BRS Studios Unveils Ambitious 2025 Slate Following Global Success of Tokunbo
Following the global success of Tokunbo on Netflix—where it climbed into the Top 10 across more than 50 countries and racked up over 5 million views within its first three days—BRS Studios is pushing forward with its mission to redefine African storytelling. The studio has announced an exciting new slate of three films for 2025: Stitches, Iwa Akwa, and Dambe. Each title offers a unique narrative deeply rooted in African culture and directed by some of the continent’s most respected filmmakers.
Established in 2024 through a partnership between Blue Pictures, Ramsey Films, and Sozo Films, BRS Studios brings together the combined vision of Joy Efe Odiete, a veteran distributor and exhibitor; Ramsey Nouah, the acclaimed actor and director; and Chris Odeh, a prolific producer. Together, they aim to create African films that are authentic, emotionally resonant, and globally competitive. Their partnership with MBO Capital supports this vision by providing the resources needed to scale production and ensure high-quality output for both local and international audiences.
Stitches, directed by Shirley Frimpong Manso, is set in Lagos and follows a gifted fashion designer from a working-class background. As she ascends into elite social circles, she’s faced with emotional challenges from her past and complex romantic choices. It’s a story about ambition, identity, and the hidden cost of success.
In Iwa Akwa, directed by Nollywood veteran Ernest Obi, audiences are taken on a comedic yet heartfelt journey steeped in Igbo tradition. The story follows a quiet university professor who is unexpectedly called back to his village to assume a royal role after the sudden death of a crown prince. The film explores themes of family, duty, and cultural expectations through a blend of humor and drama.
Dambe, directed by Ramsey Nouah, is a sweeping historical epic set in 11th-century Kano. It tells the story of a young fighter coming of age through the traditional Hausa martial art of Dambe boxing. With striking visuals and a powerful emotional core, the film delves into legacy, strength, and the meaning of tradition in a modernizing world.
According to producer and co-founder Chris Odeh, BRS Studios was created to elevate African storytelling and showcase its full potential. He describes the upcoming films as not just projects but statements of what African cinema can achieve on a global stage. Ramsey Nouah emphasizes the cultural depth behind the slate, saying that these films are meant to capture the true essence of Africa—bold, vibrant, and deeply rooted in heritage. Joy Efe Odiete highlights the studio’s focus on innovation and strategic partnerships, which she believes are key to setting a new benchmark for Nollywood.
With this upcoming lineup, BRS Studios continues to lead the charge in Africa’s cinematic evolution. By combining high-quality production, compelling narratives, and cultural authenticity, these new titles are set to further cement the studio’s role in shaping the future of African storytelling.
