Hollywood Welcomes Nollywood’s 2026 Film Selections
Nigerian Cinema Takes Centre Stage in Los Angeles
NOLLYWOOD in Hollywood has announced the official selection of three films for its 2026 Nigerian film showcase, marking the seventh edition of the annual event that celebrates Nigerian storytelling on a global stage.
The showcase will hold from 6 to 7 March 2026, across two iconic Los Angeles venues—the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica and the Norris Cinema Theatre at the University of Southern California.
Announcement at a Landmark Screening
The film selections were revealed during a special preview screening of My Father’s Shadow at USC. The film’s international pedigree set a fitting backdrop for the announcement, having become Nigeria’s first film selected in the official competition at the Cannes Film Festival.
It also made history as the United Kingdom’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards, highlighting the growing global recognition of Nigerian and African storytelling.
Three Films, One Expansive Vision
The 2026 lineup comprises Stitches, When Nigeria Happens, and To Adaego With Love. Together, the films showcase a wide range of genres and themes, from modern romance and artistic survival to historical reflection and national healing.
Organisers say the selection reflects the evolution of Nollywood and its ability to engage international audiences while remaining rooted in African realities.
Red-Carpet Opening with ‘Stitches’
The showcase opens on Friday evening with Stitches, directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso. The red-carpet premiere at the Aero Theatre marks a milestone for the celebrated Ghanaian director, whose first Nollywood feature explores love, class mobility, and hidden truths.
The story follows a young fashion designer navigating elite social circles, where romance and ambition collide with unresolved personal histories.
Exploring Lagos Through Dance
Saturday’s programme begins with When Nigeria Happens, directed by Ema Edosio-Deelen. Screening at USC, the film blends drama with contemporary dance to depict the lives of dancers chasing artistic fulfilment in Lagos.
The film highlights the tension between passion and survival, offering a poetic portrayal of creativity in the face of economic and social pressures.
A Historical Love Story to Close
The showcase concludes with To Adaego With Love, directed by Nwamaka Chikezie. Set in a post-conflict Nigeria, the film centres on a forbidden romance between a Northern soldier and an Igbo teacher.
The story interrogates themes of identity, reconciliation, and resilience, using personal relationships to reflect broader national experiences.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Global Film Presence
Over the years, Nollywood in Hollywood has played a key role in amplifying Nigerian cinema internationally. Several films showcased in past editions were later selected as Nigeria’s official submissions to the Academy Awards.
The organisation’s sustained engagement also helped pave the way for Nigerian filmmakers to receive membership invitations from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Mission and Vision
Founded by filmmaker Ose Oyamendan in 2018, Nollywood in Hollywood operates as a registered nonprofit organisation committed to promoting Nigerian cinema through storytelling, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
“The 2026 selections reflect the strength, diversity and global relevance of Nigerian cinema today,” Oyamendan said. “They are stories that connect across borders and speak to shared human experiences.”
Further programme details and ticketing information are available at www.nollywoodinhollywood.com.
