Representation of Female Sexuality and Empowerment in Select Nollywood Movies

Abstract

Nollywood movies are significant channels of communication in Nigeria, known for creative and realistic portrayals of some phenomena in African societies and beyond. However, there is an ongoing debate about the role of Nollywood movies in perpetuating harmful gender stereotypes, particularly their manner of depicting female characters in sexual relationships. Against that backdrop, this study sought to ascertain the real position of Nollywood either challenging or supporting the existing stereotypes representing female characters' sexuality in films from the period of 2020 to 2024. Through the application of a mixed-methods approach, the study examined various contents of selected movies and collected data from some viewers. The social constructivist theory guided this study. Findings show most Nigerian movies perpetuate harmful stereotypes, depicting female characters as passive and submissive. A few movies challenge these stereotypes, portraying female characters as empowered. Based on the above results, the study recommends prioritizing empowered and dynamic female characters by depicting them as active agents in sexual relationships. Such an approach can promote a more inclusive representation of women in Nigerian movies.