Best Movies, Series to Watch on Showmax January 2025

‘Made by Africa, Loved by the World’ Returns for Fifth Year

This January, Showmax is serving up a fresh lineup of entertainment, and trust us, it’s going to be a ride you won’t want to miss.

Whether it’s the thrill of a suspenseful action movie, heartfelt romance, or the laughs from a chaotic family comedy, you can tune in to stories that will help you escape from the everyday grind.

For those looking to brighten up the year, here’s a look at what is on everyone’s screen this January—and why these movies and shows are stealing the spotlight:

Local:

The Real Housewives of LagosSeason 3 | Starts 13 January

Cheta M S2| Showmax Original | New episodes weekly

If you missed Cheta M Season 1, let’s just say you missed one of the most captivating epic love stories Nollywood has ever delivered. This isn’t just about romance—it’s about the fight for love, power, and survival.

Season 1 had everyone talking, especially after the chaos at Adanna and Nwoye’s wedding. The drama left fans on edge, desperate to know what happens next. Now, in Season 2, the tension is higher, with shocking new twists and a whole lot more suspense.

This January, fans are tuning in to watch Adanna and Nnanna’s love story face new dangers as the kingdoms of Mgberi and Ajaani continue their battle for power. Add in the eerie spiritual tensions brought by Ojigijaga (played chillingly by Jsmile Uhuru) and King Jideofor’s (Kalu Ikeagwu), you’ve got a story that refuses to let go.

Princess on a Hill| Showmax Original | Binge Now

Princess on a Hill follows the story of Zara, a naive young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn after she wins the prestigious Lawson Group’s Leading Ladies reality show.

With her newfound fame comes a heavy burden: saving the very company that catapulted her to stardom. Zara’s biggest challenge lies not just in adapting to the complex and cutthroat world of high-stakes business, but in standing her ground against the tyrannical CEO, Moyosore Lawson.

With her mix of vulnerability and fierce resolve, Zara transforms from an underdog into a force to be reckoned with—a true “princess” in her own right, standing tall on her metaphorical hill. Catch all episodes now on Showmax.

Under The Influence| Showmax Original | Premieres 24 January

Get ready for a thrilling experience with Under the Influence, a Nigerian Showmax Original that blends drama, family dynamics, and the messy reality of internet fame.

Dami (played by Iremide Adeoye from Wura) is a fresh university grad who moves to Lagos to live with his older brother, Ayo (Bobby Ekpe from Love Unplanned). But life in Lagos isn’t exactly what Dami expected—and living with his brother only adds to the chaos.

In an attempt to vent, Dami rants on social media, and his post quickly goes viral. As his online popularity grows, he finds himself caught between the pressures of newfound fame and the turbulence of his family life.

Directed and written by UrbanGidi’s Wande Thomas, this drama series explores the highs and lows of juggling life in the spotlight. Featuring breakout stars like Eva Ibiam and Dante Okere, Under the Influence is the series you won’t want to miss when it premieres on January 24.

International (Movies):

Dune: Part Two

If you thought Dune: Part One was epic, get ready to have your mind blown. Dune: Part Two is an immersive experience that has taken the fans by storm.

The battles are fiercer, and the choices are devastating as Paul Atreides continues his quest for revenge. Played by Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet, Paul joins forces with Chani (Emmy winner Zendaya) and the Fremen in a fight for survival, power, and justice.

But as he confronts those who tore his family apart, Paul faces a heart-wrenching dilemma: will he sacrifice the love of his life or the future of the universe?

Critics are raving about Dune: Part Two. The New York Times highlights the chemistry between Chalamet and Zendaya, which humanises the stunning masterpiece. Their connection balances the intensity of the fight scenes and political intrigue, making Dune more than just another sci-fi movie.

The Last Rifleman

If you’re looking for a film that is packed with emotion, inspiration, and a journey that will tug at your heartstrings, The Last Rifleman is the one to watch.

Starring Pierce Brosnan in a standout role, this moving drama tells the story of a World War II veteran who escapes his care home in Northern Ireland to make a life-changing trek to France. His mission?

To attend the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings. But this isn’t just an ordinary trip, he must confront the ghosts of his past and rediscover a piece of himself long buried.

The film, inspired by true events, takes viewers on an emotional ride that’s both tough and uplifting. Brosnan’s portrayal of this war-torn yet resilient hero is enough to keep you glued to your screen, and he’s joined by Clémence Poésy, Jürgen Prochnow, Ian McElhinney, and the legendary John Amos.

Unfortunately, we lost Amos earlier this year, adding another layer of poignancy to this tribute to courage and memory.

Whether you’re a fan of Pierce Brosnan or captivated by tales of heroism, The Last Rifleman is a film you won’t soon forget.

International (Series):

The Day of the Jackal

The Day of the Jackal is a breathtaking thrill ride like no other. This isn’t just the biggest Sky Original ever—it’s a masterclass in suspense, drama, and performances.

Oscar winner Eddie Redmayne steps into the shadowy shoes of the Jackal, a cold, calculating assassin who makes a living carrying out hits for an unthinkable price.

But he’s not operating unchecked. BAFTA winner Lashana Lynch brings fire to the screen as Bianca, the relentless British intelligence officer hunting him down with everything she’s got.

This modern-day reimagining of Frederick Forsyth’s classic novel has critics raving—it’s sitting pretty with an 85% Rotten Tomatoes rating and has already locked in a second season. Variety calls it “exhilarating… a breathless adventure until the very end.”

So, if you’re ready for a rollercoaster of suspense, action, and powerhouse performances come January 13, The Day of the Jackal is waiting. But fair warning: once you start, there’s no stopping. Watch the official trailer.

Yellowstone S5 Part B

Hailed by The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year as “the biggest hit on cable TV”, Yellowstone follows a ranching family in Montana who will do whatever it takes to protect their land from bloodthirsty enemies, indigenous communities who believe the land is rightfully theirs, and developers whose ambitions put the ranch in peril.

Co-created by Oscar nominee Taylor Sheridan, the neo-Western has an 8.7/10 rating on IMDb. The first part earned former star Kevin Costner the Best Actor – Drama prize at last year’s Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Super Awards.

The hit franchise has birthed a number of spinoffs, including 1923, starring Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren.

If you thought the frontier was wild before, brace yourself. The final showdown is coming January 17. Don’t just watch Yellowstone S5 Part B—let it take over your world.

Power Book II: Ghost S4

If you haven’t joined the Power Book II: Ghost frenzy, where have you been? The fourth and final season of this spin-off coming January 17 has become the talk of the town—and for good reason. With drama, betrayal, and power plays, Ghost is serving everything fans love and more.

It is a story of Tariq St. Patrick, played by Critics Choice Rising Star Michael Rainey Jr. As the son of infamous drug kingpin James “Ghost” St. Patrick, Tariq fights to escape his past while doing whatever it takes to protect the people he loves. This season, things get even messier as new challenges push him closer to danger and deception.

And let’s talk about Michael Ealy, the 2007 Golden Globe nominee joining the cast this season as detective Don Carter. With his intense presence and magnetic performance, he’s turning up the heat—and the tension.

Whether you’re here for Tariq’s fight for survival or the tension Detective Don Carter is bringing, this season is the one everyone’s talking about—and you don’t want to miss a second! Watch the official trailer.

What’s on your watchlist? This new year, there is something for everyone. Whether you are in the mood for action, romance, family fun, or a good scare, this is a great time to indulge in some of the best entertainment available on Showmax! Sign up now for as low as N1,600 for Showmax mobile