LAGOS-
The global premiere of IREKE: Rise of the Maroons, the highly anticipated historical drama by Emmy-nominated journalist and filmmaker Gbolahan Peter Macjob, made waves across three major cities — London, Lagos, and Abeokuta — marking a defining moment for Nollywood on the world stage.
The Lagos premiere, held at the Blue Pictures Cinema, inside City Mall, Onikan, was a star-studded affair as prominent cast members, including Femi Branch, Tobi Bakre, Bolanle Ninolowo, and Atlanta Bridget Johnson, graced the red carpet. Emotions ran high as they expressed pride in being part of a film that, for the first time, told an African story of rebellion, identity, and resilience — not through foreign lenses, but by one of their own.
“IREKE” is my personal story. The name Abbas used in the movie was my great uncle in Badagry who took part in the slave business, for those of you that have been to Badagry, you will understand what I’m talking about. it’s our story, by us and it’s told by us for the world to understand who we are and what we’ve endured,” said veteran actor Femi Branch during the premiere’s mini-ceremony that drew loud applause from the crowd.
The film, which dramatizes the fiery rebellion of African slaves in Jamaica, has been praised for its gripping narrative, cinematic quality, and its cultural importance in bridging African and Caribbean histories. Gbolahan Macjob’s masterful direction and emotionally charged screenplay drew cheers and standing ovations from audiences in Lagos, just as it did in London’s Odeon Cinema, Greenwich.
Viewers described the experience as “electrifying, educational, and deeply moving,” applauding Nollywood’s leap into global historical storytelling with a production quality on par with international standards.
Following its successful premieres, IREKE is now showing in cinemas — a must-watch for lovers of history, African resilience, and bold storytelling.
Please get to the cinemas across the world and watch the engaging movie.
