Yoruba movie makes historic premiere in US
A YORUBA-LANGUAGE relatable comedy film, OKUN EBI, has set a historic record with its premiere at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, Arlington, Texas, United States of America. The event stands as the
A YORUBA-LANGUAGE relatable comedy film, OKUN EBI, has set a historic record with its premiere at LOOK Dine-In Cinemas, Arlington, Texas, United States of America.
The event stands as the first Yoruba film to premiere in an actual cinema in Texas, and unprecedentedly, the first of its kind in the United States.
The film was written and produced by Olakanlu Lanre and Dunni Badru, popularly known as Mr and Mrs Kogberegbe. Direction was handled by Seun Olaiya (Black Magic). The prolific director delivered a production that reflects strong creative collaboration and established industry expertise.
The movie is scheduled for global release in March 2026 on Debbie Sokoya TV, extending its reach to a broader international audience.
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The project continues the producers' long-standing commitment to delivering culturally grounded, high-quality Yoruba content to global audiences on Africa Magic and other on-Demand streaming platforms.
The movie features an ensemble cast of respected Nollywood actors, including Lola Idije, Remi Surutu, Debbie Sokoya, Dolapo Oyebamiji, Mr Latin, Dayo Amusa, Mr Paragon, Mr and Mrs Kogberegbe, Lola Faduri, and Remmy Shitabey. The cast underscores the depth of talent and industry support behind the production.
The premiere attracted a strong presence from Nollywood actors based in Texas, including Funso Adeolu, Mistura Asunramu, Gina Washington, Omo Tee, Nikky Grace, and Bunmi Ojomo, along with other industry stakeholders and supporters of Yoruba cinema in the diaspora.
The event was further distinguished by the attendance of special royal guests, Sooko Lambua Adeboye and Queen Abimbola Adeboye of the Ile-Ife Kingdom, reflecting the cultural significance of the occasion and the strong ties between tradition and contemporary creative expression.
