Nigerian psychological thriller The Weekend has sealed major distribution agreements with Canal+ and HBO Max, marking a watershed moment for African cinema on the international stage.
Canal+ snapped up rights across more than 60 French-speaking territories, while HBO Max added the Trino Motion Pictures production to its Central and Eastern European catalogue.
Directed by Daniel Oriahi and produced by Uche Okocha, the film has become one of Nollywood’s most exported independent titles. Its rise began with a historic selection at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival — the first Nigerian independent feature to achieve the feat — followed by screenings at BFI London and Screamfest.
The story follows Nikiya, whose visit to her fiancé’s family unearths disturbing secrets and dark traditions, sustaining a tension that has resonated with diverse global audiences. The film’s multiple Africa Movie Academy Awards further underscore its creative strength.
The double deal signals a broader industry shift: international streamers and broadcasters are betting big on African stories with universal appeal, and The Weekend is leading the charge.
