A major cross-industry collaboration between Nollywood and Bollywood is set to hit cinemas on May 1, 2026, with the release of On Different Grounds, a $350,000 (N476.6 million) production aimed at global audiences.
Produced by Nicolette Ndigwe and directed by Mildred Okwo, the film tells the story of a divorced billionaire couple who reunite for their daughter’s wedding, only to face unexpected complications as she attempts to rekindle their relationship.
The film features a diverse cast drawn from Nigeria, India, Ghana, and the United States, including Jennifer Eliogu, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, Nkem Owoh, Uche Jombo, and India’s Nimesh Diliprai, among others.
Filmed in Lagos, the production reflects a growing trend of international collaboration designed to expand the reach of African storytelling.
The producers plan a wide release across Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States, alongside video-on-demand platforms and in-flight entertainment on selected international airlines, signalling an aggressive push into global markets.
To support the release, the filmmakers have outlined a N74.8 million marketing campaign covering media promotion, cinema advertising, billboards, premiere events, and logistics.
Breakdown of the campaign includes:
- N10 million for media publicity across digital, print, and TV
- N8 million for in-cinema promotions
- N5 million for billboards in major cities
- N10 million for exclusive private screenings
- N25 million for the Lagos premiere
- N15 million for logistics and cinema-related costs
- N6.8 million as contingency
Pre-release activities began in February, including publicity campaigns, private screenings, and early ticket sales.
The Lagos premiere will feature a red carpet event alongside cultural exhibitions and a fashion showcase highlighting Igbo, Itsekiri, and Indian heritage.
According to Ndigwe, the project is part of a broader strategy to position Nigerian films on the global stage through international partnerships. A sequel is already in development, with filming expected to take place in both Nigeria and India.
The film underscores a growing shift within Nollywood toward cross-border collaborations, broader distribution channels, and global audience engagement, signalling a new phase in the industry’s evolution.
