Nollywood—long hailed as the heartbeat of African storytelling—has just received a bold, colourful new entry, as Trino Motion Pictures unveils the official poster for its much-anticipated family dramedy, Grandpa Must Obey. Slated for a nationwide cinematic release from 21 November through FilmOne Entertainment, this film is already generating buzz across Nigeria and the broader West African region.
The newly dropped poster, featuring a vibrant and engaging design, hints at both the comedic and emotional layers that audiences can expect from the film. For many, the visuals tease a production that promises to be as heartwarming as it is humorous, painting an honest picture of intergenerational family relationships so familiar to Nigerian and African audiences regardless of location.
At the centre of Grandpa Must Obey is the award-winning, veteran Nollywood actor, Kanayo O. Kanayo (affectionately called KOK by fans), who surprises audiences with a transformative performance. He plays a seventy-year-old grandfather navigating turbulent emotions after the loss of a loved one—his world upended as he is suddenly tasked with watching over his two notoriously mischievous grandchildren. The casting of KOK in this role has not gone unnoticed by fans and industry observers, as it signals a refreshing shift from his more frequently seen, stoic personas.
What starts as a comical clash between an old man set in his ways and youngsters hungry for fun soon evolves into a moving story of healing, forgiveness, and the rediscovery of joy within family. According to initial previews and audience reactions, Grandpa Must Obey masterfully brings out laughter, nostalgia, and reflection—three ingredients often demanded, but not always successfully delivered, by Nollywood family films.
A Blend of Humour and Heart: Behind the Scenes of Grandpa Must Obey
Helmed by director Chibuzor Afurobi and written by the talented Saviour Kings Bob, the film attempts a delicate balance between raucous comedy and heartfelt emotion. According to Lagos-based film critic, Chinedu Ogunde, “We have not seen many recent Nollywood productions so intent on showing our realities in such a relatable way—dealing with loss, parenting, and, equally, just our notorious family wahala.”
Uche Okocha, Managing Director at Trino Motion Pictures and the film’s producer, shared the inspiration behind the project: “Our goal was to craft a story rooted in Nigerian experiences but touching on themes that anyone, anywhere can relate to—family bonds, resilience, and those small, often-overlooked moments that make life worth living, even in the face of sorrow,” Okocha explained in a statement released to media houses in Lagos.
Star-Studded Cast Showcases Old and New Nollywood
The film boasts a robust and diverse ensemble, representing multiple generations of Nollywood talent—reflecting the very theme of generational connections the movie seeks to explore. Chief among these is Kanayo O. Kanayo, whose role as Grandpa is being described by some as career-defining, showcasing a new side of the respected actor.
Adding vibrancy to the mix are Darasimi Nadi and Fiyin Asenuga, young rising stars who, according to industry insiders, inject “electricity and playful irreverence” into the film’s central dynamic. Many anticipate their on-screen chemistry with KOK will become a talking point among audiences, especially those watching as a family unit.
Meanwhile, accomplished Nollywood actresses Yvonne Jegede and Bimbo Akintola help anchor the film’s emotional gravity. Their performances are said to provide further depth and complexity to the family relationships at the core of the story—something often lacking in lighter genre films but highly valued by West African audiences who have witnessed these actresses mature in their craft over the years.
The project is produced by Uche Okocha, who emphasized the collective effort required to bring the story to life, noting in an interview: “Every member of our cast and crew contributed something unique—whether it was the comedic timing, the dramatic edge, or simply their own stories about family. That’s what makes Grandpa Must Obey so special.”
Nollywood’s Universal Themes, Local Flavour
Family dramas and comedies have long held sway in Nigerian cinema, offering an opportunity for simultaneous laughter and reflection. Films like Chief Daddy, The Wedding Party, and Lionheart have all achieved commercial and critical success by tapping into the everyday realities—sometimes beautiful, sometimes bittersweet—of African family life. Grandpa Must Obey continues this proud tradition while also promising international appeal.
West African audiences, especially, have responded positively to stories that showcase the multi-generational dynamics unique to the region—from the role of grandparents in child-rearing to the respectful disobedience that often characterises younger generations. According to Ghanaian entertainment analyst, Ama Boateng, “The moment I saw the poster for Grandpa Must Obey, I recognized my own family in it. There’s a commonality across our borders when it comes to how we negotiate family ties, expectations, and humour.”
Industry Impact and Anticipation
Nollywood experts and cinema operators are pinning high hopes on the film’s broad appeal. With FilmOne Entertainment, a leading movie distribution company, on board for the national release, expectations around box office performance are optimistic. Nigerian cinemas, having shown resilience post-COVID-19, are once again becoming community gathering spots, and movies like Grandpa Must Obey are being tipped as perfect for family outings, especially during holidays and festive periods.
There is also hope that the film’s universal themes—loss, forgiveness, and rediscovering happiness—may give it legs beyond Africa, showcasing the richness of African storytelling to a global audience. International streaming platforms, who have recently ramped up partnerships with Nollywood producers, will be keenly watching its local and diaspora reception.
Challenges and Considerations: Can Nollywood Family Dramas Break New Ground?
While many are enthusiastic about the film’s prospects, industry watchers caution that the Nigerian market is extremely competitive, and audiences are increasingly discerning. Lagos-based film distributor Segun Olatunji notes, “The challenge is always making stories that cut across age and class, yet stay entertaining. Sometimes, the risk is that these films try too hard to please everyone and lose emotional authenticity. Hopefully, Grandpa Must Obey finds that magic balance.”
Others point to the lack of infrastructural support for family-friendly cinema environments, especially outside major cities—something that impacts who gets to enjoy movies like this in Nigeria and much of West Africa. Inclusive film access remains a key challenge despite Nollywood’s growth.
Local and Community Responses
As the release date draws closer, communities across Nigeria and Ghana are expressing excitement. In interviews conducted in Ibadan and Accra, parents spoke of their eagerness to see honest portrayals of grandparents and grandchildren that reflect their own homes, not just fictional creations. “I hope the film shows that elders also learn from young ones and vice versa,” said Chinyere Ndukwe, a secondary school teacher in Ogun State. “It’s not only about listening to our elders; it’s about connection and understanding.”
Younger moviegoers, meanwhile, are looking forward to the comedic elements and have taken to social media, using trending hashtags to express curiosity and nostalgia for childhood days with grandparents. Film fan clubs are already planning group viewings, and influencers have begun speculating about memorable lines and scenes upon the film’s release.
The Path Forward for Nollywood Family Films
With its official poster generating strong reactions and a promising ensemble at the helm, Grandpa Must Obey stands as a testament to the continued evolution of Nigerian cinema. The film isn’t just a showcase for beloved actors or new talents; it is a reflection on the everyday joys and trials of African family life. As Nollywood continues to make waves both at home and abroad, stories like this strengthen the industry’s reputation for universal yet deeply local storytelling.
Will Grandpa Must Obey live up to its early promise and join the pantheon of classic African family movies? Audiences will decide when the film debuts nationwide this November.
What are your favourite Nollywood family comedies and dramas, and what would you love to see in Grandpa Must Obey? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget—stay tuned and follow us for more Nollywood updates!
Join our community and never miss an update—follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram!
