February 11, (THEWILL) — Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has responded to mixed reactions to his Netflix series, Aníkúlápó: The Ghoul Awakens, a five-part mini-series and continuation of the 2022 hit Aníkúlápó, which premiered on January 30, 2026.
In a video shared on his Instagram page, Afolayan urged critics and viewers to be patient before judging the series. He explained that his films are made for audiences who enjoy thoughtful storytelling, not quick reactions.
“There’s something very peculiar about the kind of films that we make. We make films for the intellectual, not gbasgbos. We make films for people who can think,” he said.
Afolayan added that he does not expect everyone to like or fully understand his work, but believes the audience he had in mind “got it.”
He cited positive feedback from scholars, professors, and “deep thinkers.”
He criticized those who judged the series without watching all episodes, saying it’s unfair to conclude it is not good before seeing the full story.
He compared it to Game of Thrones, noting that complex stories take time to understand.
Afolayan recalled that some of his earlier films, including Irapada and The Figurine, faced criticism initially but later gained recognition and international awards.
Encouraging fellow filmmakers, he said: “As a filmmaker, don’t listen, just keep making your films. For us, we’ll keep appealing to those who have sense, common sense.”
In January, he emphasized that he values making intellectually driven films, focusing on creative freedom and lasting impact rather than box office success.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
