JOURNAL ARTICLE

Pidgin Englishes, marginality and fragility in Nollywood cinema: Exploring language, culture and storytelling.

  • Published In: Journal of African Cinemas, 2025, v. 17, n. 1/2. P. 9 1 of 3

  • Database: Africa Studies Source 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Akoh, Ben 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the role of Nigerian Pidgin English in Nollywood cinema, highlighting its significance as a linguistic and cultural medium that challenges the dominance and stigmatization of standard English. Through analysis of Nollywood director Ema Edosio’s films *Kasala!* and *Otiti*, the study illustrates how Nigerian Pidgin English functions as a tool for authentic storytelling, cultural mediation, and social agency, fostering inclusivity across Nigeria’s diverse linguistic communities. The article critiques monolingual language ideologies and standard English–based analytical methods for inadequately capturing the nuances of Nigerian Pidgin English, advocating for further research in translation and subtitling to enhance its recognition and accessibility in global cinema. Ultimately, Nigerian Pidgin English is presented as a vital multilingual language enterprise that sustains cultural identity and cohesion within and beyond Nigerian society.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of African Cinemas. 2025/03, Vol. 17, Issue 1/2, p9
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:1754-9221
  • DOI:10.1386/jac_00129_1
  • Accession Number:187162179
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