Nollywood: Odunlade Adekola’s Lakatabu rakes N94 million one week in cinemas
“Lakatabu” emerged as the highest-grossing Nollywood film at the box office between June 21 and June 27, 2024, amassing nearly N65 million during this period
“Lakatabu,” a Nollywood film produced by acclaimed actor Odunlade Adekola, has raked in approximately N94 million in box office revenue within a week of its release, as of June 30, 2024, according to Filmoneng, a West African movie distribution company.
“Lakatabu” had a successful opening, earning N47 million in its first weekend in Nigerian cinemas.
Data from the Nigerian box office shows that the movie secured the third-highest opening of 2024, with over 11,000 cinema admissions.
The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) reported that “Lakatabu” was the highest-grossing Nollywood film at the box office between June 21 and June 27, 2024, amassing nearly N65 million during this period. Its performance also made it the second highest-grossing film overall for that week.
The last time a Nollywood film led the box office was in May, when Bolanle Austen-Peters’ “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” earned almost N47 million between May 17 and May 23, 2024. It concluded its five-week exclusive run in Nigerian cinemas, grossing a total of N156.6 million and premiered on Prime Video on June 21, 2024.
Released on June 21, 2024, “Lakatabu” is a Yoruba language film featuring notable actors Adebayo Salami, Adedimeji Lateef, and Akin Lewis, with Odunlade Adekola starring as the lead, playing an armed robber with magical powers who terrorizes through kidnappings and murders.
Odunlade Adekola, known for his compelling performances and directorial skills, has further solidified his reputation for high-grossing films following his success in “Orisa,” which earned N127 million. He has received two AMVCA awards, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and supporting roles.
The Yoruba movie industry is gaining significant prominence in Nigerian cinemas, with films like Eniola Ajao’s “Ajakaju” grossing over NN250 million, and Kayode Kasum’s “Ajosepo,” starring Bisola Aiyeola, Tomike Adeoye, and Timini Egbuson, earning NN252 million.
This surge aligns with the rise of movie streaming platforms, with many Yoruba films premiering exclusively on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Showmax. Examples include “Anikulapo,” “Ijogbon,” “Jagun Jagun,” and “Ayinla,” reflecting the genre’s broad appeal and international reach.
