Adapting novels and plays into films reveals captivating stories that have been hidden within the pages of a book for a significant period.

Works such as Kola Akinlade’s “Owo Eje,” Akinwunmi Ishola’s “Saworoide,” Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “Half of a Yellow Sun,” and Ibiere Addey’s “Crystals in the Mud” exemplify Nigerian literature successfully transitioning to the screen. These adaptations provide the public with cinematic access to the rich narratives encapsulated in these novels and plays, contributing to a broader appreciation of Nigerian storytelling on the visual platform.

These three Nigerian novels and plays have undergone successful film adaptations and are now accessible for streaming on Netflix.

In 2012, Sefi Atta, a Nigerian-American novelist, penned “Swallow,” a compelling narrative following Tolani, a middle-class young woman thrust into drug smuggling to navigate the corruption of Lagos. This novel underwent a cinematic transformation in 2021 when Netflix adapted it into a movie, skillfully directed by the award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan. The film boasts a talented cast including Niyola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, and Ijeoma Grace Agu. As the story unfolds onscreen, “Swallow” explores the complexities of survival in a city tainted by corruption, offering audiences a visual immersion into the challenges faced by Tolani and the gripping dynamics of a society where individuals resort to unconventional means to endure. The adaptation not only brings Atta’s narrative to a broader audience but also showcases the collaborative artistry of Afolayan and the talented ensemble cast, further solidifying the impact of Nigerian storytelling in the realm of cinema and on platforms like Netflix.

• Swallow

In 2012, Sefi Atta, a Nigerian-American novelist, penned “Swallow,” a compelling narrative following Tolani, a middle-class young woman thrust into drug smuggling to navigate the corruption of Lagos. This novel underwent a cinematic transformation in 2021 when Netflix adapted it into a movie, skillfully directed by the award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan. The film boasts a talented cast including Niyola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha, and Ijeoma Grace Agu. As the story unfolds onscreen, “Swallow” explores the complexities of survival in a city tainted by corruption, offering audiences a visual immersion into the challenges faced by Tolani and the gripping dynamics of a society where individuals resort to unconventional means to endure. The adaptation not only brings Atta’s narrative to a broader audience but also showcases the collaborative artistry of Afolayan and the talented ensemble cast, further solidifying the impact of Nigerian storytelling in the realm of cinema and on platforms like Netflix.

• God’s Waiting Room

Originally a four-part novel by Yewande Zaccheus, the book examines her journey with infertility. Adapted for the screen by Tomi Adesina and titled “The Wait,” the film saw a nationwide cinematic release on April 30, 2021. Directed by Fiyin Gambo and Yemi Morafa, the movie revolves around two couples yearning for a baby and a dedicated doctor’s efforts to assist them. “The Wait” became available on Netflix for streaming in January 2023, featuring a stellar cast including Nse Ikpe-Etim, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ini Dima-Okojie, Kate Henshaw, Joke Silva, Chimezie Imo, Jimmy Odukoya, and Meg Otanwa. Through its poignant narrative and skilled storytelling, the film brings to life the emotional complexities of infertility, offering a heartfelt exploration of hope, resilience, and the human spirit.

• Death and the King’s Horseman

Crafted by the acclaimed playwright Wole Soyinka, the narrative draws from historical events, shadowing Elesin, a Yoruba King’s horseman, thwarted from performing a ritual suicide by British colonial authorities following the king’s demise. In 2020, an adaptation emerged as one of EbonyLife’s ventures with Netflix, rebranded as “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman.” Helmed by the late Biyi Bandele, the film stars Odunlade Adekola, Shaffy Bello, Deyemi Okanlawon, Omowunmi Dada, Jide Kosoko, Kevin Ushi, and Brymo. The story, entwined with cultural nuances and historical significance, takes on new life through this cinematic rendition, promising an exploration of complex themes and the clash of traditions amid colonial influence. The collaboration of Soyinka’s narrative prowess and Bandele’s directorial vision, coupled with a talented ensemble cast, positions “Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman” as a compelling addition to the intersection of history and storytelling on the screen.