Exploring Folklore and Fear in Nollywood’s Ms. Kanyin

Nemsia Studios continues to push boundaries with its diverse slate of films, and their latest release, Ms. Kanyin, is no exception. Directed by Jerry Ossai, a visual effects expert who helped shape Nemsia's early projects, this supernatural thriller marks the studio's bold entry into the world of spine-chilling horror.

Set in a mysterious boarding school, Ms. Kanyin draws inspiration from the haunting Nigerian folklore of Madam Koi Koi. The story follows a group of rebellious students who, after breaking a sacred rule, unwittingly unleash an ancient evil spirit. At the center of the action is Amara, played by Temi Otedola (of Citation fame), whose life becomes intertwined with dark forces. The film also stars Michelle Dede, Kanaga Jr., Natse Jemide, Queen Damilola, Demola Adedoyin, and Kalu Ikeagwu, bringing a rich ensemble of talent to the screen.

With its eerie tone, the trailer hints at a gripping and atmospheric ride, positioning Ms. Kanyin as a standout in Nollywood's growing supernatural genre. The film premiered on Prime Video on June 27, 2025, and has already sparked excitement among fans and critics alike.

Since its founding in 2013 by Derin Adeyokunnu and BB Sasore, Nemsia Studios has become known for its willingness to explore a wide array of genres. Ms. Kanyin is just one of many unique projects that showcase the studio’s commitment to innovation. Its 2023 drama Breath of Life, which tells the story of a reclusive clergyman whose life is transformed by a young man, was widely acclaimed, winning Best Movie at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. It was also a part of a three-picture deal with Prime Video.

The same year, Nemsia caught the public's attention with With Difficulty Comes Ease, a moving drama that explored themes of loss, faith, and resilience. Directed by Korede Azeez, the film was praised for its nuanced portrayal of personal struggles and religious identity. Nemsia's film portfolio continued to grow with projects like Soft Love (2024), a romantic drama co-produced with Holmes Productions, and A Green Fever (2024), a period thriller that received praise for its gripping storytelling and visual flair.

The studio also ventured into the action genre in 2025 with Suky, directed by Ola Cardoso. This debut feature explores the underground world of Dambe boxing in southwestern Nigeria, offering a raw look at a former fighter’s struggle with trauma and redemption. And in the same year, The Fire and The Moth, another thriller by Taiwo Egunjobi, transported viewers into a distinct Afro-Western world with its hauntingly atmospheric setting.

Though some of Nemsia’s projects have drawn mixed reviews from critics, there’s no denying the studio’s growing influence. Early in its journey, Nemsia captured the public’s attention with the popular TV series Before 30 (2015), which delved into the lives of four Nigerian women facing the societal pressure of marrying before the age of 30. The success of the series led to a follow-up film, After 30, directed by Momo Spaine, which premiered in May 2025.

Beyond Ms. Kanyin, Nemsia’s catalog also includes notable titles like Banana Island Ghost (2017) and God Calling (2018), which experimented with comedy, fantasy, and spiritual themes. This shows the studio's flair for blending genres and creating fresh, thought-provoking narratives.

With each new release, Nemsia Studios continues to experiment and innovate, and Ms. Kanyin is yet another exciting chapter in their ever-expanding creative universe.