5 Amazing African Films You Must Watch

Africa is not specifically known for award-winning art, but what most people are missing out on is the richest cultural heritage a continent or a country can offer the world: films. African cinema as a whole is slowly starting to receive global recognition where films from countries like South Africa, Kenya, Angola and Senegal are trickling down to the mainstream. Since I am a fan of thriller films, here I will list down some of the most interesting films from Africa that piqued my interest.

Osuofia in London (2003) — Nigeria

You must have heard of Hollywood and Bollywood, but do give a chance to Nollywood, the world’s third-largest film industry, originating from Nigeria. This film is about a native villager who travels to London to claim his share of inheritance. Hilariously funny, the movie provides a highly enjoyable glimpse into contemporary Nigerian culture.

Tsotsi (2005) | South Africa

Set in a city slum in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tsotsi follows events surrounding a young street thug who steals a car. Discovering a child in the back seat, he finds redemption through the care of the young infant and an unforeseen change overcomes him. The movie is a deeply moving portrait of suffering in contemporary Africa.

Sambizanga (1972) | Angola

Sambizanga is set in 1961 during the onset of the Angolan War of Independence and documents the struggles of the local militants involved in the liberation of the country. Based on a novella by Angolan writer José Luandino Vieira, the film follows the plight of a revolutionary and his imprisonment by the Portuguese colonialists.

District 9 (2009) | South Africa

Set in a futuristic Africa occupied by extra-terrestrial beings, District 9 focuses on an alien race forced to live in terrible conditions on Earth. Imprisoned in a militarized internment camp called District 9, the beings find help in a government agent exposed to their biotechnological abilities.

Hotel Rwanda (2004) | Rwanda

Hotel Rwanda is a heart-wrenching historical drama about the genocide that took place in Rwanda over a decade ago. This film follows an ordinary family man with the extraordinary courage to help thousands of displaced refugees by providing them with shelter in the hotel he manages.