Nollywood’s latest cinematic gem, The Serpent’s Gift, is already making waves on the global stage, securing two prestigious nominations at the 2025 Septimius Awards for Best Actress (Tina Mba) and Best Screenplay. Directed by Charles Uwagbai and starring powerhouse talents Tina Mba and Stan Nze, the gripping thriller is set for a theatrical release on August 29, 2025.
Even before hitting cinemas, the film has sparked widespread anticipation on X (formerly Twitter), with fans and critics buzzing about its intense narrative, cultural resonance, and cinematic ambition.
Storyline and Cultural Depth
The Serpent’s Gift weaves a suspenseful tale of betrayal, ambition, and supernatural intrigue, deeply rooted in Igbo cultural motifs.
The screenplay, written by an emerging Nigerian talent, has been praised for its layered storytelling, blending traditional folklore with modern psychological drama. This unique combination delivers a narrative that is both authentically Nigerian and globally relatable.
Tina Mba’s commanding performance as a matriarch confronting hidden family secrets has earned her a Septimius Award nomination for Best Actress, with early reviews calling her portrayal “hauntingly powerful.” Meanwhile, Stan Nze — known for his role in Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story — complements Mba with a nuanced performance as a conflicted heir, bringing emotional depth to the high-stakes plot.
Spotlight on Igbo Traditions
Cultural commentators, including posts on @IgboHistoFacts, have applauded the film’s authentic depiction of Igbo traditions. From the use of proverbs to ritualistic practices, the film’s supernatural themes are firmly grounded in indigenous storytelling, offering both local audiences and the diaspora a deeper sense of cultural pride.
This focus on authenticity has positioned The Serpent’s Gift as more than just a thriller — it is also a cultural showcase of Igbo heritage within Nollywood’s evolving storytelling landscape.
Afrobeats Soundtrack Integration
One of the standout features of The Serpent’s Gift is its Afrobeats-heavy soundtrack, which aligns perfectly with Nollywood’s growing synergy with Nigeria’s thriving music scene.
The soundtrack is headlined by rising star Chella’s infectious single “My Darling”, already climbing charts on Spotify Nigeria’s Daily Top Songs. Alongside Chella, artists like Minz and Mavo also contribute tracks that enhance the film’s cultural and emotional intensity.
Chella expressed excitement on X about her involvement, noting how the song’s themes of love and sacrifice mirror the film’s storyline. Industry insiders, per BellaNaija, predict the soundtrack could mirror the success of King of Boys’ iconic score, helping bridge Nollywood and Afrobeats for global audiences.
Global Recognition and Septimius Awards
Set to premiere in Lagos and Abuja before expanding into international markets, The Serpent’s Gift is riding Nollywood’s 2025 box office momentum, following the record-breaking ₦1.88 billion success of Everybody Loves Jenifa.
Early screenings have drawn rave reviews from platforms like whatkeptmeup.com, which described the movie as a “genre-defining thriller” for its seamless blend of suspense, cultural authenticity, and stellar performances.
The Septimius Awards nominations, announced in Amsterdam, mark a major milestone for Nollywood’s global recognition. The ceremony, scheduled for September 2025, will spotlight African cinema on an international stage. On X, some users even compared Tina Mba’s performance to Funke Akindele’s acclaimed role in Omo Ghetto: The Saga, fueling debates about Nollywood’s growing award-season credibility.
