Marc Adebesin

CAREER

Adebesin entered filmmaking in the mid-2010s as an independent producer and director. Key early works: Tied Up (2016, short film) — His first produced film. It won Best Short Film at the 2016 ZAFAA Global Awards and was an Official Selection at the RTF 2019. Talking Dolls (2017) — His debut feature film as producer/executive producer. It received widespread recognition with over 44 nominations and 17–19 awards, and screened at multiple international festivals, including the Toronto Nollywood International Film Festival. The Accidental Spy (2017) — Line Producer / Production Manager. He went on to direct and produce a string of features: The Alter Date (2019) — Director Hustle (2021) — Director and Producer. The film had a successful theatrical run in Nigeria (grossing over ₦14 million) and later streamed on Amazon Prime Video. It starred Nancy Isime, Bimbo Ademoye, Jim Iyke, Gabriel Afolayan, and Femi Branch. What Happened at St. James (2021) — Director Identical Justice (2022) — Director Dice (2023) — Director and Producer Golden Stripes (2023) — Producer Unknown Soja (2024/2025) — Director, Writer, and Producer. The film achieved notable box-office performance in Nigerian cinemas. The Beacon Man (2025/2026) — Director. An ambitious epic sci-fi film blending history, spirituality, and destiny. It stars Odunlade Adekola, Gabriel Afolayan, Jide Awobona, Femi Branch, Bimbo Oshin, and others, with Isaac Arogundade as Executive Producer. The film received festival attention and was scheduled for nationwide Nigerian cinema release on November 6, 2026. Adebesin’s films often explore themes of human struggle, resilience, moral complexity, relationships, and social realities, combining commercial appeal with emotional authenticity. He has also taken on acting roles, including a part as a Police Officer in The Three Kings (2018).

Marc Adebesin is regarded as one of the more consistent UK-based Nollywood filmmakers of his generation. He has spoken in interviews about the challenges of independent filmmaking, the importance of preparation, and his desire to create stories that can cross over between African and international audiences. Through Bluewater Solutions and his guild involvement, he continues to contribute to the growth and professionalization of Nollywood productions outside Nigeria.