Epic Nollywood Film “Osamede” Set for Cinema Release October 17
By Matthew Eloyi
A new Nollywood historical epic, Osamede, will hit cinemas nationwide on October 17, its producers have announced.
Ace filmmaker and actress Ivie Okujaye revealed the release date in a post on her verified Instagram page.
“The beauty of culture lies in what our ancestors left us! Osamede comes from the heart of the Benin Kingdom, a story about a young woman who dares to change everything, drawing strength from the legacy of her people. #Osamede The movie is coming to cinemas nationwide Oct. 17,” she wrote.
Produced by Lilian Olubi under Gold Lilies Global Services, Osamede is directed by Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) winner James Omokwe.
The film stars Ivie Okujaye in the lead role, alongside Lexan Aisosa Peters, William Benson, Tosin Adeyemi, Etinosa Idemudia, and veteran filmmaker Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen.
Shot in Benin City, the epic draws heavily on the traditions of the ancient Benin Empire while exploring themes of resilience, identity, female empowerment, and historical legacy.
The plot follows Osamede, an orphaned girl who discovers she possesses the mystical power of the Aruosa stone, a sacred object believed to have been bestowed by Osanobua. Set against the backdrop of the 1897 British invasion of Benin, the story blends themes of resistance, betrayal, and supernatural destiny.
Osamede had its world premiere at the prestigious Cannes Film Market on May 17, during the Pavillion Afriques section, and was later screened at the Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF), where it was praised for reclaiming African mythology while retelling a pivotal moment in Nigerian history.
With its October release, the film is expected to ignite renewed conversations on the representation of African history in cinema and Nollywood’s growing influence on the global stage.
