Nollywood’s celebrated comedian, actor, and producer AY Makun has reached another career milestone with his latest film, The Waiter, grossing an impressive ₦218.6 million at the Nigerian box office within just two weeks of its release on December 20, 2024.
This feat cements The Waiter as one of Nollywood‘s top-performing films, placing it alongside blockbusters like Toyin Abraham’s Alakada: Bad & Boujee and the record-shattering Everybody Loves Jenifa, which surpassed ₦1 billion in ticket sales.
According to official reports, The Waiter earned ₦150 million between December 27, 2024, and January 2, 2025, following an already remarkable debut week where it crossed the ₦100 million mark. Additionally, advanced screenings prior to its official release contributed another ₦6.6 million to its total earnings. This outstanding box office performance underscores AY Makun’s consistent ability to captivate audiences.
AY took to social media to share his excitement, thanking fans for their unwavering support:
“We are beyond thrilled to announce that The Waiter has grossed an incredible 200 Million Naira at the box office! Against all odds, this journey has been nothing short of amazing, and we couldn’t have achieved this milestone without YOU, our incredible audience!”
Star-Studded Cast and Production
Directed by Toka McBaror, The Waiter was produced under Ayo Makun Productions in collaboration with Corporate World Entertainment.
The film boasts an impressive cast of Nollywood stars, including:
- Deyemi Okanlawon
- Regina Daniels
- Toke Makinwa
- Brain Jotter
- Williams Uchemba
- Shaffy Bello
The film merges action and comedy while providing a subtle critique of Nigeria’s socio-political climate. It tells the story of a waiter who navigates the highs and lows of urban life, offering a mix of humor and thought-provoking commentary.
Mixed Reviews from Critics
Despite its box office success, The Waiter has received mixed reviews. Critics have noted some weaknesses in the plot and subplots, with particular attention to AY’s portrayal of his signature character, “Warri” Akpos. While Akpos remains a fan favorite for his comedic antics, some critics argue that the character lacks development throughout the film.
Nonetheless, the strong ticket sales demonstrate that audiences are still drawn to AY’s distinctive blend of humor and relatability. The film’s popularity is a testament to AY’s deep understanding of his audience’s preferences.
The success of The Waiter follows AY Makun’s earlier triumphs, including Merry Men 3, which grossed over ₦100 million during its 2023 run. That film generated ₦33.4 million in its opening weekend alone.
AY’s rise as a filmmaker began with 30 Days in Atlanta (2014), which became one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films of all time. Subsequent hits like A Trip to Jamaica (2016) and the Merry Men series have further established him as a force in the industry, known for creating films that blend comedy with compelling narratives.
With The Waiter, AY Makun continues to set new benchmarks for Nollywood. His films not only entertain but also provoke conversations about societal issues through humor and storytelling. The remarkable earnings of The Waiter reflect the growing demand for high-quality Nigerian films and showcase Nollywood’s potential to compete globally.
AY’s ability to consistently attract large audiences—even in the face of critical feedback—demonstrates his unique connection with viewers who eagerly anticipate his projects. The Waiter serves as both a cultural phenomenon and a financial success, solidifying AY’s legacy as one of Nollywood’s most influential figures.
As The Waiter continues to dominate the box office, it is poised to break more records and further elevate Nollywood’s global reputation. AY Makun’s commitment to delivering quality content ensures that his future projects will remain highly anticipated, cementing his role as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
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