The much-anticipated film Higher Crime, produced by Aniebiet Francis and directed by Uduakobong Patrick, is set to premiere in cinemas across Nigeria, Ghana, and French-speaking West Africa on June 14, 2024.
Distributed by Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution, this gripping drama delves into the courageous journey of Tife, portrayed by Enwongoabasi Ibom, a prominent blogger who brings to light the chilling truth of a woman's sexual assault, igniting a fierce legal battle with Jeffrey, a prominent philanthropist played by Femi Branch.
The film features a vibrant ensemble cast, blending industry heavyweights like Branch, Bimbo Akintola, and Keppy Ekpenyong with rising stars Ibom and Folashade Abimbola.
Branch, who recently starred as a villain in the acclaimed Disney-Kugali animated series Iwaju, once again embraces a dark role as Jeffrey. Akintola, known for blockbusters like 93 Days, stars as Jeffrey's loyal yet naive wife.
Ibom, a rising actress and social media influencer, takes on the role of Tife, the fearless blogger determined to fight for justice. Nollywood legend, Ekpenyong, plays Jeffrey's lawyer, who helps him leverage shared political connections to silence Tife, while newcomer, Abimbola, portrays Ruby, another victim of abuse.
The film is produced by Nigerian filmmaker and actress, Francis, under her production company, Amazing Arts Entertainment. Known for her hit 2019 film The Final List, which blended comedy with social commentary on the bride price epidemic in Igbo culture, Francis takes a more dramatic approach with Higher Crime, addressing the pressing issue of sexual assault, especially within the family unit.
In a social media post on Wednesday, the producer shared the movie poster, announcing the film's release with the powerful statement, "Not all silence is golden." She further commented, "This film is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of speaking truth to power."
The film is distributed globally by prominent Nigerian entertainment company, Tribe Nation Theatrical Distribution. Higher Crime is the latest addition to the company's impressive portfolio of domestic and international releases.
Tribe Nation, which began its domestic operations in Nigeria in February 2023 and expanded internationally in December 2023, has quickly established itself as a significant player in the African entertainment industry.
Following the successful releases of The Other One (L'autre Homme in French territories), the heist film Charlie and the Boys (Charlie et sa Bande in French territories), and the horror film Trepidation, the company is poised for further success with Higher Crime.
The film will be available in major cinema chains and independent theaters across Nigeria and West Africa starting June 14, promising to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative and powerful performances.
Watch the trailer here: