The nominations for the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) were unveiled on the evening of March 29, 2026, and one title immediately commanded the room’s attention. 3 Cold Dishes, the searing revenge drama executive produced by Afrobeat icon Burna Boy, has solidified its status as a formidable contender, securing six prestigious nominations and positioning itself as a major force heading into the May 9 ceremony.
The announcement, made during a star-studded industry event in Lagos, confirmed what critics and audiences have signalled since the film’s release: Burna Boy’s first major foray into high-stakes film production has paid off in awards currency.
The film, which delves into the grim machinery of human trafficking and the fierce resilience of women fighting for justice, earned nominations across both creative and technical categories, underscoring its craftsmanship and thematic weight.
For the Afrobeat superstar, whose influence has increasingly extended into fashion, sports, and now film, the recognition is a significant validation of his growing presence as a cultural producer. Known globally for his Grammy-winning music and unflinching artistic vision, Burna Boy—through his production banner—has translated his signature intensity from the recording booth to the screen. The Best Movie nomination, in particular, signals that his creative instincts resonate powerfully in the world of cinema.
A Film Forged in Grit
Directed by Asurf Oluseyi, 3 Cold Dishes follows the intersecting lives of women bound by trauma and a shared hunger for retribution. With a powerhouse cast that includes Wale Ojo, Osas Ighodaro, and Brutus Richard, the film has drawn praise for its unflinching storytelling, visual precision, and emotional depth. Its six nominations span:
– Best Movie
– Best Director (Asurf Oluseyi)
– Best Lead Actor (Wale Ojo)
– Best Writer (Movie) (Tomi Adesina)
– Best Cinematography (Malcolm Destin)
– Best Sound Design (Anu Afolayan)
The recognition follows the film’s earlier triumph at the 2025 Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), where it secured multiple wins, confirming that its awards-season momentum has not waned.
A Crowded Field for the Top Prize
The Best Movie category at the 12th AMVCA is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent memory. 3 Cold Dishes will face off against five other standout productions:
– Gingerrr: Directed by Yemi Morafa, this fast-paced Lagos drama about a crew of hustlers leads all nominees with nine nods.
– The Herd: Daniel Etim-Effiong’s crime thriller exploring insecurity and kidnapping also earned nine nominations.
– My Father’s Shadow: Directed by Akinola Davies Jr., this film secured seven nominations across multiple categories.
– The Serpent’s Gift: A six-time nominee recognised for its striking cinematography.
– Behind The Scenes: Funke Akindele and Wendy Uwadiae Imaseun’s production earned five nominations.
Industry insiders note that Burna Boy’s entry into the film space reflects a broader trend of African music powerhouses leveraging their influence to champion bold, socially conscious storytelling. His involvement in 3 Cold Dishes has already drawn new audiences to Nigerian cinema, bridging the gap between Afrobeats fandom and the growing appetite for premium African content.
What’s at Stake
For the “African Giant,” the Best Movie nomination is more than a trophy opportunity—it is a statement. It signals that his creative reach extends beyond the recording studio and into the business of shaping narratives on screen. As the AMVCA ceremony approaches, fans of the “Odogwu” have rallied around the film, celebrating his behind-the-scenes role in bringing a story of justice and resilience to global audiences.
The winners will be revealed during the main AMVCA gala on Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Lagos. With 3 Cold Dishes holding its own among a field of acclaimed titles, all eyes will be on whether Burna Boy’s cinematic debut can convert its nominations into gold.
