Nollywood has always been a powerhouse of storytelling, weaving together rich cultural heritage, compelling drama, and vibrant characters. In the first half of 2025, one film has stood out as a true cinematic event: ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’. This historical epic, directed by the acclaimed Tunde Adebayo, has captured the imagination of audiences across Nigeria and beyond. In this in-depth review, we’ll explore what makes ‘Lisabi’ a must-watch, from its gripping plot and standout performances to its technical brilliance and cultural significance.
Plot Synopsis & Main Themes
‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’ transports viewers to 19th-century Egba land, chronicling the rise of Lisabi, a legendary Yoruba warrior and leader. The film opens with a young Lisabi witnessing the oppression of his people by corrupt chiefs and external invaders. Fueled by a sense of justice and a deep love for his homeland, Lisabi (played by Kunle Remi) rallies a coalition of farmers and hunters, sparking a revolution that would change the course of history.
Thematically, the film explores the timeless struggle for freedom, the cost of leadership, and the power of unity. It deftly balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, as Lisabi grapples with betrayal, loss, and the heavy burden of responsibility. The screenplay, penned by Kemi Adesoye, is both poetic and grounded, weaving in proverbs and folklore that enrich the narrative.
Performances by the Lead Actors
At the heart of ‘Lisabi’ is Kunle Remi’s electrifying performance as the titular hero. Remi brings both physicality and emotional depth to the role, embodying Lisabi’s transformation from an idealistic youth to a battle-hardened leader. His command of Yoruba language and dialect adds authenticity, and his on-screen presence is magnetic—especially in the rousing speeches that have already become iconic.
Supporting Remi is Bimbo Ademoye as Morounkeji, Lisabi’s confidante and love interest. Ademoye’s portrayal is nuanced, offering strength, wit, and vulnerability. Her chemistry with Remi is palpable, providing the film with a tender emotional core amidst the chaos of war.
Veteran actor Taiwo Ajai-Lycett delivers a memorable turn as Iyalode, the wise matriarch who mentors Lisabi. Her scenes are a masterclass in subtlety and gravitas, anchoring the film’s moral compass. Other notable performances include Lateef Adedimeji as the conflicted antagonist Balogun and Sola Sobowale as Lisabi’s mother, whose quiet resilience resonates long after the credits roll.
Direction, Cinematography, and Production Quality
Director Tunde Adebayo has crafted a visually stunning and emotionally resonant epic. His direction is assured, balancing large-scale battle scenes with intimate character moments. Adebayo’s use of wide shots to capture the sweeping landscapes of Abeokuta and the dense forests of Egba land immerses viewers in the setting, while close-ups reveal the internal struggles of the characters.
The cinematography by Yemi Osindero is nothing short of breathtaking. Sun-drenched fields, misty mornings, and torch-lit night scenes are rendered with painterly beauty. The color palette—rich earth tones and vibrant traditional fabrics—celebrates Yoruba culture and history.
Production design is meticulous, from the authentic costumes and handcrafted weapons to the bustling village markets and royal courts. The attention to detail extends to the film’s soundscape, with a score by Cobhams Asuquo that blends traditional Yoruba instruments with orchestral swells, heightening the drama and emotion.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing the story to unfold organically while maintaining tension. The action sequences are choreographed with precision, avoiding the pitfalls of over-editing that sometimes plague Nollywood action films.
How ‘Lisabi’ Stands Out in 2025 Nollywood
2025 has been a strong year for Nollywood, with a slate of romantic comedies, thrillers, and biopics. Yet, ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’ distinguishes itself as a rare historical epic that combines scale, ambition, and heart. While previous Nollywood historical dramas have sometimes struggled with budget constraints, ‘Lisabi’ benefits from a reported ₦500 million production budget, making it one of the most expensive Nigerian films to date.
This investment shows in every frame, but what truly sets ‘Lisabi’ apart is its commitment to authenticity and cultural pride. The film avoids the temptation to pander to international audiences with excessive exposition or Westernized tropes. Instead, it invites viewers—Nigerian and global alike—into the world of Egba, trusting the power of its story and the universality of its themes.
Moreover, ‘Lisabi’ arrives at a time when Nigerian audiences are hungry for stories that reflect their own history and heroes. In a cinematic landscape often dominated by contemporary urban tales, this film is a breath of fresh air, inspiring a renewed interest in indigenous narratives.
Audience and Critical Reception
Since its premiere in March 2025, ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’ has been a box office sensation, grossing over ₦800 million in its first three months—a record for a historical drama in Nigeria. The film has also performed strongly on streaming platforms like Netflix Naija, where it topped the charts for four consecutive weeks.
Critics have lavished praise on the film’s storytelling, performances, and technical achievements. The Guardian Nigeria called it “a landmark in African cinema,” while Pulse NG described it as “a rousing, beautifully crafted epic that will be studied for years.” Social media buzz has been equally enthusiastic, with hashtags like #LisabiLegend and #ProudlyNigerian trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
Audiences have highlighted the film’s emotional resonance and educational value. Many have taken to social media to share how the movie sparked conversations about Yoruba history with their families. Schools and universities have organized group screenings, and there is talk of ‘Lisabi’ being included in the national curriculum.
Final Verdict and Rating
‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’ is more than just a film—it’s an event, a celebration, and a call to remember the heroes of Nigeria’s past. With its powerful performances, lush visuals, and stirring score, it sets a new benchmark for Nollywood storytelling.
Rating: 9.5/10
While a few minor pacing issues in the second act keep it from perfection, these are quickly overshadowed by the film’s many strengths. ‘Lisabi’ is a triumph for Nigerian cinema and a must-watch for anyone interested in epic storytelling, African history, or simply great filmmaking.
Why You Should Watch ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’
If you’re looking for a Nollywood film that combines action, emotion, and cultural pride, ‘Lisabi: A Legend Is Born’ is your top pick from the first half of 2025. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Nigerian movies or new to the scene, this film promises an unforgettable cinematic journey.
Don’t miss out on this landmark Nollywood release—stream it now or catch it at your local cinema, and join the conversation about Nigeria’s rich heritage and the power of storytelling.
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