Exploring the Narrative Functions of Make-Up in Nollywood: a Study of Kunle Afolayan's Anikulapo

Student: Fauziyat Precious Yusuf (Project, 2025)
Department of Theatre and Performing Arts
Bayero University, Kano, Kano State

Abstract

This research set out to explore the narrative functions of make-up in Nollywood, using Kunle Afolayan's Aníkúlápo as a case study. It investigates how make-up, beyond its conventional aesthetic role, operates as a storytelling device that visually expresses character transformation, emotional states, temporal shifts, and thematic languages. Deploying the narrative theory, the study adopts a qualitative methodology using film analysis to examine selected scenes where make-up plays a critical role in advancing the narrative. Findings reveal that make-up is deliberately used to guide audience perception, deepen character arcs, and reinforce cultural symbolism. Key transformations, such as Saro’s decaying and resurrected form, demonstrates the capacity of make-up to communicate complex story elements without dialogue. The research concludes that make-up is a vital narrative instrument in Nollywood, one that significantly enhances visual storytelling and cultural authenticity. This study, hence, contributes to expanding the understanding of make-up as a cinematic language in storytelling.

Keywords
exploring narrative functions make-up nollywood kunle afolayan anikulapo
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