SLC-S25/W3-Movie Snapshots | Hidden Gems
Hello friends! 👋
Can you believe we’re here already? Week 3 of the Movie Snapshots Challenge, yay!!!
Last week’s challenge was about bringing our favourite books-turned-movies to life. But this week, we’re going deeper, into the forgotten, overlooked, and quietly powerful stories.
We're celebrating “Hidden Gems”, movies that may not have won major awards or topped charts, but left a lasting emotional impact. These are the kind of films that make you sit still after the credits roll… sometimes teary, sometimes thoughtful, but always moved.
Let me take you on a journey through five lesser-known or underrated movies that changed something in me, and may do the same for you.
🎬 1. 93 Days (2016, Nigeria)
Director: Steve Gukas
Starring: Bimbo Akintola, Danny Glover, Somkele Iyamah, Gideon Okeke
This Nigerian thriller tells the true story of the 2014 Ebola outbreak in Lagos and the heroic actions of Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh and her team to contain it. While global pandemic films abound, 93 Days stands out for its emotional authenticity and quiet patriotism.
I still remember the eerie tension when the hospital was locked down with the index patient inside. Bimbo Akintola’s performance? Breathtaking, the picture of courage and sacrifice.
- Why underrated: Despite international praise, it never reached the global attention that similar films like Contagion enjoyed.
- How to elevate it: Stream it globally, include it in leadership, ethics, and public health workshops.
🎬 2. Dazzling Mirage (2014, Nigeria)
Director: Tunde Kelani
Starring: Kemi Lala Akindoju, Kunle Afolayan, Seun Akindele, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett
Dazzling Mirage follows Funmiwo, a young woman with sickle cell disorder trying to live a full life — love, career, and purpose — despite pain, stigma, and cultural barriers.
There’s a powerful scene where she breaks down, tired of being seen as weak or "unfit" for marriage. It hit me because it revealed the silent battles many with invisible illnesses face.
- Why it’s a hidden gem: Despite being directed by a legend, it was too “quiet” for mainstream buzz.
- Why it impacted me: It opened my heart to the emotional lives of people with chronic conditions.
- How to elevate it: Feature during Sickle Cell Awareness Month, screen in schools and churches, or partner with medical NGOs.
🎬 3. The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind (2019, Malawi)
Director: Chiwetel Ejiofor
Starring: Maxwell Simba, Chiwetel Ejiofor
Based on the true story of William Kamkwamba, a 13-year-old Malawian boy who builds a wind turbine to save his village from famine. It's a film about resilience, invention, and raw determination.
What I loved most is how it shows that knowledge, even without privilege, can revolutionise a community.
- Why underrated: Despite Netflix distribution, it didn’t trend widely.
- How to elevate it: Promote through STEM clubs, youth innovation hubs, and entrepreneurship events across Africa.
🎬 4. Queen of Katwe (2016, Uganda )
Director: Mira Nair
Starring: Madina Nalwanga, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo
Based on the real-life story of Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan girl from the slums who becomes an international chess champion. This story is about grit, brilliance, and breaking every societal ceiling.
The moment Phiona whispers, “Can I become a grandmaster?” gave me goosebumps. This isn’t just a chess story, it’s a reminder that greatness often starts in hidden places.
- Why underrated: Released with little fanfare despite its message.
- How to elevate it: Bring it into girl-empowerment campaigns and leadership workshops across Africa.
🎬 5. October 1 (2014, Nigeria)
Director: Kunle Afolayan
Starring: Sadiq Daba, Demola Adedoyin, Kehinde Bankole
Set just before Nigeria’s independence, this psychological thriller follows a police officer investigating murders in a remote village. But it’s not just a mystery, October 1 digs deep into colonial trauma, cultural erosion, and abuse.
It’s haunting, sharp, and deeply courageous.
- Why underrated: Loved locally but didn’t get global recognition.
- How to elevate it: Showcase during Black History Month, African heritage events, and in global African Studies programs.
💡 Why These Movies Matter
These films matter because they amplify voices often ignored. They tell stories not just about individuals, but about a society’s brokenness, beauty, and longing to be seen.
They remind us that cinema isn’t just for entertainment, it’s for:
- 🧠 Cultural memory
- ❤️ Emotional healing
- 💬 Societal awakening
They challenge us to ask:
What makes a film valuable, is it star power or soul power?
Who decides what stories are worth telling?
These hidden gems deserve a spotlight, conversation, and celebration.
🌍 What Can Be Done?
Hidden gems deserve more than a passing glance; they deserve community, conversation, and continuity.
🎥 1. Screen and Discuss Locally
- Organise film nights in schools, churches, and community centres.
- Follow each screening with open discussions or reflections.
E.g.., watch “Dazzling Mirage” and discuss sickle cell awareness.
💻 2. Host Virtual Movie Clubs
- Use Zoom or Telegram to host monthly “Hidden Gems” sessions.
- Watch together, then share reactions and lessons.
These sessions build empathy and cross-cultural understanding.
📱 3. Leverage Social Media
- Share clips, quotes, or powerful moments on TikTok, X, Threads, and IG Reels.
One 30-second scene can spark millions of views and conversations.
🤝 4. Partner with NGOs and Educators
- NGOs working in health, youth development, or education can use these films as training or advocacy tools.
E.g., “93 Days” in public health forums; “October 1” in African history classes.
🧠 5. Write Thoughtful Reflections
- Use blogs and platforms like Steemit to share emotional reviews and personal takeaways.
Storytelling gives films a second life.
🎙 6. Collaborate with Influencers and Podcasters
- Podcasts, micro-influencers, and film reviewers can revive these stories through episodes like:
“5 Movies That Changed My Life” or “Underrated African Films You Must See.”
I would like to invite @etoro, @kwinberry, @alexanderpeace to join this challenge
Shared on X
https://x.com/lifeofladey/status/1940025969848250410
Thank you for participating in this challenge of season 25.
You are the second user mentioning the movies dazzling mirage and the boy who harassed the wind. I think I may need to check it out.
The movie is so nice
Got lots of lessons
I think Africans make very interesting movies. Regards.