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There have been charlatan remakes of Hollywood movies by Nollywood and Kannywood movies
from Bollywood/Nollywood. Literary adaptations (besides Kannywood) and other film adaptation
sources remain at a minimal level in Nollywood. Below is a list of film adaptations which also
includes snippets of TV adaptations:
An adaptation of Wole Soyinkas 1965 play, Kongis Harvest produced by Francis Oladele under
his production company Calpenny Nigeria Ltd in 1970. The 85 minutes film was directed by Ossie
Davies (who had also directed the hit film Cotton comes to Harlem in 1969). Wole Soyinka
incidentally played the lead role (President Kongi) alongside Orlando Martins (first Nigerian to act
in a film Sanders of the river (1935) and also featured in The Man from Morocco in 1945 and
Men of Two Worlds in 1946), Rasidi Onikoyi, Dapo Adelugba, Femi Johnson and Nina Baden-
Semper. Arthur DuBow of Herald productions raised the funds in the US while Lennart Berns of
Omega films in Sweden furnished the crew.
2. Bull Frog In the Sun (1972)
An adaptation of Things Fall Apart (1958) and No longer At Ease (1960) authored by Chinua Achebe
under a tripartite production deal; Calpenny Nigeria Ltd, Cine 3 (W/Germany) and Niagram (USA).
Powered on by Francis Oladele, it was shot in Nigeria, directed by Hans-Juergen Pohland and starred
Elizabeth Toro of Uganda (lawyer turned model in New York who played the role of Clara) and
Senegalese British actor Johnny Sekka (who played Obi). The Films title was later changed to Things
Fall Apart. According to Nwachukwu Frank Ukadike, Things fall apart managed to play commercially
in Africa but received a mixed reception. The attempt to raise funds to launch a full scale commercial
release in the USA failed, the opportunity for American viewers came only when some eastern public
broadcasting stations aired it on TV. Achebe like Soyinka wasnt pleased with the films production.
3. Shaihu Umar
It was adapted by Adamu Halilu (the first General Manager of the Nigerian film corporation) in 1976
based on the story Shehu Umar written by Abubakar Tafawa Balewa which was chosen as one of
the five stories selected by the British colonial administration in a literacy competition in 1933.
4. Bisi Daughter of the River (1977)
It was adapted from the play of same title by Ladi ladebo, Jab Adu and Kola Ogunnaike. Chief M.K.O
Abiola financially supported the production. It starred Patricia Ngozi Ebigwei (a.k.a Patti Boulaye)
and was directed by Jab Adu. It was shot in Badagry and Lagos and was a refreshingly different
production with the cast and crew being Nigerians. The film flew on the wings of the slogan; made
in Nigeria, by Nigerians and acted by Nigerians for Nigerians. It has been named as one of the most
successful films ever produced in that epoch.
Based on Adebayo Faletis novel of same title, Ola Balogun teamed up with Ade Afolayan to produce
the film. The story unveils a tyrant king who is banished from the land by his subjects. It starred Ade
Afolayan (a.k.a Ade love), Duro Ladipo, Oyin Adejobi, Jimoli Alu and was directed by Ola Balogun.
The film was a success and recouped its production cost in less than one year.
6. Aiye (The world) 1979
Ola Balogun co-produced the film with Hubert Ogunde based on the latters play about the struggle
between the forces of good in a traditional healer and evil in witches in a Yoruba village. A barrage of
special effects recreated the world of witchcraft unveiling the world of the supernatural. It grossed
over N300,000 Naira in one week in Lagos upon its release.
Ola Balogun adapted Meja Mwangis novel Carcase For Hounds based on the mau mau struggle
and produced Cry Freedom. It starred Albert Hall, Candy Brown, Roberto Pisillo, and Olu Jacobs.
8. Aropin NTenia (To Doubt Is Human)
An adaptation of the 1964 stage play dedicated to Hubert Ogundes late wife.
Based on a co-production deal between Ola Balogun and Moses Olaiya Adejumo (alias Baba Sala) the
former adapted the latters play into a film and directed it. It was shot in Yoruba with English
subtitles.
An adaptation of the 1950s classic musical West side story. It was produced by Hamisu Lamido
Iyan-Tama and directed by Bala Anas Babinlata. It starred Hamisu Lamido Iyantama, Abubakar
Baballe Hayatu, Amina Garba and Isa bello Ja.
11. Ina (1985)
Based on the novel Idaamu Paadi Minkailu (The Dilemma of Rev Father Michael) by Adebayo
Faleti, legendry filmmaker Tunde Kelani adapted this novel which incidentally was his debut film
production.
Based on Akinwumi Isolas book of same title published in 1981, it was produced/directed by Tunde
Kelani and starred Kola Oyewo, Wole Amele, Jide Kosoko and Toyin.A. Babatope.
Adapted from Bayo Adebowales debut novel The Virgin published in 1985. The short film was
produced and directed by Tunde Kelani. It starred Yemi Komolafe, Yemi Shodimu and Khabirat
Kafidipe
Adapted from The Virgin authored by Bayo Adebowale, the 95 minutes film was produced and
directed by Tunde Kelani. It starred Sola Asedeko, Ayo Badmus, Seyi Fasuyi and Eniola Olaniyan.
An adaptation of Olayinka Abimbola Egbokhares novel of same title, produced and directed by
Tunde Kelani. It starred Kunle Afolayan, Kemi lala Akindoju, Seun Akindele and Taiwo Ajayi- Lycett
with special appearances from Adewale Ayuba and Sean Tizzle
Ireke Onibudo, translated as The Fabulous Adventures of a Sugarcane man by Femi Osofisan based
on D.O Fagunwas novel, was an episodic screen presentation of D.O. Fagunwas book which was
directed by Tunde Alabi- Hudeyin. It was part of the telly drama on OGTV and another version was
produced by Bayo Aderounmu and co-directed by Tunde Kelani in 1982
The TV adaptation of D.O. Fagunwas book recorded tremendous success in south western states
during its Sunday broadcast.
21. Sango (97)
An adaptation of D.O. Ladipos Oba Koso which was produced and directed by ObaFemi Lasode.
The 16O minutes film unveiled the reign of legendary King Sango of the Oyo Empire. It starred Wale
Adebayo, Bunmi Sanya, Rachel Oniga, Gbenga Richards, Kayode Odumosu and Jimi Sholanke
Translated in English as Blood Money, the movie is based on Kola Akinlades novel of same title
which was adapted by Rem del optimum communications and released in 2005. It was directed by
Yomi Amodu and starred Lere Paimo, Lanre Balogun, Sola Fasudo and Baba Wande.
Its a play written by Neville Ukoli and published in 1975. The TV adaptation was carried out by
Albert Egbe (star of the now rested popular sit com in the 80s Basi and Company where he played
the role of Mr B with his usual phrase to be a millionaire, think like a millionaire)
24. Jaguar Nanas Daughter
Authored by Cyprian Ekwensi, the TV adaptation of the novel was also carried out by Albert Egbe
Adapted from Akinwumi Isolas drama of same title by Isola Ogunsola. It was directed by Bankole
Bello.
Authored by Ola Rotimi and published by University Press Plc in 1977, it was first performed in 1966
at the Yale school of drama. The TV adaptation (13 episodes) was produced by Albert Egbe.
Adapted from Akinwumi Isolas book (1974) of same title and directed by Tunde Kelani. It starred
Yemi Shodimu, Feyikemi Abodunrin, Pauline Dike, Omolola Amusa with special guest appearance
from ace musician Sir Shina Peters.
An adaptation of the classic Hausa novel published in 1934, authored by Alhaji Abubakar Imam. The
story unveils the quest by the protagonist to find the water of cure. Kasimu Yero played the lead role
while Mutuwa Dole played the role of Zurke Dan Muhamman.
Sequel to writing Ruwan Bagaja, Alhaji Abubakar Imam joined the Translation Bureau, where he
wrote Magana Jari Ce (The Art of Speech Is a Capital Investment) which recaptures inspiring stories
from these sources using Hausa narratives;
The TV adaptation aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) network in the 80s to a
receptive audience.
34. Langbodo
TV adaptation of D.O Fagunwas A Forest of a Thousand Daemons in the 80s by defunct Television
Service Of Oyo state (TSOS)
Adapted from Chinua Achebes novel of same title in 1987 into a TV series (13 episodes) with a
duration of fifty minutes per episode by Adiela Onyedibia and Emma Eleanya and broadcast on the
Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) network. It was directed by David Orere and starred Pete
Edochie, Nkem Owoh, Justus Esiri, Funso Adeolu, Sam Loco Efe. Principal photography took place in
Anambra state (Oraifite, Isu awaa in Awgu, UNN) and was a delight to watch.
An adaptation of the 1977 British sitcom Mind Your language produced by the London Weekend
Television. Second Chance starred Abiola Atanda (Madam Kofo), Tony St.Iyke, Funsho Alabi, Lai
Ashadele among others.
Interestingly, this is another version of the Things Fall Apart Film which conflicts with what
Nwachukwu stated. According to Segun Oyekunle It was produced by Samuel Goldwyn Jr (MGM
fame) and Ed Mosk which starred Princess Elizabeth Toro of Uganda and John Seka. The film was an
adaptation of three of Chinua Achebes books; Things Fall Apart, No Longer At Ease, and A Man of
The People. Segun Oyekunle had privately watched the film courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Jrs son and
had the opportunity to talk with Achebe who was overtly disappointed with the production. Achebe
sued the producers and the law suit prevented the film from being seen beyond one or two special
screenings in LA and Atlanta. It has never been publicly released as stated by Segun Oyekunle.
38. The Palm-Wine Drinkard, Song of a Goat, The Trails of Brother Jero
The Palm-wine Drinkard (Amos Tutuola), Song of a Goat (J.P.Clark), The trails of Brother Jero (Wole
Soyinka) were adapted for TV by Segun Olusola back then at WNTV which became NTA Ibadan.
Couple of Nollywood films which are remakes of Hollywood movies as stated by Dr. Anyanwu
85. YEEPA
Filmed play dedicated to Tai Solarin, produced and directed by Tunde Kelani. It was an adaptation of
Femi Osofisans classic play YEEPA Solarin Nbo. It starred Ropo Ewenla, Bayo Bankole, Ayo Binta
Mogaji, Joke Muyiwa and Kayode Olaiya.
86. Mune Kannywood
Mune Kannywood is a remake of Nollywood Hustlers. It revolves around fraudsters who extort
money from the rich and claim to be filmmakers. It starred Jamila Nagudu, Mustapha Naburaska,
Hamza Maifata and Zainab indomie.
87. In Iredu
A short film based on an excerpt of a scene from William Shakespeares Macbeth (the meeting of
Macbeth with the three witches). Here Ogagun the great General from West Africa meets three
witches in Iredu to find out what the future holds for him. It starred Deyemi Okanlawon, Adenike
Ayeni, Kemi lala Akindoju, Ijeoma Grace Agu and was directed by Abiola Sobo
88. When The King Decides
A remake of the classic movie Coming To America. It starred Pete Edochie, Van Vicker.
An adaptation of Henry Onyemas short story of same title by Ekene Mekwunye and directed by Tolu
Ajayi. It is a historical drama set during the civil war where an imprisoned Ifeajuna was summoned
by his friend Ojukwu to have the last conversation before his execution. It starred Gregory Ojefua
and Amara Ono. Fantastic short film I must add.
90. The Concubine
Elechi Amadis debut novel in 1966 published as part of the Heinemann African writers Series. It was
adapted by Nollywood filmmaker Andy Amenechi and was premiered in Abuja in March 2007.
However not much is known about the release.
A 2013 adaptation of the murder which rocked the city of Lagos. It was directed by Chris Eneng and
starred Joseph Benjamin, Keira Hewatch and Chelsea Eze.
92. Half of A Yellow Sun
Based on the award winning novel by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Half of a Yellow Sun was produced
by Andrea Calderwood and directed by Biyi Bandele. It starred Chiwetel Ejiofor, Thandie Newton,
Onyeka Onwenu, Anika Noni Rose, Genevieve Nnaji, OC Ukeje and John Boyega.
Produced by Wale Adenuga, the film is based on the book of same title written by Ebi Akpeti. It was
directed by Bambo Adebajo and starred Olu Jacobs, Ramsey Noah, Ngozi Ezeonu, Funke Akindele,
Hakeem Rahman and Yinka Olukunga. It was released in 2011.
95. Dere
An African adaptation of Cinderella by Ebony Life TV. It starred Gbenro Ajibade, Weruche Opia,
Keppy Ekpeyong Bassey, Carol King and Shaffy Bello
Based on the book of same title by Femi Fasheru, the film was directed by Tunde Olaoye and
produced by Kalejaiye Paul. The romantic drama starred Funke Akindele, Joseph Benjamin, Joke
Silva, Tina Mba, Kiki Omeili and Femi Brainard
98. The gods are not to blame
Wale Adenuga Productions (WAP) adapted the gods are not to blame written by Ola Rotimi for its TV
drama series (9 episodes)
Shot in Nigeria/Cote divore and Cameroon, the film is an adaptation of Ola Rotimis play The gods
are not to blame. Incidentally, the author adapted the story based on Oedipus rex. It was directed
by Funke Fayoyin and starred Gabriel Afolayan, Carol King, Iretiola Doyle, Bayo Alawiye and Seun
Akindele
Based on a true story, John Newton the captain of a slave ship begins a journey of redemption which
ends in tragedy but proves to be the catalyst for greater achievements. Newton is inspired by a local
anthem sang by the slaves and he writes the classic hymn, Amazing Grace. The film was directed by
Jeta Amata and produced by Alicia Arce and Jeta. It starred Joke Silva, Nick Moran, Scott Cleverdon,
Mbong Odungide, Fred Amata and Zack Amata.
102. Zee - World Madness
I plead guilty to this and laughed when I saw it. Zee-World madness was produced by Diamond
movies and directed by Mac-collins-chidebe. The movie (not sure if I should call it that or the popular
seasons movie (whatever that means) is based on the Zee world fever among Nigerians especially
the women folk who eagerly watch the various drama series, from Married Again, The Promise, The
Vow, Destiny, Laali, Krishi, Silver Lining, Sacred Ties, Breaking Free, Saloni, to King of Hearts, Twist of
fate, Young Dreams, Antra, Sands of time, Reach for the stars. Zee- World madness stars Nonso
Diobi, Rachel Okonkwo, Chioma Igwe
An adaptation of the classic Yoruba play Rere Run written by Okediji Oladejo in 1971 and published
in 1973 by Onibonoje press. Wale Adenuga Productions TV adaptation (22 episodes) brought the
book to life.
104. 76
A historical adaptation enveloped in romance leading to the unsuccessful 1976 coup and
assassination of the countrys Head of state, General Murtala Mohammed. The film was directed by
Izu Ojukwu, and starred Ramsey Nouah, Chidi Mokeme and Rita Dominic. It was released in 2016 in
cinemas.
Based on Chimamanda Ngozi Adichies novel of same title, Brad Pitt will produce the film through his
Plan B production company alongside Nyongo and Andrea Calderwood. David Oyewole has been
chosen to star alongside Lupita in the film.
2. Hello, Moto
An adaptation of Prof. Nnedi Okorafors 2011 short story by the director of Ojuju and O-Town, CJ
Fiery Obasi. As the author stated there is witchcraft in science and a science to witchcraft. Both
will conspire against you eventually
Award winning Ghanaian/American filmmaker and producer Akosua Adoma Owusu via her
production company Obibini Pictures obtained the film rights to the short story written by
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie which is part of the collection of twelve short stories from The thing
around your Neck. Karyn Parsons (Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Ladies Man), Chinasa Ogbuagu (The
Following), Peter Rini (Orange is the New Black), Jill Shackner (The Americans), and Farouk James
Prempeh are slated to star in the film.
The author Nick Nwaogu has published a script for the film adaptation of his novel The Almost Kiss
and is confident it will soon be made into a film. However, the film will bear the title February.
Written by Neville Ukoli, the 194 paged novel was originally published in 1987 by Macmillan Nigeria.
Albert Egbe has secured the rights to the film and will produce same under a different title.
7. Imagine This
Self published in 2007, the novel written by Sade Adeniran won the 2008 commonwealth writers
prose for Best book in Africa. There is an indication that it will be adapted into a film to be written by
Adeniran.
8. Shijuwomi
A film adaptation of author Rasheed Gbadamosis book, "Behold My Redeemer". Its directed by Niji
Akanni ("Aramotu," "Heroes and Zeroes") and stars Judith Audu, Ayo Lijadu, Bimbo Manuel, Femi
Adebayo, Olu Okekanye, Tina Mba and Jude Chukwuka.
9. The Governors Wife
A 2002 novel written by Bisi Daniels which incidentally has Nollywood star, Rita Dominic, on the
book cover. Corruption happens to be its underlining theme and the author is still in the
conceptualization stage of the film adaptation process
Newton Aduakes Cannes LAtelier project Oil on water adaptation of Helon Habilas novel.
11. Graveyard of An Anarchy
An adaptation of Bashir Adepoju Bakare (a.k.a Bash Bakr) novel of same title. Its a story of love,
banishment and reclamation in pre-Independence Africa as the British and French armies struggle
for control over the West Coast of the Atlantic and threaten to engulf Ifashanu's kingdom and
everything he holds dear. The author like Wale Okediran is also securing finances for the films
production.
Nigerian American author Tomi Aeyemis Children of blood and Bone (the first instalment in the
fantasy trilogy) has seen Fox 2000 obtaining screen rights for the book which will be published by
Macmillan. The movie is in development at Fox 2000/Temple Hill Productions with Karen Rosenfelt
and Wyck Godfrey (Twilight, Maze Runner, The Fault In Our Stars) producing it.
13. LAGOON
Written by Prof. Nnedi Okorafor, it has been optioned for Film and TV by a Toronto based Media
Company. The story unveils Aliens in Lagos and is the authors response to the 2009 controversial
sci-fi District 9 which was condemned for the negative portrayal of Nigeria
Based on the award-winning novel of the same name by Helon Habila, the story is set in Lagos,
during the 1990s military regime and centres on a young intellectual's clash with the uniformed men
in power. It is a South African-Canadian co-production between Johannesburg-based Rififi Pictures
and Toronto-based Triptych Media. Nigerian born Johannesburg-based filmmaker Akin Omotoso is
leading the drive on this.
This list is by no means exhaustive and I can only hope that Nigerian filmmakers/producers will
embrace this lucrative concept, break boundaries and produce fantastic adaptations that will
compete favourably with original works.
About the Writer: Augusta Okon is a lawyer, author and film critic. She has a passion for film
adaptation and continues to sound the clarion call to filmmakers/producers in Nigeria to tow the
film adaptation path. She can be reached via e-mail : augustaokon@gmail.com