Thrillers are among the most popular genres on streaming platforms, and Netflix is keenly aware of this demand. To close out August, the streamer added “Tòkunbò” to its platform, and it quickly became one of the most-watched films in multiple countries.

But this isn’t just any thriller—it’s a Nigerian production that offers viewers a unique glimpse into the landscapes and culture of the country, while also delivering a gripping narrative.

So, don’t expect a laid-back movie night with this one. Packed with action and suspense, “Tòkunbò” will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last frame.

All about ‘Tòkunbò’, the Nigerian thriller that is trending on Netflix

“Tòkunbò” marks the third directorial effort of Ramsey Nouah, a renowned Nigerian actor with 195 acting credits to his name. Although he has stepped behind the camera only a few times, Nouah remains a prominent figure in Nollywood, Nigeria’s rapidly growing film and TV industry.

His picture stars Gideon Okeke, who first gained fame for participating in the inaugural season of Big Brother Nigeria. Okeke plays an aging car smuggler who left his criminal past behind to protect his family, only to be pulled back into the underworld when a kidnapper mistakenly abducts the daughter of a government official.

The criminal demands that the protagonist deliver her to a specific location within three hours, or else his own family will face terrible consequences. It is a race against time from start to finish, keeping viewers on edge as they wait to see how it all unfolds.

While the title received mixed reviews for diverging from the conventional thriller formula, it was praised for its exploration of themes such as betrayal, love, and loss, as well as its complex characters and Nigerian landscapes. So, if you find yourself endlessly scrolling this weekend, give “Tòkunbò” a try!