The ‘Best Movie’ category at the AMVCA (Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards) has remained one of the most coveted awards for not just Nollywood filmmakers but filmmakers on the continent, writ large. Each year, a film is crowned for its exceptional storytelling, direction, performances, or cultural impact, securing its place in Nollywood and African cinema history.
The ceremony for the 12th edition of the award took place last weekend, on May 9, leaving fans of African cinema debating snubs and surprises all over the internet. In celebration of the award show, we’ve ranked the 12 best AMVCA ‘Best Movie’ winners of all time.
Award-winning year: 2020
Running time: 2h 29m
Director: Ramsey Nouah
Genre: Thriller
Country: Nigeria
A sequel to the 1992 Nollywood classic Living in Bondage, this film follows Nnamdi (Jide Kene Achufusi), an ambitious young man who turns to occult rituals in his desperate quest for wealth. However, he soon realises that the price of his newfound riches is far greater than he ever imagined.
Directed by Ramsey Nouah, the thriller features standout performances from Nancy Isime, Kanayo O. Kanayo, and Nouah himself. If you’re looking for a gripping modern take on a Nollywood classic, this is a must-watch.
Watch Living In Bondage: Breaking Free on Netflix.
Award-winning year: 2016
Running time: 1h 55m
Director: Stephanie Linus
Genre: Drama
Country: Nigeria
Dry addresses the harrowing issues of child marriage and Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) in Northern Nigeria. The film follows a young girl’s struggle and a doctor’s journey to make a difference, highlighting the resilience of women and the need for societal change.
This drama, directed by Stephanie Linus, brings sensitivity and urgency to these critical issues that continue to ravage the entire country. The cast includes Stephanie Linus as Dr. Zara, Liz Benson-Ameye, Olu Jacobs and Zubaida Ibrahim Fagge.Dry
Watch Dry on Prime Video.
Award-winning year: 2014
Running time: 2h 26m
Director: Shirley Frimpong-Manso
Genre: Romance
Country: Ghana
Peter (Hlomla Dandala) has no interest in marriage or commitment, but he wants a child. His solution? Hire a surrogate. He finds Abena (Yvonne Okoro), a woman in need of money, and strikes a deal: she’ll carry his baby, move in during the pregnancy, give birth, and then walk away.
Simple, right? Not quite. As the pregnancy progresses, Abena starts developing feelings for Peter — and, to his surprise, he just might have a heart after all.
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming romance with a touch of comedy, Contract is worth a watch — if you can find it. Unfortunately, it’s not currently streaming anywhere.
Award-winning year: 2018
Running time: 1h 55m
Director: Njue Kevin
Genre: Medical Drama
Country: Kenya
This gripping drama follows Zach (Nick Ndeda), a rookie paramedic determined to save a critically injured accident victim. But despite his best efforts, hospital after hospital refuses to admit the patient, forcing Zach to stay in the ambulance with him for a grueling 18 hours — until they finally find a facility willing to help.
With five AMVCA nominations, 18 Hours made history as the first Kenyan film to be recognised at the event — and it took home the ‘Best Movie’ award that year.
Medical dramas may be rare in African cinema, but 18 Hours delivers a powerful and emotional story that’s worth watching.
Watch 18 Hours on Showmax.
Award-winning year: 2022
Running time: 1h 54m
Director: Izu Ojukwu
Genre: Action/Adventure
Country: Nigeria
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