Nollywood veteran Muyiwa Ademola has achieved a major milestone with his latest film, Ori: The Rebirth, which has raked in an impressive N269 million within just three weeks, according to the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN).
Premiering on May 1, 2025, the Yoruba-language spiritual epic has not only become a box office success but also a cultural sensation.
A sequel to Ademola’s 2005 classic Ori, the film has deeply resonated with audiences across Nigeria. During its third weekend alone (May 16–18), it pulled in a remarkable N40 million, solidifying its place as one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films of 2025.
Directed and co-produced by the 52-year-old filmmaker alongside Adekola Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, Ori: The Rebirth masterfully fuses rich cultural heritage with modern storytelling. The film opened with a strong N97.8 million in its debut weekend, including N19.5 million on its first day—placing it among the top opening day performances for a Nollywood release this year.
In a recent interview, Muyiwa Ademola revealed he personally invested over N400 million into Ori: The Rebirth, calling it a labor of love and a deeply personal mission. “This film is my soul on screen. It’s not just a movie; it’s a journey—spiritual, cultural, and emotional,” he shared. “I believed in this story and in its power to connect—not only with Yoruba speakers but with anyone who values authentic African storytelling.”
The film explores powerful themes such as destiny, sacrifice, and spiritual awakening, building on the metaphysical depth that made the original Ori a classic. The 2005 film earned Best Indigenous Film at the inaugural Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), firmly establishing Ademola as a trailblazer in indigenous cinema.
Ori: The Rebirth has earned widespread acclaim for its cinematic quality, cultural integrity, and emotional resonance. Critics and audiences alike have hailed it as a milestone in Yoruba-language filmmaking. Its resounding success highlights a broader movement: Nigerian audiences are increasingly embracing films in indigenous languages.
As the film continues to dominate the box office, Ori: The Rebirth is not just making history—it’s redefining standards in Nollywood and showcasing the global potential of local narratives.