and then jumps highest when the score does that thing. The one who’s narrating the whole film like they’re not terrified. These moments? You can’t get them on a couch at home. They only exist in a cinema. Which brings us to The Mummy — now showing at FilmHouse Cinemas. Lee Cronin’s The Mummy is exactly the kind of film you shouldn’t watch alone. A young girl vanishes without a trace in the desert. Eight years later, she comes back, but something is deeply, horribly wrong. So round up your most dramatic friend, the one who screams at trailers. Get your tickets. Come to FilmHouse Cinemas and remind yourself why the big screen exists. Lee Cronin’s The Mummy is now showing. Come watch it together because you’re going to need each other
The Cinema Palette Shift: Why Gen Z Watch Differently Than Millennials
My Gen Z guys yktv ..We are here to talk about something solid, and we already know millennials might be looking at us like “what are they saying?” lol… anyways let’s pity them and still involve them. So our data has shown that the highest consuming age group for our content is 25 to 34. And we all know that’s a mix of Gen Z and millennials right? But that’s not even the interesting part. What’s actually interesting is how differently both groups are showing up for cinema content. It’s not even the same experience at all. It’s no longer just “go in, sit down, watch film, go home.”Something else is happening in those cinema halls. For Gen Z, and yes I mean we the Gen Zs, we don’t just go to watch a film. We go to experience it. We are there reacting in the moment, laughing at the wrong parts, leaning over to comment to each other, shifting in our seats, checking our phones here and there, and naturally the film becomes something we are already discussing as it unfolds. And Nollywood is very much part of this experience now. It’s not just that Gen Z is watching Nollywood films, it’s that we are fully engaged with them. We react to them, we talk about them, and they carry on into our everyday conversations long after we leave the cinema. Now millennials, the older audience, our mama and papa 😌, engage differently. For them, it is more about sitting through the film properly, following the story closely, taking everything in, and forming their opinions afterwards. It’s quieter, more intentional, and more reflective. For Gen Z, the experience is more immediate. If it’s funny, we respond in the moment. If it’s emotional, we respond in the moment. If it resonates, we are already processing it as it happens. And honestly, beyond all the films, there’s something bigger happening. Cinema outings are no longer light decisions. Fuel price, traffic, and the general cost of stepping out all play a role now. So before anyone decides to go out, it usually comes down to one question: Is this movie worth leaving the house for? But even with all of that, people are still showing up for at our cinemas!! Clock it 🫶🏻🥹 And for us, that’s the important part. Because whether it is Gen Z or millennials,,what matters is that everyone finds something that speaks to them. At Filmhouse Cinemas, the focus has always been on delivering stories and experiences that connect with different audiences in different ways, and still bring everyone into the same space to enjoy it together. That’s the shift. Millennials go to the cinema to watch a movie.Gen Z goes to the cinema to feel something and carry it into conversation afterwards. We love to see it!See you at the movies my Guy!
Something “Horror’fic is happening!
Are you Ready or Not? See, you won’t believe what I just noticed lately… There’s a serious “horror” fic wave going up in the air. And calm down, no, this isn’t about light issues, fuel prices, or those stories that just make you tired. I know what you’re thinking: “What more horror can Nigeria even bring my way that I have not yet experienced?” Well… my bad! Turns out, there’s a lottttt it can bring, and I’m here to deliver the good horror news. I’m talking about people seriously flocking to the cinemas to watch horror movies. And oh boy, the growth this past year? Exponential. I started thinking… could it be that after everything else, out here already feels like a horror show, people just need somewhere safe to scream? Because here? The lights are on, the air is cold-ish, and the only thing trying to scare you… is the movie. And yes, people are showing up like crazyyy. Some of you are even watching twice as much. I see you. The energy in cinemas? Absolutely wild. Someone screams. Someone laughs. Then everyone leans back like, okay… next scene. Like we all signed up for fear together. At home? Forget it. At home, you can pause, hide, or just quit. But here? You’re trapped in the tension — and somehow, that makes it so much better. Now, Benin… oh, Benin. While everywhere else is screaming, flailing, or covering their eyes, the Benin audience just… sits. Calm. Observing. Like they’re taking notes on the ghosts instead of running away. Bravery? Confidence? Or maybe they just know the story beats too well. Either way, it’s impressive. The films on screen now… They Will Kill You? Tension hits immediately. Ready or Not 2: Here I Come? Blood Yapaaaaa. You grip your chair without even realizing it. Your eyes refuse to look away even when your brain screams: don’t do this to yourself! The pattern is clear: horror isn’t just a genre anymore. It’s an experience, and people are loving it. Shared screams, shared laughter, shared adrenaline… somehow surviving together makes it fun again. So yeah, Gang, that’s the vibe I’ve been catching. Real-life might be a horror show… but in the cinema? It’s the good kind of scary. So go ahead, grab your Gang, and catch the latest horror thrills at Filmhouse Cinemas because some scares are way better shared.
Do You Need to Go to Aba to Find Love?
Sometimes we think we need to go back. Back to a city, a place, a person, or even a version of ourselves we left behind, to find what we’re missing. But the truth is, what we’re chasing isn’t always out there. Sometimes it’s in our own heads. In memories, in regrets, in old “what ifs” that sneak in when we least expect them. The past is tricky. It shows up quietly at first, a song, a place, a familiar smell. Then suddenly it’s everywhere, making you question everything you’ve built, everything you’ve become. And honestly? It’s exhausting. Mentally. Emotionally. Some days, you just want to scream, “Why can’t I move past this already?” We carry old choices, old feelings, old versions of ourselves we thought we’d left behind. And that’s okay. It doesn’t make us weak. It makes us human. Messy. Confusing. And sometimes painfully nostalgic. You’ll catch yourself laughing at old mistakes one day, crying at them the next. Wondering why some memories hit harder than they should, why certain people linger in your mind even though they’re no longer part of your life. Both feelings can exist at the same time, love and resentment, longing and relief. That’s just how humans work. Stories like Aba Blues capture that tug-of-war we all know too well, and watching it can make your own struggles feel a little lighter, a little less lonely. If you’ve been feeling pulled by your past, maybe this is a nudge for you: go see it. Reflect. Relate. Feel. And yes, you can grab your tickets here to watch Aba Blues in all Filmhouse cinemas now. Because sometimes, the best way to sit with your past is to see it on screen, and remember, you’re not alone in feeling it.
LOVE DOESN’T COST A THING
Sweet Valentine treats to enjoy without breaking the bank We have probably heard the popular saying, “When money enters, love is sweeter.” Well, we are here to tell you that it is not entirely true.Yes, we said it. LOL. We are in the love season, and because we like to come correct, we want to plug you to some love-friendly treats that prove you don’t need to empty your account to create beautiful Valentine’s memories. Sometimes, it’s the simple, thoughtful moments that hit the hardest. 1. A cinema date + sweet bites Nothing beats sitting side by side in the dark, sharing popcorn and reacting to the same scenes. A cinema date is affordable, fun, and always a good idea. To level it up, grab tasty combos and shareable treats from Kravings at Filmhouse Cinemas, indulgent enough to feel special, but still budget-friendly. 2. A classic buka date There’s something romantic about going to a good local buka and ordering your favorite comfort food. Whether it’s rice and stew, amala, or grilled chicken, eating somewhere casual takes the pressure off and lets you focus on gist, laughter, and good company. 3. An intimate night at home, streaming your favorite shows Turn your home into a cozy date spot. Stream a movie or series on Kava, dim the lights, and cuddle up. Add sweet bites from Kravings by Filmhouse to the mix, and you’ve got a soft, intimate Valentine setup that feels thoughtful without being expensive. 4. A sunset walk + roadside treat stop We are sure you are like, “Eh, for Naija?” Yes its very possible lol. You can take a slow evening walk together and stop for small treats along the way. It’s simple, playful, and gives you time to talk and reconnect without distractions. 5. A handwritten note + small surprise Never underestimate the power of a heartfelt note. Pair it with their favorite snack or a tiny gift, and you’ve created a moment they’ll remember. Love is often in these quiet, intentional gestures. Kudos to Filmhouse Cinemas for taking this spirit nationwide this Valentine’s Day, they’re surprising guests with chocolates and cute love letters tucked into cinema seats across all their locations in Nigeria. It’s a sweet reminder that little touches can make a big day even more special. At the end of the day, Valentine’s isn’t about how much you spend; it’s about how present you are. Love thrives in shared laughter, warm conversations, and simple experiences that remind you why you chose each other in the first place. And that? That truly doesn’t cost a thing
The Cinema Had Us Outside in 2025
There was something different about going to the movies in 2025. It wasn’t just about seeing a film. It was about the choice people made to leave the house, to meet friends, and witness powerful storytelling. We felt the impact of films that mattered, the strength of communities coming together, and shared experiences that lasted far beyond the theater. That’s what the 7th Nigeria Box Office Yearbook captures Released on January 30, this edition documents a year when audiences consistently chose the cinema. Across Nollywood and Hollywood releases, attendance remained strong, repeat viewership was evident, and several titles sustained long runs beyond their opening weekends. By year-end, the data pointed clearly to one thing: cinema-going in Nigeria was active, intentional, and sustained. But the significance of 2025 goes beyond totals and rankings. The figures reflect patterns of behaviour, audiences responding to stories, showing up in numbers, and returning when films resonated. They mark a year where the cinema remained culturally relevant and commercially viable. The year also coincided with physical growth in cinema access, with new locations opening and more audiences experiencing the big screen for the first time. These developments broadened the reach and reinforced the role of cinemas as shared spaces for storytelling. Compiled by FilmOne Entertainment, the Nigeria Box Office Yearbook continues to serve as an industry reference, offering context for performance while preserving a clear record of how Nigerian cinema functioned over the year. Looking back, 2025 stands out not for spectacle but for consistency. Audiences showed up. Films connected. Cinemas stayed relevant. And in that sense, the cinema truly had us outside. On a lighter note, here’s a list of some movies we would be treating you to this February: We are also spoiling you with Love this Valentine’s All our love Filmhouse Cinema
December Is the Biggest Moment for the Cinema Economy
By Aramide Pearce, Public Relations and Communications Executive, Filmhouse Group The Christmas holiday season consistently delivers the year’s highest cinema attendance, here’s what fuels the surge. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! December cheer is in the air and the festive spirit is in full swing. This month is one of the biggest windows for movie releases worldwide. Research on cinema attendance consistently shows that audience engagement rises during the holiday season. Films released in December often outperform other months in terms of ticket sales which is driven by families seeking entertainment during school breaks, couples and groups looking for shared experiences and the general uplift in spending during the festive period. Globally, December and holiday-season releases have historically delivered some of the highest box-office grosses of the year. Classics like Home Alone (1990) and How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) achieved massive domestic and international revenue, while more recent releases such as The Grinch (2018) continue the trend. In 2025, industry analysis shows that December remains one of the highest-grossing months across multiple markets. These films benefit not only from initial excitement but also from sustained word-of-mouth, as audiences seek shared experiences during the holiday period. Families on school break, groups of friends, and couples looking for feel-good entertainment make cinema outings a popular choice, and festive-themed marketing further reinforces this trend. The social and emotional context of the holidays makes movie-going particularly attractive, creating an ideal window for engaging audiences. Kicking off the festive season on Friday 5th December was Wale Ojo’s “This Is Not a Nollywood Movie.” As the first Nollywood release of December, it set the tone for a month of exciting cinema experiences, benefiting from holiday audiences seeking family outings, shared experiences, and feel-good entertainment. Funke Akindele’s Behind The Scenes (BTS), releasing on Friday 12th December is a prime example of tapping into that festive spirit. Films like this not only benefit from initial excitement but also from extended word-of-mouth during the weeks between Christmas and New Year, as families and friends gather, discuss, and recommend movies to one another. Box office analysis shows that holiday films often maintain strong cinema runs well beyond opening weekends, maximizing both revenue and audience engagement. Toyin Abraham’s Over Sabi Aunty releasing on Friday 19th continues our December momentum. Hollywood is also coming in strong this season with major global blockbusters that will amplify the festive excitement. On Friday 19th December, Avatar: Fire & Ash arrives as one of the biggest worldwide releases of the year. Niyi Akinmolayan’s Colors Of Fire releasing on Thursday 24th December (Christmas Eve) further strengthens our holiday lineup. With family-friendly appeal and festive themes, it’s designed to engage audiences in one of the busiest cinema periods of the year. Following closely are two family-friendly titles on Thursday 26th December (Boxing Day) Anaconda and The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants both positioned to take advantage of the massive post-Christmas cinema rush. For us, December isn’t just another month, it is a strategic opportunity to reach audiences when they are most excited to go to the movies. By further leveraging the festive spirit, family gatherings and heightened leisure activity we position our films for maximum impact. This year, the festive season is shaping up to be truly unforgettable and we have a slate that is set to capture all the excitement.
Marketing Movies in the Digital Age: Why the Big Screen Still Matters
By Aramide Pearce, Public Relations and Communications Executive, Filmhouse Group Film marketing has evolved. In today’s digital world, streaming platforms, social media, and influencer buzz shape how audiences discover new movies. Trailers drop online, clips go viral, and influencers create excitement but even with all this digital hype, the cinema experience still remains unmatched. November is a perfect example. Big releases are filling theatres, and trailers are everywhere but seeing a film on the big screen, surrounded by an excited audience, brings the story to life in so many ways. In the digital age, marketing may be online, but the ultimate payoff is the physical presence. For filmmakers and cinema lovers alike, nothing beats the energy, visuals, and sound of a cinema experience. So this November, let the trailers grab your attention but catch the films on the big screen for the full experience.
5 Mistakes First-Time Distributors Make, and How To Avoid Them
Victoria Ogar, Head of Distribution, FilmOne Entertainment Getting into film distribution is exciting. It is also a lot to take in. I have seen new distributors rush in with passion, but passion alone isn’t enough. This business needs strategy, patience, and strong relationships. That is one of the reasons we launched the FilmOne Exhibitors Showcase to bridge that gap between passion and practical industry knowledge. It is a space that helps new and existing distributors understand the full picture of how film distribution works, build valuable connections, and see how strategy translates into success. Here are five mistakes I see first-timers make, and how you can stay clear of them. 1. Underestimating Relationships Distribution is built on people. Exhibitors, producers, marketers, even fellow distributors; they all matter. Many newcomers focus only on screens, forgetting that without trust and good relationships, films won’t go far. Build your network. Show up. Be reliable. People remember consistency more than promises. 2. Content, Marketing and Positioning It is easy to believe every film will be a hit, especially when you love the story. Content is key, do your homework, Study audience behavior, look at films in the same category, ask questions on box office performances so far and keep your expectations realistic. 3. Distributor & Producer Handshake What works for film A may not work with Film B, C or D. A distributor shares more insights on the landscape and market realities. Understanding what excites the audience is integral to distribution; there needs to be a handshake between producers and distributors on strategies and execution. Some distributors try to copy-paste international strategies without considering local tastes. Know your audience. Understand what excites them and what doesn’t. Distribution is never one-size-fits-all. 4. Marketing Costs Distribution costs money upfront marketing, logistics, prints, promotions. Revenue doesn’t come in immediately, and that delay can sink you if you’re not prepared. Plan properly. Keep track of your spending and always leave room for surprises. Strong cash flow keeps you in the game. 5. Collaborating and Growing in Distribution In distribution, trust opens more doors than hype. You have to be willing to learn from each other, producers, and distributors alike. Both sides need to agree on the strategy and be open about what works and what doesn’t. Mistakes will happen, and that is fine. They are part of the process. What matters is how you recover and grow from them. Approach distribution with humility, foresight, and persistence. That is how you build a career that lasts. Every film is a new chance. And when things don’t go as planned, don’t be afraid to try again. The key is to keep learning always.