Editi Effiong, the writer and producer, has announced a sequel to his 2023 global hit movie ‘The Black Book’.
In a post via X, Effiong confirmed that the sequel titled ‘The Black Book: Old Scores’ is officially in development, and revealed a partnership with Nicky Weinstock, one of the producers of the Emmy Award-winning ‘Severance’, for the movie.
Effiong added that he has spent the past two years developing the script and securing major funding for what he described as a “historic production”, expressing confidence that the sequel will surpass the success of the 2023 film.
“It’s been a while. I thought to peek out a little to confirm the absolute worst-kept secret – yes, The Black Book: Old Scores, is happening, with Severance producer, Nicky Weinstock, joining the team as producer,” he wrote.
“The last two years have been frenetic for me, writing what’s become my favourite script along with my friend, Bunmi Ajakaiye, and working with Nicky, Mimi, and Ashley to raise unprecedented capital for the production of this historic production, with support from, Adino Capital, Mango Tree and Blooming Caravan.
“The Black Book became the most successful Nigerian film globally and it was important that the sequel meets the high standards set in our 2023 film. I’m excited to say that you are going to absolutely love Old Scores.”
He further revealed that while Richard Mofe-Damijo will reprise his role as Paul Edima, the sequel will introduce several new characters drawn from Nigeria, the UK, the US and Japan.
Effiong added that the film was shot on a large scale with a 300-member Nigerian and international crew, expressing appreciation to key collaborators who returned to work on the project.
“Richard Mofe-Damijo returns as Paul Edima, with Wongi Ibom as sidekick! A brand new story. New characters,” he added.
“New world, painted with my home state in the Niger Delta as a breathtaking backdrop. Some of your favourite characters have returned, but the new characters will absolutely blow you away.
“Making Old Scores was an amazing experience – the biggest Nigerian production to date, backed by a Nigerian and International crew, 300 strong, and cast joining us from Nigeria, UK, US Japan etc. to make tell a truly incredible film.
“Every film is made by believers and I am deeply grateful for the friends who joined me on this journey. Grateful for Yinka Edward, who returned as DOP and Co-Producer, alongside Yolanda Okereke, also Costume Designer, with Joshua Enekahire as Assistant Director and Mosadoluwa Olaleka as Production Designer.”
‘The Black Book’ follows Paul Edima, who loses his only son to a corrupt police unit, prompting him to embark on a revenge mission.
The sequel picks up where the first film left off, with Edima continuing his fight against systemic corruption while exploring “deeper themes of justice, redemption, and social unrest in contemporary Nigeria”.
However, the release date for the sequel has not yet been announced.
In 2023, ‘The Black Book’ hit number 3 on Netflix‘s global charts. The movie ranked in the top 10 in more than 69 countries and racked up more than 20 million views globally.
‘Severance’ is an Apple TV+ critically acclaimed, award-winning sci-fi thriller series that has garnered more than 48 wins and 196 nominations.
Its honours include 41 Emmy nominations with 10 wins, including Outstanding Music Composition and Main Title Design, as well as a Peabody Award and nominations at the Golden Globes, SAG Awards and WGA Awards.
