Over the years, Nollywood has explored a wide range of genres, but the apocalyptic thriller has remained largely untouched.
With Alive Till Dawn, filmmaker Sulaiman Ogegbo steps into unfamiliar territory, introducing what is widely regarded as Nollywood’s first zombie apocalypse thriller.
The film, which has already premiered in cinemas nationwide, marks a bold attempt to test how local audiences respond to a genre more commonly associated with international cinema.
Taking on a genre that relies heavily on world-building and internal rules, Alive Till Dawn represents a creative risk. Zombie stories operate differently from conventional narratives, as survival, instinct, and moral choices often take precedence over everyday logic.
Whether the film succeeds or falls short, its ambition signals a willingness to expand Nollywood’s storytelling boundaries.
Globally, zombie films and series have enjoyed sustained popularity, from Train to Busan and The Walking Dead to All of Us Are Dead.
Their appeal lies not only in depicting the collapse of society, but also in exploring human behaviour under extreme pressure. Fear, compassion, sacrifice, and resilience often emerge as strongly as the horror itself. These are the elements Alive Till Dawn aims to tap into within a Nigerian context.
But if Nigerians were suddenly plunged into an imaginary zombie apocalypse, how might survival look? Here are a few basic principles that could make the difference.
Arm yourself with protection
In any apocalyptic scenario, protection is essential. Survivors would need to find items that can serve as shields or weapons, whether improvised or repurposed. Being prepared could mean the difference between escaping danger and falling victim to it.
There is safety in numbers
Surviving alone drastically reduces your chances. Moving in a group offers advantages such as shared responsibilities, pooled resources, and emotional support. While it may sound grim, having more people around can also create opportunities to escape or regroup when danger strikes.
Prioritise water
Food matters, but water is non-negotiable. Dehydration can become fatal far quicker than hunger, making access to clean water one of the most urgent survival needs. In a zombie-infested environment, securing water sources would be critical.
Find your way to safety
The ultimate goal is reaching a secure location. In fictional apocalyptic scenarios, governments or military forces often establish quarantine zones or safe havens. Staying informed and following evacuation instructions would improve the chances of long-term survival.
Avoid getting bitten
This remains the most basic rule of zombie survival. Staying alert, keeping distance, and avoiding direct confrontation whenever possible would be essential in a world overrun by the undead.
While Alive Till Dawn explores these ideas through fiction, its arrival signals Nollywood’s growing interest in genre experimentation and raises questions about how familiar global narratives can be reimagined through a local lens.