Last Friday, Lisabi: A Legend is Born, reclaimed the number one spot on Netflix’s Nigerian titles; drawing audiences across the globe just as its prequel did last year.
Released on January 10, the film has ignited conversations about the power of storytelling in preserving culture and history. At just 1 hour and 30 minutes long, the movie offers a poignant yet gripping depiction of Yoruba history that resonates deeply with viewers.
The film continues the story of Lisabi, the legendary warrior who led the Egba people to liberation from the oppressive Oyo Empire in the 18th century.
Audiences have praised the sequel for it’s ability to bring to life a lesser-known hero of African history while exploring themes of unity, resilience, and justice. One viewer remarked, “Watching Lisabi felt like a journey into our roots. It reminded me of the rich heritage we sometimes overlook.”
A Premiere Rich in Yoruba Culture
Before Lisabi: A Legend is Born premiered on Netflix, its debut was celebrated with an exclusive event on Thursday, January 9, at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Lagos. The venue, a hub of cultural significance, set the tone for an evening that honored Yoruba heritage. Guests were dressed like African royalties that immersed attendees in the cultural legacy of the Egba people. The event brought together a long list of celebrities including Iyabo Ojo, Odunlade Adekola, Femi Adebayo, Mr Macaroni, Liquorose, amongst others.
To add more depth to the event, a roundtable conversation themed Echoes of Heritage: Celebrating the Yoruba Legacy preceded the film screening. Moderated by Qudus Onineku, CEO of the John Randle Centre; the discussion featured Lateef Adedimeji, star and executive producer of the Lisabi series; Bibi Bakare-Yusuf, the esteemed publishing director of Cassava Republic Press; and host of the popular Masoyinbo show Olalekan Fabilola.
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The panel delved into the significance of preserving history through storytelling, with Adedimeji emphasizing, “We’ve forgotten our own heroes and embraced foreign ones. This is our way of reclaiming that narrative and celebrating those who fought for our people.”
Adding a unique twist to the premiere, the film was shown silent-disco style, with the audience using headphones to watch, creating a more immersive and intimate experience that deepened their connection to the story.
The Importance of Stories Like Lisabi
The Lisabi sequel is more than a film—it is a reminder of the importance of documenting history. As Adedimeji noted during the premiere, “Without storytelling, we risk losing touch with our culture and history. It’s annoying to see Hollywood take African stories and interpret them poorly, often without proper research. We owe it to ourselves to tell these stories authentically.”
Bibi Bakare-Yusuf added to the conversation, stressing the role of creative industries in keeping cultural narratives alive: “Films like Lisabi create a bridge between generations. They spark curiosity about where we come from and encourage younger people to explore their roots.”
The movie draws attention to Lisabi’s leadership qualities, particularly his ability to unite his people through the first cooperative farming society, which emphasized shared labor and mutual support. Adedimeji reflected on this in a recent interview: “Lisabi taught us that leadership is about collective good, not self-interest. That lesson is as relevant today as it was in his time.”
The success of Lisabi: A Legend is Born and its prequel reflects a growing appetite for stories that honor African culture and history. These films serve not only as entertainment but also as educational tools, particularly for the Nigerian diaspora. With many second-generation Nigerians disconnected from their roots, movies like Lisabi provide an opportunity to reconnect with their heritage.
“Everybody sees Africa as one dark continent that’s behind,” Adedimeji said.
“But we have a whole lot to offer. Exporting our stories to the world is a way to change that narrative. If we can embrace Indian and Korean films in their native languages, then others can embrace ours too.”
As Lisabi: A Legend is Born continues to dominate Netflix’s charts, it reminds us of the timeless power of storytelling. Through its vivid portrayal of Yoruba history, the film underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage in an increasingly globalized world.
Directed by Anthill Studios’s Niyi Akinmolayan, and produced by AL Notions Studios, a production company founded by Lateef Adedimeji and his wife Adebimpe Oyebade, the film seamlessly brings the epic story of Lisabi to life with authenticity and cinematic excellence.
With its rich narrative, stellar performances, and cultural authenticity, Lisabi is not just a movie; it’s a movement. A call to remember, to celebrate, and to reclaim the stories that define us.
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