Nollywood veteran Muyiwa Ademola has reached a new milestone with his most recent film, Ori: The Rebirth, which has made an incredible N269 million in just three weeks According to the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN).
Since its May 1, 2025, premiere, the Yoruba-language spiritual epic has become a cultural phenomenon and a box financial hit.
A sequel to Ademola’s 2005 classic Ori, the film has struck a chord with audiences across Nigeria. Its third weekend alone (May 16–18) brought in an impressive N40 million, continuing its momentum as one of the top-grossing Nollywood films of 2025.
Directed and co-produced by the 52-year-old filmmaker alongside Adekola Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, Ori: The Rebirth blends deep cultural roots with contemporary storytelling. It debuted with a powerful N97.8 million in its opening weekend, including N19.5 million on its first day—ranking among the highest opening day earnings for a Nollywood production this year.
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In a recent interview, Ademola revealed he invested over N400 million of his personal funds into the project, describing it as a heartfelt mission. “This film is my soul on screen. It’s not just a movie; it’s a journey—spiritual, cultural, and emotional,” he said. “I believed in this story, and I believed in its power to resonate—not just with Yoruba speakers, but with everyone who appreciates authentic African narratives.”
The film delves into themes of destiny, sacrifice, and spiritual awakening, continuing the metaphysical exploration that made the original Ori a classic. That 2005 film won Best Indigenous Film at the inaugural Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) and helped cement Ademola’s reputation as a leading voice in indigenous cinema.
Critics and audiences alike have praised Ori: The Rebirth for its cinematic excellence, cultural authenticity, and emotional depth, with many calling it a turning point for Yoruba-language filmmaking.
Its success reflects a growing trend: Nigerian audiences are embracing films in native languages with renewed enthusiasm, and Ori: The Rebirth is a shining example of how indigenous storytelling can achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success.
As it continues its theatrical run, Ademola’s film is not just making history—it’s setting a new standard for Nollywood and affirming the power of local stories on the global stage
