The 2026 film Lady is a poignant and visually arresting drama that marks the feature film debut of director Olive Nwosu. Set against the vibrant, chaotic, and neon-lit backdrop of Lagos, Nigeria, the movie provides an intimate look at the lives of women navigating the complexities of urban survival. After making waves at the Sundance Film Festival in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition, Lady has emerged as one of the most talked-about international co-productions of the year.
Directed by: Olive Nwosu
Written by: Olive Nwosu
Produced by: Alex Polunin, John Giwa-Amu, Stella Nwimo
Starring: Jessica Gabriel’s Ujah, Amanda Oruh, Tinuade Jemiseye, Bucci Franklin
Cinematography: Olive Nwosu (Visual Supervision)
Edited by: Ossian International Team
Music by: Seun Kuti (Featured Artist/Score)
Choreographer: Lagos Nightlife Creative Team
Release Date: 25 January 2026 (Sundance Premiere)
Running Time: 112 Minutes
Country: UK / Nigeria
Language: English / Pidgin
Dubbing: Multi-language Subtitles Available
Budget: £2.5 Million (BFI & Film4 Funded)
OTT Platform: Netflix (Global Rights Pending)
OTT Release Date: Late 2026
About the Movie
Lady follows the journey of a stoic and hardworking female cab driver in Lagos, known only by her nickname, "Lady." Having built a hard shell to survive the male-dominated streets of the metropolis, her life is strictly disciplined—until her childhood friend, Pinky, reappears. Pinky, now a sex worker, pulls Lady into a whirlwind world of glamorous but dangerous nightlife.
The film is a "love letter to the women of Lagos," capturing the city's pulse with raw authenticity. It explores how these women forge a transformative "sisterhood" while battling societal judgment and economic hardship. The narrative is a masterclass in slow-burn tension, blending the gritty reality of survival with moments of tender, luminous connection.
About the Cast
The performance of Jessica Gabriel’s Ujah as Lady is being hailed as a breakout turn, portraying a woman of few words but immense internal depth. Amanda Oruh brings a vibrant, tragic energy to the role of Pinky, creating a perfect foil to Lady’s reserved nature. The cast is further elevated by the presence of Bucci Franklin and the legendary Seun Kuti, who adds cultural weight to the production. The chemistry between the female leads is the heartbeat of the film, making their journey feel deeply personal and urgent.
Message of the Movie
The core message of Lady revolves around the power of empathy and the strength found in female solidarity. It challenges the audience to look past the "labels" society places on women—whether they are drivers or sex workers—and see the human being underneath. The film emphasizes that survival is not just about money; it is about finding a community that understands your struggle.
Should You Watch This Movie?
If you appreciate cinema that feels like a window into another world, Lady is an absolute must-watch. It is perfect for fans of realistic dramas and "slice-of-life" storytelling that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of society. The film’s pacing allows for deep character development, making the emotional payoff in the final act truly resonate.
However, if you are looking for a standard high-octane action thriller, the meditative pace of this drama might feel slow. It is a film designed for reflection, best enjoyed by those who love world cinema and stories of human perseverance.
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Family & Friends Warning: Due to the mature themes surrounding nightlife, sex work, and some intense emotional sequences, this film is recommended for mature audiences (16+). Parental guidance is strongly advised for teenagers.