Emmy-nominated producer Nicky Weinstock has partnered with Anakle Films on The Black Book 2: Old Scores, the sequel to Editi Effiong’s critically acclaimed directorial debut, The Black Book. Weinstock, whose credits include Severance, Bridesmaids, and Queenpins, joins the project through his company, Invention Studios. The sequel sees Effiong return as director and writer, continuing Paul Edima’s story while expanding the world audiences first encountered. 

The 2023 thriller introduced audiences to Paul Edima, played by Richard Mofe Damijo, a devoted deacon drawn into a relentless quest for justice and revenge after the murder of his son. The film hit No.3 on Netflix’s global charts, ranking in the top 10 in over 69 countries with more than 20 million views worldwide. It became a cultural moment proving that a locally rooted story could spark global conversations.

Now, Anakle Films, with Weinstock and Invention Studios, is expanding that momentum. 

Weinstock has a strong history with Nollywood. He maintains a longstanding relationship with the Africa International Film Festival, which makes the collaboration a natural evolution of shared creative values.

Speaking on the partnership, Weinstock said, “I’ve been fortunate to work closely with AFRIFF for years, and I’ve seen first-hand the extraordinary creativity and vision of filmmakers across the continent. Partnering on The Black Book 2 is an extension of that passion, a chance to help bring African stories and storytellers to audiences everywhere.”

Production on The Black Book 2: Old Scores has officially wrapped, and by every measure, it is the most ambitious Nigerian production ever mounted. Backed by a 300-strong Nigerian and international crew, with cast travelling in from Nigeria, the UK, the US, Japan, and beyond, the film represents a new benchmark for what African cinema can look like at scale.

Behind the camera, the production brought together a highly talented team, with Bunmi Ajakaiye returning as co-writer, along with Yinka Edward returning as Director of Photography and Co-Producer, and Joshua Enekahire as Assistant Director. Mimi Bartels is a Producer on the project, with Yolanda Okereke serving as both Costume Designer and Co-Producer, and Mosadoluwa Olalekan as Production Designer.

Anchoring the cast are returning fan favourites Richard Mofe Damijo, Alex Usifo, and Shaffy Bello, whose performances in the original left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. Joining them is a strong lineup of new additions to the franchise, including Enwongo ‘Wongi’ Ibom, Kate Henshaw, Twilight’s Masami Kosaka, Bright Okpocha, Chidi Ajufo, Ayobami Awe, Zack Amata, William Benson, Rick Kiesewetter, Soibifaa Dokubo, Mallum Arik, and others. This mix of veteran performers, emerging local talent, and international cast members reflects the strength of the project’s reach.

The film’s ambition is matched by the confidence of its investors. Capital support from Adino Partners, Mango Tree Media, Blooming Caravan, and Lamps & Images laid the foundation that made The Black Book 2: Old Scores possible.

Reflecting on the journey, Effiong said, “The Black Book showed us that local stories can spark global conversations. With Old Scores, we’re not just continuing a story, we’re continuing a movement, one that affirms the power of African voices to shape cinema worldwide.”

Beyond the film itself, the partnership reflects growing collaboration between African filmmakers and international studios. It points to the wider visibility and reach of African cinema, and the demand for stories that resonate globally without losing their roots.