When the crime thriller Red Circle quietly made its way to cinemas on June 6, few could have predicted the cultural and commercial storm it was about to unleash. But for Nora Awolowo, then a 24-year-old cinematographer and producer, this wasn’t about making noise. It was about making an impact. And less than a month after its release, the film has already carved out an indelible mark in Nollywood history.
Crossing the ₦100 million box office mark in record time, Red Circle is not only a win for Nigerian cinema, but it’s a massive statement about the power of youth, vision, and sheer determination.
Now 26, ,has officially become the youngest Nigerian cinematographer and producer to lead a film past the nine-figure threshold locally. And she did it without the safety net of a franchise, a major studio, or a legacy IP.
“We didn’t just want to tell a story, we wanted to tell it well,” Awolowo said in a statement shared with Nollywire.
“No handouts, just clarity, heart, and a crew that believed. I didn’t set out to break a record. I just wanted to be honest. However, I hope this demonstrates that young people can indeed lead. Not later. Now.”
Her words ring loud and timely in an industry where gatekeeping has historically sidelined young and emerging talent.
A Film Made with Intention, Not Excess
While Mason and Tijani-Ahmed are no strangers to big screens and festival buzz, this collaboration felt especially urgent. The creative trio, comprising Mason, Tijani-Ahmed, and Awolowo, brought a shared hunger to the table: to tell a story that resonates and tell it well.
Produced under Rixel Studios, Red Circle also marks the executive producing debut of Barnabas Emordi, celebrated for his visual work on The House of Secrets. With Tolu Obanro’s gripping score and Ayomikun Oteju’s sharp editing, the film delivers a technically precise, emotionally charged narrative experience.
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A Stellar Cast with Range and Depth
From veterans to comedic wildcards, Red Circle features a diverse ensemble cast that helped draw in a broad demographic.
Leading the pack are Folu Storms, Tobi Bakre, Omowunmi Dada, and Lateef Adedimeji, alongside standout performances from Mike Afolarin, Timini Egbuson, Ibrahim Suleiman, Ruggedman, and Lizzy Jay. The film also marks a celebrated return to the screen for Bukky Wright, whose presence brought nostalgic weight to the story.
Fan-favourite comic actors Debo “Mr. Macaroni” Adedayo and Detola Jones added unexpected grit to their roles, proving that comedic talents can indeed thrive in more dramatic terrain.
A Calculated Bet That Paid Off
For Nile Entertainment, which backed the film, Red Circle’s success is a testament to the rewards of betting on bold voices. Group CEO Moses Babatope shared that the company has been investing heavily in rising talent and original storytelling, and this time, the risk paid off in a big way.
With Red Circle, Nora Awolowo didn’t just help tell a compelling story; she helped rewrite what is possible for young creatives in Nollywood.
Red Circle isn’t just a film; it’s a movement. And at the centre of it is a young woman who dared to dream big, work hard, and change the game.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Red Circle about?
A: Red Circle is a Nigerian crime thriller that explores themes of loyalty, vengeance, and survival in a high-stakes urban underworld. The plot has been praised for its emotional depth and taut pacing, though details have been kept under wraps to avoid spoilers.
Q: Who directed and produced Red Circle?
A: The film was directed by Akay Mason and co-produced by Abdul Tijani-Ahmed, with Nora Awolowo serving as producer and cinematographer. It was produced under Rixel Studios and distributed by Nile Entertainment.
Q: Why is Nora Awolowo’s achievement significant?
A: At just 26, Nora is the youngest Nigerian cinematographer and producer to lead a locally produced film past ₦100 million in box office revenue. Her work on Red Circle underscores the power of youth-led storytelling in Nollywood.
Q: How much has Red Circle grossed so far?
A: The film surpassed ₦88 million within its first three weeks and quickly crossed the ₦100 million mark, becoming a standout box office success in 2024.
Q: Where can I watch Red Circle?
A: Red Circle is currently showing in select cinemas across Nigeria. Streaming availability is expected to be announced later in the year.