11 Romantic African Movies to Watch

From heartwarming comedies to moving dramas, these romantic African films offer fresh perspectives on love across the continent.

Two people smiling and toasting with glasses of drinks at a dining table.

In ‘Trading Places,’ Nandi and Siya rediscover each other and reignite the love they thought was lost after an unexpected twist forces them to swap lives.

Photo from ‘Trading Places’ trailer, YouTube.

While romance is often seen as a lighter, less serious genre, African cinema has consistently shown that love stories can be just as powerful and impactful as any other. Whether it’s through heartwarming comedies, dramatic tales of love against the odds, or deep reflections on relationships, these 11 films offer a refreshing perspective on romance.

'Isoken' (2017)

The protagonist of Isoken is a successful and beautiful woman in her mid-thirties who has yet to marry, causing anxiety for her mother and relatives. However, Isoken refuses to succumb to pressure and chooses to find love on her terms, in her own time. Directed by Jade Osiberu, this romantic comedy addresses ethnic biases, cultural expectations, and strong family bonds in a heartwarming, dramatic, and amusing way. It stars Dakore Akande, Funke Akindele and Tina Mba.

'Rafiki' (2018)

In Rafiki, a lesbian love story set in a society where such relationships are both illegal and taboo, director Wanuri Kahiu delivers a moral and creative triumph that offers hope in an otherwise bleak circumstance. The film is a crucial portrayal of a romance that is just as adorable, relevant, and powerful as any heterosexual love story, highlighted by vibrant opening credits, a fantastic soundtrack, and stunning cinematography that showcases Kenya's beautiful landscape. This modern slice-of-life drama grants its main characters the freedom to pursue their desires and live on their terms, despite cultural, societal, or familial norms. Rafiki is a beautiful and lively depiction of a budding relationship that captures the spirit of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

'A Tale of Love And Desire' (2021)

Leyla Bouzid's film depicts the love story between Ahmed, a young French man of Algerian descent, and Farah, a Tunisian girl who immediately captures his heart. Despite his inner struggles, Ahmed cannot help but be drawn to Farah, especially as he discovers a library of sensual and provocative Arab literature. A Tale of Love and Desire expertly delves into the tensions that precede early sexual experiences, capturing the conflicting desires of the heart, mind, and body without becoming overly esoteric. The film portrays the frenzy of a new relationship and the irresistible attraction between two bodies in a sensual and well-crafted manner. It is a warm and passionate exploration of love and desire that is captivating and thought-provoking.

‘From A Whisper’ (2009)

This emotionally charged drama, based on the real-life events of the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombings in Nairobi, tells the intertwined stories of survivors and those affected by the tragedy. At its heart is a deeply touching and nuanced portrayal of love, loss, and forgiveness. The film masterfully conveys the bonds that hold us together through grief and hope. Also directed by Kahiu, From a Whisper offers a moving depiction of love against the backdrop of tragedy and political unrest, making it a Kenyan classic.

‘A United Kingdom’ (2016)

Based on the true story of former Botswana president, Seretse Khama, and his English wife, Ruth Williams, A United Kingdom captures a love that defied racial and political barriers in the 1940s. Their relationship caused international uproar and challenged societal norms at the time. Directed by Amma Asante, this film is a moving depiction of resilience and romance amidst adversity, a powerful portrayal of love transcending borders and culture, and an exceptional marriage of historical and romantic cinema.

‘Love Jacked’ (2018)

A fun, lighthearted romcom, Love Jacked follows Maya, a woman who, after a failed engagement in South Africa, pretends to be engaged to a stranger in Canada to appease her overbearing father. What begins as a scheme quickly turns into an unexpected love story. Directed by Alfons Adetuyi, Love Jacked adds a delightful, feel-good, modern slant to the classic romantic comedy formula.

‘A Naija Christmas’ (2021)

In this festive rom-com, a mother gives her three sons a Christmas challenge to bring home a wife, with the first to do so promised the highly coveted family house. Ugo, the eldest, finds himself unexpectedly falling for a devout Christian, while Obi spends his time chasing after another woman, not realizing that true love has been right beside him all along. And Chike, the last son, is indifferent about the whole challenge. Directed by Kunle Afolayan, A Naija Christmas delivers a heartwarming mix of romance, family expectations, and holiday cheer that makes it a true Nollywood favorite.

‘Trading Places’ (2023)

Nandi and Siya are a married South African couple whose relationship has lost its spark, hovering on the verge of falling apart. But when an unexpected twist forces them to swap lives, they rediscover each other and reignite the love they thought was lost. Trading Places is a fresh take on second chances and the power of reconnecting with the one you love.

‘All the Colours of the World Are Between Black and White’ (2023)

Tender, powerful, quietly moving. This Nigerian queer film tells the story of Bambino and Bawa, two men who form an unexpected bond during a road trip in Lagos. As they spend more time together, their friendship deepens into something more, despite the unspoken societal pressures surrounding them. In this directorial debut by Babatunde Apalowo, All The Colours of the World Are Between Black and White explores love and identity against the backdrop of a society that insists on a singular kind of love.

'Atlantics' (2019)

Set in suburban Dakar, Mati Diop's captivating debut film, Atlantics, explores the boundaries between different worlds. The story follows young Ada, who is forced into a wealthy marriage but is devastated when her true love disappears at sea, during an attempt to migrate. This complex yet heartwarming film sets itself apart through the nuanced acting, thrilling plot, and poignant love story that cuts to the core. With stunning visuals, a captivating soundtrack, and powerful emotional resonance, Atlantics offers a timeless, immersive tale.

'Phone Swap' (2012)

Kunle Afolayan's film follows the story of Mary, a fashion designer, and Akin, an arrogant businessman, who accidentally swap phones at a crowded airport. Over the course of a weekend, they have to help each other out, and this heralds the start of a romantic relationship. Phone Swap stands out for its engaging and heartfelt plot, exceptional performances from a talented cast, and stunning visuals. The film also avoids convoluted and uninteresting subplots, thanks to the excellent script writers who keep the story simple, fresh, exciting, and humorous. Nse Ikpe-Etim, Wale Ojo, and Lydia Forson deliver standout performances in this entertaining and engaging film.

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