July Watchlist: 3 Gripping Movies You Don’t Want to Miss

Movies

If you’re looking to stay in, cool off, and dive into gripping drama, heartfelt journeys, and edge-of-your-seat thrillers, July has brought a lineup of African film and TV gems that deserve a spot on your watchlist. From Nigeria to South Africa, these stories pack suspense, emotion, and plenty of local flavour.

Here are three must-watch titles lighting up Netflix and Prime Video this July:

To Kill a Monkey

Photo credit: Netflix

From the mastermind behind King of Boys, Kemi Adetiba returns with a gritty, fast-paced crime drama that dives deep into the murky waters of Nigeria’s digital underworld.

The story follows Efemini, a man reeling from financial ruin and personal tragedy. When an old friend offers him a way out through cybercrime, he’s forced to decide how far he’ll go to escape poverty. But with every click and compromise, Efemini sinks deeper into a web of lies, consequences, and moral decay.

With themes of ambition, desperation, and the haunting pull of quick wealth, To Kill a Monkey captures the emotional and psychological toll of cybercrime. This riveting crime drama is definitely a must-watch. It premiered on 18th July on Netflix.

The Lost Days

Photo credit: Nollycritic.com

After surviving cancer, Chisom is ready to reclaim her life. But before she can move forward, she must confront the pieces she left behind: a lost love and a child she abandoned.

What begins as a hopeful journey quickly unravels as old secrets come to light and long-buried wounds resurface. The Lost Days explores redemption, motherhood, second chances, and the haunting echoes of the past. It’s a soulful, emotional ride that will have you reaching for tissues, and then questioning the true cost of healing. If you’re a fan of heartfelt drama with complex characters and emotional twists, The Lost Days is just right for you. It premiered on 11th July on Prime Video. So head on there and go watch it.

Marked

Photo credit: Netflix

Rounding out the month is this South African action thriller that mixes high stakes with emotional grit.

When her daughter’s life is on the line, Babalwa, a former police officer turned security guard, must tap into her past and take drastic action. Teaming up with an unlikely partner, she plans a heist that could save her child but destroy everything else.

Directed by Akin Omotoso, Marked is more than just a heist story; it’s a gripping tale of maternal sacrifice, justice, and survival in a world where trust is scarce and time is running out. Why you should watch it? It’s packed with suspense, action and powerful performances that will make you watch with the lights off and the volume up. It premieres on Netflix on 31st July.

July’s lineup is proof that African cinema continues to push boundaries, telling local stories with global impact. Do you want to binge-watch a crime drama, get lost in emotional healing, or be thrilled by a high-stakes heist? These titles will keep you glued to your screen. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and let these movies take you on a ride this July.

Don’t forget, you can pay for your subscriptions to Netflix and Prime Video using your UBA Naira Card.

Read Also: Your UBA Naira card Just Went Global.