10 Movies and Shows Similar to Iyanu (2025)

Description: The Lost Okoroshi shares with Iyanu a blending of African folklore with contemporary storytelling. Both films likely incorporate elements of traditional African spirituality and mythology into modern narratives. The surreal, magical realist approach of The Lost Okoroshi may find echoes in Iyanu's storytelling style.

Fact: Inspired by the traditional Igbo masquerade culture. Director Abba Makama's second feature film. Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Description: Black Panther shares similarities with Iyanu (2025) in its celebration of African culture, mythology, and futuristic storytelling. Both films explore themes of heritage, leadership, and the struggle between tradition and modernity. The visual aesthetics of Wakanda in Black Panther, with its blend of advanced technology and African traditions, may parallel the world-building in Iyanu.

Fact: Black Panther was the first superhero film to receive a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards. The film's costume designer, Ruth E. Carter, became the first Black woman to win an Oscar for Best Costume Design. The Wakandan language used in the film is based on isiXhosa, a real South African language.

Description: Gangs of Lagos shares with Iyanu a gritty, authentic portrayal of Nigerian urban life. Both films likely explore themes of survival, ambition, and the complex social structures in Nigerian cities. While differing in genre, they both contribute to the new wave of high-quality Nigerian cinema.

Fact: First Nigerian original film on Amazon Prime Video. Features real-life locations in Lagos Island. The cast includes both established stars and fresh faces.

Description: Half of a Yellow Sun, like Iyanu, explores complex African history and identity. Both films likely deal with themes of conflict, family, and national identity. The historical setting of the Biafran War may share thematic parallels with any historical or political elements in Iyanu.

Fact: Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's award-winning novel. Features Chiwetel Ejiofor's first film role after 12 Years a Slave. The production faced challenges filming in Nigeria due to the sensitive subject matter.

Description: Queen of Katwe shares with Iyanu a focus on African stories told through an inspirational lens. Both films likely highlight the potential of young African protagonists overcoming challenges. While Queen of Katwe is based on a true story and Iyanu is fictional, they both showcase African talent and resilience.

Fact: The real Phiona Mutesi has a cameo in the film. Lupita Nyong'o learned Luganda for her role. Disney's first live-action film shot entirely in Africa.

Description: The Wedding Party shares with Iyanu a vibrant portrayal of Nigerian culture and traditions. While more comedic, both films likely showcase the richness of Nigerian society, from family dynamics to cultural ceremonies. The success of The Wedding Party helped pave the way for films like Iyanu in Nollywood.

Fact: Became the highest-grossing Nollywood film at the time of its release. The sequel was shot back-to-back with the original. Features many of Nigeria's biggest acting stars in one ensemble.

Description: While more comedic in tone, Coming 2 America shares with Iyanu a celebration of African culture and the theme of royal succession. Both films explore the idea of African royalty in a contemporary context, though Iyanu likely takes a more dramatic approach. The lavish depiction of Zamunda's culture and traditions may parallel Iyanu's world-building.

Fact: Many original cast members returned after 33 years for the sequel. The film features costumes by Ruth E. Carter, who also designed for Black Panther. Several real African royalty members appeared as extras in the coronation scene.

Description: The Woman King, like Iyanu, is a powerful story of African heroism and female empowerment. Both films likely feature strong female protagonists navigating complex political and social landscapes. The historical setting of The Woman King, showcasing the Agojie warriors, may share thematic elements with Iyanu's exploration of African history and mythology.

Fact: Viola Davis trained for 5 hours daily to prepare for her role as General Nanisca. The film is inspired by the real-life Dahomey Amazons, an all-female military regiment. Director Gina Prince-Bythewood insisted on using practical effects rather than CGI for the battle scenes.

Description: Beasts of No Nation shares with Iyanu a raw, unflinching look at African experiences, though with much darker themes. Both films likely feature young protagonists navigating challenging circumstances. The cinematography and emotional intensity of Beasts may find parallels in Iyanu's visual storytelling.

Fact: Netflix's first original feature film. Idris Elba learned pidgin English for his role. Child actor Abraham Attah had no prior acting experience.

Description: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind shares with Iyanu a focus on African ingenuity and resilience. Both films likely feature young protagonists using their intelligence and cultural knowledge to overcome challenges. The rural Malawian setting may share thematic elements with any traditional community aspects in Iyanu.

Fact: Based on William Kamkwamba's memoir. Chiwetel Ejiofor's directorial debut. Filmed in the actual village where the events occurred.