Recently Netflix cleared almost half of its Nollywood catalogue, replacing them with recent blockbusters like Merry Men, King of Boys and The Wedding Party. The streaming platform also added six of Kunle Afolayan’s films. Tope Oshin’s Up North, a picturesque love letter to Northern Nigeria is the latest to join Netflix’s burgeoning Nollywood roster. Producer Editi Effiong shared the news on his Instagram page.
Up North follows the journey of a young, rebellious heir from an affluent family who is sent away to national service in Bauchi as punishment for his rebellious behaviour. The film stars musician-turned-actor Banky W in a lead role. Other cast members include Adesua Etomi, Michelle Dede, Kanayo Kanayo, Ibrahim Sulaimon and Saeed Muhammed. The screenplay, written by Naz Onuzo and Bunmi Ajakaiye, is based on a story from Effiong who fell in love with Bauchi during his many travels around the country.
Up North was one of the most successful Nigerian films released last year. It grossed 93 million Naira at the box office, screened at the Facebook headquarters and landed three nominations in the recently published AMAA nominees list.
Up North starts showing on Netflix from October 18.