Whether through heartbreaking love stories, tragic real-life events, or deeply emotional family dramas, these best Nigerian movies that will make you cry will leave you reaching for tissues. If you're in the mood for a tearjerker, these films are perfect choices.
1. A Cry for Help (2002) – A Classic Tragic Tale
Director: Teco Benson
Why You Should Watch:
- A heartbreaking story of injustice, betrayal, and suffering.
- Features an emotional performance by Zack Orji and other Nollywood legends.
- A powerful reminder of how easily life can change due to one unfortunate event.
2. Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story (2020) – A Story of Loss and Revenge
Director: Ramsey Nouah
Why You Should Watch:
- Follows Ahanna, a young man whose life is turned upside down after a personal tragedy.
- Shows the emotional and moral struggles of choosing between right and wrong.
- A gripping story with raw emotions and intense performances.
3. Figurine (2009) – Love, Fate, and Heartbreak
Director: Kunle Afolayan
Why You Should Watch:
- A supernatural thriller mixed with deep emotional storytelling.
- Explores the tragic consequences of fate and destiny on friendships and love.
- Has a powerful ending that leaves a lasting impact.
4. 93 Days (2016) – A Tribute to Heroes
Director: Steve Gukas
Why You Should Watch:
- Based on the true story of the Ebola outbreak in Nigeria.
- A deeply emotional film that honors the sacrifices of health workers.
- Features unforgettable performances from Bimbo Akintola and Somkele Idhalama.
5. Acrimony (2021 – Nollywood Adaptation) – A Tale of Love and Regret
Director: Samuel Olatunji
Why You Should Watch:
- A Nigerian adaptation of the Hollywood film Acrimony, bringing an African perspective to a tragic love story.
- Explores themes of betrayal, sacrifice, and revenge.
- The emotional turmoil of the main character will leave you heartbroken.
6. The Bridge (2017) – A Forbidden Love Story
Director: Kunle Afolayan
Why You Should Watch:
- A Romeo and Juliet-style love story between two lovers from different ethnic backgrounds.
- Explores family traditions, love, and heartbreak.
- A tear-jerking ending that stays with you long after the movie is over.
7. Diamond Ring (1998) – A Tragic Supernatural Tale
Director: Tade Ogidan
Why You Should Watch:
- A gripping story about a young man who steals a ring from a corpse and faces terrifying consequences.
- Explores themes of regret, family, and redemption.
- The emotional journey of the protagonist will have you feeling deeply for him.
8. Oloture (2019) – A Harsh Reality Check
Director: Kenneth Gyang
Why You Should Watch:
- Follows the heartbreaking story of a journalist who goes undercover to expose human trafficking.
- A raw and emotional look at the harsh realities of exploitation.
- The tragic ending leaves a deep emotional impact.
9. Merry Men 2 (2019) – Love, Loyalty, and Loss
Director: Toka McBaror
Why You Should Watch:
- While an action-packed movie, it contains deeply emotional moments of loss and sacrifice.
- Explores the struggle between justice and personal relationships.
- Has a heart-wrenching twist that will leave you in tears.
10. Mother’s Love (2020) – A Heartfelt Family Drama
Director: Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen
Why You Should Watch:
- A story about a mother’s unconditional love and sacrifices.
- Shows the struggles parents go through for their children.
- A film that will make you appreciate your loved ones even more.
Final Thoughts
Nollywood has a way of capturing real emotions and telling stories that touch the heart. Whether you're looking for movies about love, sacrifice, or real-life struggles, these best Nigerian movies will leave a lasting impact.
Which of these movies made you cry the most? Let us know in the comments! ??
