Long ago, October 1 was about marching bands, flag waving, and a delicious surge of national pride. Now? It’s more like a reminder that we’re still here, still working hard, and somehow managing despite the naira’s stubbornness.
Although we ought to be proud of the green-white-green and feeling confident, the truth is that many of us are drained. Your paycheck is struggling in some quiet place. And the economy? Let’s not discuss it at all.
You don’t need to act as if everything is okay on October 1st. You don’t have to sit through those never-ending political speeches that promise the world but rarely deliver. Occasionally, the most loyal thing you can do is allow yourself to take a break. To step away. To simply breathe.
That’s where these 10 movies step in. They won’t solve Nigeria’s issues (if only they could!), but they will offer you a few hours of escape from long lines for fuel, the falling value of the naira, and that relative who keeps asking when you’re going to get married.
They are not movies about Independence Day, but rather films about independence from the day.
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1. Ruth and Boaz (Netflix)
If you’re seeking an experience that resembles a cozy embrace accompanied by quality music, this is it.Tyler Perry and DeVon Franklin join forces for this contemporary version of the biblical love story, and to be honest? We could all benefit from some faith-inspired romance these days.
The movie traces Ruth and Boaz as they deal with sorrow, absence, and the challenging path of rediscovering love.
The stars Serayah and Tyler Lepley, along with producer DeVon Franklin, explore subjects like sorrow, affection, and belief in a manner that seems remarkably original, avoiding the usual didactic approach of religious movies.
Indeed, it has its shortcomings. Tyler Perry’s approach may not appeal to all. However, at this moment, when skepticism seems to be our usual attitude, a narrative centered on new opportunities and celestial timing could be precisely what your soul requires. Moreover, the visual presentation is breathtaking; those wide-angle scenes alone make it worth watching.
2. French Lover (Netflix)
French Lover is precisely as it appears: a romantic story infused with French charm, stunning settings, and that enchanting European vibe that momentarily makes you overlook the fact that in your country, consistent power supply is seen as a rarity.
This is a movie in which individuals engage in extended discussions at cafés without frequently glancing at their phones.
Where evening strolls are not disturbed by vehicles or electricity failures. Where the soundtrack reaches its peak at the perfect time, and you can almost detect the aroma of baguettes coming through the screen.
Is it plausible? Definitely not. Do we mind? Also, certainly not. We’re aiming to escape reality, don’t you recall?
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3. The Incorrect Paris (Netflix)
Here’s a concept that many can connect with: an individual finds themselves in an incorrect location and must do their best to cope. It sounds like the experience of every Nigerian trying to deal with 2025, doesn’t it?
The Wrong ParisIt’s light-hearted, amusing, and most importantly, it doesn’t demand your complete attention. You can watch it while doing laundry, browsing Twitter (apologies, X), or dealing with that existential crisis you’ve been avoiding. Winning at multitasking!
The charm of such comedies lies in their ability to show us that our greatest mishaps can become our most cherished narratives.
Mistakes don’t need to be the end of everything; occasionally, they can become great material for your group conversation.
4. Iyanu (Showmax)
Located in the enchanting realm of Yorubaland, she uses her newly discovered abilities to rescue her people from an old curse.
And don’t roll your eyes assuming it’s yet another cheaply made animation, stop right there.
Crafted by a renowned Nigerian directorRoye Okupe and produced by Lion Forge Entertainment, this is not your typical “let’s try animation and see what happens” endeavor.
The show includes a completely Nigerian voice ensemble featuringAdesua Etomi-Wellington, Blossom Chukwujekwu, Serah Johnson, Stella Damasusand Shaffy Bello.
Iyanudocuments the adventure of a young orphan girl who has no memory of her history, and who unexpectedly learns that she has powers comparable to those of the old gods of her culture.
Viewing this on Independence Day will be a significant moment. It is produced in Nigeria, voiced by Nigerians, and embodies Nigeria in every aspect, and it’s outstanding. This is the kind of independence worth honoring.
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5. Love Hurts (Showmax)
Occasionally, you aren’t seeking an escape into fantasy; you desire someone to recognize that while love is beautiful, it is also intricate, chaotic, and at times leaves you wanting to hurl your phone into the lagoon.
Love Hurts Doesn’t shy away from the truth about relationships. It is authentic, genuine, and recognizes that contemporary love brings its own distinct set of difficulties.
jasdooit 
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