Chukwuka Emelionwu: 5 classic Nollywood movies by late filmmaker

Chukwuka Emelionwu was the CEO of Kas-Vid International and producer of movies such as "Aki and Pawpaw" and "Issakaba."

Nollywood filmmaker, Chukwuka Emelionwu, who died in a car crash on January 17, 2018, produced classic works worth remebering.

Emelionwu established his own production company, Kas-vid International, in early 2000s. He produced films such as "Aki na Ukwa," the cult comedy starring Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme.

"Aki na Ukwa" shot Ikedieze and Iheme into the limelight, as they went on to be very significant in the industry.

 

A producer, writer and marketer whose career spanned over a decade, It’s hard to overstate how successful and popular Emelionwu's works were.

From successful comedy films to an action film that spawned so many others, here are five classic works of the late filmmaker.

1. "Aki na Ukwa"

 

An ultimate collaboration between Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme, the movie is also, probably the hardest you ever laughed about two young troublesome brothers causing disruption and terrorizing a village.

The movie also launched their acting career and earned them the nickname Aki and Pawpaw -  A name that has stuck till date.

Making an impact in the movie industry, "Aki Na Ukwa" paved the way for countless funny movies about kids causing commotion.

ALSO READ: 7 GREATEST CLASSIC NOLLYWOOD COMEDY MOVIES OF ALL TIME

2. "Issakaba"

 

Entertaining, thrilling and hugely influential, the 2001 movie "Issakaba" is arguably the greatest Nollywood action movie ever made.

One of the main reasons why the movie is still fondly remembered is because it was more than a movie. It was a movement. It told a relatable story.

The movie was inspired by the popular vigilante group Bakassi Boys, who made their mark by combating crimes in cities like Onitsha and Aba, by mutilating and burning the bodies of their victims.

Directed by Lancelot Imasuen and starring actors like Sam Dede, Tom Njemanze,  Uche Odoputa, Emeka Ani, Chiwetalu Agu, Pete Eneh, Amaechi Munagor, John Okafor, "Issakaba" kicked off the crime genre in Nollywood.

ALSO READ: A TRIBUTE TO ISSAKABA: THE GREATEST NOLLYWOOD ACTION MOVIE EVER MADE

3. "Mr Ibu"

 

The 2004 movie is one of the most popular comedy movies in Nigeria. It follows the story of a dimwitted father (John Okafor) and his mischievous son (Osita Iheme).

Just like "Aki Na Ukwa," the movie earned John Okafor the nickname Mr Ibu, and also spawned several sequels such as "Mr Ibu's Wedding" and "Mr Ibu in London."

ALSO READ: WHAT NIGERIAN MOVIES REMIND YOU OF YOUR CHILDHOOD?

4. "Last Burial"

 

A movie that featured the now legendary Patience Ozokwor as a waka pass, "Last Burial" was produced 17 years ago. 

It tells the story of Ogbuefi Nnamani, a wealthy Knight in the Catholic church, who was also a member of the Shankiki cult group.

When he passed away, the church and the cult group battled for who would bury his corpse.

The movie featured Clem Ohameze, Eucharia Anunobi, Chinedu  Ikedieze, Sam Dede and Chiwetalu Agu.

ALSO READ: 7 SCARIEST NOLLYWOOD MOVIES OF ALL TIME

5. "A million madness"

Starring Keneth Okonkwo, Chieze Alisigwe, Ejike Okoye, Andy Chukwu and Emeka Enyiocha, "A Million Madness" tells the story of a man, who used his girlfriend for money rituals.

Other films by Kas-Vid international include the 2004 "Campus Girls," "Beautiful Faces," "Captain," "August Meeting' among others.

He was also credited as the writer of movies such as "Keep My Will," which starred Genevieve Nnaji, Justice Esiri, Bukky Ajayi, Ngozi Ezeonu among others.

Chukwuka Emelionwu was reportedly killed by a hit-and-run driver after he had survived an accident with his car.

The late filmmaker is survived by his wife Juliet Ngozi Emelionwu and beautiful children.

May his soul rest in peace.