My films are for people who have sense, Kunle Afolayan tells critics

Mr Afolayan stated that negative reactions to his films were not new.

Rejoice Okechukwu • February 11, 2026

Kunle Afolayan[Credit: The Guardian Nigeria]

Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has responded to critics of his film, “Anikulapo season 2: Ghoul Awakening,” saying the fantasy series was created for “intellectual” viewers.

In a video he posted on Tuesday, Mr Afolayan thanked supporters of the series, but acknowledged that the reviews have been mixed.

He stated that negative reactions to his films were not new, recalling his earlier film “Irapada,” which he said was initially criticised but later gained international recognition and won awards.

He urged filmmakers not to be discouraged by public opinion.

“There’s something peculiar to the kind of films that we make,” he said, stressing that his productions are driven by intellect.

He added that his storytelling style targets a niche audience, stating, “We make films for the intellectual, not gbas gbos… We make films for people who can think.”

The director said he does not expect universal acceptance, noting that his focus was on viewers who appreciate deep stories and cultural themes.

“I don’t expect that everybody will like and understand the film,” he said, expressing satisfaction that scholars and “deep thinkers” have connected with the project.

Mr Afolayan also addressed complaints that the storyline feels disjointed, arguing that critics were judging the series too early.

“It is a series that has many episodes… what you have seen are just a few,” he explained, adding that the plot unfolds progressively for audiences familiar with storytelling plots.

Responding to the critics, he said filmmakers such as himself would continue creating for audiences who understand their work, “those who have sense, common sense.”

‘Anikulapo’ is a Yoruba fantasy drama, the story centres on Saro, a travelling artisan executed for having an affair with a queen, who is resurrected by a mystical bird known as the Akala.

The first season, “Rise of the Spectre,” debuted on Netflix in 2022 and drew global attention for its exploration of Yoruba mythology and the traditional aesthetics.

Following its success, season two was released on Netflix on January 30, 2026.

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