Nollywood moves fast. With so many films released each year, it’s easy for individual performances to blur together, especially when actors stick to what works for them. But every now and then, someone shows up in a role that feels like more than their usual output, not necessarily a complete transformation, just a clear step up.
In 2025, a few actors delivered performances that felt like they were pushing themselves a bit harder than usual. Whether it was tackling unfamiliar material, committing to a messier character, or just finding new textures in their work, these roles stood out as moments where the actors seemed genuinely engaged with doing something different.
Funke Akindele – Behind the Scenes
In Behind the Scenes, Funke Akindele plays Adetutu, the entitled sister who manipulates her family without remorse. It’s a departure from her well-known Jenifa character, sharper and more restrained. She makes Adetutu uncomfortable to watch, which seems to be the point: she’s not a cartoon villain but someone who represents a real family dynamic many will recognize. The performance shows she can do more than broad comedy, even if the role itself sometimes hits some familiar notes.
Scarlet Gomez – Behind the Scenes
Scarlet Gomez’s Ronke in In Behind the Scenes is the family member everyone takes for granted. It’s a quiet role that could’ve felt thankless, but Gomez gives it real weight. You can see the exhaustion in her, the way someone looks when they’ve been holding everything together for too long. She doesn’t overplay it, which makes the moments when Ronke finally pushes back feel genuine rather than melodramatic.
Timini Egbuson – Gingerrr
Timini Egbuson had a busy 2025, but his role as “Golden Boy” in Gingerrr stands out because it’s different from his usual romantic lead work. There’s an edge to this character that shows some range and unpredictability, with a darker edge. His performance in Reel Love was solid but familiar territory; Gingerrr actually let him try something new. He handles the role well enough to prove he can carry more than just love stories.
Lateef Adedimeji – Red Circle
In Red Circle, Lateef Adedimeji plays Oshisco, a menacing neighborhood gang leader. In this role, he sheds his usual persona of the sensitive, emotional lead to embody a character of pure, vibrant intensity. It’s a supporting role, but Adedimeji leaves a lasting impression. It’s a terrific performance in which he delivers a jolt of raw, street-level energy of performance, and a solid entry in his already remarkable acting repertoire.
Bisola Aiyeola – Gingerrr
Bisola Aiyeola is one of the best things about Gingerrr. As Da Silva, she balances the comedy and the stakes of the heist plot with aplomb. The film might feature an ensemble cast, but she cuts through the noise with her timing and presence. She’s funny as protagonist Omotola’s (played by Bukunmi KieKie Adeaga-Ilori) friend and fellow heister, and owned every scene she was in.
