Nigerian superstar Burna Boy has proven that his creative fire burns beyond the music stage as his debut feature film, 3 Cold Dishes, stormed into cinemas across Africa with a sizzling ₦24.6 million opening weekend.
The film, released under his Spaceship Films banner, has quickly become the talk of Nollywood and West Africa’s entertainment scene.
A Pan-African Revenge Thriller with Global Flair
From the bustling streets of Lagos to the vibrant cityscapes of Abidjan, 3 Cold Dishes tells a gripping story of survival, justice, and vengeance. Three women—Esosa (Nigeria), Fatouma (Côte d’Ivoire), and Giselle, whose dark past ties them together—embark on a bold quest for retribution after years of shared trauma.
According to The Guardian UK, the film’s revenge-driven plot evokes shades of Kill Bill, while its richly African setting gives it a unique cultural heartbeat. Its cross-border narrative not only expands Nollywood’s cinematic scope but also challenges gender and genre conventions in African storytelling.
Cinematic Ambition Meets Commercial Power
3 Cold Dishes isn’t just another movie release—it’s a milestone moment for African cinema. The film’s ₦24.6 million opening weekend reflects a growing appetite among Nigerian audiences for more daring, high-concept productions.
Industry analysts say its success proves that Nollywood is ready to compete on a global level, combining storytelling scale with commercial savvy. Pulse Nigeria reports that Burna Boy’s involvement amplified buzz around the film, drawing both movie lovers and music fans into theatres from Lagos to Côte d’Ivoire.
Why Viewers Are Hooked
Critics and fans alike have credited the film’s staying power to four key elements:
Bold visual storytelling: Director Asurf Oluseyi’s work gives the revenge thriller a polished, international look that elevates Nollywood’s production standards.
Cross-cultural connection: With its mix of Nigerian and Ivorian settings, the film bridges West African experiences while maintaining universal emotional appeal.
Star power synergy: Burna Boy’s global fame and brand influence boosted visibility and drew curiosity from audiences far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Audience evolution: Viewers are increasingly embracing films that challenge the status quo—demanding stories that are daring, dramatic, and different.
A Turning Point for Nollywood
3 Cold Dishes’ success reinforces a powerful lesson for African creators: collaboration is the new currency. By merging the storytelling depth of Nollywood with the marketing strength of Afrobeats, Burna Boy has opened a new chapter for cross-industry innovation.
The film’s performance also signals that African audiences are ready for premium cinematic experiences—stories that travel, challenge, and connect cultures.
With its record-breaking debut, 3 Cold Dishes isn’t just making money—it’s making history, proving once again that Burna Boy’s empire extends far beyond the music charts.
