The intersection of football and cinema has long been explored globally, from Hollywood blockbusters like “Bend It Like Beckham” to European classics such as “Goal!” Yet, in Nigeria—a country where football is not just a sport but a way of life—this fusion has remained largely unexplored until now. 

Nollywood, the world’s second-largest film industry, has finally made its foray into the realm of football with the upcoming release of “When Love Strikes,” marking a significant milestone in Nigerian cinema.

Nigerias first football themed movie 😎💙

Shot in Ikenne home to @RemoStarsSC
Featuring @InterLagosFC

Inkblot Productions releases trailer for “When Love Strikes” hitting theaters nationwide from September 13th.

It’s a must watch 😍👍🏿 pic.twitter.com/Pg0UjgFOVO

— OgbeniBoye. (@LekanOmoboye) August 28, 2024

A Groundbreaking Venture

Set to premiere on September 13th, “When Love Strikes” is being hailed as a landmark film in Nollywood, not just for its compelling narrative but also for its exploration of football—a theme that resonates deeply with the Nigerian audience. Directed by Adeoluwa Owu, known for co-directing the record-breaking “A Tribe Called Judah,” the film takes us into the world of football through the eyes of a young, gifted player, bringing to life the passion, challenges, and dreams that drive the sport in Nigeria.

The project is a collaboration between Inkblot Productions and Get Reel Productions, spearheaded by industry veterans Chinaza Onuzo, Zulumoke Oyibo, Damola Ademola, and Eku Edewor, who also served as Executive Producers. This powerhouse team has ensured that the film not only entertains but also authentically represents the football culture in Nigeria.

Star-Studded Cast and High-Profile Partnerships

“When Love Strikes” features a stellar cast led by AMVCA-winning actress Osas Ighodaro and rising star Natse Jemide, known for his role in Netflix’s “Far From Home.” The ensemble cast includes notable names such as Bimbo Akintola, Zubby Michael, and Sunshine Rosman, all of whom deliver standout performances that elevate the film’s narrative.

The movie was filmed across Lagos and Ikenne in Ogun State, with significant support from prominent Nigerian brands like Remo Stars FC, Bet9ja, and Pepsi. The involvement of Remo Stars FC, a major team in the Nigeria Premier Football League, adds a layer of authenticity to the film, grounding it in the real-world dynamics of Nigerian football. Newbies Inter Lagos, who recently missed out on promotion to the NPFL, also make an appearance, further solidifying the film’s connection to the sport.

Nollywood’s Evolution and the Cultural Significance

The release of “When Love Strikes” represents more than just a new film; it signifies Nollywood’s evolution and its growing willingness to explore diverse themes that reflect the lives and passions of everyday Nigerians. Football, often referred to as “the beautiful game,” is a universal language in Nigeria, uniting people across different regions, languages, and social strata. By tapping into this powerful cultural element, Nollywood is not only expanding its thematic repertoire but also solidifying its role as a medium that mirrors and influences Nigerian society.

Damola Ademola, one of the film’s executive producers, encapsulated the significance of this project: “‘When Love Strikes’ is a film that explores the universal appeal of football and the true meaning of ‘the beautiful game’ through the eyes of a gifted young player. This story is very close to my heart, and it was important that we celebrated football and what it means to the Nigerian audience while telling a story full of heart.”