Merry Men (film series)

Last updated
Merry Men
MerryMenFranchiseLogo.png
Official film series logo
Based on Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons
by Ayo Makun
Produced byDarlington Abuda
Ayo Makun
Patrick Ovoke Odjegba (1–3)
StarringAyo Makun
Ramsey Nouah
Jim Iyke
Production
company
Corporate World Entertainment
Distributed by FilmOne Distributions
Release date
2018–present
Running time
332 minutes
CountryNigeria
LanguageEnglish

Merry Men film series is a Nigerian action comedy film franchise created by Ay Makun and produced under the banner of Corporate World Entertainment and distributed by Filmone Distribution. [1] [2] The series comprises Three films Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018), Merry Men 2: Another Mission (2019), with a third installment, Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2024). [3] Known for its mix of humor, action, and social commentary, the series has gained significant attention in Nollywood, [4] featuring an ensemble cast of Nigerians.

Contents

Starting in 2018, the film introduces a group of wealthy and charismatic bachelors known as the "Merry Men." These four friends Remi Martin (played by Ayo Makun), Amaju Abioritsegbemi (Ramsey Nouah), Naz Okigbo (Jim Iyke), and Ayo Alesinloye (Folarin Falana, aka Falz) use their charm and resources to navigate high society while covertly engaging in philanthropy. However, their playboy lifestyle is challenged when they face a powerful politician and a high-stakes land-grabbing scheme.

The series has experienced a generally positive and negative reception from critics. Both Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons and Merry Men 2: Another Mission were commercial success in Nigeria, ranking among the highest-grossing Nigerian films of their respective years. [5] [6] [7]

Overview

The Merry Men series revolves around a group of wealthy, charming, and philanthropic men who use their influence and skills to tackle social injustices while living double lives as high-stakes con artists. They operate in Abuja, Nigeria, using their charisma to manipulate powerful individuals while secretly working to help marginalized communities.

Films

FilmU.S. release dateDirectorScreenwriter(s)Story byProducersStatus
Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons September 28, 2018 Toka McBaror Anthony Kehinde JosephAy Makun Ay Makun & Darlington Abuda Released
Merry Men 2: Another Mission December 20, 2019 Moses Inwang Anthony Kehinde JosephAy Makun
Merry Men 3: Nemesis January 18, 2024Moses InwangAy Makun & Anthony Kehinde Joseph

Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons (2018)

Directed by Toka McBaror, the first film introduces the titular Merry Men: Ayo Alesinloye (played by Ay Makun), Naz Okigbo (Jim Iyke), Remi Martins (Falz), and Amaju Abioritsegbemi (Ramsey Nouah). The plot follows the group as they attempt to thwart the corrupt plans of a powerful politician threatening the livelihoods of local villagers. The film blends heist elements with comedy and cultural references, earning commercial success and praise for its star-studded cast.

Merry Men 2: Another Mission (2019)

The sequel, also directed by Moses Inwang, sees the return of the Merry Men as they face personal and professional challenges. This time, their mission is more personal as they confront an adversary seeking revenge for past deeds. The film explores themes of loyalty, love, and redemption while retaining the humor and action that defined the first installment.

Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2024)

The third film in the series, directed by Moses Inwang, is slated for release in December 2024. The plot details are under wraps, but it promises to continue the Merry Men's adventures with higher stakes and more elaborate schemes. New cast members and a heightened focus on action have been teased in promotional materials. [8]

Cast and characters

List indicators

This section includes characters who will appear or have appeared in the Merry men film series.

Overview of Merry Men cast and crew
Character
Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons Merry Men 2: Another Mission Merry Men 3: Nemesis
Ayo Alesinloye Ayo Makun
Amaju Abioritsegbemi Ramsey Nouah
Naz Okigbo Jim Iyke
Remi Martins Folarin "Falz" Falana
Dame Maduka Ireti Doyle
Sophie Nancy Isime
Dera Chukwu Damilola Adegbite
Kenya Obi Regina Daniels
JohnnyUchemba Williams
Kemi Alesinloye Rosaline Meurer
Mrs Anyanwu Lilian Esoro
Chidinma (blogger) Osas Ighodaro
Inspector Cross Omisore Segun Arinze
Inspector Jack Francis Duru
Uduak Francis Sam Dede
Olamide Himself
Dafe Chidi Mokeme

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References

  1. "Film One - Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons". Film One. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  2. "AY announces return of 'Merry Men' franchise | Pulse Nigeria". www.pulse.ng. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  3. "AY Makun Announces Third Installment of Merry Men Franchise - BlueprintAfric". 2023-05-05. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  4. Nwabuikwu, Onoshe (2020-01-12). "Merry Men And The Idea Of Nollywood Royalty". Punch Newspapers. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  5. Dan-Awoh, Deborah (2023-10-21). "Merry Men 3 ranks no 1 in box office sales with N33.4 million". Nairametrics. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  6. Dan-Awoh, Deborah (2023-11-01). "Nigeria's cinema-goers continue to flock 'Merry Men 3,' grossing N75.4 Million". Nairametrics. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  7. Onoja, Simeon (2023-11-01). "The Resilient Rise of "Merry Men 3" at the Nigerian Box Office". Business Elites Africa. Retrieved 2024-12-08.
  8. Hoad, Phil (2019-12-20). "Merry Men 2 review – low-budget Fast & Furious-style shenanigans". The Guardian. ISSN   0261-3077 . Retrieved 2024-12-08.