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| Image: PartyJollofTV |
Two major streaming giants, Prime Video and Netflix, have ignited a fresh debate among fans of Nollywood horror with the release of two chilling supernatural thrillers—Ms. Kanyin and The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi—both centered on the infamous legend of Madam Koi-Koi. The films, though drawn from the same ghostly folklore, offer vastly different interpretations, prompting viewers to ask: which vengeful spirit haunts harder?
Ms. Kanyin, which debuted exclusively on Prime Video on June 27, 2025, is produced by Nemsia Studios and directed by Ikechuckwu Jerry Ossai. Set in the elite Sterling Academy, the film follows the haunting consequences of a mysterious boarding school rule that, when broken, unleashes a deadly spirit. Temi Otedola takes on the lead role of Amara, supported by a strong cast including Michelle Dede, Kanaga Jnr, Kalu Ikeagwu, and Natse Jemide.
Critics have lauded the film’s sleek production design and immersive atmosphere, with special praise for Otedola’s performance, which has been described as a turning point in her acting career. The story blends adolescent anxiety with supernatural danger, building slowly into a suspenseful climax. However, some viewers have noted that the scares are more psychological than visceral, with a few minor production flaws like visible boom mics and inconsistent props marring an otherwise impressive presentation.
On the other hand, Netflix’s The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi, directed by Jay Franklyn Jituboh and launched in late 2023, takes a much darker route. Told across two parts, the film is set in the 1970s and 1990s and unpacks the Madam Koi-Koi myth through the eyes of female students grappling with traumatic abuse and unresolved injustices at the fictional St. Augustine’s school.
Starring Omowunmi Dada as the terrifying ghost, with supporting roles from Ireti Doyle, Martha Ehinome, and Chuks Joseph, the film delivers a harrowing narrative that ties the supernatural to real-life horrors like sexual assault and institutional cover-ups. Its intense themes have earned both praise and criticism—applauded for boldly confronting taboo topics, but questioned for its heavy reliance on graphic scenes and emotional trauma rather than pure horror.
Where Ms. Kanyin leans into modern style, suspense, and emotional consequences, The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi doubles down on psychological pain, trauma, and revenge. While Ms. Kanyin appeals to fans seeking a polished, visually engaging take on the folklore, Netflix’s version offers a raw, socially charged interpretation that leaves viewers unsettled.
In comparing both, one stands out for its finesse and character-driven plot, while the other draws power from its unfiltered depiction of horror rooted in real-life injustice. It ultimately boils down to personal preference—do you prefer your scares neat and refined, or gut-wrenching and provocative?
As debates continue across social media, one thing is certain: Nollywood’s horror scene is evolving, and these two titles have set a new bar for supernatural storytelling in African cinema.
Both films are currently streaming—Ms. Kanyin on Prime Video and The Origin: Madam Koi-Koi on Netflix. Let the horror games begin.
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