REPRESENTATIONS OF GENDER DYNAMICS IN NOLLYWOOD: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF MALE-FEMALE COHABITATION IN ROMANTIC COMEDIES

Abstract

This paper investigates the portrayal of gender dynamics within cohabiting relationships in Nollywood romantic comedies, examining how these depictions influence societal perceptions of gender roles in Nigeria. As one of Africa's most influential cultural industries, Nollywood significantly shapes public understanding of relationships through film narratives. Typically, these films reinforce traditional gender roles, casting men as assertive providers and women as nurturing supporters. However, even when portraying more progressive dynamics, these relationships are often framed comedically, which can trivialize efforts toward gender equality. This study employs social constructionism as its theoretical framework, emphasizing how media constructs gendered realities. Through qualitative content analysis of popular Nollywood romantic comedies, complemented by focus group discussions with Nigerian viewers, this research uncovers the role of Nollywood in either challenging or reinforcing patriarchal norms around cohabitation. The findings reveal a predominance of traditional gender portrayals, with limited representations of equitable partnerships, especially within cohabiting contexts. Younger audiences show a greater preference for balanced gender depictions, suggesting a generational shift in expectations. The study concludes that while Nollywood has the potential to promote gender equality, its current portrayals mainly perpetuate traditional norms. Recommendations include more consistent and serious portrayals of gender equality in cohabiting relationships to better align with evolving social values and encourage progressive gender norms.