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Nigerian filmmaker and producer Editi Effiong has officially announced plans for a sequel to his 2023 global hit movie The Black Book, revealing that the follow-up project is already in active development.
In a post shared on X, Effiong confirmed that the sequel, titled The Black Book: Old Scores, will be produced in collaboration with Nicky Weinstock, one of the producers behind the Emmy Award-winning series Severance. He described the new film as a major cinematic undertaking and expressed confidence that it would exceed the impact of the original movie.
According to Effiong, the past two years have been dedicated to crafting the script and securing significant financial backing for what he termed a “historic production.”
“It’s been a while. I thought to peek out a little to confirm the absolute worst-kept secret – yes, The Black Book: Old Scores is happening, with Severance producer, Nicky Weinstock, joining the team as producer,” he wrote.
“The last two years have been frenetic for me, writing what’s become my favourite script along with my friend, Bunmi Ajakaiye, and working with Nicky, Mimi, and Ashley to raise unprecedented capital for the production of this historic production, with support from Adino Capital, Mango Tree and Blooming Caravan.
“The Black Book became the most successful Nigerian film globally and it was important that the sequel meets the high standards set in our 2023 film. I’m excited to say that you are going to absolutely love Old Scores.”
Effiong also confirmed that veteran Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo will return to reprise his role as Paul Edima, the central character in the gripping action-thriller. He added that the sequel would introduce a range of new characters drawn from Nigeria, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Japan, giving the film a broader international scope.
“Richard Mofe-Damijo returns as Paul Edima, with Wongi Ibom as sidekick! A brand new story. New characters,” he stated.
“New world, painted with my home state in the Niger Delta as a breathtaking backdrop. Some of your favourite characters have returned, but the new characters will absolutely blow you away.”
The filmmaker further revealed that the sequel was shot on a massive scale, involving a 300-member Nigerian and international cast and crew. He described the production as the largest Nigerian film project to date and praised the dedication of his collaborators who helped bring the project to life.
“Making Old Scores was an amazing experience – the biggest Nigerian production to date, backed by a Nigerian and international crew, 300 strong, and cast joining us from Nigeria, UK, US, Japan, etc. to tell a truly incredible film,” he said.
“Every film is made by believers and I am deeply grateful for the friends who joined me on this journey. Grateful for Yinka Edward, who returned as DOP and Co-Producer, alongside Yolanda Okereke, also Costume Designer, with Joshua Enekahire as Assistant Director and Mosadoluwa Olaleka as Production Designer.”
Released in 2023, The Black Book followed the intense journey of Paul Edima, a grieving father whose life is shattered after his only son is killed by a corrupt police unit. His quest for justice spirals into a dangerous path of revenge, exposing deep-rooted corruption within the system.
The sequel is expected to continue Edima’s story, delving deeper into themes of justice, redemption, and societal unrest in modern-day Nigeria, while expanding the film’s universe and emotional depth.
Although a release date has not yet been announced, anticipation is already building among fans and industry watchers.
The Black Book achieved remarkable global success following its release, climbing to number three on Netflix’s worldwide charts. The film also entered the top 10 rankings in more than 69 countries and amassed over 20 million views globally, cementing its status as one of Nigeria’s most successful international film exports.
Meanwhile, Severance, produced by Nicky Weinstock, is a critically acclaimed Apple TV+ sci-fi thriller series that has earned widespread recognition. The show has collected over 48 awards and 196 nominations, including 41 Emmy nominations with 10 wins, alongside honours from the Golden Globes, SAG Awards, WGA Awards, and a prestigious Peabody Award.
With Old Scores, Effiong is aiming to build on the legacy of The Black Book, delivering what he promises will be a bold, high-impact sequel capable of raising the bar for Nigerian cinema on the global stage.
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