Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors has taken the African film industry by storm, leading the 2025 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) with an impressive nine nominations. The historical drama, which debuted on Netflix in December 2024, has captivated audiences with its rich storytelling, powerful performances, and stunning production.
Set in the ancient kingdom of Ilara, Ondo State, during the 18th and 19th centuries, Seven Doors follows the rise of King Adedunjoye, portrayed by Femi Adebayo, as he grapples with an ancient prophecy threatening his rule. The story dives into themes of power, betrayal, and destiny, blending political intrigue with spiritual undertones to create a compelling and culturally resonant narrative.
A Strong Presence at the AMVCA
Seven Doors has secured nominations in some of the most prestigious AMVCA categories, including:
- Best Lead Actor – Femi Adebayo
- Best Lead Actress – Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha
- Best Supporting Actor – Aliu Gafar
- Best Director – Femi Adebayo, Tope Adebayo, and Adebayo Tijani
- Best Writing in a Movie – Adebayo Tijani, Yinka Laoye, and Soyombo-Oluyombo Oluwagbemiga
- Best Indigenous Language (West Africa) – Seven Doors
- Best Art Direction – Seven Doors
- Best Sound Design – Seven Doors
- Best Score/Music – Tolu Obanro
A Tale of Power and Prophecy
Seven Doors begins with the sudden death of King Adejuwon (played by Kolawole Ajeyemi), thrusting his son, Adedunjoye, into power. Reluctant yet determined, Adedunjoye must navigate the complexities of leadership while confronting a dark prophecy warning that opening any of the seven palace doors will lead to the kingdom’s downfall.
Adedunjoye’s closest allies — Amaka (Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha), Prince Adeoye (Muyiwa Ademola), and Opayemi (Gabriel Afolayan) — face their own struggles as political tensions rise. Betrayal looms from within the palace walls, and Adedunjoye must decide who he can truly trust. The blend of historical elements, Yoruba culture, and mystical undertones creates a layered and immersive experience for viewers.
Critical and Fan Praise
Since its release, Seven Doors has received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Femi Adebayo’s performance as King Adedunjoye has been particularly praised, with many calling it one of the strongest performances of his career. Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha’s portrayal of Amaka has also been celebrated for its emotional depth and strength.
The film’s cinematography, art direction, and sound design have been recognized as benchmarks for Nollywood production quality. The soundtrack, composed by Tolu Obanro, has been highlighted as a standout element, earning the film a nomination for Best Score/Music.
Critics have hailed Seven Doors as a “masterpiece of African storytelling” and a “milestone for Nollywood,” praising its ability to balance historical accuracy with emotional storytelling. The film’s complex narrative structure and strong character arcs have made it a favorite among fans.
Femi Adebayo Reflects on the Film’s Success
Speaking on the film’s success, Femi Adebayo expressed gratitude for the recognition, saying, “Seven Doors is more than just a movie — it’s a celebration of African culture and history. We wanted to tell a story that reflects the strength and resilience of our people, and I’m honored that audiences have connected with it.”
He credited the film’s success to the dedication of the cast and crew, adding, “From the writing to the cinematography, everyone gave their all. Chioma [Chukwuka Akpotha], Gabriel [Afolayan], and the rest of the cast brought the characters to life in ways that exceeded my expectations.”
The Road to the AMVCA
With nine nominations, Seven Doors stands as the most-nominated film at this year’s AMVCA. The film’s dominance in key categories like Best Lead Actor, Best Director, and Best Writing positions it as a favorite to sweep the awards night.
The 11th edition of the AMVCA is set for May 10, 2025, and anticipation is already building. Whether or not Seven Doors takes home multiple wins, its impact on Nollywood is undeniable. It has not only set a new standard for Nigerian cinema but also demonstrated that African stories, when told with heart and authenticity, can resonate on a global scale.
