‘The Weekend” makes history as first Nigerian thriller on HBO Max
2026-03-06 - 23:06
By Benjamin Njoku Trino Motion Pictures’ critically acclaimed feature film, “The Weekend”, is now streaming on HBO MAX, marking a historic milestone as the first independently produced Nigerian thriller feature to be picked up by the prestigious global streaming platform. This groundbreaking moment signals HBO Max’s growing recognition of the creative excellence and global appeal of contemporary Nigerian genre cinema. “The Weekend” is a gripping psychological horror-thriller that explores the dangerous dynamics that unfold when an orphan, Nikiya (Uzoamaka Power), visits the family of her fiancé, Luke (Bucci Franklin). The film masterfully blends suspense and sharp social commentary, featuring a powerhouse ensemble cast including Meg Otanwa, Keppy Ekpenyong-Bassey, Gloria Anozie-Young, Damilola Ogunsi, and James Gardiner. The film’s acquisition underscores a growing trend among international platforms to diversify their content libraries with bold storytelling from Africa. “The Weekend” has carved a unique path through the international festival circuit, proving that Nigerian “Midnight” genre films have a massive global appetite. The film is poised to introduce millions of viewers within the Central Eastern European territories to the artistry and authenticity that defines the new wave of Nigerian cinema.Since its world premiere at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, where it made history as the first independently produced Nigerian film to be selected for the festival, Its global festival tour includes prestigious selections at the BFI London Film Festival and Screamfest, the largest and longest-running horror film festival in the United States. The film has dominated the international awards circuit, winning the Best Film “Monster Award” at the Monsters Fantastic Film Festival. Back home, “The Weekend’ made history at the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) by setting a new record with 16 nominations, ultimately winning Best Film, Best Nigerian Film (NFVCB Award), Best Screenplay, and Best Cinematography.