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Acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker Bolanle Austen-Peters is making a powerful return to the big screen with her upcoming crime thriller Wire Wire, a high-stakes drama that delves deep into the murky world of cybercrime, fraud, and the hidden battles between power and social class in modern Nigeria. Produced and directed by Austen-Peters under her renowned BAP Productions banner, the film is scheduled for release later in 2026 and is already generating significant buzz across the entertainment industry.
Wire Wire has been officially selected for screening at the 2026 Joburg Film Festival (JFF) in Johannesburg, South Africa, marking an important milestone for the project. The film is slated to premiere at the festival on March 3, 2026, offering international audiences an early look at what promises to be one of the most gripping Nigerian films of the year. Following its festival debut, the movie is expected to enjoy a wider theatrical and digital release across Africa and beyond.
The film represents a notable shift in creative direction for Austen-Peters, who is best known for her biographical epics and glamorous, high-society dramas. Having previously delivered critically acclaimed titles such as The Bling Lagosians, Collision Course, Fela and the Kalakuta Queens, and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti in 2024, the director now ventures into darker, more suspense-driven territory. With Wire Wire, she explores the shadowy underbelly of Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital economy, shedding light on cybercrime, online fraud, and the devastating personal consequences that often accompany them.
At its core, Wire Wire is a gritty crime thriller that weaves together themes of ambition, desperation, betrayal, and survival. The narrative focuses on the intricate networks behind cyber scams and financial crimes, exposing how greed and inequality drive individuals into dangerous territory. Set against the backdrop of Nigeria’s complex social hierarchy, the film also examines the widening gap between the privileged elite and those struggling to survive on the margins. Through intense storytelling and emotionally charged performances, the movie offers a raw portrayal of how power, technology, and class collide in contemporary society.
One of the film’s biggest strengths lies in its star-studded cast, which brings together a diverse mix of established actors, popular entertainers, and reality TV personalities. Leading the ensemble are Lasisi Elenu, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Neo Akpofure, Shaffy Bello, Olarotimi Fakunle, and Toke Makinwa. They are joined by Lilly Afe, Emeneks, Abayomi Alvin, Boma Akpore, Bucci Franklin, Bisola Aiyeola, and Erica Nlewedim, among others. This dynamic lineup promises compelling performances that capture both the emotional and psychological complexities of the story.
The film’s production comes after a two-year hiatus for Austen-Peters, following the release of her biographical drama Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti in 2024. During this period, she reportedly dedicated significant time to research and script development, ensuring that Wire Wire would deliver authenticity and depth. Industry insiders suggest that the filmmaker worked closely with cybersecurity experts and investigative consultants to accurately portray the realities of digital crime, lending credibility and realism to the narrative.
In addition to Wire Wire, Austen-Peters is also preparing to release The Bling Lagosians 2, the sequel to her popular 2019 film, making 2026 a landmark year in her filmmaking career. While The Bling Lagosians 2 continues her exploration of wealth, luxury, and societal expectations, Wire Wire offers a striking contrast, diving into the darker corners of ambition and survival.
With its intense storyline, high production values, and powerful social commentary, Wire Wire is poised to become one of the standout Nigerian films of 2026. As anticipation builds ahead of its Joburg Film Festival premiere, audiences and critics alike are eager to see how Bolanle Austen-Peters redefines her storytelling style in this bold new chapter.
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