Nolly Silver Screen ISSUE 03 APRIL 2014 TOPE TEDELA Nollywood’s next big Nollwood thing 5 Awards DUAL IDENTITY 10 Nollywood Write actors who call the shots & Win Cinema tickets Nollywood DVDs 2014 AMVCAs: Gift hamper The Contract, Nairobi Half Life win big Nollywood: A house divided? Asaba Homevideo vs Nollywood Cinema

1 EDITOR’S NOTE www.nollysilverscreen.com

REVIEWS COMPETITIONS

NEWS INTERVIEWS

GHOLLYWOOD AWARDS ARTICLES RED CARPET

PHOTO: ODUTAYO ODUSANYA CINEMA LISTINGS

The 2014 Africa Magic Viewers humble, unassuming and grounded. Choice Awards have finally come and He will go very far. We also have gone. It was indeed a great experi- interviews with Kehinde Bankole (p. SHORT FILMS ence seeing African filmmakers rec- 9), Alexx Ekubo (p. 12) and Nzeribe ognised (p. 12) and the red carpet was ‘Sambasa’ Chiedozie (p. 14). a sight to behold (p. 13). The much talked about Half of a WEB SERIES This month is the turn of the Africa Yellow Sun will be showing in cinemas FESTIVALS Movie Academy Awards which will be across Nigeria this month (p. 10). The celebrating its tenth year anniversary. big question is: How well will it do at We cannot wait to see what the the box office? DOCUMENTARIES organisers have in store. AUDITIONS Enjoy Our cover boy, Tope Tedela was a joy Isabella Akinseye to speak with (p.7). The young man is @iakinseye THEATRE SOME OF THIS EDITION’S CONTRIBUTORS

Agina Eberechukwu Wilfred Okiche Gbolahan Adams Oluwaponmile Innocent Ekejuiba Gloria is a graduate believes in God, medi- runs his own media com- Orija is studying Food is an alumnus of Obafemi of Mass Communica- cine, music and movies. pany where he has han- Science and Technology Awolowo University. He tion from Ahmadu Bello A medical doctor, occa- dled numerous projects at the Federal University is the Deputy Editor University, Zaria. She is sional writer, columnist for different clients over of Agriculture, Abeoku- of Nolly Silver Screen (the a freelancer and con- and profiler. He profiles the years. He sees himself ta. She loves writing and website and the mag- tributes entertainment 10 Nollywood actors venturing into animation, has published several azine). An avid blogger stories for The Nigerian who call the shots (p. 3) developing his comic works in the newspapers. and budding graphics de- Telegraph. Check out and compiles a top 5 list brands and staging an ex- She interviews people for signer, he reviews Blind her piece ‘Nollywood: A of Nollywood awards (p. hibition. View his cartoon the Vox Pop section (p. Aspiration, a shortlisted house divided?’ (p. 10). 12). strip ‘Rollicking Nollies’ 4) and reviews Mother documentary at the 2014 (p. 4) and his illustration Tongue (p. 11). Afrinolly Awards (p. 11). What she loves most What he loves most for ‘Nollywood: A house about Nollywood is about Nollywood is divided?’ (p. 10). What he loves most that so far the movies the fact that it’s home What she loves most about Nollywood is have remained original grown, resilient and about Nollywood is the the fact it is the second in their stories/content. determined to succeed What he loves most Nigerian culture dis- largest producer of despite the odds. about Nollywood is the played such as the movies by quantity. Follow @aginaebere actors. clothing and language. Follow @drwill20 Follow @Prince_ice Follow @gadamsyn Follow @ o_ponmile Write 2 CONTENTS ‘n’ April 2014 win FEATURES 3 DUAL IDENTITY: 10 NOLLYWOOD ACTORS WHO CALL THE SHOTS Write to us about what you have 10 NOLLYWOOD: A HOUSE DIVIDED? and stand a enjoyed in this edition 12 TOP 5 NOLLYWOOD AWARDS chance of winning fabulous prizes. This month, we will be giving out 2 . copies of Kate Henshaw’s fit4life DVD Also, up for grabs are cinema tickets to see a Nollywood movie in Nigeria and a gift hamper.

Email: [email protected] Get in touch via social media www.facebook.com/nollysilverscreen www.google.com/+nollysilverscreen www.twitter.com/nsilverscreen 13 www.instagram.com/nollysilverscreen

INTERVIEWS 7 TOPE TEDELA: NOLLYWOOD’S NEXT BIG THING READERS’ CORNER 9 Q & A WITH KEHINDE BANKOLE 12 UP, CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH ALEXX EKUBO 14 TALENT ON THE RISE: NZERIBE ‘SAMBASA’ Great job. Well done! CHIEDOZIE Joy Isi Bewaji

COMPETITION 2 FREE GIVEAWAYS Just checked out your magazine; very REGULARS impressed with the obvious hard work 1 EDITOR’S NOTE you are putting into what is a high 1 CONTRIBUTORS’ BIOS quality product; deserves to be read by all industry aficionados. 2 READERS’ CORNER Keep it up! 4 CELEBRATIONS THIS MONTH Desmond Ovbiagele 6 ON SET 10 NEWS 11 REVIEWS 13 RED CARPET I saw your review of 14 DVD RELEASES Finding Mercy. Good job! John Edeh

6 You can now read your EXTRAS 4 VOX POP favourite magazine Nolly 4 WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS 9 NOLLY POP QUIZ NOLLY SILVER SCREEN TEAM Silver Screen on PUBLISHER CONTRIBUTORS Quill and Scroll Creatives Gbolahan Adams issuu.com/nollysilverscreen Agina Eberechukwu EDITOR Wilfred Okiche Isabella Akinseye Oluwaponmile Orija

DEPUTY EDITOR EDITORIAL BOARD Innocent Ekejuiba Temitayo Amogunla Bola Atta GRAPHICS & LAYOUT Bola Audu Isabella Akinseye Toni Kan CONTACT US Email letters to [email protected]

Nolly Silver Screen is a monthly online magazine of www.nollysilverscreen.com

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. 3 DUAL IDENTITY: 10 Nollywood actors who call the shotsBY WILFRED OKICHE Some of our favourite Nollywood actors have not been content with gracing television screens across the continent. They have gone steps further to call the shots from behind the screens – as producers or directors or both. Here are 10 of our favourites.

KUNLE AFOLAYAN RUKKY SANDA DESMOND ELLIOT RITA DOMINIC STEPHANIE LINUS Afolayan is one of the Granted Rukky Sanda The fresh faced father Everyone loves Rita Mrs. Linus may pick most important direc- isn’t much of an actress of 4 started out on the Dominic now but she and choose her scripts tors working today. His but she is one heck of a small screen in pro- took a conscious deci- these days but time was first crossover success smart lady. After finding grammes like Everyday sion to reinvent herself when she was one of the was the future classic it difficult getting work People and Saints and after the good roles sor- most prolific actresses Figurine which he also in front of the screen, Sinners. He soon made ta dried up. She created in Nollywood, moving co-starred in and he she took charge of her the switch to the big The Audrey Silva Com- from location to loca- followed up with Phone career and began to screen and has starred pany and together with tion. She reignited the Swap. He finds time to write, produce and direct in over 200 films. After partner Mildred Okwo, cinema culture with her star in other carefully her own films. A lot of many fulfilling years, carefully picked out their student filmThrough the reviewed productions them aren’t much to Elliott turned to directing first projectThe Meeting Glass which she starred and will be seen next in look at but at least she films and eventually set which was well received in, wrote, produced and Tunde Kelani’s Dazzling is making an effort. She up his Denziott stu- by audiences and critics. directed and after cash- WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS Mirage as well as his made the leap to the dios. He co-directed the Dominic has an upcom- ing out smartly, took her own October 1 – a peri- theatres last year with Emem Isong produced ing televison series as sweet time before her od piece set in 1960. Keeping My Man and Reloaded before going well as a feature film next project Dry. In be- followed with the awful solo with films like In lined up in the nearest tween, she took a small Gold Diggin. the Cupboard, Weekend future. role in last year’s Doctor Getaway and Finding Bello. Mercy.

YVONNE OKORO FRED AMATA UCHE JOMBO ERNEST OBI YVONNE NELSON Ms. Okoro was a reason- The Amata family has RODRIGUEZ The former chairman of Ghana’s favourite bikini ably successful actress produced a number of the Lagos State chapter body took the produc- The scream queen is when she decided to thespians (Zack, Ruke, of Actors Guild of Ni- tion plunge with 2012’s also a prolific screenwrit- produce her first film. Jeta) but Fred Amata geria (AGN) was among Single & Married and er and has worked on She settled on a decent makes this list because the earliest Nollywood its success ensured she over 30 screenplays in script and hired director he has been able to screen stars to make came back with last her long and chequered Shirley Frimpong-Man- juggle being a movie the move to directing year’s messy House career. After reviving so to give life to her star, stage actor, produc- following his need to be of Gold. In between her onscreen career, dreams. The result, The er and director without challenged. Some of his all those bikini photo Mrs. Rodriguez decided Contract in which she breaking a sweat. In an- credits include The Seed, shoots, she finds the to do some production co-starred alongside other lifetime, he direct- Daytime Lovers, Drop of time to star in films pro- work and set up her own South Africa’s Hlomla ed the music video to Blood and Idemili. duced by Rukky Sanda studios, churning out Dandala and Nigeria’s the King Sunny Ade and and directed by Frank titles like Lies Men Tell Joseph Benjamin won Onyeka Onwenu classic Rajah-Arase. and Mrs Somebody. Her Best picture at this year’s ‘Wait For Me’ long be- Damage trio of advocacy PHOTO CREDITS Africa Magic Viewers fore hitting his stride in films (there is a final one TOP (L - R) Nairaland; Bella Naija; Daily Independent; Choice Awards. the action thriller Anini in the works) have not Bella Naija; Facebook and the Eco-bank spon- quite caught on with the sored rom-com Letters critics but she remains BOTTOM (L-R) Bella Naija; Gist Mania; YNaija; Van- to a Stranger. undaunted. guard; Nairaland 4

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS VOX POP “Nothing good comes easy What book would you like to see as they say, so once you’re adapted on the big screen? aware that the challenges will come it’s left to your will and desire to take you Cruel Passion by Dayo Oladele Ilori TOLU OLULADE across those hurdles.” The Winner by David Baldacci UDOKA OYEKA, DAMILARE OSO Nollywood director Sleepers by Lorenzo Carcaterra OLAMIDE RAFIU Maximum Ride by James Patterson “I think as producers, we should all TOLULOPE ADEWUNMI start making movies that can shape the Baker’s Boy by J.V. Jones minds of Nigerians. We have a duty to ADA UWALAKA this nation. I will also like to think that Runaway Jury by John Grisham the less we see ourselves as rivals, the SEYON HUNDEYIN better for the industry.” , You Found Me by Iredele Taiwo JUMAFOR AJOGWU SADE ADEYEMI Nollywood producer BY OLUWAPONMILE ORIJA BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE

APRIL CELEBRATIONS 21 23 23 24 27 Nkiru Ini Ufuoma Stella Adaora Sylvanus Edo Ejenobor Damasus Ukoh ADAPTED FROM THE AWARD WINNING NOVEL BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE “SUPERB PERFORMANCES” VARIETY ”AN EPIC” SCREEN DAILY

“GORGEOUS, EVOCATIVE” VANITY FAIR

“A BRILLIANT DIRECTING DEBUT” HUFFINGTON POST

BAFTA® WINNER BAFTA® WINNER Chiwetel Ejiofor Thandie Newton Award WINNER AMaA AWARD WINNER onyeka onwenu Genevieve Nnaji AMVCA AWARD WINNER O.C. UKEJE Anika Noni Rose Joseph Mawle John Boyega

FILMONE DISTRIBUTION LIMITED PRESENT SHAREMAN MEDIA AND BFI PRESENT IN ASSOCIATION WITH METRO INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND KACHIFO LIMITED IN ASSOCIATION WITH LIPSYNC PRODUCTIONS LLP A SLATE FILMS PRODUCTION A FILM BY BIYI BANDELE THANDIE NEWTON CHIWETEL EJIOFOR ANIKA NONI ROSE “HALF OF A YELLOW SUN” JOSEPH MAWLE JOHN BOYEGA ONYEKA ONWENU GENEVIEVE NNAJI CASTING MAKE-UP AND COSTUME MUSIC PRODUCTION DIRECTOR OF HAKEEM KAE-KAZIM DIRECTORJINA JAY HAIR DESIGNER SHARON MARTIN DESIGNER JO KATSARAS EDITOR CHRIS GILL BY BEN ONONO AND PAUL THOMSON DESIGNERANDREW MCALPINE PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN DE BORMAN BSC EXECUTIVE IN CHARGE ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE BASED ON SCREENPLAY OF PRODUCTION ALAN J WANDS PRODUCER SANDRA MBANEFO OBIAGO PRODUCERS YEWANDE SADIKU MUHTAR BAKARE GAIL EGAN NORMAN MERRY PETER HAMPDEN THE NOVEL BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE BY BIYI BANDELE PRODUCED DIRECTED HalfOfAYellowSunMovie BY ANDREA CALDERWOOD BY BIYI BANDELE

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PICTURES FROM THE SET OF STEPHANIE LINUS’ DRY 7

TOPE TEDELA 2014 AMVCA Winner and Nollywood’s Next Big Thing BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE When and where did you decide Do you feel under more pressure That constant dialogue asking if I’m giving 8 to take acting as a full-time to deliver for the fans who voted a decent, believable performance. The career? for you? obvious loss of privacy that comes from being in the public eye. I toyed with the idea when I was in I’m very critical of my work and that has secondary school but I tossed it away just gone a lot more notches higher. Not thinking it couldn’t be done. Moving on in a bad way but in a good way. I’m What was the last Nollywood to the university, I found myself drawn challenged to work smarter, harder and to movie you watched? to acting with roles on Edge of Paradise, continue to improve myself. Confusion Na Wa. Super Story and a feature filmTwisted by Niyi Towolani. All this was between 2006 What was it like acting in What does style mean to you? and 2008. I ran away from acting again Diagnosis? Style is essentially comfort to me. I must but In 2011, I decided to just focus on I’ve done more work on screen than on be confident and comfortable in acting as a full-time career. stage so when the opportunity came to whatever. work on stage after over two years, I was Great choice! How rewarding has delighted. Working on the play really took What fashion trend are you the journey been so far? me out of my comfort zone and that is rocking now? Reward is relative. The joy that comes something I, as an artiste seek after. I’m not much of a trend whore. The pair from doing what you love is priceless but Moreoever, I was working with an of jeans, tee-shirt and a pair of All Stars the part that concerns paying bills can amazing director, the great Ifeoma are eternal, on a casual level. The semi be a lot more better. The journey has not Fafunwa who drilled the performance out casual family of chinos, shoes, shirt and been smooth at all. There’ve been times of me; leaving me better. It was an blazers/jacket ever shines, I hope. of rejection, little or no pay and attending awesome experience! auditions with no results but through it What is your favourite accessory? all, I’ve continued to strive and I’m Which do you prefer: theatre or Wristwatch. beginning to thrive (no pun intended). film? Ahh! That’s a difficult question! The truth If you weren’t acting, what would is that both media require different you be doing? What made you to star in A Mile techniques but at the heart of both is Music. From Home? being truthful and believable in perfor- The material. The foundation of all good mance. What next can we expect from films: the script! It was one of the few scripts that has really wowed me and I you? How do you intend to further I’m working on some projects at the mo- wanted to be a part of it. develop your craft? ment but there’s a supernatural Training, training and more training. I feel thriller going to be released soon titled In Tell us about your character. as an actor you should be a student of My Father’s House directed by Jimi I portray Jude who later becomes Lala life and history via books, watching films Odumosu. after he gets wriggled into joining a and documentaries and so on. I try to do notorious gang, one in which he these. desperately wants out. What words of wisdom do you have for the up and coming? If you could be a character in any What are some challenges you Well, there’s no hard and fast rule but be movie, which would you play? sure this is what you want to do. Work on faced in shooting the movie I know it wasn’t a film but I loved RMD’s yourself by reading and getting training. considering the meagre budget? Segun Kadiri or Russell Crowe’s John Nash Show up. And pray! You can imagine the worst. From feed- or Maximus Meredius. ing to accommodation to transportation; In three words, Tope Tedela is...? it was really a nightmare at some point Who are some of the people who Smart, hardworking and talented. but we had to get the film made. All inspire you in the industry? our hands were on the plough, we just I’m inspired by so many people who, in PHOTOS: COURTESY OF TOPE TEDELA. couldn’t look back. spite of the odds facing the film industry, continue to thrive. Congrats on your AMVCA win. Were you expecting it? A memorable experience on set? Not exactly. I’ve said that I really kept a I was on this set a long time ago and the neutral stance on the matter. I just did the director at a point threw a stool at me and best I could and kept my fingers crossed. it almost hit me but I narrowly escaped. I’m glad about the win, I must say. That stays with me.

What does the award mean to What is the weirdest thing a fan you? has given you or said to you? It means a lot. It’s a great thing when your A lady wanted me sign an autograph work is appreciated. It means younger somewhere I’d rather not disclose... and fresher actors are being recognised. That’s a wake up call for us to keep doing Hardest thing about your job is... great work and never relent. “THERE’VE BEEN TIMES OF REJECTION, LITTLE OR NO PAY AND ATTENDING AUDITIONS WITH NO RESULTS BUT THROUGH IT ALL, I’VE CONTINUED TO STRIVE AND I’M BEGINNING TO THRIVE.” 9 Nollywood: A house divided? BY AGINA EBERECHUKWU

Nollywood in its over twenty years of existence has evolved tremendously both in script and content delivery. It has also impacted and transformed global cinema by incorporating indigenous languages in telling African stories. With Living in Bondage by Kenneth Nnebue credited as the first Nollywood movie, the industry has come a long way in terms of production values.

Over the years, different approaches to filmmaking have been observed in Nigeria giving rise to the question as to whether there is a division in the Nollywood industry. The homevideos popularly classified according to their location; Asaba movies, Enugu movies and Festac movies versus the new budding cinema films otherwise known as ‘New Nollywood’.

Mr Osezua Igho, an actor , believes that there is no division in Nollywood but that differeneces do exist between Nollywood cinema and the Asaba movies. He noted that producers in Nollywood invest a lot of money in movie production to ensure better quality while the Asaba movies are generally shot on low budgets.

“I won’t say they are not part of Nollywood but they don’t just pay attention to quality of production and script. At the end of the day, what you see is a poorly produced movie not pleasing to the eye. Such movies hardly make it to the international market because of their standard. However it is for them to take advantage of various opportunities available in production especially workshops that are open to everybody.”

According to an upcoming actor Edith, who features majorly in Asaba movies, she sees them as a platform to develop her craft. “I am using here as a training ground and would like to move to Lagos later on in my career. Everybody wants to be where it is happening and when it comes to making it big in this industry, Lagos is the placeto be because of its wide range of options and opportunities.”

Furthermore, the rising disparities and the need to maintain and retain power within one’s jurisdiction could be the reason for the various fac- tions springing up in the Nigerian movie industry. Be it Asaba movies or New Nollywood, people at the helm of affairs need to unite for the industry to consolidates its success.

NOLLY POP QUIZ Kehinde Bankole is a singer, Has your involvement in BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE actress and model. She stars in Nollywood been financially blockbuster Render to Caesar. rewarding or is it the passion 1. How many versions that drives you? exist of the trailer of What do you like most and It’s definitely been rewarding Tunde Kelani’s Dazzling least about the character you but nevertheless under all the Mirage? play in Render to Caesar? circumstances I have worked I liked the truth of the situa- in, the passion remains the 2. Which Nollywood tion the character was in and major drive. movies will be showing definitely hated being in such at the 2014 Nollywood a fix. What movies can we expect Paris week? to see you in this year? You’re a musician and Right after Render to Caesar is 3. Who is the producer model, how do you manage October 1 and then, Apostates. of October 1? to combine these things with acting? What advice do you have 4. Where is the nomi- It’s been challenging combin- for those wanting to join the nation party of the 2014 ing my beloved music effi- industry? Africa Movie Academy ciently as I’d love to. Modelling Be ready and open to learning. Awards taking place? has been easily combined. Be ready to work and have your standard from day one. 5. What is the name of Which do you prefer of the the actress who plays the three and why? Who would you like to work lead in Render to Caesar? I find it hard to separate acting with in the future? and music and the competi- Majid Michael, Johnny Depp, 6. Who was on the first tion between the two has been Mercy Johnson and Angelina cover of Nolly Silver fierce. Acting seems to be Jolie. Screen magazine? Q & A with Kehinde Bankole having the most of my atten- BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE tion now but music still has my PHOTO: COURTESY OF Answers can be found soul. KEHINDE BANKOLE online. N E W S 10 The Contract, Nairobi Half Life, Flower Girl and Shirley Frimpong-Manso win big at 2014 AMVCAs It was lights, camera, action at the 2014 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards which kicked off at the Eko Hotel with all of Lagos’ pa- parazzi on the red carpet. Africa’s stylishly dressed guests were interviewed by Eku Edewor and Denrele for Dstv’s Studio 53. Their efforts were complimented by the fashion police team; Uti Nwachukwu (Jara) and Isabella Akinseye (Dstv.com) as well as Mashariki Mix hosts Nick Mutuma and Sarah Hassan. It was a plethora of big bold African designs as well as chic delicate contemporary pieces for the ladies. The gentlemen on the other hand mainly played it safe with black but the few who dared to be different stood out in white and blue suits with a dash of colour.

Biola Alabi, MD, Special Projects said, “The 2014 AMVCAs is a big celebration for the best of Africa.” She thanked Amstel Malta for their support and said that the AMVCAs would continue to recognise and reward African filmmakers for their hard work. Hosted by IK Osakioduwa, Osas Ighodaro and Vimbai Mutinhiri, the show opened with a riveting musical performance from the cast of Kakadu. Barabara Minishi started off the winners’ roll call with Best Art Director award for her work in Nairobi Half Life. Other winners included Dr Gilbert Chigbo (Deadwood); Walter Waltbanger Taylaur (The Wages) and Amarachuku Onoh (Mother Tongue). The best comedy acts went to Funke Akindele (The Return of Sheri Koko) and Osita Iheme (The Hero). Coincidentally, both acts were nominated more than once in their category. Elvis Chucks’ A Wish won Best Movie Comedy.

To add to the glitz and glamour of the night, the audience were entertained with performances from top Nigerian musical acts; Bez, Flavour, Davido, Waje and Cobhams. The star studded event had the crème de la crème of Nollywood and Ghollywood in attendance including Genevieve Nnaji, Majid Michel, Mercy Johnson, Ramsey Nouah and Kate Henshaw.

In the drama category, Frank Rajah Arase’s The Groom’s Bride won Best Movie while Nse Ikpe-Etim and Tope Tedela were voted best acts. The winning streak continued for Nairobi Half Life which picked up awards in Best Make-up Artist and Best Cinematographer. Flower Girl’s brother and sister duo (Jigi and Michelle Bello) picked up awards for Best Writer of a Comedy and Trailblazer which includ- ed a Hyundai car. Bikiya Graham-Douglas made it a third for the movie with her Best Supporting Actress award.

Osas and Vimbai took time out to wish all the gorgeous women a Happy International Women’s Day. It was also the birthday of Multichoice Nigeria Managing Director John Ugbe, who presented the New Era Award (which came with a free holiday to Dubai) to Rita Dominic.

Africa was well represented with Zambia’s Love Games winning the Best Television Drama. In the Indigenous categories, Mama Duka (Swahili), Komfo (Yoruba) and Habib (Hausa) emerged winners. Also making the 2014 AMVCA winners’ list were Chiemela Nwagboso (Costume Design), Desmond Elliot (Best Supporting Actor), and Obi Emelonye and Luke Corradine (Best Sound Editor). However, the biggest winners of the night were Shirley Frimpong Manso (Best Writer of a Drama, Best Video Editor, Best Director) and The Contract (Best Picture). In honour of his contributions to the growth of the Nigerian film and TV industry, Pete Edochie was present- ed with the much coveted Industry Merit Award which came with a Hyundai jeep. The award was received on his behalf by his son Yul Edochie. The show ended with another colourful and energetic performance by the cast of Kakadu. - ISABELLA AKINSEYE

2014 AMVCA FULL LIST OF WINNERS Half of A Yellow Sun set

ADAPTED FROM THE AWARD WINNING NOVEL BY Best Movie 2013: Shirley Frimpong-Manso, Yvonne Okoro & CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE “SUPERB PERFORMANCES” VARIETY ”AN EPIC” Ken Attoh – The Contract SCREEN DAILY “GORGEOUS, EVOCATIVE” VANITY FAIR for Nigerian debut “A BRILLIANT DIRECTING DEBUT” Best Movie Drama: Frank Rajah Arase – The Groom’s Bride HUFFINGTON POST According to Shareman Media and

BAFTA® WINNER BAFTA® WINNER Chiwetel Ejiofor Thandie Newton Award WINNER AMaA AWARD WINNER Best Movie Comedy: Elvis Chucks – A Wish onyeka onwenu Genevieve Nnaji AMVCA AWARD WINNER O.C. UKEJE FilmOne Distribution, Half of a Yellow Anika Noni Rose Joseph Mawle John Boyega Best Movie Director: Shirley Frimpong-Manso – The Contract Sun, will be released in all Nigerian Best Actress in a Drama: Nse Ikpe-Etim – Journey to Self cinemas on the 25th of April 2014. Best Actor in a Drama: Tope Tedela – A Mile From Home Best Supporting Actress: Bikiya Graham-Douglas – Flower Girl The movie had its world premiere at Best Supporting Actor: Desmond Elliot – Finding Mercy the 38th annual Toronto International

FILMONE DISTRIBUTION LIMITED PRESENT SHAREMAN MEDIA AND BFI PRESENT IN ASSOCIATION WITH METRO INTERNATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT AND KACHIFO LIMITED IN ASSOCIATION WITH LIPSYNC PRODUCTIONS LLP Best Actress in a Comedy: Funke Akndele – Return of Sheri Koko A SLATE FILMS PRODUCTION A FILM BY BIYI BANDELE THANDIE NEWTON CHIWETEL EJIOFOR ANIKA NONI ROSE “HALF OF A YELLOW SUN” JOSEPH MAWLE JOHN BOYEGA ONYEKA ONWENU GENEVIEVE NNAJI CASTING MAKE-UP AND COSTUME MUSIC PRODUCTION DIRECTOR OF HAKEEM KAE-KAZIM DIRECTORJINA JAY HAIR DESIGNER SHARON MARTIN DESIGNER JO KATSARAS EDITOR CHRIS GILL BY BEN ONONO AND PAUL THOMSON DESIGNERANDREW MCALPINE PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN DE BORMAN BSC EXECUTIVE IN CHARGE ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE BASED ON SCREENPLAY OF PRODUCTION ALAN J WANDS PRODUCER SANDRA MBANEFO OBIAGO PRODUCERS YEWANDE SADIKU MUHTAR BAKARE GAIL EGAN NORMAN MERRY PETER HAMPDEN THE NOVEL BY CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE BY BIYI BANDELE Film Festival (TIFF) in Canada to great PRODUCED DIRECTED HalfOfAYellowSunMovie BY ANDREA CALDERWOOD BY BIYI BANDELE

© SHAREMAN MEDIA LIMITED / THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE / YELLOW SUN LIMITED 2012 Best Actor in a Comedy: Osita Iheme – The Hero IN CINEMAS ACROSS NIGERIA APRIL 2014 applause, and subsequently pre-

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Client Date Film One Distribution 17.02.14 Mechanical ARTWORK AT 100% HALF OF A YELLOW SUN 1 Sheet D v2 Job Description File Name Half of a Yellow Sun 1 SHEET ‘C’ HoaYS_1Sht‘D’_Nigeria_v2.indd Full Trim Size 40 x 27” Best Television Series Comedy/Drama: Catherine Phiri – Love Games © 2014 GP London. Supplied in company confidence. miered in Europe at the BFI London Episode 6 Film Festival, London. The film will be released in cinemas in Best Short Film: Walter “Waltbanger” Taylaur – The Wages Australia from 27th March, in the UK from 11th April, and in Best Documentary: Dr. Gilbert Chigbo (Narrator) – The Deadwood the US in the early summer. Best Indigenous Language Movie/Series (Swahili): Njoki Muhoho – Mama Duka Directed by the Nigerian playwright, Biyi Bandele, Half of a Best Indigenous Language Movie/Series (Yoruba): Mercy Aigbe – Yellow Sun stars the BAFTA Award-winning and Oscar-nom- Komfo inated actor, Chiwetel Ejiofor (12 Years a Slave), and BAFTA Best Indigenous Language Movie/Series (Hausa): Abba Muko Yakas- Award-winning actor Thandie Newton. Genevieve Nnaji, On- sai – Habib yeka Onwenu, O. C. Ukeje, Zack Orji and Anika Noni Rose led Best Online Video: Amarachukwu Onoh – Mother Tongue the supporting cast. Best Writer (Drama): Shirley Frimpong-Manso & Hertey Owusu – The Contract Set in 1960s Nigeria, the film is an epic love story, weaving Best Writer (Comedy): Jigi Bello – Flower Girl together the lives of four people caught up in the turbulence Best Cinematographer: Christian Almesberger – Nairobi Half Life of the Nigerian civil war. Half of a Yellow Sun is a beautifully Best Art Director: Barbara Minishi – Nairobi Half Life crafted adaptation of the international bestselling novel by Best Sound Editor: Obi Emelonye & Luke Corradine – Last Flight to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. Abuja Best Video Editor: Shirley Frimpong-Manso – The Contract Shot in the Tinapa Studios in Calabar and in various locations Best Lighting Designer: Mohammed Zain – Nairobi Half Life in Creek Town, the production employed several hundreds of Best Costume Design: Chiemela Nwagboso – The Kingdom local residents. The technical quality of the film demonstrates Best Make-up Artist: Elayne Okaya – Nairobi Half Life that it is possible to make a high quality production in Nigeria Industry Merit Award: Pete Edochie with the appropriate budget and technical input.As a result, Trailblazer Award: Michelle Bello the film was officially invited to screen at several high-profile New Era Award: Rita Dominic international film festivals in recognition of its ground-break- ing quality. 11 R E V I E W S Title: Mother Tongue

Genre: Short film

Director: Amarachukwu Onoh

Year: 2013

Mother Tongue is filled with funny expression and demonstrations. The actors portrayed the typical ‘oga and his boy’ scenario. The picture quality, soundtrack and costume are great. The whole 4.34 minutes of the film was limited to two locations and the actors tried to be hilari- ous. The film is one directional; specifically noting how one’s mother tongue affects speech using the Igbo dialect as an example. The visual highlights were good and it tweaked up the film a bit making it easier for any viewer to understand. The film is straight forward; a little twist could have been more exciting. - OLUWAPONMILE ORIJA

Title: Finding Mercy

Genre: Trailer Title: Blind Aspirations Director: Desmond Elliot Genre: Documentary Year: 2013 Director: Dapo Oshinaike Desmond Elliot is no new kid on the Nollywood block, so when I came across the trailer of his latest Year: 2013 effort – Finding Mercy, I expected a fairly good job. Thankfully, I was not disappointed. The actor cum di- Blind Aspiration does more than discuss the aspirations and achievements of a rector cum producer seems to improving his craft by blind man (Dr. Ife Akintunde). It does more than call out to challenged people the day and this is evidenced in this Denziot produc- to dream as far as the limits of their imaginations, in fact, if anything it fails tion. From the opening scene to the last credits, it at that, because then excuses anchored on available opportunities would be is apparent that Elliot understands the craft of good given and questions asked about the equality of fingers.Blind Aspiration is a storytelling. There is a good balance of dramatic wakeup call to everybody. A reality check on dreams, their sustainability and scenes (yes, we have kissing, crying, shouting, threat- reality. Dapo Oshinaike is not only sending the perfect message to the public ening and the likes) as well as dialogue that moves about disabled people, he is challenging everyone. the plot forward. - INNOCENT EKEJIUBA

Every scene that appears in the barely two minutes The Contract story is not exactly your typical montage is there for a reason. We see all the major GUEST REVIEW African storyline, in the traditional sense of the characters (Desmond Elliot, Uti Nwachukwu, Rita word. In fact, from a strictly Nollywood/Ghally- Dominic, Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha, Tamara Etei- wood perspective, this story of a rich bachelor mo, Dabota Lawson, Abiola Segun-Williams, Oyin- who has no desire to get stuck with a woman damola Lanpejo and Blossom Chuks-Chukwujekwu) for all his days yet seeks a young version of in full action. We actually get an insight into their himself, is quite original. The movie is your typ- characters and mannerisms in the few shots. ical romantic comedy though, I must say. Like I’ve said again and again, with this genre do The sound is also properly mixed and you can actu- not expect it to change your life, do not expect ally hear the dialogue and background music. The it to move mountains, do not expect it to solve graphics are also well done and not too heavy on the your life’s problems, but it will definitely give eyes. My only grouse with this trailer is that some you entertainment. The story has its twists and parts of it suffer from poor lighting; something which its turns here and there but the end did seem a Title: The Contract I have realised is very common in Nollywood movies. bit rushed to me. For some reason that amaz- The ending of the trailer sums it up when Jato says, ing climactic romantic comedy movie moment Genre: Romantic Comedy “She [Mercy] is my life” and somehow, you just want where jokes are put aside and true love is de- to believe him. clared, didn’t work for me in this movie. The Director: Shirley Frimpong- movie is beautiful: it delights, it amuses, it ap- Manso Verdict – You would enjoy watching Finding Mercy peals to your senses in many ways, and makes if you want a ‘different’ storyline with tried and for amazing light-hearted entertainment. Year: 2013 tested actors alongside new fresh faces. - OGE (Nollywood Reinvented) - ISABELLA AKINSEYE 12 TOP 5 NOLLYWOOD AWARDS Up, Close and WILFRED OKICHE Hollywood may celebrate their own extravagant Personal awards season with the Oscars, Golden Globes and every other lavish affair in between. This side of the Atlantic we have a handful of film awards that truly with matter. Here are the top 5, presented in alphabetical order. Alexx 1. AFRICA MAGIC VIEWERS CHOICE AWARDS The highly rated AMVCA is only 2 years old but it Ekubo is already enjoying the media blitz of a long term project. Africa Magic and parent body Mnet pulled out all the stops to make the debut event the year’s hottest tickets. Everyone who is anyone in the in- dustry partook in the celebrations and organisers HOW IT ALL STARTED brought in a touch of class and attention to fine My first day on set was very interesting and I learnt a lot. It was the set of details. Majority of the categories are determined by Lancelot Imasuen Oduwa directed movie Sinners in the House in 2004 and viewers so naturally, the ceremony has been justifi- we had veterans like the Late Justus Esiri and Ngozi Ezeonu. It was all very ably dismissed as lightweight. The second year’s red exciting and new to me. carpet event however proved that the AMVCAs have become’s Africa’s biggest fashion moment. ROLE MODELS Most of my senior colleagues; Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo-Rodriguez, Ini 2. AFRICA MOVIE ACADEMY AWARDS Edo, Omoni Oboli, Ramsey Nouah, Monalisa Chinda, Mercy Johnson and Africa’s most prestigious film awards has found a Genevieve Nnaji. I have a dream to follow today because they followed home in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State and its founder theirs. God bless them all. Peace Anyiam-Osigwe has become one of the most powerful women in Nollywood. AMAA has reward- CHANGING NOLLYWOOD ed everyone from Joke Silva to Genevieve Nnaji and I would change the level of professionalism. Nollywood has an annual succeeds in attracting Hollywood players like Dan- revenue of over $590 million, I suggest we the practitioners should take it ny Glover and Angela Basset to Nigeria every year. more seriously. AMAA is celebrating its tenth year and has built a track record of making legitimate choices in terms of nominees and eventual winners. If ever there is an BEST ADVICE African Oscars equivalent, AMAA comes closest. Ini Edo once said to me,“Alexx you are only as good as your last movie.” That stuck in my head to never rest my oars. 3. BEST OF NOLLYWOOD AWARDS The Best of Nollywood (BON) awards was once FUTURE OF NOLLYWOOD considered a punchline, a home for the B-listers who Uti Nwachukwu, Uru Eke, Bryan Okwara, O.C. Ukeje, Diana Yekini, Kemi could not quite make it to the AMAAs. However, the Lala Akindoju, Belinda Effah and Chelsea Eze. organisers (who also publish the Best of Nollywood magazine) have refused to give up and with some FASHION strategic placement and good fortune, the awards My mum has her clothing label Jalex Creations, so at a very tender age, have enjoyed an upswing of late. The Lagos and I was taught to match my colors and dress appropriately. I love Pit Bull’s Delta state governments have brought in high pro- style; he wears really colorful and clean cut suits. file sponsorships and the 2013 red carpet train was ajudged one of the longest in the world. With award categories like Best Kiss and Best use of Nigerian ON MRS. RIGHT food in a movie, BON awards is more populist than She should be God Fearing, intelligent, fun loving and very beautiful wom- critical. an. Very beautiful so we can make interesting babies. With makeup, less is more. My onscreen wife in the movie Keeping My Man was a very adven- turous woman played by Ini Edo. I wouldn’t mind if my woman in real life 4. NIGERIA ENTERTAINMENT AWARDS is that daring. Variety is the spice of life, remember. The Nigeria Entertainment Awards (NEA), currently in its 8th year of existence is held annually in New York City and honours the finest (and most popular) of NATURAL HAIR VS WEAVE local entertainment talent, with a sprinkling of Nige- The last time I commented on women hair, they quoted me as saying, “I rians plying their trade abroad. Winners are handed hated women with Brazilian hair.” So now biko, any hair you like carry. out in both film and music categories and enter- tainers have come to mark this events as one of the THE REAL ALEXX EKUBO year’s biggest attraction. The judging system isn’t I’m pretty much the guy next door. I fart, eat, sweat and make mistakes exacly Oscar calibre but everyone wants that trip to like every other person, so please bear with me as we all live and learn. New York city. Past winners include Ramsey Nouah, Omoni Oboli and Jackie Appiah. HOBBIES 5. NOLLYWOOD MOVIES AWARDS I watch a lot of movies, read books, play basketball, swim and travel. The Nollywood Movies Awards (NMA) is an annual Nigerian film award presented by the Nollywood ALTERNATIVE CAREER Movies television station to honour outstanding I studied Law in the University of Calabar, I would probably be a practicing achievement in the film industry. The first edition lawyer. was held at the Civic Center in Lagos on 2 June 2012. This was followed by another one held in October IN FIVE WORDS… 2013 also in Lagos. While still in the shadows of the Articulate, innovative, talented, fun and God-fearing. more accepted AMAA and AMVCAs, the last cere- mony made a splash by rewarding a surprise car gift INTERVIEW: ISABELLA AKINSEYE through a raffle draw. Industry folks definitely took PHOTO: COURTESY OF ALEXX EKUBO notice after that stunt. 13 2014 AMVCAs

CLOCKWISE 1. L-R: Yul Edochie, son of Peter Edochie winner of Industry Merit Award; Michelle Bello, winner of Trailblazer Award; Biola Alabi, Managing Director, M-net Africa; John Ugbe, Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria; Rita Dominic, winner of New Era Award and Walter Drenth, Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries. 2. Tope Tedela , winner of Best Actor (Drama) 3. Funke Akindele , winner of Best Actress (Comedy) 4. Joke and Olu Jacobs 5. Alexx Ekubo and Yemi Alade 6. Yvonne Okoro, Ken Attoh and Shirley Frimpong-Manso, winner of Best Picture - The Contract

PHOTOS: MULTICHOICE NIGERIA Apaye Movie Premiere

Belinda Effah Clarion Chukwurah Emem Isong Bola Aduwo Ngozi Nwosu

Ushers

Apaye was premiered on 7 March 2014 at the Sil- verbird Galleria Cinemas, Victoria Island, Lagos.

PHOTOS: BOLA ADUWO Kanayo O. Kanayo, Uche Iwuanyanwu, Bobby CHIEDOZIE ‘SAMBASA’ NZERIBE RISE: THE ON TALENT Mr. & Mrs. Desmond Elliot with Executive Producers - Michaels and guest Mr. & Mrs. Aziboala Robert 14 D V D R E L E A S E S

2013 Cinema blockbusters Alan Poza and Lagos Cougars out on DVD Out now on DVD from award-winning filmmaker Charles Novia is the star stud- ded flickAlan Poza. The movie explores the emotional adventures of Alan Poza, a young music label executive and his daily grapples with the temptations in that sector. The film stars O.C Ukeje, Beverly Naya, Norbert Young, Yvonne ‘Vixen’ Ekwerre, Okey Uzoeshi, Terry tha Rapman, Mtrill, Sylvia Oluchi, Evaezi and Charles Novia.

Lagos Cougars will be available for purchase on DVD from 4 April 2014. The Royal Arts Academy production which follows the story of three mature women who go after younger men stars Uche Jombo Rodriguez, Monalisa Chinda, Dan- iella Okeke, Alex Ekubo, Bobby Michaels, Diana Yekini, Benjamin Touitou, Shawn Faqua and Ifeanyi Kalu. Directed by Desmond Elliot, Lagos Cougars is a story about lust, love and adventure. -ISABELLA AKINSEYE

Did you have to learn new skills? dreams. For the minds that came together Yes, we had training sessions on how to to achieve greatness in delivery, message, hold and shoot a gun. I also learnt the reac- concept and originality of a story that ap- tion to the impact of a bullet on the human peals to all ages, I guarantee that no second body. watching this movie will be wasted.

How were you able to get into character? Who is your favourite actor? I am a theatre practitioner. I studied in the I have a few: Richard Mofe Damijo, Ramsey university to become an actor and I learn Nouah, Denzel Washington and Will Smith. What led you into acting? everyday when I walk on the streets. I take The love for it and the fact that I studied my long works to meditate. So, when the direc- What is your favourite line from a movie? dream course. It has been a part of me since tor told me personally that he believes in “If killing is your only talent, that is your my mother introduced me to drama in the me playing that role and after meeting the curse.” It is from Troy. church when I was 9 years old. talented cast and crew, I blended into my character (Suku) smoothly. How do you spend your free time? How did you hear about A Mile From I am a movie freak. I love the indoor lifestyle Home? How easy was it handling the props and and playing games especially Playstation I was approached by the producer/writer making the action look very real? soccer. of the movie while I was rehearsing at my Did you say easy? For me it wasn’t easy at department in school. all. A Mile from Home is not your everyday Which sports team do you support? Nigerian movie. So, in using my props when Arsenal. What was it like acting in an action the camera starts rolling, utmost concen- packed drama production? tration is needed. My lines, believability and What does family mean to you? Cool, interesting but tough (very very gadgets involved must all be one in one Everything; my family means the world to tough). Being believable always when acting moment. me. wasn’t easy due to situations and circum- stances encountered at different locations Why should people watch this film? INTERVIEW: ISABELLA AKINSEYE

TALENT ON THE RISE: NZERIBE ‘SAMBASA’ CHIEDOZIE ‘SAMBASA’ NZERIBE RISE: THE ON TALENT when shooting the movie.. This movie will make you proud of what PHOTO: COURTESY OF A MILE FROM can be achieved when you believe in your HOME