The most exciting acts in recent times have mostly come from what we’re all calling New Nollywood now. A younger and more vibrant force; creatives not yet jaded by their experiences – not yet polished and refined. A new school still fresh in its unbridled exuberance. The force spans across a number of variables, from productions targeted towards a much younger audience to projects for more mature and intellectual audiences. A film like King of Boys was invigorating because the storyline was intricate and unusual yet so familiar. While a TV show like Shuga is exciting because of its bold honesty. In the same way, this list we’ve created captures, hopefully, a range of promising skill. From the emotive to the animated to the captivating.
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Susan Wokoma
We’re setting sights on Susan Wokoma for her performance in The Ghost and the House of Truth. Wokoma was listed as one of Europe’s Forbes 30 under 30 in 2017 and named a BAFTA Breakthrough Brit by an international jury, later that same year. Wokoma has already established something of a name for herself in British film and television. Now, it seems she’s ready to break into Nollywood. Watch out. Fun fact: Susan was a character (Amala) in Biyi Bandele’s 2013 film adaptation of Half of A Yellow Sun.
Swanky JKA
No one was sure what to expect from Ramsey Nouah’s project (Living in Bondage: Breaking Free) as a whole. Most publications focused on the fact that people like Nancy Isime and Kanayo O. Kanayo would be in the film, and there was barely a glance thrown in Swanky JKA’s direction. Yet to my mind, Jide-Kene Achufusi (JKA) practically carried the whole film. We’re hoping whoever was responsible for JKA’s brilliant casting in Living in Bondage has the foresight to cast him in upcoming roles that are just as delicious. We’re also hoping JKA has the discipline to keep his acting top-notch.
Ruby Akubueze
When you see Ruby, you want to keep your eyes on her. Maybe it’s those almond shaped doe eyes, or her adorable smile. Whatever it is, she has an ability to communicate emotion through the subtlest expressions. She’s an upcoming actress, so don’t expect to be blown out of your chair. But you might just find yourself letting out an ‘awww’ or shedding a tear; depending on what emotion she decides to put you through. Spotted in: Kasanova and MTV’s Shuga Naija.
Jemima Osunde
Another emerging Shuga Naija star. Since her breakout role as Leila in Season 4 (of Shuga Naija), Jemima has continued to turn heads with her pretty face and fluid acting. She has since appeared in Lionheart (as Genevieve Nnaji’s assistant) and The Delivery Boy (as a prostitute). There’s a budding talent here; an uncanny ability to slip into the skin of whatever character she’s playing. Whether it’s a sweet teenage girl or a hard-hearted street worker.
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Timini Egbuson
Our third Shuga Naija star, a young actor who also happens to be Dakore Egbuson’s younger brother. Timini has distinguished himself with a face that the camera loves to flatter, and he seals the deal with his smooth voice and suave mannerism. At this point, he’s the quintessential young man, and we can’t wait to see what roles the future will bring him. Spotted in: Elevator Baby.
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Featured Image Source: Glazia NG
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