Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has responded to the online reactions trailing his new Netflix project, Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens, saying the series was created for viewers who enjoy thoughtful and layered storytelling, not quick entertainment.
Since the show was released at the end of January, social media has been filled with different opinions, some praising its creativity, others questioning its direction.

Afolayan, however, says the criticism does not change his purpose as a filmmaker.

In a video message to fans, the director explained that his style of filmmaking has always focused on depth and meaning rather than popularity.

“My films are for people who like to think,” he said, adding that not every story must be simple or straight to the point.

He pointed out that some of his older works were also misunderstood when they first came out but later gained respect beyond Nigeria. According to him, time often helps people understand stories that are built in layers.
Afolayan also asked viewers to be patient and watch the entire series before deciding whether it is good or bad.

“You can’t judge the journey when you haven’t reached the destination,” he said, suggesting that the plot becomes clearer as the episodes unfold.

He noted that the new series introduces different story paths that may confuse some viewers at first, but that was done intentionally. While he accepts that not everyone will connect with the show, he believes the audience he had in mind, lovers of literature and deep stories, already understands what he is trying to say.

Instead of backing down, the filmmaker said he would continue making films that challenge the mind and spark conversation, even if they divide opinion.

The original Anikulapo film released in 2022 was praised for its cultural themes and storytelling and later received international attention. Because of that success, expectations were high when the series version was announced on Netflix.