Nigerian thriller “The Black Book” shines on Netflix, addressing police brutality and corruption.
A Nigerian action thriller, “The Black Book,” has become a global sensation on Netflix, highlighting corruption and police brutality in Africa’s most populous nation. The film spent three weeks in the top 10 English-language titles globally and received 5.6 million views within 48 hours of its release on September 22. Nollywood, Nigeria’s thriving film industry, has been a global phenomenon since the 1990s, producing approximately 2,000 films annually, and “The Black Book” is its latest blockbuster.
The movie, financed at $1 million and produced by Nigerians, delves into Nigeria’s tumultuous history spanning four decades, from military regimes to ongoing issues of police brutality and abuse of power. It follows the story of a former special operative who seeks justice for his son’s wrongful death. The film reflects the challenges of delayed justice in Nigeria, a country where many victims of police abuse still haven’t received justice. Producer Editi Effiong, recognizing the importance of conveying this message, believes that art can play a pivotal role in shaping society positively.
While drawing comparisons to the American action thriller “John Wick,” the film’s success underscores the potential of the film industry in Nigeria and across Africa. With Africa’s streaming on-demand video market projected to reach 18 million subscribers, the film industry’s growth is undeniable. Netflix, committed to investing in African content, sees this as a testament to the talent and creativity within Africa. “The Black Book” is a testament to the rising prominence of Nigeria’s film industry, marking it as a force to be reckoned with on the global stage.
