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Nollywood is once again stepping boldly onto the global stage as Stitches, a highly anticipated romantic drama, is announced as the opening film for the 2026 Nollywood in Hollywood Showcase. The film will make its red-carpet debut on March 6, 2026, at the iconic Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting celebration of African cinema.
Directed by award-winning Ghanaian filmmaker Shirley Frimpong-Manso, Stitches marks her official debut in the Nigerian film industry. Known for her compelling storytelling and strong female-led narratives, Frimpong-Manso brings a fresh creative perspective to Nollywood with this emotionally rich and visually striking film. Her involvement has already generated widespread interest among film enthusiasts, critics, and industry stakeholders across Africa and beyond.
A Compelling Story of Love, Ambition, and Secrets
At the heart of Stitches is Boma, a gifted fashion designer from a modest background whose journey into Lagos’ elite society is both thrilling and perilous. As her talent earns her recognition and access to exclusive social circles, she becomes entangled in a complicated romance that forces her to confront long-buried personal and family secrets.
The film explores powerful themes such as ambition, class mobility, love, betrayal, and self-discovery. Set against the glamorous yet unforgiving backdrop of Lagos’ fashion and high-society scenes, Stitches offers viewers an intimate look at the sacrifices and compromises that often accompany success. Through Boma’s story, the film examines the emotional cost of ambition and the delicate balance between staying true to oneself and adapting to new environments.
A Star-Studded Cast
The film boasts a dynamic ensemble cast that blends seasoned Nollywood veterans with rising stars. Leading the lineup is Dakore Egbuson-Akande, whose screen presence and emotional depth have long made her a fan favorite. Also starring is Regina Askia, returning to the big screen with a performance that has already sparked excitement among audiences.
Other cast members include Jemima Osunde, Obinna Okenwa, Adaobi Dibor, and flamboyant fashion icon Swanky Jerry, who makes a striking appearance in a role that reflects his real-life influence in the fashion industry. Together, the cast delivers layered performances that bring authenticity and emotional resonance to the film’s narrative.
A High-Profile Production
Produced by Chris Odeh for BRS Studios, Stitches represents a collaborative effort between industry heavyweights Ramsey Nouah and Joy Odiete. The production reflects a strong commitment to cinematic excellence, combining high production values with nuanced storytelling.
From detailed costume design to evocative cinematography and carefully curated soundscapes, the film showcases the growing technical sophistication of Nollywood productions. The fashion-forward elements of the story are particularly highlighted, with elaborate costume pieces playing a central role in defining character and mood.
Global Recognition and Festival Success
Even before its Hollywood debut, Stitches has already earned international recognition. The film was selected for the TIFF 2025 Industry Selects program in Toronto, a prestigious platform known for spotlighting promising global cinema and connecting filmmakers with international distributors and investors.
Its inclusion at TIFF signaled the film’s strong artistic merit and market appeal, paving the way for its selection as the opening feature for the Nollywood in Hollywood Showcase. The event serves as a vital bridge between African cinema and global audiences, offering filmmakers a platform to connect with Hollywood executives, critics, and film lovers.
Nollywood In Hollywood Showcase: A Growing Global Platform
The 2026 Nollywood in Hollywood Showcase continues on March 7 at the University of Southern California’s Norris Cinema Theatre, featuring a curated lineup of films that celebrate the diversity and depth of Nigerian storytelling. Other titles in the showcase include the dance drama When Nigeria Happens and the historical romance To Adaego With Love.
With Stitches leading the event, the showcase highlights Nollywood’s expanding global influence and its growing reputation for delivering high-quality, emotionally engaging cinema. As Nigerian films continue to break cultural and geographical barriers, Stitches stands poised to captivate international audiences and further cement Nollywood’s place on the world stage.
As anticipation builds toward its red-carpet premiere, Stitches promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience—one that blends romance, ambition, culture, and emotional depth in a story that resonates far beyond the screen.
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