Directed by Eze Ariremu and Jide Oyegbile, the upcoming horror film Idia explores faith, family, and myth, drawing deeply from Edo traditions. It is set to hit cinemas nationwide on October 24.
In a country where folklore, spirituality, and superstition run deep, horror should be one of Nollywood’s most expressive genres. From tales of evil stepmothers and ritual practices to hauntings and domestic strife, the cultural landscape is rich with unsettling stories.
Yet, apart from classics like Diamond Ring, Nneka the Pretty Serpent, Living in Bondage, and The Weekend, the genre remains largely untapped.
Dr. Jasper Aziegbemhin, a doctor of optometry, actor, and filmmaker, is among a new generation of creatives hoping to change that.
In this exclusive interview with The Nollywood Reporter, he discusses his journey into film, his creative influences, and the culturally rooted vision behind Idia.
TNR: Tell us about how your journey into Nollywood began.
Dr. Jasper Aziegbemhin: My journey into Nollywood started with storytelling. I have always been fascinated by how film captures the human spirit, our fears, our culture, our faith. That passion led me to Delyork Film Academy and later to Kunle Afolayan’s masterclass program. Producing Idia is a defining moment for me. It is my way of contributing to a new wave of Nigerian cinema that dares to tell bold, culturally rooted stories.
What makes Idia different from other Nigerian horror films?
Idia is not just about fear; it is about faith, family, and the unseen consequences of desire. We wanted to tell a story most people are too afraid to talk about, something deeply human that could happen next door. The film’s visuals and sound design are grounded in realism. The goal was to evoke fear through proximity, not spectacle.
The story draws from Edo mythology. How did that influence the film’s tone and themes?
We drew deeply from the relationship between sacrifice, destiny, and ancestry. The goal was not to imitate tradition but to reawaken it. You will see it in the symbols, the colors, the rituals, and even in silence. Edo heritage gave the film its pulse.
What were your biggest creative influences while developing the project?
ALocally, Madam Koi Koi and Juju Stories reminded me of our deep spiritual narratives. Internationally, Hereditary and Get Out taught me that fear is not always about monsters; sometimes it is about truth.
You worked as both co-writer and producer. How did that shape your experience?
Writing required emotional depth; producing demanded discipline and logistics. One role grounded me, the other freed me. As a co-writer, I lived inside the story. As a producer, I made sure it could survive the real world of filmmaking.
What should audiences look out for when watching Idia?
Three things: the world, which is the heartbeat of the movie; the sound, which is subtle but unsettling; and the performances. Every actor poured real vulnerability into their role, especially the lead actress playing Idia. Her portrayal of innocence, confusion, and terror drives the story.
Casting seems to have been very intentional. How did you select your actors?
We were not just filling roles; we were finding souls that matched the story. Mercy Aigbe as Mama is powerful; she balances tenderness with menace effortlessly. We wrote Rose and Efosa specifically for Linda Osifo and Tope Tedela. Their chemistry with Idia will haunt you long after the credits roll.
Idia is out in cinemas nationwide on October 24.
