10 AFRIFF Films We Can’t Wait to Watch 

From moving coming-of-age tales to gripping thrillers and sharp social commentaries, this year’s Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) lineup is unmatched. We’ve rounded up 10 standout titles that are officially taking over our festival watchlist. Check out the full breakdown below 

1. The Hospital Chronicles (The I.C.U.)

 Inspired by real medical events, this tense psychological thriller exposes the high-stakes human cost of systemic negligence inside a high-pressure hospital unit. Directed by Segilola Ogidan, it serves as the opening installment of a planned medical anthology trilogy.

2. Binta Is Okay

This coming-of-age story follows a young girl navigating her body, faith, and complex maternal relationship. Directed by Fatimah Binta Gimsay, the award-winning short stars Susan Pwajok, Mallum Arik, and Tolu Asanu.

3. Adanne

Three generations of Igbo women navigate love and societal expectation, as Adanne longs to be seen in a family that favours male children – pushing her relationship with her mother to its limits.

4. Nollybabes

Three ambitious actresses scheme to outwit a sleazy film director in order to self-fund their own project. Directed by Nigerian-American filmmaker Anu Bamidele, the comedy stars Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Tomi Ojo, and Osereme Inegbenebor.

5. Lady

Selected as AFRIFF’s opening night film, this Sundance-awarded drama follows a fiercely independent cab driver navigating the Lagos night shift. Directed by Olive Nwosu, the film stars Jessica Gabriel, Amanda Oruh, and Seun Kuti.

6. Boys Wear Pink Too

Set across Nigeria and Canada, this narrative challenges rigid gender norms and stereotypes around male emotional expression. Directed by Charles Uwagbai, it explores modern identity through a compassionate lens.

7. Waiting for My Sister

Set between a bustling marketplace and a quiet riverbank, two strangers form a subtle bond over memory, grief, and lingering hope. Directed by Nwoke-Chima Chimereogo, the short stars Betty Agbo, Henry Chukwunonso Eze, and Dabeluchukwu Ibik.

8. One Woman One Bra

Selected for the festival’s feature category, this film blends humor and poignant social narrative to explore personal freedoms. Written and directed by Vincho Nchogu, it stands out as one of the lineup’s most distinct voices.

9. In the Shadows 75

Set in 1970s Libya, a weary Nigerian man and a Cameroonian woman share an intense night of hidden truths while on the migrant trail. Directed by Zubayr Zubayr, the film captures an intimate story of survival and displacement.

10. Nneoma

This maternal drama examines complex familial bonds, endurance, and generational legacy across changing times. Directed by veteran actress and filmmaker Stella Damasus, it delivers an emotional story anchored by a strong ensemble.