“Over the Bridge” premiered in Nigerian cinemas on September 5, 2025. This psychological thriller represents a significant achievement in contemporary Nollywood cinema. Additionally, it combines strong performances with critical social commentary. The film has earned widespread recognition through its award-winning technical excellence.
Over the Bridge Plot
The story follows Folarin Marinho, an accomplished investment banker with a beautiful wife. He lives a life most people can only dream of. However, when a high-profile government project goes awry, everything changes. Subsequently, he finds himself in a remote fishing village. Therefore, he starts putting together the missing pieces. The central question remains: will he ever find his way back home?
Folarin struggles with an alcohol problem and intermittent panic attacks. Consequently, the film emerges as not just a critique of Nigeria’s systemic rot. Instead, it becomes a meditation on emotional disintegration. Furthermore, mental health is positioned as a core element rather than a narrative footnote.
Star-Studded Cast
Lead Performance:
Ozzy Agu delivers a powerful performance as Folarin Marinho. He portrays the troubled investment banker with remarkable depth. Meanwhile, his character’s psychological journey forms the heart of the story.
Supporting Cast:
The ensemble features veteran actress Joke Silva alongside Segiola Ogidan. Additionally, Deyemi Okanlawon brings his acclaimed acting skills to the project. Paul Adams and Chimezie Imo also contribute strong supporting performances.
Over the Bridge was directed by Tolu Ajayi, who makes his feature film debut with the psychological thriller. He describes the film as “a modern parable.” Furthermore, it moves from rustic scenes in a fisherman’s boat to corporate boardroom dealings.
Tosin Otudeko crafted the screenplay and produced the film. His vision explores the unseen burdens that success often demands. Additionally, Bose Oshin serves as producer through The Garden Theatre production company.
Awards and Recognition
“Over the Bridge” achieved remarkable success at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. It received 12 nominations, becoming the most nominated film. Subsequently, it won Best Cinematography and Best Production Design. Other nominations included Best Writing, Best Director, and Best Picture.
The film also opened the 31st New York African Film Festival. This marked its North American premiere and international recognition.
Central Themes
The psychological thriller explores several important themes. Mental health takes centre stage alongside corporate pressure. Additionally, the film examines Nigeria’s systemic corruption and investment banking power dynamics.
Personal sacrifice for success forms another key theme. Similarly, alcohol addiction and panic disorders are portrayed with sensitivity. Therefore, the film positions these issues as serious societal concerns rather than individual failings.
“Over the Bridge” represents contemporary Nollywood’s evolution toward more complex storytelling. It successfully balances entertainment with meaningful social commentary.
