Biodun Stephen’s ‘Unclaimed’ Brings Unfiltered Emotion and Psychological Suspense to Nigerian Cinemas

Kunle Remi, Elma Mbadiwe, and Timini Egbuson lead the charge in this genre-bending Nollywood release.

Black Film Wire Staff| June 2025

Kunle Remi, Elma Mbadiwe, and Timini Egbuson lead the charge in this genre-bending Nollywood release.

Lagos, Nigeria — Unclaimed, the gripping new psychological drama from celebrated director Biodun Stephen, is now showing in cinemas across Nigeria — and it’s already sparking conversation. Distributed by FilmOne Entertainment and backed by Film Trybe, the film premiered with a private industry screening at Alliance Française in Ikoyi, before opening to the public on June 20.

The movie — led by a sharp ensemble including Kunle Remi, Elma Mbadiwe, Timini Egbuson, Teniola Aladese, and Omowunmi Dada — isn’t just a thriller. It’s a haunting excavation of memory, grief, fractured family dynamics, and emotional rupture. Think: heart meets mystery with no easy answers. This is Nollywood pushing into deeper psychological terrain — and it feels both timely and overdue.

Set in the shadow of personal loss, Unclaimed examines what happens when the past refuses to stay buried. It’s raw, introspective, and unapologetically Nigerian — with storytelling that blends cultural nuance with genre tension.

Stella Damasus at Biodun Stephen’s Unclaimed Cinemas

Teen roller–rinks, dreams, and summer nights in Atlanta—starring T.I. and Lauren London—makes for feel-good Independence Day vibes.

“Unclaimed is more than just a film,” said Kayode Kasum, producer and founder of FilmTrybe. “It’s a deeply emotional journey into family, identity, and the unspoken truths that shape us.” And honestly? He’s not wrong.

At the premiere, the film drew a packed room of actors, creatives, and execs from across Nigeria’s fast-evolving media landscape. Ladun Awobokun, Chief Content Officer at FilmOne Entertainment, captured the spirit of the moment:

In pictures- Kayode Kasum, Biodun Stephen, Stella Damasus.

“Films like Unclaimed reflect our commitment to bold, genre-forward storytelling. They deepen the creative range of Nigerian cinema — and prove local content can be both artistic and theatrical.”

The film also marks the official debut of Hook Entertainment, and signals a wider creative agenda: one that prioritizes complexity, indigenous perspective, and risk-taking across Nigeria’s theatrical platforms.

🎟️ Unclaimed is now playing in cinemas nationwide. For showtimes and bookings, visit www.filmhouseng.com.