Ori: The Rebirth, a Yoruba-language film directed by veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Muyiwa Ademola, has grossed N269 million in ticket sales within its first three weeks in cinemas across Nigeria, according to data from the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN).
The film, which debuted in cinemas nationwide on May 1, added another N40 million between May 16 and 18, continuing a strong box office performance that has seen it become one of the most commercially successful indigenous films of 2025.
Ademola, 52, directed and co-produced the movie alongside Adekola Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami.
The project is a spiritual successor to his 2005 classic Ori—which earned Best Indigenous Film at the inaugural Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA).
The film opened to an impressive N97.8 million during its first weekend, with a remarkable N19.5 million earned on its opening day alone—making it one of the highest opening figures for a Nollywood film this year.
Ademola revealed that he personally invested over N400 million in the production, describing the film as a high-stakes personal and professional journey.
Plot and Themes
Ori: The Rebirth tells the metaphysical story of Bisade, whose untimely death is orchestrated by a mysterious cult led by Yeye Fernandez. As another character, Temidun, is tasked with saving a man marked for ritual sacrifice, Bisade journeys between realms in search of truth, destiny, and consciousness.
The film explores Yoruba cosmology, weaving themes of fate, spirituality, sacrifice, and free will into a richly symbolic narrative.
The production has earned praise for its bold storytelling, cultural authenticity, and cinematic quality—factors that have contributed to its broad appeal among both Yoruba-speaking and non-Yoruba audiences.
Muyiwa Ademola: A Nollywood Veteran
Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Ademola began his career in the early 1990s under the mentorship of industry legends such as Charles Olumo (Agbako) and S.I. Ola. He wrote and produced his first film, Asise (Blunder), in 1995, and has since remained a key figure in the Yoruba film circuit.
Despite surviving a near-fatal car accident in 2013, Ademola has continued to build a legacy of moral-driven, indigenous storytelling. His works are known for blending philosophical inquiry with relatable narratives, earning him a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim.
He is currently represented by renowned talent manager Adenekan Mayowa.
A New Chapter for Nollywood
The success of Ori: The Rebirth highlights the growing audience appetite for indigenous language films that blend traditional themes with modern production values. As Nollywood continues to expand both locally and internationally, the film is seen as a benchmark for homegrown stories finding both critical and commercial success.
With strong word-of-mouth and sustained support from cinema-goers, the film is expected to remain a top performer at the Nigerian box office in the weeks ahead.
