The 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) Best Movie category is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the ceremony’s history, featuring six critically acclaimed and commercially successful films that showcase the breadth and depth of African cinema. The awards will take place on 9th May 2026 at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos, hosted by Bovi Ugboma and Nomzamo Mbatha, with veteran actress Joke Silva serving as Head Judge. This year’s nominees include a mix of gripping thrillers, socially conscious dramas, and genre-defying stories, all of which had theatrical releases, reflecting the growing strength of Nigeria’s cinema market.
Leading the pack with nine nominations each are “The Herd” and “Gingerrr.” “The Herd,” directed by Daniel Etim Effiong in his feature debut, tells the story of Adamma, played by Linda Ejiofor, who must raise ₦50 million to rescue her husband after a post-wedding convoy is ambushed by armed bandits disguised as herdsmen. The film, which also stars Kunle Remi, Genoveva Umeh, and Mercy Aigbe, tackles Nigeria’s insecurity crisis, classism, and tribalism with raw intensity. Its success as a debut feature makes it a standout contender for Best Movie.
Another major nominee is “Behind the Scenes,” directed and produced by Funke Akindele. The film follows Aderonke “Ronky-Fella” Faniran, portrayed by Scarlet Gomez, a generous real estate entrepreneur whose selflessness leaves her emotionally and financially drained. The film became the first Nollywood production to cross ₦2 billion at the West African box office within 19 days of release, solidifying Akindele’s position as a box office powerhouse. It earned five AMVCA nominations, including Best Director and Best Actress for Akindele and Gomez.
“My Father’s Shadow,” directed by Akinola Davies Jr., is a powerful debut that was shot entirely on 16mm film and set on election day in 1993. The story follows two young brothers as they spend the day with their distant father in Lagos, uncovering hidden truths about his life. The film made history by becoming the first Nigerian film in the Official Selection at Cannes, where it won the Special Mention for the Caméra d’Or. It also received the BAFTA for Outstanding Debut and 12 nominations at the British Independent Film Awards.
“3 Cold Dishes,” a pan-African revenge thriller executive produced by Burna Boy, follows three women from Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Benin who reunite after being trafficked as teens to seek justice. Directed by Oluseyi Asurf Amuwa and Apolline Traoré, the film is shot in English, French, and Yoruba across four countries and addresses the harrowing issue of human trafficking with unflinching honesty.
“The Serpent’s Gift,” directed by Kayode Kasum, explores inheritance battles and spiritual secrets within an Eastern Nigerian family after the sudden death of a revered businessman. Starring Linda Ejiofor, Stan Nze, and Tina Mba, the film is deeply rooted in Igbo culture and mysticism, earning six AMVCA nominations, including Best Movie and Best Lead Actress.
“Gingerrr,” directed by Yemi Morafa, is a female-driven heist comedy that grossed over ₦510 million at the Nigerian box office. The film follows Omotola “Lala” as she teams up with three childhood friends to retrieve a box of gold left by her estranged father, only to face betrayal and hidden agendas. It stars Bisola Aiyeola, Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, Bolaji Ogunmola, and Wumi Toriola, who also serve as executive producers.
Each of these films represents a milestone in African storytelling, and the Best Movie award will be a significant moment for the continent’s film industry. The winner will not only be celebrated for excellence in craft but also for reflecting the diverse voices and realities of Africa today.
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