An Exclusive Look at “Red Circle” – The Film That’s About to Shake Nollywood
In this special edition of Sunday Special, Nollyverse sits down with one of Nollywood’s most compelling visual storytellers, Nora Awolowo, as she prepares to unveil her most ambitious film yet, Red Circle. From humble beginnings as a self-taught filmmaker to redefining the lens through which Nigerian stories are told, Nora has become a name synonymous with bold storytelling, atmospheric visuals, and socially resonant narratives. And now, with Red Circle, she’s not just releasing a film, she’s making a statement.
“This isn’t just a movie,” Nora tells Nollyverse, “It’s a mirror held up to our society, to trauma, to silence, and to healing.”
Nora Awolowo, born Oreoluwa Racheal Awolowo on March 2, 1999, in Lagos, Nigeria, embodies the spirit of a true visionary. Her cinematic journey began not in the hallowed halls of a film academy, but rather, quite remarkably, during an Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike in her second year of university. Bored yet creatively restless, she picked up her mobile phone and began capturing the world around her through the lens of photography. This initial spark ignited a fervent passion for visual storytelling, leading her to voraciously self-educate in all facets of filmmaking. She delved into video editing, mastering software, and even picked up drone piloting, transforming herself into a multi-talented force behind the camera.
Her early career was characterized by a tenacious drive. She started by offering her photography skills as a behind-the-scenes artist for friends in Nollywood, a hands-on immersion that quickly propelled her into video production. This grassroots approach, combined with her innate talent, allowed her to cultivate a unique visual style – one that seamlessly blends the raw honesty of documentary with a captivating artistic flair. In 2019, her short documentary Life at the Bay gained recognition, selected at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). Her subsequent works, including Symphonies, All Lives Matter, and Baby Blues, a poignant exploration of the challenges of childbirth, further showcased her ability to craft narratives that resonate deeply. Her dedication was quickly recognized, earning her the 25 Under 25 SME Awards for Best Media and Communications Person in 2019 and a nomination for The Future Awards Africa in the Prize for Film category in 2020.
The year 2023 was a landmark for Nora, as she clinched the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Documentary for Nigeria: The Debut, a testament to her impactful storytelling. Her upward trajectory continued, and in 2025, she made history as the first Nigerian woman to be nominated for Best Cinematography at the AMVCAs for Lisabi and nominated for best short film with her latest short, What are you truly afraid of. This nomination is not merely a personal accolade but a groundbreaking moment for gender representation in a predominantly male-dominated technical aspect of the film industry.
Beyond her individual brilliance, Nora is a staunch believer in the power of collaboration. She founded Rixel Studios, her visual storytelling company, at the tender age of nineteen. Her philosophy, “It takes a village to do anything, even commercials,” highlights her commitment to fostering a collaborative environment. This ethos is vividly displayed in Red Circle, her debut feature film as a producer and cinematographer, a project she developed alongside a “village” of talented creatives, including co-producer and writer Abdul Tijani-Ahmed and director Akay Mason.
Red Circle, a gripping crime thriller, premiered in Nigerian cinemas on June 6, 2025. It quickly made a significant impact, raking in ₦25.32 million in its opening weekend, with daily earnings that underscored its immediate appeal. By its tenth day in cinemas, the film had impressively grossed a total of ₦62.4 million, demonstrating strong audience engagement and critical buzz.
The film, which follows investigative journalist Fikayo Holloway (Folu Storms) as she unravels a dangerous crime syndicate in Lagos, is more than just a thrilling narrative; it’s a mirror held up to societal issues of trauma, silence, and healing. Nora’s keen eye as cinematographer ensures that Red Circle is not only visually arresting but also deeply immersive, with every frame contributing to its profound message.
On the international front, Red Circle is poised for a global impact. Following its successful Nigerian theatrical run, the film is slated for a UK debut on June 20, 2025, with further international screenings and distribution efforts underway through Nile Distribution and Rixel Studios’ strategic rollout. This expansion signifies a growing global appetite for authentic African narratives, and Nora Awolowo is at the forefront of this movement.
Red Circle is a testament to Nora’s relentless ambition and her commitment to telling stories that matter. It encapsulates her journey from a self-taught mobile photographer to a trailblazing filmmaker whose work is now commanding both critical acclaim and commercial success on a global scale.Nora Awolowo sat down with one of our journalists, Faith Oloruntoyin, for an exclusive look into her career and Red Circle.
Nora, looking at the journey of Nigerian film producers, was your first feature film a goal you set for a certain age?
It wasn’t about age for me; it was about doing what I wanted to do when I felt ready. I started photography at 16 and shot my first feature at 24, after about seven or eight years in the industry. My youth isn’t a limitation; I’ve put in the work, gained the skills and experience. I could even retire at 30 with 15 years’ experience, compared to someone older with less.
Tell us about the birth of “Red Circle.” I heard it started with you sharing an idea with a friend, leading to five writers in a room for five days.
I had this simple idea about a girl investigating a story, and people helping her kept getting killed. I’m not a writer, so I told a writer friend. The first draft wasn’t quite there. Fortunately, I have other writer friends. So, I invited them over for five days. We broke down the story scene by scene. It was a fun experience; we fought and argued, but we knew from that room what the film would look like.
Who or what influenced your filmmaking and cinematography style, both within and outside Nigeria?
I’m a huge fan of Bollywood and thrillers. I love films that grab your attention from start to finish. I’m also big on collaboration. Filmmaking is a village effort, and it’s best when everyone is invested. My core belief in storytelling is that it’s a collaborative effort, from the crew to the cast; everyone needs to contribute for great content.
What’s the one thing you don’t want audiences to miss, or the main takeaway from “Red Circle”?
Don’t miss anything! Every character is important, and all the actors brought their A-game. At its core, it’s a story about love, friendship, family drama, and action. I hope by the end, you’ll understand how much you’re willing to fight for those in your life.
Were you involved in the casting process for “Red Circle,” being your first film?
Yes, absolutely. We started discussing casting in the story room, breaking down each character and brainstorming who would fit best.
How did this casting help shape the unique story of “Red Circle”?
To achieve our vision, we knew we needed to cast it right. We got the right professionals, and I’m so happy with everyone. The cast and crew should be proud. Their stellar performances really elevated the film. You’ll see some actors in roles you haven’t seen them in before, and they truly excelled.
“Red Circle’s” marketing strategy is generating a lot of buzz. Was this a big risk, considering the ongoing debate in Nollywood about marketing approaches?
We’re testing the waters. There’s no formula for marketing a film. We have a great product, and we’re exploring creative and different ways to market it. Some things we release get more attention than others, but we just put our best out there, hoping the audience connects. I’m glad people are seeing the effort we’re putting in.
What was your most challenging scene to shoot?
All the exterior scenes were challenging. Shooting in Lagos is risky; anything can go wrong. Plus, I don’t shoot in the sun because it doesn’t blend well with our skin tones. Balancing cinematography with weather conditions was tough, unlike interiors where you control the light. But it all came out well, and none of our efforts were wasted.
With your multiple awards and AMVCA nominations, how have these recognitions impacted your perception of yourself and your craft?
Awards are a validation of good work, and it’s nice to have them. But for me, it’s about not resting on my laurels. I’m always asking, “What’s next?” I want to keep improving and learning. While nominations and wins are heartwarming, my focus is always on getting better. You’re only as good as your last project.
What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers, regardless of gender, who don’t know where to start?
Just start, and be consistent. People are always watching, even those you don’t know. Don’t be afraid to try new things. Every professional was once an amateur. You have to go through that learning process. Focus on consistency and improving with each project. Just start, and let God be your backbone.
You’re always looking for what’s next. What can your fans expect from Nora Awolowo in the Nigerian film industry?
I’m developing a company. Besides being a cinematographer, I’m also interested in the business side of things, given my accounting background. I’m balancing that with my cinematography work, and the company has a lot of exciting projects in the pipeline. I’m thrilled to be at the forefront of it.
Any final words on “Red Circle”?
Please, everyone, go see “Red Circle”! Take your family, your friends, everyone. Your support means a lot.
This has been Nollyverse Sunday Special: Nora Awolowo, Unfiltered – Red Circle
Written by Yemi Calebs for The Nollyverse Sunday Special Team.
Interview by Faith Oloruntoyin for The Nollyverse Sunday Special Team
Cover Photography by: Photography by Olanrewaju Ali @olanrewaju_v
Cover Design by: Clomora Cloud
Inner Pages Photography by: Olanrewaju Ali @olanrewaju_v and Lumi Ogunde @lumiogunde
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