Funke Akindele has once again reinforced her dominance beyond Nigeria’s borders as her latest film, Behind the Scenes, recorded an impressive $301,505 in box office revenue across cinemas in the United States and Canada.
The North American performance marks another significant international milestone for the award-winning actress, producer, and filmmaker, whose projects have consistently delivered strong commercial results both locally and abroad. For a Nollywood production, crossing the $300,000 mark in a highly competitive foreign market is widely regarded as a notable achievement.
Since its release in North America, Behind the Scenes has enjoyed steady cinema attendance, particularly among African and diaspora audiences eager for authentic storytelling from the continent. Industry observers say the film’s earnings reflect not only Funke Akindele’s star power but also the growing appetite for Nigerian films outside Africa.
Behind the Scenes explores the often-unseen realities of life in the entertainment industry. The film delves into themes of ambition, fame, loyalty, betrayal, and the emotional toll that comes with public recognition. Through a layered narrative, it highlights the personal struggles creatives face while trying to balance success, relationships, and self-identity.
Unlike many conventional dramas, the film combines emotional storytelling with subtle social commentary, a style Funke Akindele has increasingly adopted in her recent projects. This approach has helped the movie resonate with viewers who see their own experiences reflected in the characters’ journeys.
The film’s box office performance is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by foreign-language and independent films in North America, where Hollywood blockbusters dominate cinema screens. Nollywood titles often receive limited showtimes, making Behind the Scenes’ financial showing even more significant.
Over the years, Funke Akindele has built a reputation as one of Nollywood’s most reliable box office forces. From record-breaking cinema releases in Nigeria to successful runs on global streaming platforms, her films have consistently pushed commercial and creative boundaries.
Her success with Behind the Scenes also underscores the steady evolution of Nollywood as an industry capable of competing on the global stage. Improved production quality, targeted international distribution, and stronger marketing strategies have played key roles in helping Nigerian films gain wider acceptance abroad.
Film enthusiasts and critics alike have praised Behind the Scenes for its polished production, relatable storyline, and strong ensemble performances. Many viewers have described the film as both entertaining and thought-provoking, particularly for creatives navigating similar pressures in real life.
The North American earnings add to the film’s growing profile and are expected to boost interest in additional international markets and digital releases. With conversations around global collaborations and expanded cinema slots for African films gaining momentum, Behind the Scenes stands as another example of Nollywood’s rising global relevance.
As Nigerian cinema continues to expand its footprint, Funke Akindele’s latest achievement serves as a reminder that locally made stories can resonate powerfully with audiences worldwide — and still deliver impressive box office numbers.
source: nairametrics.com
