Kunle Afolayan responds to criticism of ‘Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens’

Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has addressed the criticism surrounding his latest project, Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens, saying the series is crafted for audiences who appreciate intellectually engaging storytelling.

The five-part mini-series, a follow-up to the 2022 award-winning film Anikulapo, premiered on Netflix on January 30 and has since generated mixed reactions from viewers.

In a video shared on his Instagram page on Tuesday, Afolayan said his films are not designed for universal appeal but for viewers who value layered narratives and thought-provoking cinema.

“I make films for people who can think,” he said, stressing that he does not expect everyone to understand or enjoy his style of storytelling.

The filmmaker referenced his earlier works, Irapada and The Figurine, noting that they initially faced scepticism before earning international recognition and awards.

Afolayan also urged critics to withhold final judgement on the new series until all episodes have been watched. He compared the viewing experience to global television hits such as Game of Thrones, where audiences follow the storyline over time before forming conclusions.

He maintained that the series introduces new plot developments that may not be immediately obvious, particularly to viewers unfamiliar with literary techniques.

While acknowledging that not all viewers may connect with the project, Afolayan said he remains focused on creating content that resonates with his intended audience.