Ikorodu Bois: Nigerian Teens' Creative Videos Win Over Netflix & Hollywood
A group of Nigerian teenagers, known as the Ikorodu Bois, have taken the internet by storm with their creative video productions. Their ingenious methods have caught the attention of global giants like Netflix and Hollywood's Tyler Perry.
The Ikorodu Bois started their journey on YouTube, mimicking popular movies like 'Money Heist' and 'Squid Game'. They gained fame for their crude editing techniques, transforming everyday items into impressive props. Their work caught the eye of Netflix, which sent them a care package of professional filmmaking gear and highlighted their creativity during the 2021 Oscars.
The success of the Ikorodu Bois comes amidst a broader shift in the Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood. Unlike Old Nollywood films, which were mostly home videos, New Nollywood films are released theatrically or via streaming platforms. These new films boast enhanced narrative complexity, aesthetic value, and overall production quality. Kemi Adetiba, the director behind the 2020 Netflix series 'King of Boys: The Return of the King', is a prime example of this evolution. Netflix launched in Nigeria in 2020 and has since commissioned African-produced content, contributing to this growth.
The Ikorodu Bois' story offers hope to upcoming and struggling filmmakers in Nigeria. Their recognition by Netflix and Tyler Perry shows that creativity and ingenuity can transcend limitations. As Nollywood continues to evolve and gain global demand, the stage is set for more talents like the Ikorodu Bois to shine.
