Whatsgwan?

JADA AND WILL.... WHAT'S REALLY GOING ON?

2011-09-02T15:53:00.000-07:00

I read with some fascination that Jada and Will Smith might be splitting up... According to several magazines Will supposedly caught Jada cheating on him with Marc Anthony! Well, I really dont know what to say but I was on youtube and saw this pretty steamy video, taken from the series 'Hawthorne! (see below)

Okay, say I'm old fashioned or whatever but these were some pretty steamy scenes!! (no wonder the show has been axed!) I mean, what were their spouses thinking? And Jada really doesn't have to do this either after all she is Mrs Will Smith... THE Will Smith that just happens to be the biggest box office star there is in the western hemisphere! Well, I did see her in 'Jason's Lyric' back in the day so why am I surprised? I guess in life the strangest things happen. Anyway, its none of my business, right? Yeah, that's why you're reading it too! Lol! Gotcha!

A TIME TO REVIVE....

2011-08-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

I'm reviving my blog.... after about a couple of years of devoting much time to Nollywooduncut... Ive decided to go back to the site that started it all and that my whatsgwan blog! Hahaha! Why? No particular reason... just that this one is more personal and less restrictive! I don't have to blog about just Nollywood but about just about everything.... relationships, news from other parts of the world and so on and so forth. Its going to be a wild ride... Are you ready?

Friends, Navy Seals & Countrymen....

2011-05-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

Okay the last few blogs have been incredibly sad.... I think I should lighten up a little! Not that I have in anyway forgotten about what took place the past few weeks in Nigeria but because one has to move on! So what been going down since the last time I blogged? Hmm... plenty! William and Kate got married, The Americans caught Osama, I went to get my legs waxed, Big Brother Amplified is now on TV.. hey! wait a minute! They caught Osama?! Apparently! He was tracked down and shot by U.S Navy Seals. What can I say? Closure for the thousands of families that lost loved ones during the 9/11 attacks, bombing of the U.S Embassies in East Africa, bombing of the USS Cole and numerous other attacks we may never know about. In the words of the famed playwright, William Shakespeare; 'Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears.... the evil that men do leave after them....' May we all let it be the good that we do that people may remember! Oh mehn! And this was supposed to be a happy blog!! Why is the world such a sad place at times? *shakes head. Have a great week, anyway!

And the Man died! R.I.P Ukeoma Aiykfavour!

2011-04-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

Ukeoma Ikechukwu was like any other hopeful, corper... he had just graduated from University and hoped to get a job and settle down, marry and have kids. That was not to be! The young man's life was cut short by the bloodthirsty mob, baying for blood in Bauchi. He was one of several corpers hacked down in his prime by restive youths, angry that their candidate did not win the just concluded presidential elections. What makes Ukeoma's death pathetic was that he cried out for help on his Facebook page but alas help was unable to reach him and others they were killed...senselessly, needlessly by people yet to be held accountable for his death. I have nothing against people being called to undergo their National Youth Service but I have a problem with these innocent youths being sent to hostile territory, inadequately protected all in the name of 'serving their fatherland'. Please these are not soldiers! Just ordinary, young men and women... fresh graduates recently graduated from University... many have never left their states or hometowns before! How can the country fail them like this?! I am too pained... too sad! The Bauchi state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Amana Abakasanga, has confirmed the death of 4 corps members and added that 26 out of 51 corps members posted to Jammare, Giade, Misau, Azare, Dambam and Itas Gadu areas were rescued by the police and another 20 still missing.

There have been calls, appealing to the Bauchi state government, NYSC secretariat, the Police and all relevant Agencies and Authorities, to do a proper audit of the Corps member serving in the Bauchi state and ensure adequate security for the surviving ones. For those of them that might chose to leave the state to safer towns, adequate provisions should be for their transportation, clothings and other basics, as most of them have lost all their properties to the hoodlums.The death of Ukeoma Ikechukwu has also intensified calls for all NYSC Staff to be wthdrawn from Northern Nigeria.

My only consolation is that the young man had a relationship with Christ and has gone to be with his Maker. I can only hope that the one of his last entries will come to pass and his death and those of others who have been bombed, lynched, roasted and butchered will be in vain!

'this is the verdict: henceforth any man who raises a sword will tab himself, anyone that lifts a gun will shoot himself and all those scaring us with bomb its will detonate in their rooms. all these blood thirsty politicians will drink there own blood & eat there own flesh. heaven has spoken. Godbless nigeria a nation under God'. - Ukeoma Aiykfavour.

Sober Reflections...

2011-04-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

I've been giving alot of thought to something I came across recently on the Net. It would not be right if I didnt share it. Its the incredible story of the girl that died and went to Heaven and Hell and came back to tell the story. I know what you are thinking but before you flip the page hear me out! Its not really the sensationalism of the story that touched me but the message behind the visits and it continues to touch me... Do I believe in Life after death? Yes... do I believe the girl's story? Yes. Am I gullible? No. I believe I am a person of grace... that has survived many life-changing and life challenging situation and will still survive many more. I also believe God loves me deeply for allowing me to see this and to even be touched by it. I have seen too many people... some young, rich and famous... some friends, others people I have read about, go (untimely)to the Great beyond and I wonder if they had the opportunity to know that Jesus loved them. Thats why I count myself as fortunate to be able to see and be touched by this story. I hope you are too.

http://www.testimoniesofheavenandhell.com/2011/03/angelica-zambrano-was-shown-the-kingdoms-of-heaven-and-hell-and-the-return-of-christ/

NOLLYWOOD AT THE CINEMAS!

2011-04-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

I went to the cinemas yesterday and was so proud to see over three Nollywood films on display for all to come watch and counting! By the time I sat to watch the feature presentation, I saw more Nollywood trailers being run... on the pristine screens of Silverbird Cinemas! Lol! For a long time, Silverbird Cinemas has had a, shoul d I say, love-hate relationship with films from the local industry. When they first set up shop, it was all Hollywood all the way... the few local producers that tried to get their films on, where shown the door, for whatever reason! That was until Stephanie Okereke's 'Through the Glass' literally broke the glass ceiling! Since then, we have been seeing alot more local productions; several even out- selling (I am told!) the popular Hollywood releases! The thing is Africans, Nigerians specifically like their own thing o! Well, you know what they say about 'When you go black...' Hahaha! Am I sounding politically incorrect? Right now, I really couldnt be bothered! lol! Let me revel in the fact that this month I'm going to be able to watch 'Black Gold', 'Tango with Me', 'Damage', 'Sinking Sands' 'Bent Arrows', 'Ghetto Dreams' and many other productions all on the big, hallowed, pristine screens of the S'Bird! Yes! *pumps fist! Are they annoyed I said this? They shouldnt be! Rather they should see this as free advert for them. Anyway na me get my mouth....Its been a long time coming, jor! Lol! Catcha lay-rrra!

A LITTLE SLICE OF PARADISE!

2011-04-05T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have had a most incredible time! I know its supposed to be work but can you imagine doing work in a place like paradise? And you think one will not enjoy? Is that possible? Cos not! lol! Well the Good Book did say "Muzzle not the ox while it is treading corn".... meaning; while working you are not expected, not to eat! Anyway cut to the chase! I have had the most incredible time! In Akwa Ibom! This is a hidden jewel waiting to be discovered and thank God I discovered it! Don't believe me? Okay, have a load of this! Hahaha! By the way, these pics were taken at the Le Meridien Akwa Ibom Hotel amd Golf Resorts where we went to shoot some parts of the movie, 'I'll Take My Chances'. Mmm...lovely!

'I'll Take My Chances' - New film by Emem Isong & Ini Edo

2011-03-25T01:41:00.000-07:00

This is a great time to be in Nollywood! Each month we hear new and great things coming out of it. First it was 'Through the Glass', then 'The Figurine', 'Ije', Tango with Me, Inale, Black Gold etc now its 'I'll Take My Chances'! A dance movie! There is hiphop, salsa, traditional dance, romance, drama, suspense, name it! This is really a great time to be in Nollywood! Watch this space! Will keep you posted!

MICHEAL EALY... WHERE YOU BEEN?

2011-03-25T00:50:00.000-07:00

Don't know about you but I love me some Michael Ealy... gosh! where has that guy been? Ok! He is fine or isnt he? For those of you that have been living under a rock, he appeared in the Beyonce video, 'Halo' which has been viewed about 87 million times! I kid you not! Go check! On acting opposite Beyonce in the video, he said; 'Beyoncé—she’s Beyoncé!” he explains his motivation. “Once I heard the song, I had to do it. It was my second time being asked to do a Beyoncé video. The first was ‘Irreplaceable”’ –where the singer explains that her lover is indeed replaceable—“but I didn’t want to do that. I said, ‘Call me when you have a hero role.’” Well, it doesn’t get much more heroic—or angelic—than “Halo,” although Ealy says that “the original video wasn’t so fluffy. People weren’t sure what it meant. And Beyoncé said, My audience is young, this is too dark for them. “So I got another day of hanging around Beyoncé,” he continues. “Poor me. How many men can say they have stood three inches from Beyoncé and had her sing for them? I was like, THANK YOU!”
Hmm... smart guy! Only wanted to be cast as the hero! Good! Coz that guy was really dissed in the 'Irreplaceable' video! lol

AT THE 'DESERT FLOWER' SCREENING!

2011-03-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

A friend recently invited me to watch the movie 'Desert Flower' and when I saw the trailer, I was a bit skeptical. I went, 'yeah, yeah, another chance to bash Africa again!" "Making fun of the African girl as she learns to walk in high heels and waits to be saved by the Great White Hope!' Classic! But I went along all the same... what did I have to lose? It also came with free pop corn and drink so it was all good! When the lights dimmed and the movie started, I was sucked in, immersed in the story. I left the theatre seriously humbled! Yes it did have the same old story of the African being 'saved' by the white man, but it also told the awe-inspiring and gut-wrenching story of Waris Dirie who survived several odds including walkg for several days in the desert without shoes, food or water to escape marriage to a 65 year old man! As well as surviving the horrible experience of undergoing female genital mutilation! I still can not wrap my brain around how a mother can hold down her 5year old daughter as a rusty, dirty, blood-stained blade is used to cut her genitals out, all in the name of custom and tradition! As if one does not have enough problems as it is! Gosh! What can I say? Big ups to Waris Dirie for being brave enough to speak out against this problem and draw international attention to one of Africa's (and the Middle East's) most inhuman, dastardly customs that needs to be abolished as soon as possible! For pics of the premiere, go to www.nollywooduncut.com

SOCIAL NETWORKING & OTHER MATTERS!

2011-02-25T06:03:00.000-08:00

Its been a while... I know! I know! I keep starting the blog that way, right! lol! Yep! Okay, Im sure you know I have been been a bit caught up in working on and maintaining my site www.nollywooduncut.com. Its been a blast! It still is... but life as you know is not static... it is dynamic and as a human being you grow and move on to other things. I'll let you in on that in the next couple of weeks. Meanwhile how have you been? Ive been good... great. Alot has happened, is happening in entertainment, around the world politically. Social media like Facebook and Twitter are used as tools to topple nations! Who would have thought? But then I never underestimated the power of the internet! Not after I entered a competition and asked people to vote for me... almost 70,000 went out of their way to do that. Who would have thought I knew so many people? Actually I didnt actually know all of them but they saw my advert to vote and went out and did just that. We also have to remember that what the internet did for President Barack Obama. He was reportedly raised half a billion dollars via the internet!! Not to mention the recent one... how Facebook and Twitter helped the people of Egypt and other Middle East countries galvanise themselves and topple their Governments!! So is the internet the future? You bet it is!! See you soon!

THE LONDON PREMIERE OF BURSTING OUT!

2010-10-31T15:23:00.000-07:00

The London premiere of 'Bursting Out' has finally come and the residents will not forget it in a hurry.Nollywooduncut was there to give you a blow by blow account of what went down last night. The event? Only one word qualifies it. Fantastic!

As early as 7pm, fans braved the freezing cold and slight drizzle to queue outside the Odeon at Greenwich to see the Stars live. The Paparazzi too were stationed, poised for action... all waiting. They were not disappointed. At about 9pm first to arrive in a white stretch limo, was Ghanaian actor, Majid Michel, lead actor in the film. The fans screamed!

He shook hands, stopped for pictures and interviews. Next to arrive was Emem Isong, the producer of the film. She was greeted with shouts as well. Next up was Susan Peters, who arrived in the company of Monalisa Chinda. They too shook hands, waved to the crowd and went to talk to the press. There was a lull on the carpet for several minutes and the crowd wondered.... is she coming? Finally at about 11pm, the bouncers began to clear the red carpet of the paparazzi and fans and Genevieve Nnaji walked in! The place went crazy! People began to scream and rush forward to catch a glimpse of her. Even those not originally attending the premiere, but passing by.They were not disappointed. She looked every inch 'The Star'.... pretty, petite, classy and elegant. The crowd surged forward in frenzied excitement. It was crazy! People were then ushered upstairs to the screening rooms to watch the movie. It was a full house and as is the norm these days with most Emem Isong's productions, there was not enough sitting space! Two other screening rooms had to be arranged to accommodate the remaining people. The room darkened and the film started and experienced a few technical hitches but that was soon corrected. The film contunued and the audience thoroughly enjoyed the show.

'Bursting Out' comes out soon on dvd! Go get your copies now! In the meantime, enjoy some first pix from the premiere!

Nneka on Letterman

2010-02-05T08:42:00.000-08:00

It truly warms my heart when I see the underdog win! When those you never gave a chance come and take the prize! That person right now is a singer simply known as Nneka. I simply love her voice...strong, tragic, powerful... she's too much. For those not in the know, Nneka is a half-German, half-Nigerian Afro-soul, acoustic singer. Thats the only way I can describe her music... afro soul acoustic.. whatever you call it it is brilliant. She is presently on a tour in the US and did a stop over at the David Letterman Show where she really represented. Please we need more people like her to represent instead of the you know who's! Oh! You dont know? Mum's the word! lol

Finally...a time to blog

2010-01-23T20:08:00.000-08:00

Finally! I get to do what I really what to do on this blog and that is simply express myself.... The new website www.nollywooduncut.com is taking care of the film side of the business so I can just blog about...stuff. But why have the need to write? Why write at all? Dunno... for me, its just something you do ... just because...to intellectualize it, according to renowned scriptwriter Syd Field; 'Writing is a personal responsibility. you either write or you dont!' I choose to write cause its therapeutic for me, I believe Im a voice in this world that has something useful to contribute, lessons to share....its good to be alive at a time like this.

www.nollywooduncut.com - newest baby on the block

2010-01-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

At last... its here! The new website that gives you the dish on the goings on in Nollywood! All the info on movies, actors, actresses, producers, directors, make-up artistes and all those that make Nollywood the industry, tick! There will be opportunity to win prizes, trips to premieres, meet the stars etc. Its the way to go this 2010 so what are you waiting for? Log on and be a part of this great experience! NOLLYWOOD UNCUT.... the way to go!

New Kid on the Block; New website!

2009-12-30T08:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings all! Compliments of the Season! Yeah... I guess like everyone else I took a much needed break from blogging and just generally chilled! Well Im back on track with a bang... new spring, new step and new style.

I am happy to announce that this blog is being updated to a full-fledged website, hence the title. We will be giving alot more information, pictures, events, prizes, tickets to shows, premieres like never before! It really is a great exciting time for us. We thank God for the opportunity and ability to see the New Year and to forge ahead. Those things we were not able to accomplish we go back to the drawing board, rework and press on.. full speed ahead. All the negativity of the past year, hatin', and beefing we put it behind us, forge on ahead.
The new site can be linked from here and vice versa so when its up, you will all see it. I have uploaded a couple of pics of some friends and I at some parties that took place during the festivities. For your perusal.
See you at the top, in the New Year, by God's grace!

MY VEDA, My Lifestyle - VOTE ME to Win!!

2009-12-28T05:50:00.000-08:00

Vote for me to win to win the My Veda, My Lifestyle competition on www.bellanaija.com The name to vote is Bola Aduwo. Now you know!

www.bellanaija.com
www.bellanaija.com/2009/12/27/bn-25-days-my-lifestyle-my-veda-finalists-bola-aduwo/

Susan Peters: A Lady in waiting

2009-12-19T04:24:00.000-08:00

As premiere after premiere continue to be unleashed from the folds of Nollywood, a certain lady clearly stands out; oozing poise and grace. That lady is Susan Peters. Who is Susan Peters and which films has she done? When did she enter the industry? Those were the words swirling in my head when I caught up with the pretty actress recently. Here’s what went down.

BA: Hi Susan!

SP: Hi Bola. Good to see you!

BA: You’re looking good.

SP: Thank you.

BA: Your name doesn’t tell me where you’re from… are you Nigerian?

SP: I’m a proper Nigerian girl. I’m from Benue ..of Idoma tribe to be precise.

BA: Idoma..thats Tuface’s place, right?

SP: That’s right.

BA: I’ve been seeing you at several industry gigs… have you been in the industry (Nollywood) long?

SP: I have been in the industry since 2002 and I’ve acted in over 30 films.

BA: Really? Which ones?

SP: ‘Wasted Effort’ directed by Andy Amenechi, Sound of Poverty,…recently ‘Nollywood Hustler’ and some soon-to-released films such as ‘Bursting Out’ starring Genevive Nnaji and Majid Michel and ‘Mortal Attraction’ starring Ramsey Nouah and Monalisa Chinda. I have also acted in a couple of soaps; Tajudeen Adepetun’s ‘Dominoes’ and Blessing Egbe’s ‘Disclosure’ soon to be aired on DSTV.

BA: Hmm…that many… some people say breaking into the industry is a not that easy. How did you get into the industry?

SP: In a very interesting way. I never really planned to go into acting. I had a shop.. a boutique in Kaduna and some people approached me, saying they wanted to use the shop to shoot one of their scenes.. I agreed and after they finished the shoot, the director asked me if I would like to act in the production. At first I said no then later succumbed. I quite enjoyed myself and decided to do it full time. I attended film school and here I am.

BA: I noticed your performance in ‘Nollywood Hustler’ at the premiere and couldn’t help noticing how fiery you were…

SP: (laughter) ‘Nollywood Hustler’ is a comedy. I played the part of a bush wanna-be actress that wanted to enter the industry by all costs. I was Uche Jombo’s (character’s) friend and we had fun laughing at ourselves. Check out my make-up and costume! (general laughter). I have some other projects about to hit the screens like ‘Bursting Out’ a romantic comedy that featured Genevieve Nnaji and Majid Michel. I acted the part of Majid’s jilted lover. I showed the poor boy pepper in the film! (laughter)

BA: Are you like that (troublesome) in real life?

SP: Of course not… who will admit anyway! (laughter)

BA: Well, we look forward to these films when they come out. So where can we get in touch with you if we want to?

SP: Well, I can contacted on www.susanpetersfanbook.ning and I recently started a blog www.sue05.blogspot.com so I can be reached there as well.

BA: Thanks so much for your time.

SP: You’re very welcome…

A time to thank Him...

2009-12-19T04:00:00.000-08:00

Im going to digress from the usual norm and turn the spotlight towards me the blogger (ooh! squeamish!) I really dont like talking about myself... I like to be behind the scenes but this time I have to say a few things...it behoves to say a few things, so here goes:
Wow....has that time of the year really come again? What can I say? This has been a mixed bag...of highs, lows (and plateaus inbetween!) lol....I remember when I started this blog...towards the end of 2008..it really took on after the christmas holidays. I remember so vividly blogging about Obama's election into office....how time flies.(must have been having fun!) I really have to thankful to God to be alive to even be blogging this.

Had to have an operation this year which almost turned fatal... but for God's mercy and some 'angels' that got put here on earth, I wouldnt have been here today. I know some will want to remain unnamed but I will mention them by initials T.A (youre too much. God bless you immensely. I will always be grateful to you for your immense assistance) Wole Aduwo (my cousin and brother, bless you. Words can not express my appreciation) Dr.Dele Goodluck, Emem Isong (my good friend and sister from another mother, comrade in the trenches of Nollywood, bless you. Thanks so much for everything, Uduak Isong Oguamanam, Bro. Bade Olatunji, Pastors Quadri and co. of Redeemed Church Redemption Camp branch God bless you! Duro Olowu, Ihuoma Nnaji and most of all doctors and staff of Libra Specialist hospital. God bless you immensely. My family...especailly my mother Mrs Victoria I. Aduwo.Love you Mum. It is well.... I think of Tomike Omobuwajo and Caroline Johnson and I shake my head.... I say God why me? That you had mercy on my soul, why? I certainly have not been the most faithful. But Im here and Im well... Im alive. Sure, the issues are still there... the wants, the needs, but I'm still here. When I wake up in the morning, I know its a chance from Him to make it today. Thank you, Father. You have been good to me...Thank you...thank you..

And the stars shone a little dimly; The passing of actress Caroline Johnson by Bola Aduwo

2009-12-18T04:23:00.000-08:00

I really did not want to write this but in the words of renowned scriptwriter Syd Field, 'Writing is a personal responsibility. Its either you do it or you dont!' Like a snap shot taken from a vantage position, when you feel it... youve got to write it or that moment is lost forever. So here I am...
Why my reluctance to write? That's because I dont like to mention or remember the passing to glory of anyone especially a young person.... in this case Caroline Chantel Johnson. When I heard about her passing, I hoped it was a rumour... one of those stories you hear that dont turn out to be true but with time the whispering got louder and spread and was confirmed on several websites.

I do not know Caroline that well but I have met her some years ago when she came to audition in my friend Emem's office. She was cast in a minor role in a film called 'PlayBoy' then, starring Dakore Egbuson and Ramsey Nouah back in 1997 or so. Some years later, I saw her on TV like everyone else tackling the role of 'Uju' in Zik Zulu Okafor's 'Heaven's Gate' with much grace and poise and I remember thinking, 'oh, good for her! She's moved up the acting rung'. Then I got on with my everyday life and didnt give her much thought only to read about her battling cancer!! Of all things! When I read her story she had already come back from India after her operation and was convalescing. I decide to send her an email thru her website thanking God for her safe return and reminding her of our meeting years back and SHE REPLIED! I have posted an excerpt from the mail:
'I have seen your Blog. not bad.
keep the writing going. yes tnk God for his miracle over my life, I
believe he has perfected that which he has started. glory to his name!
Thank you for your prayers and support.
More Blessings
Caroline'
To read that she later relapsed and passed on left me absolutely gutted. So young, so beautiful.. leaving behind three children and a husband. I am at least consoled that she knew the Lord and has gone to be with Him.
This has however taught me a few things;
1. Its not how long but how well you live life.
2. Live your best life now. Dont procastinate what you can do today.
3. Be thankful for what you have and where you are.
Its not my wish to pontificate but to pay tribute to a young life well lived. I pray God may grant her family comfort and strength at this trying time.

Adieu Caroline! May your gentle soul rest in the Bosom of the Lord.

Yuletide Cake Recipe - Guaranteed to put the holiday spirit in you...

2009-12-16T00:10:00.000-08:00

A friend sent this to me... I thought I'd share... having stopped laughing!

You'll need the following: four large eggs, two cups of dried fruit, a teaspoon of baking soda, a teaspoon of salt, a cup of brown sugar, lemon juice, nuts, and a bottle or two of RUM.

Before you start, sample the RUM to check for quality. If it's good, let's get started.

Take a large bowl, and a measuring cup. Check the RUM again. To be sure it is the highest quality, pour one level cup and drink it as fast as you can. Repeat. Turn on the electric mixer; beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl. Add one seapoon of thugar, and beat again. Meanwhile, make sure the RUM has retained it's fine quality. Cry another tup. Open a second quart of RUM if necessary.

Turn off the mixer. Break two arge leggs, and add to the bowl, and chuck in the cup of fried druit. Mix on the turner, and beat till high. If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaterers, just pry it loose with a drewscriver. Sample the RUM to check for tonsisticity.

Next, sift two cups of pepper or salt. Or something. Who cares? Check the RUM. Now sift the lemon juice, and strain the nuts. Fold in some chopped butter. Add one table. Spoon. Of brown thugar or whatever color you can find.

Grease the oven. Turn the cake tin to 350 gredees. Don't for get to beat off the turner. Now pour the whole mess into the coven and ake. Feed to your goat. Check the RUM again, and bo to ged.

Regards,

David

Africans dont need Aid ... they need Investment!

2009-12-15T13:23:00.000-08:00

Once in a while I do digress and blog about something that has nothing to do with movies but is what I feel strongly about. This one of those times! A friend brought this to my notice and I felt I had to put the link up here. All I can say is....Word!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/22/magazine/22wwln-q4-t.html?_r=1&ref=magazine

Shooting for the Stars: The rise and rise of Omoni Oboli by Bola Aduwo

2009-12-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

As there are stars, starlets and wannabees in the world of make-believe in Nigeria (Nollywood) there is one person who has been able to successfully remove herself from the pack and forge a path of her own in the acting world and that person is Omoni Oboli. This year she has steadily risen and blossomed from the background to increasingly prominent roles in major blockbusters. I decided to do an interview with her to find out more about this rising star.

BA: This has got to be the year of Omoni! You’ve featured in several films this year, two of which have been in the cinemas i.e. The Figurine and Guilty Pleasures. Now you’ve been nominated for Best Actor Futures Award. What do you have to say about that?

OO: I am so blessed to have chosen the right scripts. I am just so thankful to God for everything. I feel like I’m finally getting to where I want to go. ‘The Figurine’, (which is said to be one of the best Nigerian movies to date) has been the high point of my career this year and I am so proud of it. It has done so well in the box office in Nigeria, Ghana and the UK and the reviews have been mind blowing. Guilty pleasures is such a good movie and it’s also doing well in the box office in Nigeria. I am so honoured to have been nominated for the future awards. It’s a very credible award and I would love to win it. So please vote for me y’all.

BA: What was it like acting in the Figurine?
OO: Shooting the Figurine was very exciting. We shot for 3 months in Osun, Ife and an island in Lagos. We stayed at the Miccom golf resort in Osun for a month and we soon became one big happy family. When we got to the island, where we shot for over one month, I was so excited the first day we got there cos it was so exotic but at night fall, the bugs came out to play and my exotic location fast became a nightmare but someone lit a bonfire and we had fun telling stories and playing games around the fire. Before we knew it, another person started roasting yams, and it was really delicious with palm oil. I had the most fun shooting the figurine even though it had so many challenges.

BA: You played Ramsey (Nouah) and Kunle (Afolayan)’s love interest…(plenty of smoochin’ was goin’ on, girl!) how did Mr Oboli take it?
OO: (Laughter) You are so funny. Nnamdi (Oboli)’s a modern day man and he trusts me. He knows its part of my job and it ends when the director says cut. Ramsey and Kunle have become my good friends so they are so easy to work with. And it helps that they are good actors.

BA: Does he come on set with you?
OO: My husband comes on set sometimes when its convenient and he is my biggest fan. He believes more in me than I believe in myself.

BA: When he’s on set and you have to kiss your co-star how do you handle that?
OO: He was actually on set when we were shooting one of my romantic scenes in the figurine but he wasn’t actually in the room where we were shooting. I really don’t know how I’d feel if he were actually in the room.

BA: So how many children do you have?
OO: I have three very boisterous adorable little boys.

BA: I noticed your son (Tobe) featured in the movie with you… what was it like working with him?OO: It was a very nice experience. I watched him do his thing and I was so proud. It wasn’t easy all the way though cos I had to be an actress and a mother at the same time. Tobe wanted to hang out with the adults and I couldn’t let him. He got bored many times and I had to think of ways to entertain him with computer games and story books. He was also missing his brothers, so on my birthday while we were still on the island, my husband came with my other kids and some friends with food and drinks and we all had fun with the cast and crew.

BA: I understand you were in the industry before and you went on a break. When was that and why did you feel the need to do that?
OO: I entered Nollywood in 1996 and I actually enjoyed a very interesting career then playing the lead in some hit movies like ‘Not My Will’, ‘Destined to Die’ and ‘Another Campus Tale’ but I had to leave because I was in my first year in Uni and my shooting schedules were clashing with my academics so I ended up going back to school just before exams. I knew I had to make a choice between Nollywood and getting a degree, so I decided to give acting a rest. I got married right after university and relocated with my hubby to England.

BA: Why did you come back to the industry?
OO: While away, I always had the hunger for my first love which is acting and I knew I wouldn’t be happy doing anything else so when the opportunity came to return to Nigeria, we came back home and to be honest, I tried to do one or two other things, I even got a job in one of these oil companies and the salary was very attractive but I turned it down cos I knew I would never be happy there. I decided to pursue my dream and here I am about 3 years down the line and am so happy that my decision to face acting has paid off.

BA: There’s a question I have just got to ask you… how come you have that many kids and you’re a size ZERO! You do diet and exercise don’t you? Cos with this killer bod….

OO: I’m not a size zero!! (Laughter) I’m just a very big advocate for healthy living. I run a diet and fitness business on the side so I practise what I preach. I watch what I eat and I exercise to stay fit and healthy. God has just been good to me I must say.

BA: Back to the Future Award… how did you feel hearing you were nominated?
OO: When I got the call that I had been nominated for the future awards, I was so excited. I really admire the organisers of this award and would love to be associated with them so I pray I win this one. To vote for me for Best Actor Future Awards Text Omoni Oboli Actor of the Year to 33120 for Nigeria, for the Uk on 81696 & US on 97605.

BA: So how do your fans get in touch with you if they want to?
OO: Well, I have a website (http://www.omoniobolifanbook.com) its a fun networking site where my friends and fans network with me and each other. We usually have fun chatting and making friends. I am also in partnership with some NGO while I am floating mine to help the underprivileged in the society.

BA: Any new projects you’re working on?
OO:I am working on a script now for my production next year. It will be shot in the early part of next year and am really excited about it. I am so blessed to have friends and fans who care so deeply about me. I love you all and I will not go back on my word to only appear in good movies. Thanks for standing with me. Without you, I won’t be here today. Thanks y’all! Keep smiling!

BA: Thanks so much for chatting with me!
OO: You’re very welcome!

Poster of Memories of my heart...Ini Edo's new film.

2009-12-10T07:50:00.000-08:00

The official poster of 'Memories of my heart' The new film executive produced by Ini Edo. Starring Ramsey Nouah, MonaLisa Chinda, Nse Ikpe Etim Desmond Elliot and Ini Edo. Produced by Emem Isong and Ini Edo. Directed by Desmond Elliot. Coming soon!

INI EDO.. The Latest Producer in Town!

2009-12-06T16:49:00.000-08:00

This has certainly been a year of innovation and growth for Nollywood. Oprah, the most influential woman on television mentioned Genevieve Nnaji on her show as one of the 20 most popular people in the world, Stephanie Okereke directed and produced a film to ‘Through the Glass’, racking in millions at the box office, Emem Isong’s ‘Guilty Pleasures’ continues to thrill and pull crowds of people to the cinemas to mention a few. It seems Nollywood is not quite done with surprises… reports just reaching us tell us that sexy screen siren, Ini Edo has joined the ranks as the latest producer in town! She has just co-produced and starred in a film, ‘Memories of my Heart’ which is set to hit our screens soon. I caught up with the pretty actress and she confirmed the story. ‘Yes, I have just co-produced a film with my good friend and big sister, Emem Isong. It stars Ramsey, Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Mona Lisa Chinda, Nse Ikpe-Etim and myself. It’s a romantic comedy and I’m sure people will like it’. Hmm…very star-studded I see.. so who are the love interests in the movie? Hear her; ‘I think I’ll be giving away the story if I answered that so I wouldn’t like to say for now but what I will say that it’s a love story and I had a lot of fun shooting it and working with my colleagues both as an actress and as an executive producer’. So, when should we expect to see this frothy confection of a movie that is already giving me toothache! (it sounds so sweet!) ‘Before the end of the 1^st quarter of next year’ she quipped. Ha! Will it be possible for viewers to wait that long? She smiles and decides to soothe my restive soul with some lovely location shots… enjoy!

The Stars Shone Brightly at Lagos Premiere of 'Guilty Pleasures' & 'Nollywood Hustlers'.

2009-12-01T05:10:00.000-08:00

It was an evening of glamour, glitz and magic when there stars came out to grace the occasion of the double premiere of two movies, 'Guilty Pleasures' and 'Nollywood Hustlers'. SilverBird Galleria which was already busy due to the Sallah Holidays, experienced even more of a deluge of people as stars, starlets, musicians and those from the business community came to enjoy an evening of fun, laughter and great movie viewing. The organizers/producers of the films Emem Isong,Uche Jombo and Desmond Elliot could not contain their delight at the turn out. Speaking to Emem, she said, 'Im so delighted! We couldnt have asked for anything more'. The attendance read like a roll call in the entertainment industry; Stephanie Okereke, Ini Edo, Mona Lisa Chinda, Desmond Elliot, Lilian Bach, Nse Ikpe Etim, Majid Michel, Omoni Oboli, Charles Novia, Zik Zulu Okafor, Fred Amata, Empress Njamah, Sasha, Yaw of Wazobia FM, Emem Ema formerly of Kush to mention just a few. The event started with a parade on the red carpet by the stars, interviews with various media including DSTV's Africa Magic, gisting over cocktails and small chops then at 7pm, guests were ushered upstairs to Cinema 4 for the screening of the movies. In a few minutes the place became jam-packed as guests filled there room. There was no sitting space and many had to resort to standing. All discomfort if any, was soon forgotten as the movies started. The audience laughed and held their sides as the actors did their thing in the hilarious comedy, 'Nollywood Hustlers'. Then it was time for 'Guilty Pleasures' and a hush fell over the audience. It started simply and slowly enough but began to build up, as the audience went on a rollercoaster of emotions, ending in shouts as the actors took them through emotions that were as extreme as they were intense. The show ended to thunderous applause, with many wiping their eyes and shaking their heads at the emotional ending. Several congratulated the producers, directors, actors and actresses especially Nse Ikpe-Etim (who by the way, was looking divine) and bearded Majid Michel (who came all the way from Ghana) for the premiere. Overall it was a good show! Big ups to the organizers! .

MONA LISA CHINDA GLOWS AT DOUBLE PREMIERE

2009-12-01T04:02:00.000-08:00

Glo Ambassador Mona Lisa Chinda like the telecom brand she represents, glowed at the double premiere of the movies, ‘Guilty Pleasures’ and ‘Nollywood Hustler’ which took place at SilverBird Galleria, Victoria island, Lagos. The star who was resplendent in an orange and gold roman-inspired dress, dazzled at the event which was well represented by members of the entertainment world as well as the business community. In a brief chat with the actress, she intimated me on a few details about one of the movies. “In ‘Nollywood Hustler’ I played a conceited, haughty version of myself and I must say I really had fun playing it. I had to scream, act horrified and even punch a couple of people which is so unlike me! I’m usually quite good natured’. On being asked about the premiere she had this to say, ‘One word; Awesome! The event lived up to its billing… classy, well attended, beautiful!’ Any favourites? ‘They are both so different so they can’t really be compared. One was a comedy (Nollywood Hustler) and the other was a drama (Guilty Pleasures) so there was no basis for comparison’. The movies were produced by Emem Isong in collaboration with Uche Jombo (Nollywood Hustler) and Desmond Elliot (Guilty Pleasures). ‘Guilty Pleasures’ continues to show at all SilverBird Cinemas in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and later Accra. It is not to be missed.

Mona Lisa Chinda Wins Afro Nollywood Award for Best Actress

2009-11-21T07:36:00.000-08:00

Taking time out of her busy schedule in the bustling city of Lagos,
Glo Ambassador and sexy screen siren, Mona Lisa Chinda jetted out to
the Queen's own country (England)last week to attend the 2009 edition of the
Afro Hollywood Award. The actress was nominated along with several
other actresses for the Award for Best Actress in an English movie,
and she won amidst some stiff competition. Also present at the
occasion was veteran actor, Justus Esiri, Mercy Johnson etc.
The Afro Hollywood Award is a yearly event organised by Mike Abiola
and it seeks to reward deserving actors and actresses for their
contribution to the development of film in Nigeria.
Speaking with the star (who has since returned to the country) on the
significance of the Award she said, 'I couldnt be more happier (to win
this Award). This has been a
particularly tough year for me but God has been faithful. He has seen
me through and I am most grateful'. So whats new for the bubbling
actress? "Well, I have acted in a couple of movies recently.... one of
which will be premiering at SilverBird Cinema at the end of the month.
Its called 'Nollywood Hustler' and is a comedy. I really enjoyed
showing that side of me. So what else is new? 'Well, I have a column
in The Sun newspapers on Saturday where I write
about various issues. You should check it out sometime'.
Hmm... maybe I will. Mona Lisa... writing a column? That'll be interesting.

Eddie's Rumpus by Zik Zulu Okafor

2009-11-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

Saw this article and loved it!! Big ups to my man Zik Zulu Okafor

“Nollywood, Nolly What?” is the title of Eddie Iroh’s surprise rhetoric of Monday, May 25, 2009 on the back page of THISDAY. As a former Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), and a writer, one expected Iroh’s critique of Nollywood to be pungent but professional. Sadly and with due respect, Iroh chose, albeit unwittingly, to elevate himself to the chair of the club of quasi-literary figures, armchair critics whose criticisms of Nollywood can, at best, be described as poetics of pseudo tradition. In concise terms, Iroh’s piece offers decidedly a mixed bag of campy humour and the hilarious tone of a farcical comedy as it lacks knowledge of the tempo of motion picture development around the world and specifically the colour and culture of Nollywood.
But let us even begin with the curious premise upon which Iroh’s stinging hypothesis is based. This is the failure of Nollywood films to win major awards at the African Movie Academy Awards (AMMA) which held early this year in Yenagoa, Bayelse State, Nigeria. For this author of 27 years, this failure shows that Nollywood is an amateur video enterprise and not a film industry, a triumph of quality over quantity (for those African countries whose films won), and a victory of creativity over commerce.
The question that even an undiscerning mind would easily ask is this; must Nollywood films win major awards every year? Wouldn’t that turn AMAA into a Nigerian thing? Nollywood films have dominated the awards in the last four years, winning all the awards in the main categories. Wouldn’t it then look suspicious, even manipulative, if AMAA inspired and produced by Nigerians, is dominated year in, year-out by Nigerian films?
May be we need to ask Iroh whether Hollywood has also failed woefully simply because Slum Dog Millionaire, a film produced in India and acted by an all Indian cast, won all the major awards at the Oscars this year.
Let us even bring the subject closer to Iroh. Professor Wole Soyinka, our renowned writer, has been writing since the late 1950s. Today he has the Nobel Prize for Literature as a worthy reward for excellence. Ben Okri with The Famished Road won the Booker prize. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who started writing only “yesterday”, also won a major international award, the Orange prize for fiction with her novel Half of a Yellow Sun.
However, Iroh, whose first work was published in 1981, is yet to win any major prize, not even the local Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) award. Among his many obscure books, only Toads of War, has succeeded in being a literature text in a second generation university. Does this then make Iroh’s books amateurish? Better still, does that make them an abysmal creative disaster?
Again, I dare to say with respect that Iroh exhibited a profound lack of knowledge of trends in motion picture development internationally. To begin with, even Hollywood is at present shifting towards digital video production, eager to dump the cumbersome celluloid tradition. Eminent directors/producers that include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee and George Lucas among many others have produced movies on digital videos.
Besides, Nollywood does not have to graduate into celluloid culture as Iroh envisioned. The truth is that Nollywood movies are what we call FUBU; produced FOR US BY US. It is the first time that we are telling our story in our own way, by our own practitioners through our own medium and ecstatically embraced and accepted by our people. Nollywood may not have told the stories the best way possible, but it is better for us to tell our story, even if poorly, than for outsiders to tell us our story the wrong way.
Iroh would want Nigerians and the world to believe that Nollywood is for idle minds, yet on November 7, 2007, far away in the United States, Hollywood’s own home, eminent professors in Humanity, Film and Theatre first class scholars, professors of Anthropology and Psychology under the auspices of the Global Media Research Centre gathered at the Southern Illinois University to dissect the mystery called Nollywood. Some of the pioneer practitioners of the industry that included Joke Silva, Francis Onwochei and Madu Chukwendu sat for hours at this elite rendezvous to answer questions on the emergence and phenomenal growth of Nollywood. Yet for Iroh, Nollywood deserves no credit of any kind.
Iroh rightly observed that Nollywood movies “came at a time of cultural famine, when there were no cinemas, no theatres and very little avenues for creative outlet and enjoyment”. This statement, to say the least, is a creative castration of Iroh’s own generation to which belongs Ola Balogun and Eddy Ugbomah that he mentioned. If that generation lived up to its creative calling, would there have been that entertainment lacuna, the “creative famine” that Nollywood sprang to fill? If Eddie Iroh’s generation are the immortals of our film industry, how is it that some of them ended up as quasi-musicians entertaining less than quality audience in scanty restaurants scattered all over Lagos.
He consigned Nollywood actors and directors without exception into the trash bowl of amateurs. Yet Nollywood parades men such as Olu Jacobs, who has starred and played major roles in Hollywood films that include Slave and Dogs of War; Lari Williams, one of the first blacks to perform at West End; Tosan Ugbeye, who has performed at Broadway, US and in several of Soyinka’s plays at home and abroad; Joke Silva, a veteran of both stage, television and film. Still Nollywood parades other thoroughbred professionals that include Tade Ogidan, Francis Onwochei, Kingsley Ogoro, Chico Ejiro, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Stella Damasus, Kate Henshaw, Genevieve Nnaji, Stephanie Okereke, Zeb Ejiro, Amaka Igwe, Charles Igwe, Mahmond Ali-Balogun and Lancelot Imasuen among others. Unknown to Iroh, most of these people trained in Theatre Arts, Film, Cinematography and Dramatic Arts in some of the best institutions both in Nigeria and abroad, some having both local and international awards for their roles in Nollywood. Some of these people have travelled across the entire five continents of this planet, on invitation to give lectures, attend seminars and workshops on the astounding subject called Nollywood.
This much castigated Nollywood has produced stars, who have become matinee-idols in other African countries. In 2007, over 2000 fans stood for hours at the airport in Free Town, Sierra-Leone to catch a glimpse of Genevieve Nnaji and ran after her convoy over a stretch of 10 kilometres. In the same manner, over 20,000 fans gathered at the stadium in Free Town just to see the little men - Osita Iheme and Chinedu Ikedieze - popularly known as Aki and Paw-Paw.
At the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, Nigeria, in early 2008, Justices of the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court that came for a conference from East Africa practically abandoned their breakfast tables when they saw two Nollywood stars. They confessed that their people are almost addicted to Nollywood films. Yet some discerning writer would not see anything good in Nollywood except “shallow storylines, poor scripting, one-dimensional acting …… inept directing….”
This writer is not in any way saying that all is well with Nollywood. Indeed some story lines and plots in our movies are sometimes pathetic. But same also applies to Hollywood and Bollywood stories. There are both good and bad actors in Nollywood, but this also is universal. No doubt, the quality of sound, pictures, and cinematography are still far from best practices, but Nollywood is on the march and needs only time.
Iroh touched a vital area in our films and that is props. He derided Nollywood for using toy guns and poor props. While it is true that toy guns may have been used in some films, Nollywood producers have long past that stage. However Iroh needs to be enlightened on the challenges of the producer in Nigeria. In the US, Hollywood producers have access to their airports, presidential jets and arsenal. American government recognizes the importance of film as an instrument of propaganda. In Ghana, Ghanaian producers need to pay only $100 (N16,600) to use their airport and they can legally acquire arms from the police and the military, free of charge.
But in our dear country, Nigeria, a producer has to pay N1 million to use the airport. Still you will need to pay a choking amount, up to N150,000 and then grease many palms just to hire little arms for a few hours. Does our eminent Iroh think a producer would opt for a “plastic gun” if he had access to the real thing?
Despite its obvious short comings, despite its constraints, Nollywood, like wind of silent mystery has forced its way into international reckoning. Contrary to Iroh’s un-researched opinion that Nollywood movies are only popular among Nigerians in the Diaspora, Nollywood movies have dominated African countries and are popular in the Carribeans and North America.
A tragic flaw in Iroh’s purgative commentary is its total lack of appreciation for anything in Nollywood. Here was an industry inspired by one man, Kenneth Nnebue, whose movie, Living in Bondage, produced by an ambitious young man, Okey Ogunjiofor, stirred the soul of Nigeria. Seventeen years after, Nollywood, which emerged from the bowel of Nnebue’s film, employs about five million Nigerians from CD-producing factories and importers, through video clubs, CD distributors, whole sellers, retailers, movie equipment dealers, marketers and movie practitioners. It is the second highest employer of labour, next only to the Federal Government. Indeed, Nollywood is today valued at over $2.3 billion, (about N330 billion) including revenues from broadcast and Internet rights. All these achievements are without any input by corporate Nigeria and importantly, without any significant government policy to enhance practice and encourage growth.
The undiluted truth remains that in spite of its clear shortcomings, Nollywood has revved the engine of change and spirit of a new generation of Nigerians, a generation with a robust confidence in simple dreams and unshakeable faith in small miracles.
This confidence and faith will strengthen Nollywood in its long walk through the Golgotha of professional odyssey and literary immolation by critics such as Iroh. But ultimately, at the end of the Golgotha is a glowing light of a new dawn ... for Nollywood!
• Okafor, a Nollywood practitioner and scholar, wrote from Lagos

Two Hit Premieres, I Great Event! Its Happenning at SilverBird Galleria!

2009-11-20T03:21:00.000-08:00

I'm here to make a difference - Chisom Oz-Lee by Bola Aduwo

2009-11-14T01:48:00.000-08:00

The wind of change continues to blow over Nollywood as more and more professionals are crossing over to swell its ranks. The latest entrant is Chisom Oz-lee, a pretty up-coming U.S based producer/actress. She was in the country recently to shoot a new film starring Ramsey Nouah, Uche Jombo and Mona Lisa Chinda. I had a few words with her and this is what went down.

BA: Hi Chisom!
C: Hi Bola, how you doin’?
BA: Fine…for the benefit of those who don’t know you, can you please introduce yourself to us?
C: Well, I’m Chisom Oz-lee, a Nigerian based in the U.S. I’m a film producer and actress by calling and a professional registered nurse by training.
BA: Hmm…interesting combination. How do you manage both nursing and film producing?
C: Quite easily. I produce films about once a year and work regularly as a nurse for the remaining part. That’s what I do for a living.
BA: Why the romance with film making? Why not just stick to nursing?
C: Nursing is a job but film making is a passion. I also combine it with acting…. I have been acting since my secondary school … even while in I was in UNN studying English. I took part in a lot of drama programmes.
BA: Is this the first film you have ever produced? The one you are currently shooting?
C: No its not. In 2006, I produced ‘In a Stranger’s Arms’ starring Desmond Elliot, Kalu Ikeagwu and myself. Then in 2008, I produced ‘Lost Maiden’ which starred Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Bimbo Akintola and Kalu Ikeagwu.
BA: Kalu again!....you seem to like making use of him a lot…I mean in your films.
C: (laughs) Yes, I like Kalu…. I mean, I like his acting and I would have used him again, in this new movie I’m doing but I decided to opt for variety.
BA: He’s single y’know…
C: So?
BA: Maybe you two could hook up?
C: What ARE you saying?! (General laughter) Bola, behave yourself!
BA: Don’t mind me.. I like to have fun with my interviewees…
C: No problem… just make sure you get the facts right.
BA: So are you single? By the way has anybody told you… you look a lot like Lil’ Kim
C: Yes they have and I take it as a compliment and Yes, I’m but not searching.
BA: What if others are …. searching?
C: Can we get on with the interview please…this is getting…uncomfortable (general laughter).
BA: Okay, back to your projects…. Tell us about ‘Lost Maiden; your last film.
C: ‘Lost Maiden’ is something Im very passionate about. It talks about the scourge of female circumcision.
BA: Tell me more.
C: As a nurse in the U.S. I have seen a lot of cases. Even those of circumcision.
BA: Of Americans?
C: No, ofcourse not. The women I saw, were living in America but came from other countries like Egypt, Senegal and one was from Nigeria. Their cases were pretty pathetic, I tell you.
BA: Im listening…
C: Im going to get rather graphic here….
BA: Go ahead…if it can save a life or sensitize people, the better…
C: Okay, there are actually different types of circumcision; there’s the one where just the clitoris of the woman is cut off. Then there’s the one where the clitoris, labia minora are cut off. Mind you this is done without any anesthesia, and in very unsanitary conditions. Also cut are tissues, nerves….
BA: Whaaaat! Chisom, abeg e don do!
C: You have heard anything yet…. After this is done, the woman is then sewn up crudely leaving only a little space for her to urinate. She is only opened on her wedding night by her husband. What then happens is that scar tissue forms and makes birth very difficult and painful because there is no more elasticity for that place to stretch when the woman is giving birth.
BA: This affects child birth, right?
C: Definitely! When the woman gets pregnant and wants to deliver, complications arise because the baby can’t come out on time, gets distressed and dies. Sometimes she dies too..
BA: But why is it done at all?
C: They say to curb the sexuality of the woman…
BA: And this is still being practiced?
C: Yes… even in this country so I decided to do a film about it called ‘Lost Maiden’ to educate people on the dangers of the practice.
BA: Hmmm… this is heavy stuff…so when is the film going to be released?
C: It has been released in the U.S but it will be released in Nigeria soon.
BA: Thanks for chatting with me Chisom. I wish you the best in this crusade again female circumcision.
C: Thank you.

GUILTY PLEASURES & NOLLYWOOD HUSTLER TO PREMIERE AT SILVERBIRD

2009-11-11T10:38:00.000-08:00

Word is out that ace Movie Producer, Emem Isong is about to release two of her new films, ‘Guilty Pleasures’ and ‘Nollywood Hustler’ in the cinemas in Nigeria. The movies will be premiered at the Silver Bird Galleria on the 29th of November 2009. Red carpet is from 5pm till 7pm and the Premiere proper takes off at 7pm. Emem has been known to put on some pretty ritzy premieres in the past, her last which was for ‘Reloaded’ was held at the prestigious Civic Centre and drew the crème de la crème of the banking and entertainment world. What should we expect this year? Hear her, ‘Don’t expect less. This year I want to concentrate more on showing the movies than displaying effizy as was the case last year. I wanted to make a point then; that Nigerian films are capable of drawing the kind of crowd that would not normally be associated with film and it worked! The place was jam packed with people from the upper echelons of society. This year, its all about showcasing creativity. Not just mine but others involved. I collaborated with Desmond on producing ‘Guilty Pleasures’ and with Uche Jombo with ‘Nollywood Hustler’. Both of them couldn’t have been more different from each other but they are good productions. The audience is in for a great time! The stars will be there to meet and greet, it certainly should not be missed’. Is it only Lagosians that will catch the fun? Emem responds, ‘After the premiere, the films will be shown in all Silver Bird Cinema outlets across Nigeria; Lagos, (V.Is, and Yaba) Port Harcourt and Abuja. Everyone should keep a date to know when it’s coming to your area’. Well, I’m certainly going to be there, live and direct! Will you?

NOLLYWOOD…. MOVING UP?

2009-11-10T12:43:00.000-08:00

First of all, let me say here that I am a die-hard Nollywood enthusiast and I make no apologies for that. Why? Well, not only because Im a writer there but also because it is an industry wholly created, driven and sustained by the Nigerian youth. Anything like that certainly deserves my attention. Gone are the days when I was a Nollywood-basher. This came about when I discovered during a working visit to Germany a couple of years ago, that the West was very behind in the way they viewed ‘Africa’ whether by omission or commission. They still think we live on trees, are dying of hunger and disease or whatever. Nollywood has unwittingly smashed that misconception to smithereens. If we all live in grass huts or trees, then where do all those beautiful houses, flashy cars and fine people come from? Mars? Anyway that is not the reason for this write-up. I just want to comment on the recent paradigm shift in the industry.
To the careful observer one has to notice that things have shifted in the industry. In the last couple of months, some pretty exciting films have come on the cinema circuit, namely Stephanie Okereke’s ‘Through the Glass’ Kunle Afolayan’s ‘The Figurine’ and soon to hit the cinemas Emem Isong’s ‘Guilty Pleasures’. We also hear of ‘IJE;The Journey’ set to hit our screens early next year. I know there are more to follow. A harbinger of what was to come, took place in February this year, when a documentary “Nollywood Babylon’ produced by two Canadian film makers was premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to rave reviews. Later in the year, Genevieve Nnaji was mentioned on Oprah as one of the 20 most famous people in the world.
Nollywood has come a long way from days of ‘Living in Bondage’ when the films treated themes of blood money/rituals etc. I believe it was because ‘Living in Bondage’ was such a hit, that the usual bandwagon Naija syndrome of ‘that’s where it must be happening so let do it’ took over. So what followed were films with a similar theme. After that we had the ‘Special Effects’ era when a person’s face morphed into a cat, pig, goat or whatever tickled the fancy of the producer/scriptwriter. Then came the era of the Great Epics! Those were films where the actors wore some sort of sack cloth material and had their lips and bodies painted black. Movies like ‘Igodo’, ‘Ijele’, ‘Vuga’ etc come to mind. Next came ‘Cult Boy/Issakaba stories. Those are stories of cult boys/vigilantes wielding cutlasses and dangerous weapons and engaging in a free for all fight. Someone once asked me if Nollywood is imitating life or if life is imitating Nollywood and I would have to go with the former. There was certainly a period in our history as a nation when self-styled vigilantes like OPC, Bakassi Boys, Egbesu Boys etc unleashed mayhem on hapless citizens. Then came the era of the Love stories… I think we are still there now. Rich-boy-meets-poor-girl, poor-boy-meets-rich-girl-and-falls-in-love kind of stories. This has continued to be the general theme to date. Mind you there are some producers that have consistently stuck to their themes come rain or shine. Teco Benson and Tarila Thompson are known for action/detective films and Emem Isong is known for her love stories to name a few.
Right now, the paradigm shift has come in the area of film going the cinema circuit. With the relative success of ‘Through the Glass’ and “The Figurine’, Cinema complexes in Nigeria have opened their doors to Nollywood and this has forced serious minded producers to up their game. Now scripts will be better written, more time and effort will be taken in producing, costuming etc. This is because everything is now on the big screen so one had better not mess up. It was because of the medium through which films were sold first vhs now vcd and more important WHO were selling and distributing the films, that’s why films were they way they were. The general belief was ‘no matter how much time and care, cranes, jibs and lenses you use in producing a film, it will still be sold in the market ANYWAY, with the other crappy ones, for N250 so why bother?’ It made sense to sell at the lowest cost possible so as to make maximum profit. It was all a matter of economics. That was the general premise and not necessarily my view. Like I said films are the way they are because of who is financing and selling them. However, now that cinemas have opened their doors to producers, surreptitiously the scepter has been handed back to the true professionals. As a producer friend of mine said, ‘Now we know we are doing film!’ When I hear people say ‘films were better in those days’ I shake my head, because I know why. It was because then they(films) were being handled by the professionals but along the line, the scepter was hijacked and held in a strangle hold by a cabal who determined who should be seen and who should not be. That stranglehold was only broken when AT LAST the Nigerian Government through the auspices of the Emeka Mba-led Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board insisted that there be a new frame work for marketing and distribution of films in the country. Ha! Glory Halleluyah! This singular act equivocably and effectually broke the yoke that had been strangulating the industry for so many years. On the surface it looks as if nothing has changed and it’s still business as usual. But something has happened. Yeah, there will still be films released on vcd but there will also be some that will go the cinema circuit before being released on cinema. What that means is more variety and quality for the consumers. Producers, the ball in your court! Let’s hold on to that sceptre that was sacrificed on the altar of mediocrity, greed and avarice and go back to doing good, solid productions. So are things looking up for Nollywood? I will say a resounding, YES! They most certainly are!

IJE..the Journey: New flick starring Genevieve and Omotola

2009-10-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

New flick starring Genevieve and Omotola to hit our screens soon!

It seems the era of mediocrity is fast coming to an end for Nigerian
film makers! They seem to be determined to put more effort in their
work and do more excellent jobs! The better for us viewers. A new
movie still unreleased, has started creating buzz. Its called
IJE...THE JOURNEY starring Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde,
Clem Ohameze and some foreign acts. The movie which is set for
release in March 2010, was shot on locations in Nigeria and Califonia
and will most likely go the cinema route. It promises to be well
worth watching.

The synopsis:
"IJE tells a tale of Chioma, a child growing up in the Nigerian
countryside, who warned her restless sister, Anya, about the trappings
of the American Dream. Now ten years later, Anya is accused of killing
three men in a Hollywood Hills mansion—one of them her record
producer-husband. Chioma travels from Nigeria to Los Angeles, and with the help of a young, unproven attorney, discovers that the dark secret her sister wants to keep hidden might be the only thing that can win her freedom."
culled from Naijagal

A Foreigner's take on Nollywood

2009-10-25T06:19:00.000-07:00

I came across this article on the Net and was intrigued. Its an interview with an American film maker on how Nollywood looks to him. Hmmmm...Interesting....

Berks Film Fest 2008: Interview with Jamie Meltzer

By Patty Mahlon
Reading Eagle Internet Services

Virtually non-existent in 1990, the Nigerian film industry (“Nollywood”) is now the third largest in the world. Jamie Meltzer, a film professor at Vassar and the director of the beloved PBS song-poem documentary “Off The Charts” explores the little known yet burgeoning movie phenomenon in his latest film“Welcome to Nollywood,” which plays at the R/C Theaters Reading Movies 11 & IMAX Saturday Oct. 4 at 4:45 pm as part of the Berks Movie Madness Film Festival. Admission is $7.

Patty Mahlon: Why did you decide to make a film about the Nigerian film industry?

Jamie Meltzer: I was finishing up the “Off The Charts” documentary, which basically took me four years to complete. “Off The Charts” was a great filmmaking process for me, but it was also a very frustrating process because it took so long. There was a lot of fundraising involved and I had to overcome all these obstacles just to make the film.

At the height of my frustration toward the end of it, when I really just wanted to be done with the film, I read about Nollywood and these filmmaker who were making films in two to three weeks and then immediately getting the films out on video to their audiences. These are filmmakers creating an industry with absolutely no support from their government – independent filmmakers – who have made an incredible market all on their own terms. And I thought, wow, first of all, this is a very surprising industry and idea out of Africa, because I haven’t heard of it, and it breaks a lot of stereotypes. And secondly, I think this is a good lesson for American independent filmmakers. I wanted to learn how they do it.

So I started contacting people in Nigeria. I didn’t learn a whole lot until I actually went there and spent two months filming different directors.

PM: What was it like shooting in Nigeria?

Jamie Meltzer: It was great in a sense, because I was very warmly welcomed. Everyone was excited that this American filmmaker was there, even though they didn’t quite know what I was all about. They were very excited about someone who had an interest and a respect for what they did. They saw it as an opportunity to exchange information.

The actual filming was really difficult. In the film you see this in the way that the lights go out every couple hours. That was something I, as a filmmaker, had to contend with as well. I didn’t have as much practice as they did, and I didn’t expect it like they did. It took me all day to get through an interview or follow someone around, when if I was working on a documentary in the US that would take maybe an half hour.

So I basically had to roll with it and make the best of what I had. I sort of absorbed what I saw and what they did and the way they molded their approaches and their styles to meet the circumstances at hand. It gave me a better sense of them as filmmakers just trying to make a film there myself.

PM: How many Nollywood films had you watched before going into this?

Jamie Meltzer: I looked at 30 or 40 of them that were sent from a contact of mine there who’s a producer. He sent me all the ones he thought were interesting or popular. The first thing I did was get a sense for what the genres were, and what kind of films these are. There’s a pretty wide array.

I started to become less interested in the idea of explicitly showing what the films were about and going through all the genres. That sort of study of Nollywood didn’t really interest me. What was interesting to me was the way the industry was established. And then when I got there, I saw the struggle to overcome all the obstacles I just talked about. So my films is less an exploration of the films of Nollywood and more a look at the enterprise of it all. It’s about the formation of Nollywood and how that happened.

The other thing that happened when I got all these videos: a lot of the films were the same. Like Hollywood, their films got predictable after a while. I looked at one film in particular by Izu Ojukwu, who ended up being one the main filmmakers in my film. And his film was totally different in style and visual approach. Everything about it completely stood out. He went against everything I had heard about what Nollywood was. I mean, it was clear he didn’t shoot these things very quickly as throwaway pieces. It was clear he spent a lot of time visualizing and lighting them in a way all the other films didn’t. So I realized he would have to be an important character. And I was able to get in touch with him once I got there.

PM: What happened to his film “Laviva?” I looked up the film on IMDB and I saw it had a release date.

Jamie Meltzer: “Laviva” didn’t really come out yet. It’s a very complicated market there. Since I left, he’s made at least two or three films a year. So he’s made something like 10 to 12 films since I left. Most Nollywood filmmakers make a lot more than that in a year. He’s won many awards. He won the equivalent to best picture at the Academy Awards for the picture he made after “Laviva.” So he’s now a very famous, well-respected filmmaker there. He was just on the cusp of that when I was filming him.

“Laviva” itself is very precious to him. It’s a very personal film. In my film you see he’s putting his own money into it. He really put his heart into it. The stakes were high. So he’s waiting to roll it out at the exact right time in Nigeria. He wants it to be the film that might change the way people look at him and the way they look at the industry. It’s already been in a couple festivals with my film. It premiered at a film festival here in California, and it got a really good reception. There were more people at that film then there were at my documentary! So I think there is some interest in Nollywood.

PM: Are all Nollywood films shot in English?

Jamie Meltzer: Yes, in the industry I followed. Within Nollywood are several different industries. In terms of language, Nigeria is comprised of many different tribal communities, like the Yoruba and the Igbo, which is sort of the business class. And then there’s the Hausa; they live in the north and are Muslim. They all have their own languages. And then they all speak English as well, because there are so many different languages at play that you have to have some sort of common ground. There’s also the fact that Nigeria was colonized by the English. So the national language is English, and the main film industry I followed – which is considered the mainstream Nollywood – makes its films in English. There are other industries that film in tribal languages. I decided not to cover that because it really wouldn’t make sense for an American audience. It would create a whole layer of distance that didn’t need to be there.

PM: How many films has Chico/Mr. Prolific made since you were there?

Jamie Meltzer: Oh, I don’t even know. I can’t even keep track, and he doesn’t always say. He embraces his name “Mr. Prolific.” I think at the same time he might be a little embarrassed. Like someone says in the film, “What does he think this is, a bakery?” He’s sometimes a little shy about talking about how much he’s really done. It’s hard to find out, because there are so many films put on the marketplace. He’s probably done at least 20 or 30 films since then. I know he’s also moved more into TV production since then.

In fact, when I returned to Nigeria the second time – I was in Nigeria two different times over two different summers – the second time I returned I already knew all these guys very well. I ended up starring in a soap opera that Chico was making, just because I was around. Basically, I owed him a favor because I had him in my film. It was quite an experience to have the tables turned. And later I found out that the soap opera aired and all these people saw it. Apparently, it was well-received. Although I don’t think I’m a very good actor.

PM: What was your role in the show? Was it an action role?

Jamie Meltzer: My role was sort of this obnoxious American who’s trying to marry a Nigerian woman. I’m only about 5’7”, and the woman was 6’2”, so it was sort of a ridiculous visual. I go to meet her parents, sort of flail around, and then get in a fight with some Nigerian fellow who’s not very happy about my interest in her. It was a whole cross-cultural, interracial thing going on. It was interesting. I felt it was very stereotypically and almost – not really racist – but very stereotypical in terms of its look at white America. I almost thought, “OK, this is just desserts for all the representations of Africans and African Americans in the mainstream media, Hollywood, and even independent films for the last hundred years or so.

PM: When you were following Izu and things were starting to get salty with the crew, how did you handle that?

Jamie Meltzer: I’m a teacher, and I can only film for a certain amount of time in the summer before I have to go back. So what happened was: we were there for two months and came to the very end of the summer. I had been waiting three weeks at that time for Izu’s production to start up. There was a lot of tension and a lot of waiting around. Eventually I had to leave. So I actually trained a Nigerian guy I had been using as a production assistant. He was a great production assistant and I ended up training him on camera. I trained another guy on how to do sound. And I left them all my equipment. When I left, Izu’s production had really just started, so a lot of the footage in maybe the last ten minutes of the film were shot by the production assistant. It has a certain level of intimacy with the crew that I wouldn’t have been able to get, because I was closer to the director. So when they’re yelling at the camera, and when there’s all this tension between the camera and the crew and there's a lot of action you wouldn’t expect to see play out in front of someone not from there, it’s filmed by someone from there.

PM: You said earlier that with "Off The Charts" you got bogged down with fundraising when trying to get your film circulating. Did you have to deal with any of that? Or did the immediacy of what you were filming prevent some of that?

Jamie Meltzer: Like I said before, one of the things that attracted me to Nollywood was that the independent filmmakers have achieved something that we have not. We don’t have an independent film industry that’s as vibrant as Nigeria’s. And Nigeria took digital video and got mileage out of it that no one expected. That was my approach, too. I took a low-cost video cameras and equipment and traveled with just two other people and made this film with a tiny crew in just two months. Then, of course, I planned on finishing it within six months after that and then really ramp up the entire finishing schedule. But it did take a long time. I started in 2004, but it didn’t play any festivals until 2007. So I shaved off a year of time compared to "Off The Charts," but I still think I need to do some shaving in terms of projects from conception to completion.

PM: Do you have another project in the pipeline?

Jamie Meltzer: I’m finishing up a short documentary about a town in Mexico seven hours south of the US border that created a theme park that would attract people from all over Mexico to come out to this town and go on a simulated border crossing, where they would pretend to cross the border. They intend it as a way to raise awareness for what people go through crossing the border. It should be at festivals within the next year.

PM: How has Welcome to Nollywood been received? Has it increased interest in Nigerian films?

Jamie Meltzer: I don’t think it’s increased interest. The Nigerian industry is just so young. If you think about it, the time when the US industry was this young. I mean, you’re talking 1903 before DW Griffith; before the language or grammar of film had been established. You had one-shot wonders. Poorly edited films. Three-minute films.

The Nigerian industry is really in its infancy. It’s still defining itself. I think in the next ten years the industry will really land on its feet in terms of having a place our world of media. That’s what’s left to conquer. They conquered Africa. The next frontier is our landscape. And I think it’ll be a few years, but I think Nollywood films will play in festivals, theaters, and might eventually start winning Academy Awards.

NSE IKPE ETIM – An interview with Nollywood’s IT Girl by BOLA ADUWO

2009-10-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

As I sit in the comfortable arm chair in ace Producer, Emem Isong’s sitting room, I await the arrival of her house guest, Nse Ikpe Etim the fast rising star in Nollywood; the lady that gave Femi, Ramsey Noah’s character a run for his money in the movie ‘Reloaded’. Her performance as the fiery wife of a philandering husband really struck a cord with viewers, earning her fans especially among the female folk everywhere and it even got her nominated for best Actress at the last Africa Movie Awards (AMA), no small feat for a newcomer.

All sorts of thoughts rush through my mind as I wait for her …. What will she be like? Haughty? Or fiery like the character, Omoze which she played in ‘Reloaded’? How do we greet? With the cursory peck? Handshake? What?!!... as the thoughts swirl round my mind, I hear footsteps on the staircase and the lady in question, Nse, floats down the staircase in a free, flowing kaftan, her hair loosely pulled into a chignon. Her face, make up free, is glowing, radiant in the midday sun. I am taken aback by her simplicity and quiet beauty and can’t help but stare awkwardly. She smiles broadly, putting me at ease and I respond immediately, giving her the cursory peck on two cheeks. On meeting Nse for the first time, she strikes you as the girl next door, simple, almost tomboyish. She crosses her legs elegantly and I begin to pick her brain, wanting to know what makes her tick. She says I should use the acronym NILE which is her nickname.

BA: When did you know you had it in you to act?
NILE: When I was 18 though it was strictly stage and not TV. You see I studied Theatre Arts in University of Calabar.

BA: When did you go into acting full time?
NILE: Well, I acted in a soap 10yrs ago called ‘Inheritance’ then left to do things before coming back to act ‘Reloaded’.

BA: Other things such as?
Nile: well, I worked in a radio station, a bank, managed a clothing store amongst other things.

BA: Trying to find your feet, right?
NILE: You could say that.

BA:What made you decide to pick ‘Reloaded?’
NILE: It was a fun script and I enjoyed reading and working on part of the dialogue. Also the producer Emem is a friend. She let me know I had it in me to handle the part.

BA: Do you enjoy harassing the living daylights out of people as you did Femi, your co-star played by Ramsey?
NILE: (laughter) Only my friends! I can be a real pain in the arse! I tell you, you take me in small doses!

BA: What brought out the fire in you in ‘Reloaded’?
NILE: The fact that I got to act with such a great actor, Ramsey. He made me up my game.

BA: Could you do half as much as Omoze (your character in ‘Reloaded’) to someone who really ticks you off?
NILE: (smiles) Everybody is capable of being an Omoze.

BA: So who is Nse Ikpe-Etim?
NILE: A simple girl from Akwa Ibom state.

BA: Lets talk about ‘Guilty Pleasures’ your latest film.
NILE: No fiery tempers there… I’m a pampered, spoilt wife that needs her husband’s attention and not only his money, so I search for it in other places. This leads to disastrous consequences.

BA: What was it like working with Majid Michel (actor from Ghana)
NILE: Majid is a darling… so funny. We had a good laugh acting together.

BA: I saw some pretty steamy scenes in the promo… Is it all real?
NILE: (laughs) Ofcourse not… we are in the world of make-believe. We make you believe it’s real.

BA: Nigerian films are getting pretty raunchy these days and the actors more daring. It seems you like to push the envelope..
NILE: Why do you say that?

BA: Well, in ‘Guilty Pleasures’ it like no-holds-barred…
NILE: Guilty Pleasures is a very intense love story… there is no way we could portray that without kissing… but it just that… a kiss!

Hmm… interesting… so what drives you?
NILE: Fear of failure. I hate to fail.

BA: And have you failed before?
NILE: Ofcourse but you jump up and move on.

BA: Do you have any regrets in life?
NILE: (Thoughful) Yes that I don’t have a child yet.

BA: That can be remedied.
NILE: I know I just wish I had one already.

BA: So what next for the simple girl from Akwa Ibom?
NILE: Whatever God has in store for me.

BA: Which is specifically?
NILE: Well, I have acted several films after ‘Reloaded’ some are yet to come out. There is ‘Edikan’ which is an indigenous film acted in Ibibio language; that has come out,…. there is also ‘Memories of the Heart which I acted with Ini Edo and Mona Lisa’ and ‘Bursting Out’ with Genevieve Nnaji and Omoni Oboli. They should come out hopefully before the end of the end of the year or at least the first quarter of next year.

BA: So whats next for Nse?
NILE: Isn’t that one enough for now? (general laughter)

BA: Okay….I’ll let you off the hook… for now!

(Laughter)

BA: I wish you the best, Nse.
NILE: Thank you. I wish you the same.

BA: Thanks for your time.
NILE: You’re welcome.

Emem Isong premieres new movie

2009-10-20T01:21:00.000-07:00

EMEM ISONG GETS READY FOR PREMIERE OF THE YEAR
by BOLA ADUWO

It seems Nollywood is not quite done with premieres. Just when we thought we had seen ‘em all, we received feelers from the camp of Emem Isong that she is about to hit the town with the world premiere of ‘Guilty Pleasures’. I decided to investigate and managed to track down the busy Producer and this is what went down.

BA: Hello Emem.

Emem: How are you Bola?

BA: I hear you are hitting town with another premiere.

Emem: What do you mean another premiere? I haven’t done one this year?

BA: Really? Well, it wasn’t so long ago that you did one for the film, “Reloaded”.

Emem: That was last year. This is another year.

BA: So are you premiering ‘Guilty Pleasures’ in Nigeria?

Emem: Yes I am. Im premiering ‘Guilty Pleasures’ and ‘Nollywood Hustler’; two films I co-produced with people. One, Guilty Pleasures I co produced with Desmond Elliot and the other Nollywood Hustler with Uche Jombo.

BA: Why do you like co-producing with others?

Emem: Because, we each have our strengths and weakness. We bring out the best in each other. Truly great productions have to do with teamwork. We are a greater team when we work together.

BA: So why do you want to premiere these films?

Emem: Because I know I have winners in them.

BA: Please explain.

Emem: Sometimes when you do films you know there are some that stand out. These two do. Mind you, Im not saying my other films are not good.

BA: Tell us more about the films.

Emem: Well one ‘Nollywood Hustler’ is a hilarious comedy about the behind-the scenes look at how films are made in Nollywood. It is star-studded with some of the actors acting as themselves. Others did cameo appearances. It’s a must see! The other ‘Guilty Pleasures’ is a love story…intense and passionate… a pampered, bored, house wife feels emotionally neglected by her husband, a controlling busy business executive. On the other hand they are visited by his happy-go-lucky, attractive brother-in-law.

BA: Then what happens?

Emem: (smiling) Find out at the Premiere!!

(Laughter)

BA: Who are the actors in it?

Emem: Ramsey Noauh, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Majid Michel, Mercy Johnson and Omoni Oboli

B.A: Hmm.. I see you featured the usual suspects… Ramsey and Nse. Why pair them again after ‘Reloaded?’

Emem: Because they have good chemistry together. Ramsey is a very deep actor…capable of so much. It takes a great actress to meet him head to head. I think he found his match with Nse. But that doesn’t mean other actresses I work with are not good. Certain actresses are good in certain roles. It’s a matter of the right casting. Putting the right peg in the right hole.

BA: What about Majid? What is he like to work with?

Emem(smiles) Majid is great! Such a joy to work with! No airs, no tantrums… he does his work and goes to his hotel room.

BA: I cant help asking… do other actors give you tantrums?

Emem: Bola! You have come o!

(laughter)

BA: Im waiting…

Emem: Ofcourse some do…people are people… actors are no different.

BA: Care to name names?

Emem: (laughing) No I do not! Next question!

BA: I understand Guilty Pleasures has already been released in America.

Emem: That doesn’t matter. It doesn’t affect sales in Nigeria. Remember we are over 120 million…some say 150 million. At least a fraction of that will buy or watch the film.

BA: why did you decide to release it in America first?

Emem: Because when you release it here, people carry it over there and pirate it. So we decided to go one step over the pirates and release it there first, before doing it here.

BA: So will the film be released straight to dvd like the others?

Emem: No, this one will be shown in the cinemas, precisely in SilverBird Cinemas in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Accra then it will be released on dvd.

BA: Any plans to premiere it abroad?

Emem: Not at this moment but if we get invited to do that why not?

BA: Please clarify an issue… is there a Part 2?

Emem: As in, how? Please explain.

BA: Is the film yet to be continued from what you have now?

Emem: No it is not going to be continued.

BA: There was some confusion about the different posters/dvd jackets…

Emem: The film released in America has its own jacket made for that market. We have a different jacket for that being released in Nigeria, Ghana etc.

BA: But it’s the same film?

Emem: Ofcourse!

BA: No extra, hidden stories?

Emem: No.

BA: We heard in the news that certain producers are working on films with themes very, very similar to your recent films?
Emem: really? Which films?

BA: Specifically, ‘Edikan’ your language film on child witchcraft and ‘Guilty Pleasures’

Emem: Well, that’s news to me.

BA: What do you have to say about that?

Emem: What can I say? They say ‘copying is a form of flattery’ but if its not the original it can never be like the original. It is sad that some colleagues have to resort to waiting for you to do all the thinking and brainwork only for them to bring out cheap knock-offs! My advice to them is to desist from this unsavory act and use their talents to do something more productive. There are so many topics one can explore…why copy what another person has already done? (shakes head)

BA: So, what next should we expect from you?

Emem: For now I want to concentrate on the premiere. Later, I will talk about my other projects.

BA: What other projects?

Emem: I wont say much now but it does involve a school…a media training centre I am starting.

BA: Tell me more.

Emem: okay, It is a training centre for actors, actresses, cameramen, cinematographers, editors and the like. We are partnering with a media school in the U.K to do this. A proper press conference will soon hold to publicize this. Im just giving you the scoop!

BA: Wow! Very interesting! Why a media school?

Emem: Why not a media school? For all the years Nollywood has been in existence, we hardly have any schools for training apart from TV College, Jos! There are a smattering of private ones here and there but I decided to delve into it because I would like to develop that area of talent in the country. If you notice that is what I like to do…discover and develop new actresses. Besides, lets face it, we are not getting any younger! (laughter) I might not be able jump from set to set forever. I will like to hand the baton to the next generation.

BA: I hope you are not implying that you are retiring?

Emem: Ofcourse not. As long as God gives me the creativity, the strength (and finances!) I will continue to do films but I will like to invest in training to bring out other great actresses, actors, producers etc. You should see the way my phones ring off the hook with requests from people to act! And I say this with great humility. Some calls even come in from as far off as Kenya and Uganda in East Africa. A Kenyan lady, an actress even sent me her showreel with requesting to come and act in Nigeria! She was ready to pay her airfare and hotel bills herself! I was very impressed and touched! Some are even ready to come all the way from there for the course. We are working on our website which will soon be up so interested people can log in and apply online.

BA: Well, its been interesting talking to you. I wish you the best in all your endeavours.

Emem: The pleasure is all mine!

OPEN LETTER TO THE EDITOR OF TIME MAGAZINE FALSE DEPICTION OF NOLLYWOOD IN TIME MAGAZINE

2009-10-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Editor
I have just seen your so-called pictures from Nollywood the 3rd
largest film industry in the world and I must say I am aghast that a
magazine as prestigious as yourself would buy into what is obviously a
staged, wicked and malicious attempt to paint the people of Nigeria in
a negative light. Who in their correct minds would buy movies with
those evil, nightmarish creatures in them? The photographer and his
accomplies obviously have axes to grind. But whatever it is, people
are not buying that! You are merely running the danger of allowing
your esteemed newsmagazine which I USED TO have esteem for be dragged
in the mud. My country Nigeria is not perfect. Whose is? We are a
third world country, trying to get beyond the shackles of
neo-colonialism, corruption, poverty and other vices plaguing our
nascent nation. In the midst of this, the youth have been able to
create an industry (without Government assistance and foreign aid)
that creating stories for us, by us. These stories border on romance,
religion, family squabbles and yes voodoo but that can be akin to your
horror stories. For a misinformed western photographer to come here,
stage-manage these pictures and say they represent Nollywood is
downright sad and an insult to our intelligence. A Canadian
documentary film crew led by producer Ben Adellman came and shot a
documentary about the same industry, and premiered it to rave reviews
at the Sundance Film Festival and Cannes Film Festival
http://films.nfb.ca/nollywood-babylon/
http://festival.sundance.org/2009/film_events/films/nollywood_babylon
They plan to do a screening in Nigeria very soon.
A Nollywood actress Stephanie Okereke who studied at the New York Film
Academy wrote, directed and shot a film 'Through the Glass' and held a
premiere in Los Angeles, Califonia and in Lagos to the admiration of
many who came all the way from America for the premiere.
http://www.nyfa.com/film-school-blog/film-school-graduate-stephanie-okereke-premiers-new-film/
http://www.bellanaija.com/2009/09/24/silverbird-galleria-sets-the-scene-for-stephanie-okerekes-through-the-glass-lagos-premiere/
Legendary talk show host Oprah Winfrey recently included our Nollywood
actress, Genevieve Nnaji in her show about '20 most famous people in
the world'.
If you really want to know the truth about Nollywood and who the
actors are, all you have to do is to google it and it is there for all
to see. Not the crap that was featured in your magazine as
photography. We are tired of the lies westerners propagate about
Africa and Nigerians! Enough is enough! I think the industry and the
people of Nigeria deserve an apology!

Heavensgate Actress, Caroline Johnson Recovers

2009-10-14T03:04:00.000-07:00

I usually dont like to poke my nose into other peoples bizness especially health problems but this is a story that touched my heart. Some time ago it was in the news that actress, Caroline Johnson (Uju in Heavensgate)was diagnosed with leukemia. Money was raised for her to go to India for treatment. She did and is back in Nigeria. Here is her thank you letter (culled from lindaikeji.blogspot.com) accompanied by some pix...pls be warned that they are a bit graphic.

Dear All,
HE KEPT HIS WORD…

This is Caroline Johnson and am happy to write this letter. Firstly, I would like to let you know that Jesus Christ really lives and I thank God for seeing me through.

I sympathize with those out there going through this because I have been there; I know what it is to be helpless, hopeless and sick. My prayer is that our good Lord will rise up on your case as he did with mine.

I am inspired and glad to write you all and with sincere appreciation deep down within me, I would like to say a BIG THANK YOU to every one who has been a part of my medical trip to India and above all your Prayers.

I arrived safely from India and I am in good health. Before I left as you must have read, I was diagnosed with LEUKEMIA (cancer of the blood) and with CENTRAL NERVOUS complication and breakdown to the point that I could no longer walk, loss of hearing and loss of vision and at a point I started having seizures. But today, no single LEUKEMIC CELL (cancer cell) can be found in me! PRAISE GOD!

Though I have scars and still on physiotherapy due to a foot drop, I know that my Lord will perfect that which He has started. I will be going back to India in a couple of months for further check up.

In as much as I would like to thank every one personally which I know may not be possible, you can reach me on my e-mail caroline@savecarolinejohnson.com and on my yahoo messenger cece_za@yahoo.com my face book Caroline Johnson. I will personally respond to every email I get to read.

Once again, thank you very much, the good lord will bless you, keep you, uplift you and continue to show you mercy.

Before I conclude, I thank God for giving me a second chance to be what He wants me to be, the mother to my wonderful children and wife to my ever supportive, loving and caring husband.

Thank you very much and God bless you all.

Caroline Johnson (a.k.a Uju Heavens Gate)
***
Returning from India after treatment

Guilty Pleasures - the movie

2009-10-09T16:20:00.001-07:00

What happens when a bored, pampered, wealthy woman is married to an emotionally-distant, busy man? And is visited by a happy-go-lucky, loving (did I forget to mention attractive?) brother-in-law with plenty of time on his hands? Fireworks thats what! Guilty Pleasures...coming to a theatre near you!

A STAR CONTINUES TO GLOW!

2009-10-08T17:19:00.000-07:00

AN ODE TO RAMSEY NOUAH

I am usually not given to writing open letters to known or unknown men but I have been moved to do so. I have just watched ‘The Figurine’ and I must say my level of respect for Ramsey Tokunbo Nouah has risen up by ten notches! Forget the lover-boy-Martini-idol looks…Ramsey Nouah can act!! OMG! I watched him, entranced as he evolved from an asthma-suffering-glasses-wearing nerd to the sauve, stylish Ramsey we all know and love. Listening to him speaking clear, faultless Yoruba was so sexy….Gosh! I had suspected for a long time that he could act but he was just not challenged enough so he just coasted along over the years with the occasional flash of brilliance coming out now and then (think Silent Night, Dangerous Twins etc.) That was when I started respecting him. His acting in Emem Isong’s ‘Reloaded’ blew me away but his heart-stopping performance in ‘Guilty Pleasures’ lets me know ‘Yes, an African Martinee Idol star has been born. His acting in ‘The Figurine’ lets me know that he is here to stay. Our youth-obsessed society might think he is getting on (as in older) and should probably leave the stage for the the young ‘uns (the Ghana boys, if you know what I mean) but I think he is in a league of his own…he is just entering into his prime and like fine wine, is tasting sweeter and more intoxicating. That is a lot more from where that talent is coming from, believe me. That I have a crush on Ramsey is in no doubt but not in a personal way but in a school-girl-pin-up gushy kind of way! Even when I meet him (and I do occasionally and believe me he looks SO much better in real life!), I never reveal the way I feel….because it’s a guilty pleasure, the kind you eat when you know you should be dieting…secretly…covertly…Why? I dunno…maybe meeting him will spoil all the fun and the mystery and let me know that he is human after all. (who isn’t?) So I leave him on my pedestal…I duff my hat to you, Ramsey Nouah and wish you many more glorious years ahead …thrilling us in with more world class performances!

NIGERIA WE HAIL THEE…

2009-10-05T16:43:00.000-07:00

NIGERIA WE HAIL THEE…

GUILTY PLEASURES;The making

2009-10-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

Yet another hot movie has hit the shelves from the stable of Emem Isong. Aptly titled 'Guilty Pleasures' this is the kinda movie you put on when you have finished the chores, put the kids to bed, dimmed the lights and picked your favourite bag of crips to munch! Directed by Daniel Ademinokan & Desmond Elliot, written by Uyai Ikpe-Etim & Bola Aduwo,it stars Ramsey Nouah, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Majid Michel, Omoni Oboli and Mercy Johnson.

Mona Lisa's Birthday Bash

2009-09-27T11:43:00.001-07:00

Glo Ambassador and talented Nollywood actress Mona Lisa Chinda recently marked her birthday in the company of a few select friends and family. Looking radiant and unruffled despite the media storm she has been embroiled in, in recent weeks, the mother of one was the perfect hostess to those that came to rejoice with her as she added another year.
The event which took place in the quiet seaside suburb of Lekki Peninsula in Lagos had in attendance several people from the Nollywood community (Nigeria’s burgeoning film industry) namely Zik Zulu Okafor (Producer, “Heavensgate’) Fred Amata (Actor/Director), Emem Isong (Veteran producer) Blessing Egbe, (Model/actress/producer, ‘Before the Vow, After the Vow, Rivals) Desmond Elliot(Actor), Omoni Oboli (Actress), Bola Aduwo (Writer ‘Reloaded, Nollywood Hustler, Guilty Pleasures etc) Uduak Oguamanam (writer Edikan etc), Ufuoma Ejenobor (Actress) Kalu Ikeagwu (Actor), Mr Kool (Artiste), Tricia Esiegbe to name a few. I managed to corner the celebrant to ask about the recent imbroglio between her and her estranged husband Segun Dejo-Richards but the star remained taciturn. She instead directed me to her lawyer, Human Rights activist, Festus Keyamo who she says handles all such enquiries. Hear her: ‘Please this is a happy occasion. I’ve just turned a year older and should I add, a year wiser. Life is a school….a journey… sometimes you stumble and fall but you must pick yourself right up and keep on moving’. Hmmm… does that cryptic answer have anything to do with her experience with her estranged husband?’ Again she evades the question. ‘We all have our lives to live. I just want to focus on continuing to develop my career and concentrate on being a good mother to my lovely daughter.’ She however agreed to talk about her upcoming projects. “ I have just finished shooting a hilarious comedy, titled, “Nollywood Hustler’. It was something else. It brought out the comedic side of me and I really had fun doing it’. When pressed further about her role in the movie, she responds. “I played myself actually…albeit an over the top version! That for me was a first!’ I have other projects in the pipeline that include producing too so I can say that the future is bright. Sometimes life throws lemons at you, so what do you do? Take them and make lemonade!’ True words from this acting diva! I leave her to enjoy herself and help myself to a few glasses! Cheers everyone!

NOLLYWOOD HUSTLER

2009-09-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

Emem Isong and Uche Jombo collaborate to shoot a new comedy titled ‘Nollywood Hustler’.
Elvis (Charles Inojie) and Lucky (Bishop) are two no-good-out-of-work hustlers who want to shoot a film. They enlist the help of Prince Adolphus Akabogwu (Ejike Asiegbu) to sponsor it and the pepper soup joint assistant Scholarstica (Uche Jombo) to feature. But how do they get the A-List actors, Monalisa Chinda and Ramsey Nouah (acting as themselves) to act without paying their exorbitant fee? They then come up with a brilliant plan that leads to severe consequences for the pair. ‘Nollywood Hustler’ is a satire on the film making process in Nigerian film industry that will leave you laughing from start to finish. Produced by Emem Isong and written by Bola Aduwo & Uduak Isong Oguamanam, it has Uche Jombo as the Executive Producer and features several stars in cameo appearances.

NSE-IKPE ETIM...... NOLLYWOOD'S NEXT BIG THING

2009-03-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

There’s a silent invasion taking place in Nollywood. It is slowly but surely coming from the south eastern state of Akwa Ibom in the form of actresses, filling up the ranks in Nollywood. First it was Susan Patrick, the gap-toothed actress made famous for her role in ‘Sakobi’ then it was Ini Edo, Carol Ekanem, Mbong Amata nee Odungide of ‘Amazing Grace’ fame. Now the latest addition to the fold is Nse Ikpe-Etim, Nollywood’s Next Big Thing. ‘The Silent Tsunami’ I like to call her. The ingenuity of Nse is that you really don’t know she’s there. She tries so hard to unassumingly blend into the woodwork…. until her performance hits you… just like a tsunami and then you realize she has been there all along. You just weren’t observant enough to notice. ‘Who is that girl?’ has been the question on the lips of so many recently. Well, the answer may be found in the latest offering from Emem Isong’s award-winning film, ‘Reloaded’. She acted the role of Ramsey Nouah’s characters fiery wife, Omoze. Her performance was simply stunning. She certainly blew the competition out of the water. So much so, she has been nominated jointly with Stephanie Okereke (who equally put up a stellar performance in the ‘Reloaded’) for the role of Best Actress at the up-coming AMAA Awards taking place in Yenogoa, Bayelsa State; an unprecedented decision in the history of AMAA. Two actresses tied for the Award for Best Actress. This is no small feat since this is her first major role in a movie. Has she acted anywhere before, I ask? ‘Yes, in a soap about 10 years ago’. After that, I was more behind the scenes than anything’. What made you decide to go in front of camera this time? ‘The time was right. This was God’s time for me’. God’s time indeed! So much so that her awesome performance had journalists scrambling to interview her at the just concluded BOBTV Film and Television Film Market, that took place in Abuja.

Nse Ikpe-Etim was discovered by none other than the ace producer, Emem Isong. Emem has over the years, proven that she has the uncanny knack of spotting a winner as she has to her credit, discovered great actresses like Stella Damasus, Dakore Egbuson and Kalu Ikeagwu to name a few. She has also boosted the careers of Mike Ezuruonye, Stephanie Okereke and Uche Jombo because it was through her films (Critical Decision, Emotional Crack and Games Men Play respectively) that they had their break out roles.

Nse Ikpe-Etim seems to be the latest in the stable. So what next for Nollywood’s Next Big Thing? Well, fans of hers can catch her in the soon-to-be-released sassy, risqué ‘Guilty Pleasures’starring Ramsey Nouah and Ghanaian actor, Majid Michel. ‘Ramsey again? I exclaim.’ ‘Any romantic entanglement between you two? You know what they say about acting opposite attractive co-stars? Just ask Angelina Jolie and Penelope Cruz!’ She laughs and says, ‘Ramsey is an old friend. I’ve known him practically forever! He’s like a brother to me besides he’s happily married’. ‘And if he wasn’t married?’ I cannot resist adding that mischievous quip. She smiles with her dimpled grin. ‘He would still be a brother to me’. She arches her brow, reminiscent of Omoze, her character in ‘Reloaded’ and I know not to pursue that line of questioning, after all who wants to be shoved in a car and given the beating of her life?! Big things are indeed in the offing for this rising Star and if she starts her first film on this footing, who knows to say what’s in store? Nollywood needs to look out for this silent tsunami. Meanwhile, watch this space!

N500 Million Largesse to Nollywood Stars!

2009-02-13T05:00:00.000-08:00

There a topic that has been raging on for a while now and that is the recent N500 million largesse given to 10 Nollywood artistes by Globacom the telecom giant. For those not yet in the know, Glo recently paid out about N500 million to 10 Nigerian actors and actresses namely;Rita Dominic,Uche Jombo,Monalisa Chinda, Funke Akindele (of the Jenifa fame),Chioma Akpotha, Ramsey Nouah,Desmond Elliott,Jim Iyke,Nonso Diobu and Mike Ezeruonye. Each artiste is said to have been given N50 million each. There has been a lot of hue and cry with people saying the money should have been given to the less privilegded, given to homeless people, used to fix National Theatre etc. My own take on it is that 1)Glo as a corporate organisation is free to give the money to whosoever they choose. 2) Which is better? To give N50 million to Nigerian actors or give N100 million to 50 Cents, Beyonce, Akon etc as Nigerian Breweries and This Day have been doing? And why the outrage at the amount given to Nigerian artistes? Footballers have been recieving much more from corporate bodies AND Govertment from time immemorial. Or do you know how much they have been getting from Pepsi, Peak Milk etc. What about what musicians have been recieving in recent times? My own is that we should stop hatin'! Nollywood is here to stay and is finally getting recognition from corporate bodies. They should just make sure it trickles down to the writers,producers and directors that make the actors look good!

YES HE DID!

2009-01-22T07:20:00.000-08:00

I know this blog is supposed to be about the happenings in and around Nollywood but there is absolutely no way I can not write about the most momentous occasion that just took place in history and that is the Inauguration of the 44th American President, Barack Hussein Obama. Barack Obama, the child of destiny, the man prepared for 'such a time as this'. Who would have thought guessed (and I quote him) that 'the little skinny kid with the funny sounding name' would end up being the next American President? Barack is really a child of destiny prepared for these times. Why do I say that? Well, he was born of an African father in the United States and in his formative years,grew up in Hawaii. He escaped growing up in the innercities with its crime and poverty..that so many of his ilk were subjected to. He was not filled with doubts of what he could be or not but knew that whatever he set his mind to be, he would be. So here we are! Yes we can! Yes we did! Africa, this is your chance! Yes we can! On a lighter note did you notice how the 1st couple were both shmoozing and cozying up to each other together? You miss it? For the benefit of those of you that did, take a look at these pics! (But ofcourse you would expect me to see the theatrical in everything! Teehee!)

NOLLYWOOD GROOVES

2009-01-06T21:05:00.000-08:00

I know the Xmas season is over, the New Year is here and its time to buckle down to some serious work but I cant help but remember the couple of parties we had some friend's houses. One was by Ruky Sanda the rising actress and the other was by someone who wishes to remain anonymous but whatever the reason, the fact remains that for a couple of days some Nollwood actors,actresses,directors and producers really let their hair down and grooved like there was no tommorrow! Enjoy!

Festival Time

2009-01-05T05:20:00.000-08:00

Its that time of the year again when the film makers go for various film festivals around the world, to present their works to the world. There are thousands of film festivals that take place around the world. There's the popular Cannes Film festival, SunDance Film Festival USA, Berlin International Film Festival etc.
Nigerians have started attending some of these film festivals not so much to present films but to get a feel of how things really work in the film world.
On the African end, there is Panafrican Film and TV Festival(FESPACO) (the largest African film festival across the continent)in Ougadougou, Burkina Faso. There is the Durban Film Festival, Durban, South Africa. In Nigeria, we have the BOBTV Film and Video Market, Abuja, The Zuma Film Festival, also in Abuja and of course African Movie Academy Awards, Nigeria.
The festivals most of Nigerian Film Makers attend are the Berlin International Film Festival specifically the Berlinale Talent Campus; A six-day creative summit for up-and-coming filmmakers. Starts on February 7 – 12, 2009. There's always a large Nigerian contingent there. I was there last year and it was an interesting, eye-opening experience. You meet lots of people in your field from different countries around the world, make friends, discuss with important proffessionals that can advance your career, create important contacts, cut deals etc.And ofcourse watch lots of films, documentaries, shorts etc.
Another favourite for Nigerian filmmakers is the Pan African Film and Arts Festival (PAFF), Los Angeles, USA. This year's takes place 5th - 16th of February 2009. There's also the Durban Film Festival, Durban, South Africa which will be on 22nd July - 2 August 2009. It used to be that the popular film festival to go to in South Africa was Sithengi Film & Television Market but its been postponed for now.As many as 300 Nigerian filmmakers usually converge towards the end of the year (November) but it has been posponed till further notice.That was another fun place. Cape Town is beautiful....windy, cold and looks very European. It looks nothing like Africa.

For the Record

2009-01-04T16:54:00.000-08:00

It never ceases to amaze me how people who are not in an industry can stand and speak as ‘authorities’ of the same; usually condemning it. Its kind of like the case of the White man that came to Africa for a few months and then goes back to speak as an ‘expert’ or authority on Africa. Pray, tell, can you know all about Africa or Nigeria in three months? Which brings me to the topic at hand and that is the case of Nollywood.

I am writing not in defence of the industry but to state the facts and allow you to judge and make your own conclusions. Since 1945, after the Second World War, America called the head honchos of the Hollywood Studios and told them that in future they must promote 5 things; The American Flag, the White House, the siren of the Police (to give the impression that the Police is omnipresent), the Seal (what we would call Coat of Arms) its Military might and the fact that it’s a great promoter of democracy. Over sixty years after that meeting what is the general feeling we all have after watching American films and think about America? So next time you ‘ooh and ah’ over the next episode of West Wing, Apollo 13, Armageddon, Transformers and the like you know what’s up.

My point is…movies remain the central hub of any nation’s cultural products. More is known about our culture and way of life than ever before through this little, often over-looked instrument known as the Nigerian home video. It has entered homes and gone to countries as far away as the Carribeans and Brazil (anywhere there is a large Black population) and captured a large and faithful following. It has done more image laundering for Nigeria than any Government –sponsored Public Relations Ad can ever do. Agreed, a lot still needs to be done in terms of quality and storylines but you need to know that the ingenuity of the home video lies in its cheapness in terms of production and its roll out time. Film making used to be an expensive, almost mystical occupation, open to only a select few. A typical Hollywood film costs between 50 – 70 million dollars to make and between 3 months to 1 year to shoot…on expensive celluloid! We also have to remember they have a cinema culture over there, where a young couple or friends go after work or on weekends to the movies, buy some popcorn, soft drinks and for two hours, escape into the fantasy world of some Disney movie or the latest offering about extra-terrestial beings in outer space from Steven Spielberg. In Africa the socio-cultural environment is different and this is where the home video was able to hone in with their stories about village life, husband snatching, evil planning and the like. With the advent of the digital camera and Adobe Premiere editing software, anybody with a story to tell could do so, relatively cheaply. Home video practitioners were able to take advantage of this change in technology and gain popularity amongst ordinary folks and in the process spur other African countries to look inwards and produce stories about their own culture which they were not doing before. Some might say Ben Bruce has been able to revive the Cinema culture in Nigeria (at least Lagos) with SilverBird but how many cinemas are there? What happens to the rest of the 120 million Nigerians that want to be entertained? Enter the home video!

The fact of the matter is that the home video is a phenomenon; the first of its kind anywhere in the world. It is following no rules, structures nor precedence and like all things Nigerian, is using ‘ogboju’ to forge its way ahead, whether anyone likes it or not. Unfortunately, charlatans and unprofessional elements have joined the funky train but that is what you get when you have children and do not make plans for them. Or how much has the Government invested in film in Nigeria? How many Film Funds are available to producers in Nigeria? How many film schools are there in Nigeria? How many film sets or film villages have been built in Nigeria? Your guess is as good as mine. Very few if at all then you wonder why you don’t see Nigerian films of the standard and quality of Apollo 13, Matrix and Aeon Flux?

The industry has it flaws no doubt but I will say it has its pluses. It has from nothing been able to build itself into a multi-billion dollar industry. Leke Alder Consulting estimates that the total market potential of the Nigerian home video industry is well over N522 billion and Price Waterhouse Coopers, the global entertainment industry journal estimates that the industry will generate US$600 billion in 2010. It is also one of the largest, informal employers of labour in the country right now, employing well over 200,000 people of different ages and tribes, at various locations in the country through the professions of actors, actresses, directors, producers, cameramen, make-up artistes, caterers, editors etc. It is doing what no Poverty Alleviation programme, N.D.E. or any well meaning, Government-sponsored programme can do and that is, provide employment and dignity of labour to thousands of Nigerians; young and old alike. Think of all the old men in the Eastern part of this country who are regularly making money by simply shouting ‘Tufiakwa’ as they judge some imaginary case in the ‘Igwe’s Palace’! People who would have been miscreants, touts, streetwalkers, dropouts and pensioners are now gainfully employed and making a lot of people happy. It was reported that when Genevieve Nnaji (one of the more popular Nigerian home video actresses) went to Liberia a few years ago on the invitation of some Liberians, the entire Liberian Parliament was waiting on the tarmac to welcome her on red carpet! By the time she joined the convoy to go to her hotel, she saw that the streets of Liberia were lined with ordinary Liberians, smiling, waving and shouting ‘Genevieve!’ Genevieve!’ It is we in Nigeria that don’t value what we have.

Another thing I realized is that the Western world (for reasons best known to them) likes to portray Africa as a poverty-stricken, AIDS-infested hell hole. Unwittingly, the home video has debunked that notion and smashed it to smithereens. It has shown them to be liars when they say we swing on trees and live in grass huts. How then do you explain the beautiful looking people, gorgeously dressed, driving hummers and jeeps and living in mansions? Earlier this year I was invited to be part of a programme known as the Berlinale Talent Campus in Berlin, Germany. It is part of the Berlin International Film Festival and they invited aspiring writers, directors, producers, editors etc to Berlin to attend seminars, workshops and interact with their established European counterparts. Well, I attended and one of the things I noticed was that the West was very behind in the way they viewed Africa. Different film entries were shown but the only ones on Africa were about a child-soldier from Darfur, Sudan and a musician living in the slums of Uganda. I was very upset and I stood up and told them that they did not have an accurate picture of Africa….that Africa was about laughter, dance and music; that the pictures I had just seen were not a true depiction of Africa. They were just staring at me like I came from the moon! It was then one of the speakers said the Europeans gave funding to the producers to show those particular documentaries. Why didn’t they let them show something else about Africa? It was then I realized the service the home video had unwittingly done to Nigeria and Africa as a whole. It had shown them to be liars. Yes there are slums but that is not the whole of Africa. There are beautiful areas too….GRA, Ikoyi, Lekki Phase One, VGC and the like. It was from that day I stopped joining to abuse Nollywood and rather started thinking of ways I could improve and better the industry. What is the way forward and how can the industry get better like its counterpart, the music industry? Those should be the pressing questions ……I rest my case.

this article was first appeared in Creativiti magazine and is being reproduced here on the authours blog.

Reloading with 'Reloaded'

2008-12-30T22:10:00.000-08:00

'Reloaded' is the latest offering from ace film producer, Emem Isong. It coming out in January so you best go out and get your copy. Its about relationships so if you liked 'Games Women Play' and 'Games Men Play' by the same producer, you'll love this film.
It may interest you to know that part of the screenplay was written by 'Yours Truly' (my humble self!) so do go out get it when it comes out coz its the bomb! (shameless plug!)

A Brand New Day

2008-12-29T23:40:00.000-08:00

This is new to me but its a whole new experience and a whole new day (literally) with the new year round the corner. I just feel im a voice in the world that deserves to be heard...dont ask me why but I just feel that way. So hello world! Actually I want to blog about events that happen in the entertainment industry...specifally Nollywood. There a lots of blogs like that I know but what gives me the egde is that I have a bird's eye view. So as they say....watch this space.