Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has pushed back against criticism of his Netflix series Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre, insisting that his work is deliberately crafted for a discerning audience rather than mass appeal.

In a video shared on his Instagram page, Afolayan addressed viewers who rushed to judge the second season after only a few episodes. He argued that the series is designed as a layered narrative that unfolds gradually, and cannot be fairly assessed midway.

He described his artistic philosophy as intentionally selective. According to him, his films are made “for people who can think” and for viewers willing to engage with complex storytelling, symbolism and cultural nuance. He stressed that he neither expects nor seeks universal approval, acknowledging that some audiences will find his approach challenging or unfamiliar.

Afolayan revealed that he has received strong support from academics and “deep thinkers” who, he said, understand the long-term vision behind his projects. Their feedback, he noted, reinforces his belief that cinema can be both entertaining and intellectually demanding.

Responding to complaints that the plot of Aníkúlápó: Rise of the Spectre feels scattered, he urged critics to consider how international series are consumed. He compared the viewing experience to shows like Game of Thrones, where audiences wait for new episodes and only grasp the full arc over time. Declaring that new plots and characters were introduced deliberately, he maintained that the story’s structure is intentional, not chaotic.

Afolayan also placed the current backlash in the context of his career. He recalled that earlier films such as Irapada and The Figurine were initially met with skepticism and harsh reviews before going on to win awards and gain international recognition. That trajectory, he suggested, has taught him to stay focused on his craft rather than on early reactions.

Offering a word of encouragement to fellow filmmakers, Afolayan advised them not to be swayed by noisy criticism. He reiterated his commitment to making intellectually driven films and said his priority remains telling meaningful stories for audiences who appreciate depth, cultural specificity and thoughtful cinema.