2023 AMVCA: Kunle Afolayan's "Anikulapo" Wins Best Overall Movie- Ekohotblog

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the 2022 film “Anikulapo” directed by actor Kunle Afolayan has been honored with the Overall Best Movie award at the ninth edition of the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) held on Saturday night. Afolayan and his crew were presented with the prestigious award during the event.

Expressing his gratitude, Afolayan took the opportunity to thank his mentor, Tunde Kelani, popularly known as Mainframe. He also acknowledged the cast, crew, MNET, and the AMVCA, promising to return next year.

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However, despite the recognition at the 2023 AMVCA, “Anikulapo” faced a setback when the Nigeria Oscars selection committee disqualified the film from the nomination list of the 2023 Academy Awards (Oscars). The committee determined that “Anikulapo” was ineligible to represent Nigeria fully and compete in the International Feature Film category.

In response to the disqualification, Kunle Afolayan expressed his disappointment on social media. He expressed his satisfaction that the film had been acclaimed as a masterpiece by the global audience, even though it had not been deemed suitable for the Oscar submission. Afolayan vowed to continue pursuing his creative endeavors.

The 2023 AMVCA ceremony also saw other notable winners. Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro clinched the Best Actress in Drama award, while former Big Brother housemates Tobi Bakre, Elozonam, and Diane Russet emerged as winners in various categories.

Tacha at the event

Kunle Afolayan's "Anikulapo" Wins Best Overall Movie at 2023 AMVCA

Renowned veteran actress Patience Ozokwo received the 2023 Industry Merit award in recognition of her remarkable contributions to the industry.

The event, hosted by IK Osakioduwa and former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, showcased outstanding achievements in the African film and television industry. The full list of winners included talented individuals and productions from different regions across the continent.

The recognition received by “Anikulapo” at the AMVCA further cements its position as a remarkable film in African cinema. Kunle Afolayan’s dedication to his craft and commitment to producing exceptional storytelling continue to resonate with audiences and industry professionals alike.

The event, hosted by IK Osakioduwa and former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, witnessed a gathering of renowned actors, filmmakers, and industry stakeholders.

One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of actor Kunle Afolayan’s 2022 film “Anikulapo” as the Best Overall Movie. Afolayan, who also produced the film, and his crew graciously accepted the award, adding to the film’s growing acclaim.

2023 AMVCA

Afolayan expressed his gratitude to his mentor, Tunde Kelani, and extended his thanks to the cast, crew, MNET, and the AMVCA, promising to continue delivering exceptional work in the future.

The event also celebrated the achievements of several other outstanding individuals and productions. Nigerian actress Osas Ighodaro was honored as the Best Actress in a Drama for her compelling performance in “Man of God.” Tobi Bakre won the award for Best Actor in a Drama for his role in “Brotherhood.”

In the comedy category, Samuel Perry, known as Broda Shaggi, received the award for Best Actor in a Comedy, while Bimbo Ademoye took home the Best Actress in a Comedy award for her role in “Selina.” The supporting actor and actress awards went to Abdisattar Ahmed for his role in “Gacal” and Efe Irele for her performance in “Four Four Forty Four.”

The AMVCA also recognized excellence in various technical categories. Notable winners included Adeoye Adetunji for Best Short Film (“Pa Aromire”), Elozonam and Kie Kie for Best Online Social Content Creator (“Back From The Future”), and Wale Adeleke for Best Art Director (“King Of Thieves – Agesinkole”).

Among the television series honored were “Crime & Justice,” directed by Yinka Edward, which won the Best Television Series award, and “Njoro Wa Uba” and “Ricordi,” which were recognized as the Best Original Comedy Series and Best Original Drama Series, respectively.

The AMVCA 2023 also celebrated the contributions of filmmakers across Africa. Elvis Chucks’ “Jewel” was named the Best Movie from Southern Africa, Philip Karanja Njenga’s “Click Click Bang” won Best Movie from East Africa, and Jade Osiberu’s “Brotherhood” emerged as the Best Movie from West Africa.

Kunle Afolayan's "Anikulapo" Wins Best Overall Movie at 2023 AMVCA

In recognition of their outstanding careers, veteran actress Patience Ozokwor was presented with the Industry Merit Award, while Angel Onigwe received the Trailblazer Award, celebrating her remarkable achievements as a rising star in the industry.

The AMVCA 2023 showcased the incredible talent and creativity prevalent in the African film and television landscape.