5 notable omissions from the 2023 AMVCA nominations list

The AMVCA has done an excellent job of recognising outstanding films and performances, but some omissions are hard to ignore.

Like many film award platforms, the announcement of nominations for the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) creates a buzz that is almost as intense as the actual award ceremony. In many cases, a nomination is considered a significant achievement.

Yesterday, Sunday, April 16, 2023, the AMVCA unveiled the nominees for various categories in what is widely considered one of the biggest award ceremonies in Africa.

The nominations included films made from December 1, 2021 to January 31, 2023, and featured performers and behind-the-scenes members in numerous relevant award categories.

However, while the AMVCA has done a great job of spotlighting certain films, many film lovers and enthusiasts cannot help but point out some epic misses and are calling them out.

AMVCA Logo

It's important to note that some of these omissions might be because the filmmakers didn't submit their films, and this means organisers aren’t at fault.

Nevertheless, film enthusiasts have expressed their concerns about some of the most intriguing and talked-about films and performances from the selection year, which cannot be overlooked.

Here are some of the most notable omissions from Pulse's Movie Desk:

Kunle Remi for Best Actor in a Drama for Anikulapo

As we scanned through the nominees in this category, we couldn't help but feel that they were all extremely deserving of their spots on the list. They brought such range and depth to their performances, and it's clear that they put in a lot of hard work.

However, we couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment when we noticed that Kunle Remi, our dearly-beloved Saro, didn't get a nod, despite the numerous accolades garnered by Anikulapo. This feels like a significant omission in this year's AMVCA nomination list.

Ronke Odusanya for Best Supporting Actress in Drama for Brotherhood

It's no secret that Ronke Odusanya delivered one of the most nuanced and captivating performances in Jade Osiberu's Brotherhood. It's hard to forget the depth of emotion she brought to her role, and it's a shame that the AMVCA failed to recognise her talent.

In fact, the only other recent Nollywood film that has managed to capture such a raw expression of grief is Gangs of Lagos, with Chioma Akpotha's performance. It's truly baffling that such a powerful performance was overlooked.

Temilolu Fosudo for Best Actor in a Drama and Best Writer for The Griot

As one of the most beloved films of 2022, The Griot won over audiences with its outstanding cast performances and refreshing storyline. Given its unique qualities, we're left wondering why it wasn't included in this year's nominees for the relevant categories.

Perhaps the producer didn't submit the project, but we can't help feeling that the film's absence is a missed opportunity to celebrate the kind of innovative filmmaking that the industry needs more of.

Obara'm for Best Overall Film

It's really hard to comprehend how a movie like Obara'm could be snubbed in the Best Overall Film category. Kayode Kasum's masterpiece brought a fresh and innovative approach to Nollywood, telling a heartwarming family drama that resonated with many Nigerians.

The movie was a true gem of 2022, earning high praises from critics and audiences alike, and it's a shame that it was overlooked by the AMVCA.

Ibrahim Chatta for Best Supporting Actor in Drama for Agbeshinkole

Nollywood veteran, Yinka Quadri, got a nod for his role in Anikulapo, which is great, but what about Ibrahim Chatta? He was amazing in Ageshinkole and definitely deserves a nomination too. Ageshinkole was enjoyable, thanks in large part to the performances of Chatta and Femi Adebayo.

Speaking of Adebayo, he did get a nomination for Best Actor, which is cool. But still, it's frustrating to see certain performances get overlooked. Looking at the AMVCA with bombastic side eyes.

Other notable mentions include:

• Wole Ojo for Best Actor in a Drama for  Inside Life
• Samaria by Chiemeke Osuagwu for Best Short Film
• The Way Things Happen by Dika Ofoma for Best Short Film