Funmilayo Ransom Kuti’ Biopic Breaks Box Office Records with N32 Million Opening Weekend
The Nollywood biopic “Funmilayo Ransom Kuti” has made a remarkable debut, earning N32 million in its opening weekend following its release on Friday, May 17, 2024. This achievement was disclosed by the Nigerian Box Office (NBO) via the social media platform X on Monday, May 20, 2024.
Record-Breaking Debut
According to data from the NBO, the biopic not only topped the weekend box office charts but also set a new record for the highest-grossing opening weekend for a biopic in Nigeria. This success marks a significant milestone in the Nollywood industry, showcasing the film’s widespread appeal and the growing interest in historical narratives.
The NBO’s update highlighted the film’s achievement within the context of the year: “Another huge opening for a Nollywood movie. That makes it 11 weekends out of 21 weekends in 2024 that a Nollywood movie has topped the box office. For context, last year had 14 weeks out of 52. 2022 was just 9 weeks out of 52.” Source.
Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters
The film is directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, a powerhouse in the Nollywood industry known for her impactful storytelling and cinematic expertise. “Funmilayo Ransom Kuti” tells the compelling life story of the late Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, a notable Nigerian educator, political reformer, and women’s rights activist. She is also the mother of Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Stellar Cast and Acclaimed Performances
The biopic stars Kehinde Bankole, the 2024 Best Actress winner at the African Magic Viewers Choice Awards. The film features a stellar ensemble cast including veteran actors Ajoke Silva, Adebayo Salami, Omowunmi Dada, Adunni Ade, Jide Kosoko, Dele Odule, Ibrahim Suleiman, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, Yewande Osamein, and Iyimide Ayo-Olumoko.
Celebrating Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s Legacy
“Funmilayo Ransom Kuti” explores significant phases of Ransome-Kuti’s life, including her education at Abeokuta Grammar School, her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti, and her revolutionary fight against colonialism and patriarchy. The film highlights her pivotal role in creating the Abeokuta Women’s Union, which was instrumental in advocating for women’s rights and challenging colonial governance.
Production and Premiere
The film was written by Tunde Babalola and directed and produced by Bolanle Austen-Peters alongside Timi Austen Peters, Yemi Idowu, Murital Ibrahim, Osanemo Fayemiwo, and Deji Alli.
The premiere of “Funmilayo Ransom Kuti” was a star-studded event attended by notable figures including Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, former Governor Donald Duke of Cross River State, and members of the Ransome-Kuti family.
Involvement of Yeni and Femi Kuti
Yeni and Femi Kuti, the children of Afrobeats legend Fela Kuti, feature in the film. Yeni is known for founding Felabration and co-founding the New Afrika Shrine, while Femi has established himself as an independent artist with his band, Positive Force.
“Funmilayo Ransom Kuti” biopic’s impressive opening weekend underscores the film’s cultural significance and the enduring legacy of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. The film continues to garner attention and praise, setting a high bar for future Nollywood productions.
