screen nation Rewarding Exc e l l e n c e - C e l e b r ating Diversity

GHANA AWARDS 2007 NOMINATIONS

INFORM:KNOW:DISCUSS:MIRROR:UNWIND:INSPIRE

Photographer & Creative Director: Cathy Hassan Makeup: Lena Hrncarova

Hair: Allan Henry @ Hypecoiffure 3 Model: Margo @ profile-model management

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47 67 46 66 Favourite West African Film Actor Favourite West African Film Actress Nominations Nominations Emerging Talent Male TV Performance Female TV Performance Male Film Performance Female Film Performance Favourite TV star Male Favourite TV star Female Favourite Presenter Male/Female Favourite Reality Star Independent Spirit Film Production Diversity In Production Factual TV Diversity In Production Drama TV Music Performance Film/TV INTERNATIONAL AWARDS International Film International Screen Personality Male International Screen Personality Female BEST FROM THE WEST Favourite West African Film

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30 Screen Nation supporter Office A message from the Mayor’s Screen Nation CEO and CEO, A message from the founder Charles Thompson Editor and contributor’s editorial team Meet Screen Nation’s Host biographies Salmon Josie D’arby and Colin The Performers Beverley Knight Honorary + Major Awards Outstanding Contribution Award to Film and TV [International] Morgan Freeman Edric Connor Inspiration Award Moira Stuart Vanguard Award Stan Lathan Classic TV Award Roots Black Star Award Ousmane Sembène SCREEN NATION LIFESTYLE screen nation Rewarding Excellence - Celebrating Diversity

LIFESTYLE Inform Unwind screen nation News The return of Dubplate Drama 77 Travel Tales Diary of a Screen Nation winner Gina Yashere 113 Wil Johnson 78 Travel Tales Interview Kojo 115 Shystie, star of Dubplate Drama 79 Elegant African-Caribbean Cuisine 118 Interview Malcolm Frederick and his contribution to film Inspire and television 80 Patrick Williams A recipe for success 117 Know Hooked on a Book 122 Ghana 50 Hooked on a Book A look at Ghana's television, For the Love of Anthony 125 Film & TV Awards newspaper and radio Black British Talent industry and profile on Adelaide Domoah 128 Nana King 85 Poetic Justice 131 Ghana 50 Ghana’s History 135 Tina Atiemo 86 Ghana 50 Mirror Ghana influenced How to prepare for Screen fashion 87 Nation Awards 137 Ghana 50 The List Picture spread 88 You’ve got to have the right bra 138 S k y D r a m a Film Africa 90 96 Interview - Behind the scenes of the Screen Nation cover shoot Discuss Screen Nation’s creative director and Me, me, me photographer, Cathy Hassan 140 Ortis Kwame Deley 93 Screen Nation cover girl, Margo Morrison 1 0 p m Me, me, me 140 Amma Asante 95 Screen Nation make-up artist Lena Hrncarova Ghana 50 141 Kwah Ansah 96 Screen Nation 29th October 2007 Ghana 50 A celebration of 2006 144 Julius Amedume 100 The wisdom page 148 Ligali 73 Ligali's filmmaking projects 103 Ghana 50 Ghana's music 104 Alrick Riley 107 I need me some Screen Nation Dona Croll 108 10 Screen Icons 110 117 83

4 www.screennation.co.uk CATHY

photographer / creative director www.CATHYHASSAN.COM HASSAN

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Abena Opoku Fiona Iwerebor Motions Abigail Dankwah Flawless Naomi Hagan Adelaide Damoah Geoff Schumann Natasha Burnett African Caribbean Business Georgina Jarrett Nina Mistry Network Ghana Black Stars Network Nishma Afterglow Blu Glynis Kuffuor OBE TV Afua Yeboah GPA AWards Orson Nava Alexander Amosu Grace Shannan Owen Bell Ama K. Abebrese HE Annan Cato Paschorina J. Mortty Amma Aning Hilton Metropole Patrice Hinds Amoy Chung Janet Thompson Phil Dalby Andrew Amoah Jenni Asiama Polly Barker Angie Le Mar Jennifer Thompson Pride Aubrey Fagon Jessica Huie PUSH Barclays Wealth Jo Juson Q Baroness Amos Jonte Rachel Ritfield Basil Arrindell Josie D’Arby Regina Sintim Ben Stimpson Joy Montgomery Reshma Eyafe BEN TV Karen Peterkin Rosemary Emodi Black Heritage Kate Rowland Samata Angel Blessing Jackson-Udoekpo Keni Selina Yeboah Bwalya Mwali Khamani Eze Shaherah Williams Caribbean Scene Kikora Mocka-Celestine Sharon Ali Catherine Gordon Kirsten Brown Shirley Boahene-Phillips Cathy Hassan Kolton Lee Simone Colin Salmon Konye Ameachi Sky Andrew Colourful Radio Kubi Springer SKY TV Dami Akinnusi Lea Bragagnini Skye Daniel Azure Leah Charles Stan Lathan Danielle Humphrey Lennox Thomas Stefhen Bryan Defaf Lolla Stella Ken-Adam Delores Parkinson Madonna Momoh Tom Campbell DJ Abrantee Mark Waddington Tony Blenman DJ Elayne Maureen Alexander Touch Donna Johnson Ment2Excel Tunde Babalola Dot Hodge Mialy Oparia Vera Stutzig Edward Thomas Michelle Bertin Virgin Nigeria Eroll Walters Mike Kelt Voice Esther Oluwafemi Miki Turner Warner Brothers Fancessca Owosho Moira Stuart Weike Ezeigwe Fiddler Morgan Freeman Zelle Bonney

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FOUNDER

It’s my pleasure to be able to write this piece in what is our 5th year celebration and in what many say is a lucky year and also one of completion. With God’s grace I am confident that will be the case for many of you as well as Screen Nation. When this journey started I didnt know where it would go, I just understood that I was on a journey and many others were coming along with me as well. Well this journey is now 5 years old and I am happy to announce that WE have come a long way. New friends, supporters and sponsors have joined us and look to continue with us as we make our way. Screen Nation is an event that has something for everyone, the sector, the industry, the community, UK PLC and the world. The possibilities are endless and the opportunities great, all we have to understand is that there is more out there for all of us, but we can only gain if we strive to work together I would like to show my great appreciation for all those that trusted and believed in me and this idea over the years and all those who have contibuted directly or otherwise to the success Of Screen Nation and what its stands for.

I salute you and stay Blessed.

Charles Thomson Ceo Screen Nation

www.screennation.co.uk 15 EDITOR’S LETTER

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTORS

KRISHNA MAROO Writer and aspiring photographer Krishna Maroo is a writer, photographer and graduate who has been with the Screen Nation AKWAABA, family since summer 2006. “Screen Nation has given The Screen Nation awards magazine is always a tale of two halves, like the last issue me opportunities I the second half of this one is about lifestyle but this time with a dash of Ghana. could only dream of. It’s great being part of a team and being part This year marks 50 year’s since the much respected Dr Kwame Nkrumah and others of a creative process.” Krishna enjoys quoting instigated Ghana’s independence. We’ve done our own special tribute via this inspirational people and lyrics, vintage clothing and publication to commemorate this achievement. flicking her hair.

Join us as the Screen Nation awards celebrate a milestone five years. On page IHUNNA EBERENDU 15, Screen Nation founder, Charles Thompson’s talks about what this prestigious Ihunna is a budding ceremony means to him. journalist and PR executive and editor There’s just so much to read so I’m going to end my little spiel here and give you a of online magazine chance to tuck into this visual feast. EveryUrbanThing.com

Enjoy the 2007 awards, enjoy our tribute to Ghana.

Happy 5th Birthday, Screen Nation!

Sophia Jackson Editor * Akwaaba Email your thoughts on the magazine to [email protected] means ANTONIA HINES welcome Antonia Hines is a in Twi web editor to a public sector website and a Sophia Jackson at Arsenal’s newly- freelance journalist. opened Emirates stadium as we She has a regular presented Adewale Akinnouye Agbage column on Christian with his three 2006 Screen Nation lifestyle e-zine, United Awards. He came along with a small entourage that included his Mum and By One and has sisters. Not only did we present the appeared as a guest awards at his favourite football team’s on a number of radio stadium but we also got a special talk shows. Arsenal top designed in his honour. Result.

> Publisher: Charles Thompson > Contributors: Krishna Maroo, Antonia Hines, Reproduction in whole or in part is without prior Sharon Jackson, Brian Smatt, Craig Joseph, Sam permission. The opinions expressed in the publication > Editor: Sophia Jackson Fernando, Elvina Quayson, Dionne Grant, Julius are that of the authors and not Screen Nation. Amedume, Wil Johnson, Angie Le Mar, Elvina > Staff writer: Kristine Maroo Quaison, Ghana Black Stars Network, Charles > Editorial Assistant: Craig Joseph Thompson, Kene Mkparu Backstage Hair Sponsors > Creative Director: Cathy Hassan > Email: [email protected] Screen Nation Awards 2007 > Designer: Danielle Humphrey (www.leapers.co.uk)

16 www.screennation.co.uk THE SCREEN NATION HOSTS PERFORMERS

YOLANDA BROWN EDDIE KADI Saxophonist YolanDa it any wonder that YolanDa Brown touches so many Brown is considered by people through the voice of her music! many to be one of a kind. In conjunction with her music, YolanDa Brown has Infectious smile, Unpredictable material, Clean From very early musical completed a Masters in Management Science, as comedy, Fantastic Delivery... beginnings she has come well as a Masters in Social Research Methods and is to make the Tenor and currently studying for her PhD at the University of Kent. > Best Newcomer (BECA Comedy Awards 2006) Soprano Saxophones her She also fronted a TV talk show on a Sky Channel. very own.She expresses A worldwide performer, she has played for the High > Artist of the Year (Vine Awards 2006) her innermost feelings Commission in Jamaica, Jazz venues in Miami, the through her music and in so doing, never fails to rise Frankfurt Auto Show, the Rotterdam Carnival and the Taking the comedy world by storm Eddie Kadi to the next level with each performance. A belief in the IslaVuelta festival in Spain, to name but a few. has had audiences laughing in their seats for the open truth of music has seen her develop a wide genre The release of YolanDa Brown's debut EP, entitled past few years. Eddie Kadi’s versatile style has vocabulary and songbook, backed by an undeniably "Finding My Voice" and her sold out debut concert at captured the attention and imagination of people awesome performance talent. the Mermaid Theatre London in July 2007, were both from different cultures and backgrounds. As a proud Born and raised in London, YolanDa Brown has met with rave reviews from press and her ever growing African, his main vision is to educate audiences grown up surrounded by an eclectic mix of music, the fan base. We now await with great anticipation the through comedy and as a result break stereotypes. influences of which can be heard in every breath she DVD release of that magical evening. A multi talented performer, EDDIE KADI soon plays and in every note she writes. In response to overwhelming popular demand, turned his sights to performing a genre of music he She references Jazz, Afro-Jazz, Gospel, Reggae, YolanDa Brown's next solo concert has been set for calls, Com Music- (music with a comedic stance) Salsa, Hip-hop, R&B, with consummate ease, even Saturday 8th December 2007, at the prestigious This has been amazingly well received by people going back to Mento throughout her performances, but Cadogan Hall in Sloane Square, London. from all walks of life. her style and phrasing always remains her own. www.yolandabrown.co.uk www.myspace.com/ EDDIE KADI has performed at a wealth of venues With such a musically diverse DNA to her soul, is missyolandabrown including the Hammersmith Palais, Hackney Empire, Da Comedy Funhouse, and Shepherds Bush Empire for the Channel U Best of British Awards DJ ABRANTEE He recently played the lead role in a British film, shot in Africa, (November 2006). Starting his career in the hugely successful street sound DJ Abrantee is proud of his Ghanaian origin. He EDDIE KADI also had a show on Passion 90%, DJ Abrantee has since played all around the recently won Best Entertainer of the Year for the second TV (Sky183) called, The Good Stuff, aired on world as well as DJing for some of the biggest names year running at the Prestigious GMA awards. Wednesdays at 7pm and Fridays at 7.30pm. His in Hip Hop and RnB including Missy Elliot, Ja Rule, The award-winning DJAbrantee show had the number one ratings on the channel for Fundamental, Busta Rhymes, Joe, Foxy Brown, Baby says “I am nowhere near finished the entirety its time on air. > By Sophia Jackson >> Did you know…that in 2008 >> Did you know…Josephine Cham, Jagged Edge and Jay Z. fulfilling my dream and with Eddie Kadi held his debut solo concert at the Abrantee has hosted many award ceremonies; the help of my entertainment Mermaid Theatre in Blackfriars on the 28th of April D’Arby and Salmon together again Colin Salmon will star alongside D’Arby was born and raised in presented DJ workshops to budding entertainers; company and my passion for 2007. fronted advertising campaigns and has had walk on djing, I will continue to entertain The event was extremely successful and sold The star-studded fifth Screen Nation Film and US singer Jill Scott in The No.1 South Wales and is a graduate of parts on TV shows such as The Bill and Footballers the masses." two weeks prior to the event date, with a further Television Awards will once again be hosted Wives. For Dj Gigs, Voice Over’s, and 500 people enquiring about purchasing tickets. by TV presenter Josie D’Arby and Bond actor Ladies Detective Agency directed the Royal Academy of Dramatic DJ Abrantee’s zest for life is transmitted across the T.V Appearances Please E-mail Eddie Kadi says, "I am extremely humbled to Colin Salmon. The slick duo who hosted last airwaves when he hosts his Saturday party night show [email protected] or call have sold out at my first solo project and I would year’s event will join forces again on this by Anthony Minghella. The cast Art [RADA] Her love of showbiz on Choice FM simply entitled "Saturdays Choice". +44(0)208 554 0090 like to promise everyone that has supported me that celebratory night which puts the spotlight I will remain humble as my career progresses". on black achievement on the big and small includes fellow black British actors began when she was an usher at screen. RANDOLPH MATTHEWS It’s fantastic that they will be working Idris Elba [The Wire, Daddy’s the Bristol Hippodrome and she together again and the Screen Nation family is Camden born and raised Zena Edwards and Low Budget Soul. Encouraged by looking forward to another entertaining night Little Girls] and David Oyelowo was just 14-years-old when she Randolph Matthews has both those he’s worked with and those he’s performed from one of the hottest and most charismatic been on the capital's music for, Matthews has now launched his own solo career pairings on the awards circuit. [Last King of Scotland, Shoot the became a regional reporter. She is a scene since the late 80s with a self-titled set on Documented Records. This is the third consecutive year that Josie when he was a regular Vocally Randolph compares himself to Jon Lucien D’Arby has hosted the event; the first time Messenger]. The film is based on celebrity ambassador for the British at Dingwalls, the Electric and Shuggie Otis and listening its hard to take issue, was at the Prince Charles cinema in Leicester Ballroom and especially though because none of the songs are traditionally Square. Previous hosts include Professor the novel by Alexander McCall Red Cross and has travelled to Norman Jay’s gigs at the crafted in terms of structure those comparisons are not Brenda Emmanus who hosted the first two Bass Clef. Bitten by the wholly accurate. The thirty-something son of Camden years and in the second year she was joined Smith. Africa as part of her commitments music bug, young Randy perfected his techniques as a is determined to do his own thing, aiming, as he himself by Danny John Jules with Natasha Simpson percussionist and by the 90s he was playing sessions says, “to unleash the full potential of what music can being the only other host ever used. to the charity. with people like Don Blackman and Will Downing. do to affect people’s lives – small ripples that may have Studio connections won him some vocal voice over wide-reaching resonance in the world at large”. work - Telly anoraks might remember the “Twix in the 'Randolph Matthews' was released on Documented Mix” campaign - and then onto a series of experimental Records on June 25. projects with hip hop DJ Rob Mac, Gum Drop, Truba,

18 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 19 H o n o r a r y A w a r d s INTERNATIONAL Honorary Awards INTERNATIONAL Honorary Awards

With an Oscar and Golden Globe under his belt and year to an end and Morgan returned to New York. Since then, Morgan Freeman is rarely off after year of movies behind him Morgan Freeman is one During the eighties he spent time dabbling the big screen appearing in a string of hits of Hollywood’s heavyweights. in and out of television and theatre waiting and blockbuster movies. He also found time Freeman’s most memorable roles include the for his elusive shining moment and finally it to set up a production company, Revelations FILMOGRAPHY [a selection] strong, forgiving chauffeur in Driving Miss Daisy for came. Entertainment. One of the films to come under which he won his Golden Globe and second Oscar He won himself a role in Driving Miss Daisy, that umbrella includes dark comedy, Nurse nomination, the determined detective in Seven and the Pulitzer-winning play about 20 years in the Betty with Renee Zellweger and Chris Rock. > 1971 Who Says I Can’t Ride a Rainbow? the sympathetic mentor in Stephen Kings novel, lives of an old Jewish woman and her serene In the early nineties, the father of four also > 1980 Brubaker The Shawshank Redemption where he got his third black chauffeur to which he received many tried his hand behind the lens in his directorial > 1982 Nurse Betty Oscar nomination. His first Oscar nomination was favourable reviews. This paved the way for debut of South-African movie, Bopha! He has > 1987 Street Smart for playing a pimp in Street Smart with Christopher on-screen roles to come flooding in, including since decided to stay in front of the camera. > 1989 Driving Miss Daisy Reeve. Last year his performance in this movie Clean and Sober with This distinguished performer and > 1992 Unforgiven was ranked as no.77 in Premiere Magazine’s 100 Michael Keaton, a household name is a hard-working veteran > 1994 The Shawshank Redemption Greatest Performances of All Time. principle in Lean On of the big screen who often plays untypical > 1995 Seven Morgan who was named after his father comes Me, the film version ‘black’ roles. Although his film career didn’t > 1996 Moll Flanders from a large family [four brothers and one sister]. of Driving Miss take off until his fifties, it’s an enviable one > 1997 Kiss the Girls All of the boys except the youngest joined the Air Daisy, a Sgt Major in all the same as he is a well-respected man of > 1997 Amistad Force. One brother drowned as a teenager while Glory, Robin Hood prestige and honour who is just as capable > 1998 Deep Impact serving with the Marine Corps in North Carolina. Prince of Thieves and of playing a pimp or a slave as he is God or a > 2000 Nurse Betty Morgan had dreamed of becoming a Pilot and Unforgiven. president. > 2001 Along Came a Spider spent almost four years in the Air Force but he > 2002 The Sum of All Fears realised that it was the movie version he preferred > 2003 Bruce Almighty and embarked on a career in acting. > 2004 Million Dollar Baby Mr Freeman became a member of the Cabaret > 2005 Batman Begins Union where he learned how to dance but his BIOGRAPHY AND AWARDS > 2005 March of the true passion was acting. Whilst a member of the Penguins [narrator] Inca Chorus he got a life changing job touring The > 1937 Born in Memphis, Tennessee > 1971 Makes big screen debut in Who Says I Can’t > 2005 Edison Royal Hunt of the Sun. > 1955 Graduates from Greenwood High School Ride a Rainbow? > 2006 Lucky Number In search of his dreams Morgan went to New > 1955 Joins the Air Force > 1974 Divorces Jeanette Adair-Bradshaw Slevin York and auditioned whenever the opportunity > 1961 Works as a Transcript clerk for LA City > 1984 Marries Myrna Colley-Lee > 2007 Evan Almighty arose – they were limited at this time. He appeared College and takes advantage of the free acting, > 1989 Wins Golden Globe for Best Performance by > 2008 Wanted in a range of plays and then in the early seventies dancing and singing classes an Actor in a Motion Picture for Driving Miss Daisy > 2008 The Dark Knight got his TV break on the Electric Company children > 1964 Dances at the World Fair > 1993 Directs Bopha! series teaching phonetics and grammar. Bill > 1965 Plays an extra in The Pawnbroker > 2003 Gets star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Previous winners of the Outstanding Crosby also starred on this show. 780 > 1967 Stars in a continuous production of The > 2004 Wins Academy Award for Best Actor in a Contribution to Film and TV [International] award episodes later in 1977, the early Niggerlovers Supporting Role in Clint Eastwood’s Million Dollar > 2006 Yaphet Kotto morning kid’s show came > 1967 Marries Jeanette Adair-Bradshaw Baby > 2005 Melvin Van Peebles > 1968 Stars in an all black version of the > 2007 Awarded Screen Nation’s Outstanding > 2004 Danny Glover Broadway production of Hello, Dolly Achievement to Film and TV [international] award > 1971 Joins cast of the Electric Company TV series

>> Did you know…it FAVOURITE FILM?? was 35 years before My favourite Morgan Freeman film Morgan Freeman had My gut reaction would be to adopt the herd mentality and shout out The Shawshank his first on-screen MORGAN Redemption, however, I think Million Dollar Baby because of the depth of his character. kiss? It was in Nurse MICHAEL MORGAN, FILM CRITIC, TOUCH MAGAZINE Betty [2000]. My top three Morgan I would probably say Seven. I love the darkness Freeman films > By Sophia Jackson freemanHollywood screen legend Morgan and intenseness of the film and as always Morgan 1 Shawshank Redemption Freeman gives a top notch performance! (obvious but still great) >> Did you know… Freeman is honoured with the IHUNNA EBERENDU, FREELANCE WRITER 2 Seven (so good they named a magazine after it...) Morgan Freeman Outstanding Contribution to Film and TV 3 Unforgiven (best Western EVER) CASSAM LOOCH, FILM CRITIC speaks fluent French?

22 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 23 AD EDRIC CONNOR INSPIRATION AWARD Honorary Awards EDRIC CONNOR INSPIRATION AWARD Honorary Awards

British broadcast legend and The first black female newsreader to grace British screens, journalist and broadcaster newsreader Moira Stuart is Moira Stuart OBE is this year’s recipient of PREVIOUS WINNERS OF THE EDRIC Screen Nation’s Edric Connor Inspiration honoured with the Edric award. CONNOR INSPIRATION AWARD Since joining the BBC News Connor Inspiration team in 1981 Moira Stuart has > 2006 Mona Hammond worked on many BBC news > 2005 Paul Barber award programmes during her > 2004 Floella Benjamin time at the institution > 2003 Rudolph Walker [Edric Connor Trailblazer Award] > By Sophia Jackson including News Review, The Nine O’clock News, The Weekend News, The Six O’clock News, show traced back her family history and past she now ticks the over-50s box. There is Sunday AM and links to slavery. She also starred in an episode something missing from our screens and The Politics Show. of the Rick Gervais comedy, Extras as Ronnie that’s Stuarts elegance and calm and of BIOGRAPHY + However, she started Corbetts drugs supplier. course that magnificent hair. out as a continuity In between being one of the best known In her spare time Moira indulges in music, AWARDS announcer and presenters of BBC TV news programmes film and travel. newsreader for BBC Moira has bagged numerous awards over > 1949 Born to parents Marjorie Gordon and Radio 4 and BBC Radio the years and sat on a number of boards ABOUT THE EDRIC CONNOR Harold Stuart 2. Stuart is known for her and judging panels ranging from BAFTA, INSPIRATION AWARD > 1981 Joins BBC radio as a production poise, fluency and ability to the Orange prize for literature to Amnesty Trinidadian folklorist, singer and actor Edric assistant remain unflappable no matter International. Connor (1913-1968) became well known > 1988 Wins Best Newscaster of the Year" TV what the situation. The ground-breaking career woman is well in the British theatre, television and film and Radio Industries Club The glamorous presenter who is respected amongst her peers and when the world. He is acclaimed for being the first > 1989 Wins Best Television Personality - of Scottish descent has also fronted BBC made the decision to end her slot on black actor to perform in Shakespeare at Women of Achievement Awards documentaries such as Moira Sunday AM it was greeted with contempt Stratford-upon-Avon, as Gower in Pericles > 1994 Named Best Female Television Stuart In Search of Wilberforce, by the public and the media. Renowned for (1958). Some of the films he starred in Personality - the Black Journalists' Association the news quiz show Have I Got being fiercely private in true Moira Stuart include Moby Dick (1956) and King of Kings > 1997 Wins Best Media Personality - The Voice News for You and appeared in style, she said little about the BBC’s decision. (1961). He also became a filmmaker himself Newspaper the family history series Who The nation is left wondering whether Moira and shot one of the first documentaries on > 2000 Joined BBC’s breakfast daily morning Do You Think you Are? The has been shoved to one side because the Trinidad Carnival. news programme > 2002 Named Media Personality of the Year – EMMA awards > 2001 Awarded an OBE > 2004 Received the "Global Diversity Award > 2006 Received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Edinburgh > 2006 Leaves BBC breakfast when it revamps its format > 2006 Made a Fellow of the International Visual Communication Association > 2007 Received the European Women of Achievement Award > 2007 Leaves Sunday AM > 2007 Receives Screen Nation’s Edric Connor stuart Inspiration Award OBE www.screennation.co.uk 27 VANGUARD AWARD Honorary Awards

movie “Beat Street” for Orion Pictures. In the 1990’s, Lathan remained one of Hollywood’s most prolific Directors of TV and film. He directed the pilots and thus seeded the series & syndication success of: “Martin,” “Moesha,” “The Parkers,” “The Steve Harvey Show,” “Amen,” “Cedric The Entertainer Presents,” “Eve!” and “All of Us.” Then, in 2000 and 2004, Mr. Lathan STAN continued to break the mold and expand the business model for black comedy on cable TV. He Executive Produced and directed lathan Dave Chappelle’s highly successful comedy specials “Killin’ Them Softly” for HBO and Screen Nation honours Veteran “For What It’s Worth” for Showtime. He also Executive Produced and directed Cedric the American TV director and Entertainer’s “Taking You Higher,” for HBO. In 1989, Lathan and Russell Simmons producer Stan Lathan with its new partnered to create one of the most successful franchises in entertainment: Vanguard Award HBO’s “Def Comedy Jam” series, which started the careers of some of today’s biggest > By Sophia Jackson television & movie stars, such as Chris Tucker, Dave Chappelle, Martin Lawrence, Bernie Mac,Cedric the Entertainer, Steve Harvey, It has been 39 years since Stan Lathan began Children, a music documentary feature film Mo’Nique, Mike Epps and DL Hughley. changing the face of global media. Stan’s distributed by Paramount Pictures. After a nine year hiatus, “Def Comedy Jam” biggest impact has been in the comedy arena Mr. Lathan began directing network relaunched in 2006 to huge ratings. but his influence and style has been reflected television shows in 1975, when he was invited In 2003, the partnership was honoured in televised drama, dance, poetry, performing to Los Angeles to direct multiple episodes of with their first Peabody Award for their arts and film. “Sanford & Son” starring Redd Foxx. Stan groundbreaking series “Russell Simmons Mr. Lathan and partner Russell Simmons went on to direct numerous television drama Presents Def Poetry” on HBO. That same co-own The Simmons Lathan Media and comedy series, including “Hill St. Blues,” year, Lathan and Simmons produced and Group, a film and television production and “Miami Vice,” “Cagney & Lacey,” “Eight is Lathan directed Def Poetry Jam on Broadway, acquisitions company that develops and Enough,” “The Waltons,” “Falcon Crest,” which won a Tony Award for Best Special distributes urban content across a variety of “Remington Steele,” “Frank’s Place,” “Fame” Theatrical Event. media platforms. and “Roc.” Currently, Lathan and Simmons are Since 1968, Mr. Lathan has maintained a Mr. Lathan’s creative reach has been Executive Producing the MTV hit reality bold, original and accomplished vision. He as great as his depth. During the 1970’s show “Run’s House,” now shooting its fourth creates important shows that illuminate the and 1980’s, he contributed to some of the season. entire human experience while particularly most prestigious performance arts series They are also producing independent inspiring African-American and urban on public television. Stan directed “Alvin movies and new seasons of “Def Comedy audiences. Ailey: Memories & Visions” as well as dance Jam” and “Def Poetry Jam” while developing Mr. Lathan’s career began with public specials featuring The Martha Graham a wide variety of broadband and mobile television in Boston Company, Mikhail Baryshnikov and Agnes content. where he co-created de Mille. In addition, he directed dramas for To date, Mr. Lathan continues his personal and directed one of some of public television’s most distinguished journey of achievement, leadership and the first and longest series such as “Great Performances,” mentoring, shepherding new generations running urban themed “American Playhouse,” “The American Short of comedic talent, urban storytellers and magazine shows, “Say Story,” and “Wonder Works.” filmmakers to success. Brother.” In 1969, he In 1984, Mr. Lathan worked with Producer He resides in Beverly Hills with his wife moved to New York Harry Belafonte to direct the pivotal hip hop Marguerite. to become one of the first directors of the groundbreaking >> Did you know…Stan Lathan has a Tony-award urban preschool phenomenon “Sesame nominated daughter called Sanaa Lathan who Street.” In 1973, Mr. Lathan worked with her f ather on Moesha? She has also teamed with Quincy Jones and Jesse starred in NYPD, Blade, The Wood, The Best Man, Jackson to produce and direct Save The Br own Sugar and Nip/Tuc k.

28 www.screennation.co.uk CLASSIC TV AWARD Honorary Awards CLASSIC TV AWARD Honorary Awards

SCREEN NATION’S >> R oots is a really MY FIRST TIME g ood series. It mak es The first time I saw Roots I was about 10 years old when it came on and it CLASSIC TV AWARD me angry sometimes was a big family occasion. My parents said, ‘You really have to watch this. but it is g ood. I use that energy It will help you to understand how There are much black people have struggled from three films that and I f ocus and channel it into slavery days till now .’ When I watched ROOTS never fail to reduce the programme me to tears. Regardless the music. Swa y it shock ed me of how many times I have because I didn ’t seen them the knowledge of fully understand This year we the impending tragedies often as the Americans did by listening to the folk-tales of what black leaves me blubbering before their families who were from the slave trade era.” people had celebrate the 30th the opening credits have ended. Approximately a year after publishing his most gone through. The first is Cry Freedom; the infamous work, The Autobiography of Malcolm X, Haley I watched the anniversary of the second is Beaches and the began his research on Roots. The story is based on his whole series. third and by no means least, is ancestor Kunte Kinte who was kidnapped as teenager Rickie Haywood- release of this highly the screen adaptation of Alex from The Gambia and sold into slavery. Spanning 120 Williams, Haley’s Roots. On 23rd January years the story follows the first four generations of Alex P resenter, MTV significant drama. 1977 the first instalment was Haley’s family in the US. The finished product Roots: aired on US network ABC. The The Saga of an American Family, was published in 1976 The Roots series for me is massively > Ihunna Eberendu series ran on eight consecutive and was followed a year later by the screen adaptation. influential; not only does it involve nights until 30th January 1977 In 1977 the series received an outstanding 28 Emmy some amazing actors but it also and attracted approximately nominations. The four directors Marvin J. Chomsky, touches you in places that no other 130 million viewers. To this John Erman, Gilbert Moses, David Greene and James drama touches day Roots remains one of the T. Heckert each received an Emmy nomination for you apart from most-watched programmes in Outstanding Directing in a Drama series. Ben Vereen The Color P urple. TV history. In honour of this received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead I remember historical series Screen Nation Actor for a Single Appearance in a Drama or Comedy watching it at have awarded it a special Series for his wonderful portrayal of Chicken George; 10-years-old. If Classic TV award. Actor Danny an ancestor of Alex Haley. He is currently filming Mama, you haven ’t seen John Jules describes the effect I Want To Sing which features Ciara, Billy Zane and it go and check the series had on him, “It was Lynn Whitfield. Amongst others he also starred in Star out the Roots the Rasta’s that actually knew Trek: The Next Generation playing the role of Doctor La series right now . what was going on; people Forge, the father of Geordi La Forge who of course was Melvin Odoom, like Burning Spear “Do You played by LeVar Burton. DJ , Kiss FM Remember the Day of Slavery?” After 30 years the mini- You’d be bopping in the dance series is still as poignant and I remember my mum telling me a story but people didn’t really know significant as it was when it was about Roots. When she first watched what he was talking about but released, serving as a reminder it she went into school the next day when Roots came out you of the atrocities the black race and all the black kids sat on one side realised what the dreads were experienced during and in the and the white kids sat on the other saying. If we had listened to aftermath of the slave trade. side and there was a solemn silence in the dreads, as a community, Irrespective of age or race the air. I remember watching it when a long time ago we would Roots remains un-missable I was young . It mak es you angry but have been twice as far series to many and long may it it also mak es forward today; continue to do so for the next you happy to 30 years and beyond. see how things have moved on to a certain >> In 1977 the series extent. It’s an inspiring receiv ed an outstanding movie; I watched it all 28 Emm y nominations. at once. Aml Ameen

30 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 31 BLACK STAR AWARD Honorary Awards BLACK STAR AWARD Honorary Awards

OUSMANE SEMBENE > Sophia Jackson

>> Did you know…Ousmane Sembène was member of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival in 1967, the Berlin International Film Festival in 1977 and at the Venice Film Festival in 1983?

A tribute to the late great father of African look at polygamy and traditional African which many critics consider his finest film. >> Did you know… detailing the nature of the scenes that had cinema medicine and the contrasts between urban Many believe that Sembène’s reputation as been cut. BIOGRAPHY and Sembène’s next offering is what many a leading figure in African literature would Ousmane Sembène was Moolaadé was his final film and the The great Senagalese film director, producer consider to be his masterpiece Les Bouts have been greater had his books been given beautifully made movie went on to win > 1923 Born to a fisherman and writer Ousmane Sembène 1923-2007 is de Bois de Dieu a fiction based novel about English translations, too. a co-founder of the awards at Cannes, FESPACO, Ouagadougou, > 1944 joins French Army for World War II hailed the father of African film. He died in a railroad strike [1947-1948] on the Dakar- At 40, this hinderance propelled Sembène and the Burkina Faso film festivals. It also > 1956 writes Le Docker Noir [The Black June of this year at the grand age of 84. He Niger line told through the eyes of a union to go into filmmaking, to ensure that his work Pan-African festival of won two prizes at the Venice film festival. In Docker] leaves behind a legacy of landmark filmic and spokesman. reached wider audiences – paritcularly a more an interview with Bonnie Greer, Sembène > 1957 writes O Pays, Mon Beau Peuple! [Oh literary achievements and accolades. The acclaimed writer then went on to diverse African audience. When he released film and television of described it as his ‘most African film’ in terms Country, My Beautiful People!] His mother tongue was Wolof, the write a series of short stories, tales and the 60-minute film La Noire de… in 1966 he of its aesthetics and narrative structure. Set > 1960 writes Les Bouts de Bois de Dieu [God’s language most widely spoken in Senegal and fables including La Noire De which was later was the first sub-Saharan African director to Ouagadougou (Fespaco)? in a small African village in Burkina Faso, Bits of Wood] he studied French and Arabic. He had a stint adapted to become his first film. His writing reach this level. This French-language movie Moolade explores the controversial subject of > 1962 releases a collection of short fiction in the French Army where he fought in World became a way for him to express his feelings attracted international limelight to African female genital mutilation. Voltaique [Tribal Scars] War II and eventually stowed away to France about racial and economic oppression caused cinema. His debut feature was a huge success was a long-term ambition which was also Thorough filmmaking the pioneer who led > 1963 returns to Senegal and did manual work. During this time he by being under colonial government rule. and many see this as the first ever African realised in the film adaptation of Xala [1975], the rise of African cinema told the story of > 1966 his first feature film La Noire de… [The joined the French trade union and Communist His writing then took an about turn when film. La Noire de is about the mistreatment by Ceddo [1977], Camp de Thiaroye [1987] colonialism, the strength of African women, Black Girl from…]is the first film to be released party. He suffered a back injury and turned he started focusing on the corrupt ways of a French family of Diouana, a young African and Guelwaar [1992]. Making films in Wolof the dark side of religion and the new African by a sub-Saharan African director his hand to literature. His experiences in Africa’s elite when Xala was released in 1973. woman. She commits suicide when she enabled Sembène to tour around Senegal’s bourgeoisie. His filmography ranges from > 1968 second film Mandabi [The Money Order] these movements inspired him to write Le He put down his writer’s hat in 1981 when travels to Europe with them. This first feature cities and villages. comedy to serious drama and documentary- is released Docker Noir about an African’s experiences he wrote Le Dernier de L’empire a story of ever produced by an African filmmaker won a To some Xala is Sembène’s greatest film making. His films were always honest and he > 1971 Emitai released of racism and mistreatment on the Marseille corruption and a military coup in an African prize at the 1967 Cannes Film Festival. achievement. There was much controversy touched the lives of many with his integrity > 1973 Xala released docs. Sembène’s fictional writing is described nation. Coupled with Les Bouts de Bois de Then in 1968, the Wolof language speaker surrounding the release of Ceddo in and passion for African people. He used this > 1977 Ceddo [Outsiders] released as social realism and his literary reputation Dieu these novels escalated “Xala” (1974), made Mandabi in his mother tongue this Senegal and it was censored because of medium for social commentary and as a way > 1981 writes Le Dernier de l’empire [The Last was able to support him financially. The next its anti-Muslim connotations. Some scenes of chronicling Africa’s culture and history. Empire] novel, O Pays, Mon Beau Peuple garners hims were deemed to be offensive and below Ousmane Sembène died at home in his > 1987 Camp de Thiaroye released even more success as invitations from around >> Did you know…Ousmane Sembène was the government standards. The film deals mother country, Senegal having been ill since > 1992 Guelwaar the world came flooding in and whilst in with the subject of African cooperation in December 2006. > 2004 Moolaadé released Russia he spent a year studying filmmaking. first African director to give the director's lesson at supplying slaves to western slave traders. > 2005 recieves a fellowship from the BFI “Xala” (1974), which many critics However, Sembène was determined to > 2007 dies on June 9 aged-87 consider his finest film, takes a humorous Cannes? get his views across and distributed fliers

32 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 33 U K S c r e e n A w a r d s EMERGING TALENT UK Screen Awards

LAWRENCE COKE RICHIE CAMPBELL > DIRECTOR / WRITER > THE BILL

An established director some of his projects include The Chelsea Flower Richie Campbell is a deserving nominee in this category. His radiant Show and work on The MOBO’s. Ten years ago Lawrence decided to performance in THE BILL was a credible and refreshing and there is no give his career a twist and commence the production of doubt this guy is going places! his very own films. By 2002 he had won Best Script and People’s Choice Award for Run Richie Run in the 23:59 short film competition and his films have gone on to win awards ever since. Lawrence continues to shine through with his undoubted writing and production skills.

PATRICK REGIS ZARAAH > LIFE & LYRICS / ROLLING ABRAHAMS WITH THE NINES > CORONATION STREET

Patrick Regis has been in the film industry for a few years but has already Zaraah made it big time when she landed her role in the multi award worked with a number of highly experienced directors and had a number winning Soap CORONATION STREET. She has held her ground and of guest appearances in shows such as Casualty and The proven herself worth to be part of this institution and this is the Bill. One of his biggest onscreen personalities was ‘Money beginning of many things to come. Man’ in LIFE & LYRICS, and he also played Temper in ROLLING WITH THE NINES which won Screen Nation 2006 Achievement in Film Production Award.

FREEMA AGYEMAN > DR WHO

Freema Agyeman’s first notable appearance was in the ITV soap Crossroads, however she is now best known for the role of Martha Jones in the science fiction television series DR WHO. The Iranian/Ghanaian actress is undeniably building up her credibility in the industry and has adopted an savvy on-screen style. Be sure to keep an eye out for her forthcoming projects.

www.screennation.co.uk 37 MALE PERFORMANCE IN TV UK Screen Awards FEMALE PERFORMANCE IN TV UK Screen Awards

AML AMEEN EAMONN WALKER ANGELA GRIFFIN SOPHIE OKONEDO > THE BILL > JUSTICE AND ER > WATERLOO ROAD > TSUNAMI: THE AFTERMATH

EAMON WALKER is a British film, television and theatre actor. He is It seems like it was only yesterday when Angela first made her break A deserving nominee at the 2006 Oscar for Hotel Rwanda; Sophie in Aml is definitely going to take the TV industry by storm. His perhaps best known for playing Kareem Said in the American HBO in Coronation Street. With many successful projects under her belt, her TSUNAMI: THE AFTERMATH plays a mother whose live is ripped apart performance in THE BILL is a breath of fresh air and his ability to act television series OZ (for which he won a CableACE latest WATERLOO ROAD sees her play a believable teacher by the Boxing Day tragedy that took place in 2004. naturally enables audience’s to relate with him. This young man without Award). His performance in JUSTICE and ER is nothing whom students admire. a doubt is going places. short of brilliant.

CHIWETEL ROGER GRIFFITHS GINNY HOLDER NIKKI AMUKA-BIRD EJIOFOR > HOLBY CITY > HOLBY CITY > SHOOT THE MESSENGER / > TSUNAMI: THE FIVE DAYS / BORN EQUAL AFTERMATH

The makers of this drama couldn’t have picked a better actor to feature. A familiar face to Eastenders and Family Affairs, Roger has now moved Ginny plays a bold, determined nurse who has come from Africa. This This beautiful actress simply knows how to give a good natural TSUMANI: THE AFTERMATH is a well told account of the tragedy that onto HOLBY CITY. His policeman character is fast, feisty and you could strong individual will stop at nothing to get what she wants. She has performance this is especially evident in major dramas SHOOT THE took place. Chiwetel is someone you must definitely look out for. say sly. We hope this gifted actor continue to grace our become an asset to HOLBY CITY. A natural talented MESSENGER /FIVE DAYS /BORN EQUAL. Expect to see much more of TV screens with his talent. actress. her in the future.

DAVID OYELOWO SHARON D CLARKE > SHOOT THE MESSENGER / HUGH QUARSHIE > HOLBY CITY (CASUALTY) RAKIE AYOLA FIVE DAYS / BORN EQUAL > DOCTOR WHO AND HOLBY CITY

An emotional rollercoaster ride of an actor; David’s performances in Sharon D. Clarke is a British actress and singer popularly known for her SHOOT THE MESSENGER /FIVE DAYS /BORN EQUAL is believable every role in the UK medical drama HOLBY CITY, in which she plays Lola Griffin. time. We’re sure he’ll be in many more drama’s to come. Other notable roles include Rent, Fame, The Lion King and Chicago. What a multi-talented woman!

38 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 39

MALE PERFORMANCE IN FILM UK Screen Awards FEMALE PERFORMANCE IN FILM UK Screen Awards

CHIWETEL EJIOFOR DAVID OYELOWO NAOMIE HARRIS SOPHIE OKONEDO > INSIDE MAN > THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND > PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD > SCENES OF A SEXUAL MANS CHEST / AT WORLDS ENDS AND NATURE / STORMBREAKER MIAMI VICE Born to Nigerian parents in East London, Chiwetel Ejiofor has come a Moving from Theatre to TV to Film, David Oyelowo has developed After her quality breakthrough performance many years ago Naomie Harris It’s hard to believe that this sensational actress never even considered long way from amateur acting. He has moved into major film roles such greatly as an actor; with major roles in BBC’s Spooks and this year has since added mainstream roles to her list. More recently in MIAMI this profession in her early years. Sophie’s role in STORMBREAKER is as playing Detective Bill Mitchell alongside Denzel Washington in the through the hit film THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND in VICE and her PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MANS based on novels by Anthony Horowitz. Here she demonstrates just why blockbuster INSIDE MAN. His star continues to shine and shine. which he plays a Ugandan doctor. Oyelowo has proved CHEST/AT WORLDS END. Her performances have to be she is an international superstar. that he shines on many different levels as an actor. commended. All power to her.

ASHLEY WALTERS DAVID HAREWOOD THANDIE NEWTON > LIFE AND LYRICS / > BLOOD DIAMOND > THE PURSUIT OF STORMBREAKER HAPPYNESS AND NORBIT

London born Ashley Walters has proved time and time again to be a David Harewood’s fantastic performance in BLOOD DIAMOND as Last year’s winner of Female Performance in Film returns for a second major player in the TV and Film industry. In films such as Bullet Boy, Captain Poison, displays his ability to really inhabit a character making nomination for THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS and NORBIT. Simply terrific. Get Rich or Die Trying, LIFE AND LYRICS and STORMBREAKER, Ashley him seem so real to the audience. Initially training as a consistently demonstrates with ease his ability to stay very much afloat Shakespearian actor, Harewood proves again that his in the world of film. acting skills are not limited to the stage or television, but contributes greatly to the world of film.

ADRIAN LESTER CLARE-HOPE > SCENES OF A SEXUAL IDRIS ELBA ASHITEY NATURE > 28 WEEKS LATER > CHILDREN OF MEN STEPHEN GRAHAM

Over the last decade Adrian Lester has built a solid portfolio as a > THIS IS ENGLAND / THE Clare’s first major international film CHILDREN OF MEN has made her successful actor both in TV and Film. Very well known to the UK public INNOCENCE noticed within the global film industry. Her natural ability to act is just via the BBC series Hustle; Adrian is also a very strong film actor and is simply phenomenal. With a performance like this it is fair to say that nominated for SCENES OF A SEXUAL NATURE. she can take the British or even Hollywood industry by storm.

42 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 43

FAVOURITE MALE TV STAR UK Screen Awards FAVOURITE FEMALE TV STAR UK Screen Awards

LEON LOPEZ TRISHA GODDARD JOCELYN JEE- > HOLLYOAKS IN THE > THE TRISHA GODDARD SHOW ESIEN CITY > LITTLE MISS JOCELYN

Sexy Leon first came to our attention in Brookside but after the axe of Having been through a lot in her personal life Trisha has managed to Having conceived, wrote and starred in the programme he managed to make a comeback in C4’s spin off from conquer her demons. Now the host of THE TRISHA GODDARD SHOW she LITTLE MISS JOCELYN, the talented Jocelyn Hollyoaks- HOLLYOAKS IN THE CITY. With a large female fanbase Mr is highly respected and looked up to by many in the UK. A should be proud of her achievements. A PUBLIC Lopez and the respect of the males his career is going places. true inspiration former Screen nation winners she is a truly PUBLIC creative shining star. VOTING

VOTING ADRIAN LESTER GINA YASHERE ANGELLICA BELL > HUSTLE > LAST COMIC STANDING > BBC

Adrian has come a long way from his birth place Birmingham. This Gina Yashere is known for her honest, upbeat and entertaining jokes. Anegllica’s gift to present is amazing. Her natural relationship with the handsome actor has starred in the American hit sitcom Girlfriends and She is definitely flying the flag for Britain having been the first Brit camera has her favoured by audiences from all backgrounds and ages. was the mainstay in HUSTLE for four series. It is likely he may return for to do America’s famous Def Jam Comedy Show. Her Let’s hope that one day soon she has her very own TV show. a fifth series. performance in LAST COMIC STANDING is brilliant - she is a truly gifted comedian.

AINSLEY HARRIOTT IDRIS ELBA JUNE SARPONG FREEMA > READY STEADY COOK > THE WIRE > T4, STRICTLY DANCE FEVER / AGYEMAN WAGS BOUTIQUE > DR WHO

Ainsley is very skilful in what he does. Not only does he host READY London born Idris has not only starred in many productions in the UK June is no stranger to our screens. Her confident friendly approach in After graduating from Middlesex University Freema has been one of the STEADY COOK, he also contributes to helping the chefs prepare dishes, but also in America where he now resides. The HBO hit series THE STRICTLY DANCE FEVER/ WAGS BOUTIQUE (and in everything she does) many changes DR WHO has seen in the last year. She has made history keeps the audience informed and makes us laugh, all at WIRE has been a major success and lefts its mark on US TV. Elba’s is the reason why she is here. with the series by becoming the first Black person to play the Dr’s the same time. performance is excellent. companion. What an accomplishment at such a young age!

46 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 47 FAVOURITE PRESENTER UK Screen Awards

PUBLIC KAT VOTING > MTV

The funny man Kat keeps moving forward. Some of you may know that he and his partner have their own show ‘Kat and RB’ on Choice FM. Even with his solo act on MTV, Kat has not failed to entertain.

AINSLEY HARRIOTT MICA PARIS > READY, STEADY, COOK > WHAT NOT TO WEAR / COME DINE WITH ME

At the early age of 16, Ainsley Harriot began an apprenticeship at an East London born singer Mica Paris, is no stranger to the entertainment End restaurant exploring his passion for food. However, he did not neglect world with a string of well produced albums and songs behind her his passion for comedy and singing, forming the Calypso name. Mica Paris is also the new face of WHAT NOT TO WEAR, a Twins and releasing a record in the early 90s. He found popular fashion guidance show. Her contribution to creating social a way to combine all his talents hosting several versions awareness about gun crime as well as her efforts to conquer youth of his own cooking show, the popular READY STEADY homelessness are highly commendable. COOK and Can’t Cook Won’t Cook and the Ainsley Harriet Show. He has graced both British and American television screens as both chef and comedian.

JUNE SARPONG TRISHA GODDARD > T4 > TRISHA GODDARD SHOW / FAMILIES AT WAR

June Sarpong is a television presenter and role model to many young Born in Hackney London, she became a TV success in Australia. Now, British women. At the age of 30, she has had a very successful media Trisha hosts her own very successful daytime television chat show The career. She began at Kiss FM radio, before transferring her TRISHA GODDARD SHOW. Her unfailing interest in social issues has talents to the screen at MTV UK, She now regularly hosts been key in helping to shape and guide British lifestyle. Channel 4’s T4 strand and has interviewed the likes of Tony Blair amongst others while continuing to present game shows and live events.

www.screennation.co.uk 49 FAVOURITE REALITY STAR UK Screen Awards

TIM CAMPBELL LEONA LEWIS > THE APPRENTICE > X FACTOR

Tim was the winner of the first series of THE APPRENTICE. Sir Alan A lot has changed for Miss Lewis since winning X FACTOR having now described Tim who was kept on after the end of his original 12 month signed a £5 million recording contract with Arista Records. Whitney contract as a “great asset”. He is also an asset to his Houston is reported to have said that Lewis will be an international star community. and has offered to mentor her. Leona is now hoping they will record a duet. Leona Lewis is a true winner.

MAKOSI ANDY > BIG BROTHER ABRAHAM > X FACTOR

The Zimbabwean beauty who has become a reality TV star, Makosi Since appearing on X FACTOR, Andy has released 2 studio albums. Musambasi earned fame as a contestant on the UK’s BIG BROTHER 6. His debut,’ The Impossible Dream’, reached platinum status (300,000) She finished third on the show and was the highest female in the UK. ‘Soul Man’, his second album took Andy back to his roots, finisher. capturing hits from inspirational legends including Stevie Wonder and The Temptations. He may have failed to win X FACTOR but Andy is on a winning streak.

BRENDA EDWARDS > X FACTOR

Prior to appearing in X FACTOR Brenda worked as an Accounts Manager, but how things have changed. She has been involved in various projects including roles in the West End hit musical Chicago and Carmen Jones at the Royal Festival Hall. Things are very bright for Brenda and there is no stopping her now. PUBLIC VOTING

www .screennation.co.uk 51 T e c h n i c a l A c h i e v e m e n t A w a r d s INDEPENDENT SPIRIT FILM PRODUCTION Technical Achievement Awards

A GOAT’S TAIL RAG TAG > DIR / PROD: JULIUS AMEDUME > DIR: ADAORA NWANDU

A Goat’s Tail – Dir/Prod: Julius Amedume At last a Black British Gay Film. RAG TAG has two strong leads and an Kojo is a taxi driver in Ghana. Sleeping on his break he is awoken even stronger sense of realism. Set in a London that is totally believable by a beautiful young actress called Cynthia. Six months Rag Tag has an edge that echoes Stephen Frears’ My Beautiful later Kojo arrives on Cynthia’s doorstep in London. Filled Launderette. The film introduces themes and ideas without banner with ambitions of making money and fulfilling his dreams waving. The two leads are believable and watchable and supported by of succeeding as a poet, he soon realises that the grass a strong cast. It also boasts the first Black British Gay screen kiss since isn’t greener on the other side and people are not what Isaac Julien’s Passion of Remembrance. they seem.

MALCOLM’S ECHO LITTLE WHITE > DIR / PROD: DAMI AKINNUSI LIES > PROD: JOHN GIWA-AMU

Dami Akinnusi is fantastic director. Her documentaries never fail to ‘LITTLE WHITE LIES’ is a comedy about racism which tells the story of Images of Black Women Film Festival 29th Feb - 2nd Mar 2008 deliver which is why MALCOM’S ECHO has to be recognised. Premiered working class family in Wales living in fear of their country becoming Tricycle Cinema - London - Kilburn to the world to coincide with the anniversary of Malcolm a place where there are more mosques than McDonalds and terrorists African descent women in cinema X’s assassination the film looks at one of the most famous lurk in every corner shop. Their own family is on the verge of being black icons of all time. torn apart by racial tensions and the only person in the family trying to Submissions are Open for Images of Black Women Film Festival 2008 - [email protected] From Hattie McDaniel to Queen Latifah hold it all together is the mother, Karen. It also deals with the rise of the BNP, the politics of hate, the paranoia of racism and how it affects this Closing date 15th December 2007 ‘75 years of Black Women in Cinema’ Welsh family. Images of Black Women (IBW) is looking for documentaries, features, short films and animation. The selection criteria: strong presence of African descent women in front or behind the camera.

The 4th Images of Black Women Film Festival will open on 29th February to 2nd March 2008 at the avant-garde Tricycle Cinema, London. 3 inspirational days where amazing work by black women & about black CROSSING BRIDGES LUCKY JOE women will be showcased to increase one’s knowledge of > DIR / PROD: MARK NORFOLK their role in cinema. The Festival opens with a Life Time > DIR: OBI EMELONYE Achievement Award to acknowledge the achievement of a prominent black woman in cinema. Other events include a short film competition for emerging filmmakers, a Children’s Corner with animations, the oral tradition of the storyteller CROSSING BRIDGES follows 55 year old Julius who is about to commit LUCKY JOE is simply a must see. The film follows two friends who have & an animation workshop. There will be films from the suicide- his daughter has accused him of abuse. As he is about to end hit the jackpot or so they think. They consequences that lie ahead may Black Diaspora, Q & A’s, seminars and workshops by inspiring black women it all he meets an Angel. He comes to realise that ending prove fatal. Obi Emelonye will be more than a conqueror in the film filmmakers, celebrity guests, networking events & it is not easy and there are great demons he has to face. industry. parties. Mark Norfolk is a talented writer whose work should be www.imagesofblackwomen.com celebrated. [email protected] Tickets Booking Line 0207 328 1000 269 Kilburn High Road London NW6 7JR IBW 2007 screening: Antonia by Tata Amaral (2006) Brazil

www.screennation.co.uk 55 DIVERSITY IN FACTUAL PRODUCTION Technical Achievement Awards

SOUL BRITANNIA ROOTS > BBC4 REMEMBERED > BBC2

ROOTS REMEMBERED follows Kwame Kwei-Armah’s journey to BBC4’s SOUL BRITANNIA celebrates the underestimated singers in bring together the original cast of the hit series for the first time Britain within the 60’s and 70’s. It brings to light the in 30 years and looks at the impact that the series had on many surrounding issue of how American soul singers such people’s lives. A refreshing look back in history. as Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, etc were recognised around the world but British singers from that same era were forgotten. It also examines the impact Black American and Caribbean music has in society today.

MOIRA STUART IN SEARCH GIRLS & KNIVES / OF WILBERFORCE YOUTHS WITH GUNS > BBC2 > ITV

BBC’s very own Moira Stuart became the first female Afro-Caribbean Wayne G. Saunders is a gifted writer/director who aims to newsreader in 1981. Although working in a white dominated workforce; she take the British film industry by storm. Two of his hard hitting still kept to her roots. The BBC’s ‘Abolition’ season follows documentaries GIRLS AND KNIVES /YOUTHS WITH GUNS aired Miss Stuart in her own documentary IN SEARCH OF on ITV and had a huge response from the public. The films give WILBERFORCE which coincided with the 200th anniversary an insight into the reasons why this atrocity is taking place in the of the Bill banning the British slave trade. community and how some deal with tackling the issue.

TV’S BLACK PIONEERS THE HISTORY OF BLACK PEOPLE IN THE UK > BBC4 > C4 THE ORIGINS OF RACISM > BBC2 Award winning director Alrick Riley has done it again! His unique talent and ability to tell a story manages to captivate you each time. TV’s BLACK PIONEERS shown on BBC4; places interest in the trials and tribulations of first generation African-Caribbean actors and actresses.

www.screennation.co.uk 57 DIVERSITY IN DRAMA PRODUCTION Technical Achievement Awards

TRIAL & EASTENDERS RETRIBUTION > BBC1 > ITV

TRIAL AND RETRIBUTION is a police procedural format which follows EASTENDERS is one of Britain’s best loved Soaps and has been around the lives of the people in the police force and also how they conduct for more than twenty years. Its ability to captivate, and provoke their investigations. It’s uniqueness with its use of camera emotions is why it is still going. And let’s not forget the programme’s movements and juxtapositions are just one of the reasons diversity from the past up until the present day. why this programme is popular.

SHOOT THE THE BILL MESSENGER > ITV1 > BBC2

SHOOT THE MESSENGER follows one teacher hoping to save his THE BILL has most definitely come a long way. Its present force pupils from the destructive path of crime, gang-culture and of course highlights what is going on in society today - bent coppers, drugs, sex underachievement. His journey brings up emotions he and much much more. The show shows how the police deal with their cannot deal with forcing him to search for himself. On his job and their personal everyday lives. way he finds his attitudes and those of his community being challenged. Brave, uncompromising and designed to create a reaction.

DR WHO > BBC2

DR WHO is one of the longest running programmes on British TV. It hasn’t failed to entertain and has moved along with the times. Their newest addition Freema Agyeman, the Dr’s Companion and other young blood have brought a refreshing diversity to the show.

www.screennation.co.uk 59 BEST MUSIC PERFORMANCE Technical Achievement Awards

DIZZEE RASCAL UNKLEJAM > SIRENS / MATHS + ENGLISH > LOVE YA / WHAT AM I FIGHTING FOR

The East-London-born rapper entered the scene via the underground and UNKLE JAM introduces a refreshing new sound that brings is now one of the hottest acts in the urban music scene. Since winning together pop, funk and fun within a unique retro landscape. Their a Mercury Music Prize in 2003, his garage style rapping bright and clever approach to music is simply exciting. ‘LOVE has set a trend that is presently dominating the streets of YA/WHAT AM I FIGHTING FOR’ is upbeat and will definitely have London. His new Album ‘MATH & ENGLISH’ has received you on the dancefloor. recognition in America and has also been nominated for a second Mercury prize. PUBLIC VOTING

CORINNE BAILEY RAE NATHAN > LIKE A STAR > COLD AS ICE

Corrine Bailey Rae is a singer/songwriter who has not only been The moment ‘Come into My room’ hit the streets, Nathan was labelled nominated for a Grammy but has won two MOBO awards. Accurately a perfectly polished parcel. Now, two-years on the R&B singer is still predicted breakthrough act of 2006, her first album firing hits and is set to stomp the charts. He returns with the lyrically ‘CORRINE BAILEY RAE’ debuted at number one selling over innovative single ‘COLD AS ICE’ which to no surprise is positioned to 4 million copies. The forthcoming Instant Karma album is storm the charts. set to take the country by storm for a second time.

AKALA JAMELIA > SHAKESPEARE / A LITTLE DARKER > BEWARE OF THE DOG / WALK WITH ME

Despite being in the mainstream for just over a year, Akala has After her groundbreaking hit ‘Money’ and just the tender age of 16, managed to win himself a MOBO Award for Best Hip Hop Artist beating Jamelia was dubbed the queen of R&B. Now the 26-year-old mother of international heavyweights such as Busta Rhymes and two is back to reclaim her title. Her refreshing and diverse third album Kanye West. Following this achievement, he has partnered ‘WALK WITH ME’ is said to be her best yet and has received fantastic with the British Council to promote British music and reviews. The single ‘BEWARE OF THE DOG’ has been described as the culture overseas. ‘SHAKESPEARE/A LITTLE DARKER’ stand out track after a good run in the UK Charts. simply shows off his talent. KANO > LONDON TOWN MS DYNAMITE > JUDGEMENT DAY SWAY > THIS IS NOT MY 2ND ALBUM

www.screennation.co.uk 61 I n t e r n a t i o n a l S c r e e n A w a r d s INTERNATIONAL FILM International Screen Awards

DREAMGIRLS THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND

This musical is unquestionably entertaining A must see! THE LAST KING OF with its racy storyline. DREAMGIRLS also SCOTLAND is a good history lesson manages to reflect on friendship, love and which is why it has to take its betrayal. deserving place here.

BLOOD THE PURSUIT DIAMOND OF HAPPYNESS

A convincing film BLOOD DIAMOND’s THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS is brutal scenes makes it a compelling story. a wonderful story of one man’s struggle to make it to the top.

MADEA’S PUBLIC FAMIL Y REUNION VOTING MADEA’S FAMILY REUNION is a hilarious film. It is a must see.

64 www.screennation.co.uk MALE SCREEN PERSONALITY (FILM / TV) International Screen Awards FEMALE SCREEN PERSONALITY (FILM / TV) International Screen Awards

DJIMON HOUNSOU ISAIAH WASHINGTON KERRY WASHINGTON VANESSA > BLOOD DIAMOND > GREY’S ANATOMY > THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND WILLIAMS AND I THINK I LOVE MY WIFE > UGLY BETTY

You could say Steven Spielberg’s Amistad enabled Djimon to set his American born Kerry Washington has had a recent string of success and Is there anything Miss Vanessa Williams hasn’t done? After becoming position amongst first rate actors. Following a string of nominations and Mr Washington not only deserves his place in GREY’S ANATOMY came to the public’s attention in her mind blowing performance in Save the first African-American to win Miss America; this began the birth of 12 wins, Djimon Hounsou is also the third ever African male to receive but also o this list. His effortless acting style The Last Dance. Since then, the only way has been up her flourishing career. She has topped the charts and acted. Although in an Oscar nomination. The BLOOD DIAMOND star always receives a manages to captivate and deliver every time. for this rising star. Her performance in THE LAST KING OF her mid 40’s it’s only now that Vanessa is at her peak. She is the star positive response from critics and audiences alike. SCOTLAND was exceptional. She is now one of the new of one of America’s most talked about shows UGLY BETTY and with a faces for L’Oreal. bunch of awards under her belt it seems her work is not yet over.

JAMIE FOXX TYLER PERRY JENNIFER HUDSON TICHINA ARNOLD > DREAM GIRLS / MIAMI > MADEA’S FAMILY REUNION > DREAMGIRLS > EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS VICE

Multitalented performer Jamie Fox rose rapidly to stardom after his Funny man Tyler Perry is back again. MADEA’s FAMILY REUNION After her controversial exit from American Pop Idol, Jennifer Hudson New York born Tichina began her acting career at an early age. Since Oscar winning performance in the film biography of the late Ray is another hit under his belt. This man ahs a huge future. immediately had the sympathy of the public around the world. Since then she has built up her reputation landing at least two important roles Charles. His Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor in Collateral then Hudson has moved one mountain after another. Her a year. Her best known role to date is playing Rochelle in EVERYBODY and his roles in MIAMI VICE and DREAM GIRLS make him nothing short breathtaking performance in DREAMGIRLS has definitely HATES CHRIS. If that wasn’t enough; she had her voice featured on of fabulous. earned her a place as a household name. many underground house and dance mixes played in the club scenes of Los Angeles.

WILL SMITH CHANDRA WILSON > THE PURSUIT OF TYRESE > GREY’S ANATOMY SANAA LATHAN HAPPYNESS OMAR EPPS > SOMETHING NEW AND NIP TUCK MEAGAN GOOD

Will has been around for years and it seem he isn’t going anywhere Since attending the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, > YOU GOT SERVED AND STOMP in a hurry. THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS is just another effortless earning a BFA in drama; Chandra has come a long way having appeared THE YARD performance from Will Smith. He is a legend. Nothing else to say in Sex and the City, The Sopranos and Law and Order. It wasn’t until playing Dr. Miranda Bailey in GREYS ANANTOMY that her talent and passion for acting has been recognised by everyone. PUBLIC PUBLIC VOTING VOTING

66 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 67 B e s t f r o m t h e W e s t FAVOURITE WEST AFRICAN FILM Best From The West

APESIN STITANDA

APESIN exercises the question “To be or not to be”; It is not hard to see why Izu Ojukwu’s STITANDA the notion that the power of love can move mountains has been nominated for numerous awards, Best and cause the betrayal of friendship. The consequence Cinematography, Best Editing and even Best Film; I of the bitter feud between two friends sees the lives of mean the list is endless. With attributes like this it is not themselves and many taken to deep despair. hard to see why this film has touched a vast number of people.

ABENI BEYONCE

ABENI tells the story of a beautiful young lady born into BEYONCE is the Presidents daughter and will stop at a rich family who meets Akanni, a young man who has nothing to win the heart of her beloved Raj- though he managed to pull himself out of poverty. Being a small belongs to someone else. This film tells the story of a world Akanni’s father used to work for Abeni’s father young woman who uses her power and wealth to win when they were children. As adults they have now fallen in love but the man she loves at whatever the cost. This film is a definite must Abeni’s father has already sealed an engagement for her to another watch with its heart racing action. man. What will become of the young lovebirds?

AMAZING GRACE

Jeta Amata’s is one of Nigeria’s most prominent directors. Based on a true story, AMAZING GRACE explains how the British slave trader John Newton’s journey to Nigeria in 1748 led him to write the renowned hymn. PUBLIC This film will definitely draw a wider public’s eyes to Nollywood. VOTING

70 www.screennation.co.uk FAVOURITE WEST AFRICAN ACTOR Best From The West FAVOURITE WEST AFRICAN ACTRESS Best From The West

VAN RAMSEY GENEVIEVE KATE VICKER NOUAH JR NNAJI HENSHAW-NUTAL

As one of Ghana’s rising stars, the handsome Van Vicker is a popular Ramsey Nouah’s face is better known around the African film world Genevieve Nnaji is a 28 year-old Nigerian Actress/singer/TV Kate has been very busy this year working on many face in the African film industry. The Ghanaian movie star of the than the face of the president of Nigeria. Born in the early seventies, his presenter. Dubbed the Nigerian ‘Sharon Stone’ she is best known new films, al of which promise to be big hits. Her popular movie; BEYONCE THE PRESIDENT’S DAUGHTER 1 & 2 and THE face has sold many Nigerian movies at home and abroad. for her performances in Blood Sisters, and the Games latest films include Blood On Ice, A Million Tears and RETURN OF BEYONCE has a huge female fanbase all across the globe. Ladies melt with love for him, especially for his numerous Women play. She has already received an African Movies The Games Men Play. Beauty, talent and a great work Van Vicker is definitely destined to break the mould and move towards “lover boy” roles in romantic movies. Academy Award for Best Actress in Africa. ethic makes Kate a leading contender stardom in Hollywood.

OLU RICHARD RITA JACOBS MOFE DAMIJO DOMINIC

He is the father of Nigeria’s contemporary film industry. His acting The man popularly referred to as RMD is a source of excitement A radiant actress with style grace and charisma, career goes back to the 1960s sixties, which started in the United to millions of film fans and enthusiasts in Nigeria and beyond. Any Rita shines in every role she plays and is loved Kingdom. Mr Jacobs has acted with the likes of Roger Moore, Richard film which has RMD’s signature is most likely to be by millions. She is one of the few Nollywood Burton etc while abroad. On his return to Nigeria, he continued his a blockbuster. He is recognised as a brand by major actresses capable to take America by storm if acting career in television and on stage. Most epic film producers seek African movie institutions and undoubtedly one of the given a chance. to get him on board. Olu Jacobs is a professional to the core. exceptionally gifted actors in the Nollywood film industry.

PETER STEPHANIE NADIA ENE OKEREKE BUHARI

Peter Ene is a talented actor whom we’re sure will Stephanie is a deserving nominee who without a doubt can be Nadia has already taken Africa by storm in her continue to grace our screens in many years to come. described as a star. She has a long career ahead of her and with performance as Beyonce in the African blockbuster Ene is a versatile and committed performer and a new the right film choices could be come not only the biggest movie franchise Beyonce: The President’s Daughter. breed of Nollywood actor that stretches himself every actress in Nigeria, but also across Africa and the Diaspora. Today Africa tomorrow Hollywood. time he performs.

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screen nation LIFESTYLE

Image by Pixel Capture, courtesy of Ghanaian designer Tina Atiemo Syrian Bride keep theviewerentertained.AshrafBarhom( fast-paced actionandpoignantcomedymoments Iraq theplotmayjustsoundalittleheavybut In theaftermathof9/11andon-goingunrestin to findoutwhowasbehindthedeadlyattacks. assemble ateam(Garner, CooperandBateman) in SaudiArabia.Ronald Fleury(Foxx) must on acommunityofUScitizenslivingandworking Aces and JasonBateman( ( Fleury alongsideJenniferGarner, ChrisCooper lead roleasgovernmentspecialagentRonald Hollywood hot-propertyJamieFoxx takes the my opinionisTheKingdom.Comicturned One ofthehottestactionmoviesthisyearin THE KINGDOM > AT THEMOVIES FILM +TVREVIEWS American Beauty, TheBourneIdentity, Jarhead ). Theplotsurroundsafatalterroristattack > Film andTVreviews IhunnaEberendu ) givesawonderfulperformanceas The Break-Up, Smokin’ The ) viewers willonceagainhavetheopportunityto in herquesttobagthatelusiverecorddealand amongst others.ShystiereturnsagainasDionne Narstie, SAS, Boya,PlasticianandDynamiteMC Dubz, Mike GLC,Rodney P, NewGenerals,Big again beintheirelementastheshowfeaturesN Fans ofUKgrimemusicandrapwillonce more comedyandwillappealtoyoungold. for asecondseriesthistimethedramahaslot Dubplate Dramaisoneofakind.Returning DUBPLATE DRAMA > ONTHETV galore. Thisisonetowatchthisautumn. ridewithexplosions andcarchases white-knuckle Vice Michael Mann( after theeliteteamwhilstontheirmission.With Saudi ColonelAlGhaziwhoisassignedtolook ) inthedirector’schairyouareguaranteeda Heat, theAviator, andMiami Dubplate Drama’s leadinglady. Turn topage79forourinterviewwithShystie, www.dubplatedrama.tv MTV Base,MySpaceandallmobilenetworks. 14 timesaweekonChannel4,E4,MTVOne, Dubplate Dramabroadcasts September2007, – www.myspace.com/dubplatedrama. you canwatchtheshowallweekonMySpacee all nightowls!For thoseofuswhocan’t fightsleep show isonsolate.ComeChannel4we’renot and perfectcomictimingmyonlygripeisthatthe younger characters.With abangingsoundtrack hisyouththroughsomeofthe MC tryingtore-live excellent D.Brain, astheoldhas-been anageing main characters.Veteran actorRoger Griffithsis decide theoutcomesofdecisionsfacedby INFORM www.screennation.co.uk 77 Diary of a Screen Nation Winner Meet Shystie - Dubplate Drama’s leading lady > Wil Johnson INFORM > Ihunna Eberendu INFORM

Dubplate Drama, the world’s first interactive putting out my music. I did I Luv U; my first drama returns to our screens for a second white label and it started blowing up and then series this September. Featuring the cream the majors came and I was like, ‘money, money’. DIARY OF A of talent from the UK music scene the stellar I had to decide if I was going to go back to college cast list includes Adam Deacon, Roger and finish my last year or to put that on hold and Griffiths, Tim Westwood, Sean Brosnan, N go with the majors. Music is what I wanted to do SCREEN NATION WINNER Dubz, Rodney P and of course Shystie who anyway and college was just for me to learn a bit returns in her lead role of Dionne. Screen more about studio and I passed my first year and Nation caught up with the female MC at decided that I was going to go with the majors. the recent press screening to find out a bit What do you think of the current ‘gun culture’ more… that is surrounding the youth of today? Welcome to BINGO! Script arrives 6pm sharp. Feed THURSDAY Shystie: I’ve got a younger brother and I’m scared the world of Wil the kids and have some nice downtime Run this morning no workout. Yippee! My Tell us a bit about your character Dionne. of him going out. I don’t want him to be involved Johnson, actor with the Missus and we have a good boy’s up early again and I get him to nursery Shystie: Dionne is an aspiring artist trying to or get shot. I know it doesn’t happen all the and family man laugh about how we met and how I on time. Have some nice down time with the make it in the music world but she just gets time; he can go out and be all right. He’s 18 now tried to woo her much to the children’s girls and the Missus. pulled back a lot of the time by negative people and he’s at that age where he could be walking amusement. Get them ready for bed Today’s the day surrounding her. In this series she is a lot more down the street and guys could be looking at him MONDAY then settle down for that for staying mature and makes better decisions, I think. I like wanting to do something. He’s a good guy he’s not Woke up the usual all important in, relaxing playing her character a lot more this time because into all that stuff. It’s a bit scary. time of 6.30am to first read of and putting now that [the show] is half an hour long you get to What is next for you? go for my early the brand new my feet up. see more about her and other characters around Shystie: I’ve got my album coming out in morning run. crisp biscuit Phone is her. 2008 called Dear Diary. I’m still with Quick shower then script. switched What do you think the appeal of Dubplate Polydor and I had the option of if I was get my son ready off as it’s Drama is? going to go with them but we’re not going for nursery. Back strictly Shystie: I think because it’s interactive and to go with them. I’ve just shot my video home, I call my family positive Also the younger kids can relate to a lot and my manager sorted it all out by PR outlining my day. My of what is going on in it. himself. You save so much money. schedule for the day. son and Most people know you as an MC. Are you acting When it’s the majors they say they Meetings are out the way; back on the train WEDNESDAY full-time now? put all this money into you but home to cook tonight’s dinner…my specialty, Good workout this morning Shystie: It depends what the money is like you don’t know where it goes. roast chicken, rice, veg and a healthy dose of and feeling chipper. My (laughs). I would like to. I’ll probably go to acting So we just done it and it looks salad. Get my son ready for bed. Three stories son's up early so that makes daughter classes to learn a bit more about it but I wouldn’t just as good as any video I’ve plus flashcards and finally I can put my feet my job of getting him ready are home early so mind. ever done. We’ll probably up with my better half and chill. a whole lot easier. Twins we go out for an evening meal, What do you think of the portrayal of black be independent and it’s up early and we scramble Thai (my favourite). Back home, kids to bed, females in the media. going to have better TUESDAY downstairs to the toaster! My boy wins so he DVD time for me, Lady in the Water. Shystie: I don’t really see it. All I see is Ms results than the majors; The run and workout were harder today. get's his brekkie first. Off to nursery early Dynamite; she’s seen as the conscious black girl. to show you don’t need I have lots of paper work to do as my as they've got a field trip on today (he's so FRIDAY Then sometimes they’ll throw Jamelia into the mix the majors. accountant’s been riding me for stuff that excited!). Back home and look after the twins Fast and furious day with lots of last minute and that’s about it. It’s true (laughs)! There are a www. I've been putting off for too while the Missus is out for the day. Get a call things to do before travelling to LA. Spent lot more positive black females out there that are dubplatedrama.tv long. Have to run from my PR telling me I'm off to LA this most of the day on the phone to my PR. Oh doing a lot of things. into town to see him Saturday for a week. God!! Haven't packed yet!! Can't see my The characters each face a lot of hard later (and to find Just enough director and get on the phone to him, we'll decisions. What is the most difficult situation out how much Mr time before rearrange for when I get back. Cook dinner, you have been in? Taxman wants from Waking the veggie soup. Nice. Phone dad, brother and Shystie: I did my first year at Tottenham College. me…YUCK!!) Pick Dead starts. sister and then back on the phone to PR. Ring I passed the first year and that was when I was up my son early Quick call to my mate in LA letting him know I'm flying in from nursery, he's my director tomorrow and he's chuffed. PACK! Its 2am been on at me for (I need to see now everyone's asleep, I've got to be up at a new Spiderman some of the 6.30am. suit and rushes before Webslinger. Made I leave as he's SATURDAY sure a good putting together Arrive at the airport three hours before Wil Johnson with actor and close friend Treva Etienne at a amount of time diner in Burbank late Saturday afternoon. the first assembly check in. That's ok, duty free shopping - is put aside of our movie) we YEEEAAAHH! Flight leaves at 12 noon. Now MEET SHYSTIE for my wife arrange for Friday I can sleep. Wake up for meal time, back to and the twins plus but that's looking sleep. We're landing. Pick up my car and off DUBPLATE DRAMA’S my older daughter whose been working doubtful. My older to the hotel. Phone my boy and we hook up very hard at school is getting straight A's (so girls have come over for dinner in Burbank for some food. Long chin wag. proud of her). Get the call from Waking the bringing my grandson with them. He's such a I’m knackered. Off to bed and another long Dead and the final shooting script should be little geezer and full of life and energy. 1am, sleep…night. LEADING LADY whizzing my way as we speak by bike. Can't drop them home. Bwoy! It's been ah long day wait to read it. and me bed ah call me.

78 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 79 Malcolm Frederick > Sophia Jackson INFORM

number of people registered with the ACLT is used to ‘come screaming’. through increased awareness. Also with more Malcolm’s success includes bringing the donations they will be able to build a proper popular Jamaican comedian and actor register. Malcolm reiterates the fear factor Oliver Samuels over to the UK to perform. associated with giving blood by saying, ‘The In the early nineties he also worked on Get ACLT need help in persuading people that it’s Up, Stand Up with Angie Le Mar and Chris not mumbo jumbo, these are modern times’. Tummins where he was both a writer and As Malcolm is in remission, it is now vital performer on the sketch and comedy series. that he finds a bone marrow donor as this is The nineties was a good time for black UK the only time a transplant can take place. comedy as Malcolm also worked as producer The graduate from the Trinidad Theatre for Blouse and Skirt in 1992. Workshop is the co-producer, writer These are just a handful of examples of and workshop director of the country’s Malcolm’s contribution to the UK’s television EastEnders equivalent, Westwood Park [it and theatre industry but he has also can be seen on the Sky channel BEN TV]. contributed to radio and starred in feature At 13, he emmigrated to films including The Fruit Machine, Burning London with his an Illusion and Babylon. parents and with These are of course great achievements acting a firm part but Malcolm does feel that in the UK, actors of his being studied are victims of racism both in terms of the drama with Melwyn difference in how they are paid in comparison Coles at the age of to their white counterparts and in the limited 17 and co-founded opportunities. He remembers turning up the L’ouverture to auditions where he was openly told ‘no Theatre Company. blacks’ and describes the effect of racism in Malcolm has been the industry as ‘debilitating’. in the industry for However it was also a time of great over 25 years as an inspiration for him especially from people actor, producer, writer, like the late Norman Beaton [Desmond’s], director and organiser Corinne Skinner-Carter and Rudolph Walker. of workshops and tours. He said, ‘They were mentors to me and As an actor, one of his encouraged me to keep my accent. They were most memorable roles confident in their skin and made it alright for was when he starred as us to be ourselves.’ MALCOLM Beastie in No Problem! In turn, Malcolm is inspiration to the This was the first British- actors of tomorrow as he teaches at his local Pollards Hill Youth Club. It’s probably FREDERICK true to say that his career influenced his older son Jamal’s decision to join Trinidad. Malcolm and Beverley made the made sitcom the television industry as he works as a We caught up with acting, writing and It was an evening where the guests paid ‘I’m in remission at the moment but have a personal decision not to tell Remi and Kamal specifically freelancer and is one of the editor’s on directing veteran Malcolm Frederick tribute to pioneers such as Nobel Prize permanent flu.’ about his illness because, ‘I am worried, made for a the Discovery Channel. Malcolm said, winners for Literature Derek Walcott, V. S. It was around six or seven years ago when my wife is worried and there’s no point in black British ‘I used to take him to rehearsals and We’re at Malcolm’s south London home as Naipaul [Miguel Street] and Samuel Selvon Malcolm noticed some growths over his eyes. worrying them too. Obviously they know audience. I guess he was taking it all in’. At this he tells me about his journey in the film and [Lonely Londoners]. These were just a few of His doctor referred him to hospital where I’m not well because I’m often in and out of Working point, Malcolm gets up to show me a television industry and his battle with Mantle the Caribbean’s greatest who were honoured he was told he had an 18-month wait. This hospital.’ alongside picture of his beautiful granddaughter, Cell Lymphoma. It is an aggressive form of on the night. was obviously not good enough so Malcolm It’s difficult for everyone and it seems Chris China. the cancer, Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma of Malcolm Frederick is also one of the took matters into his own hands and went men find it harder to directly discuss it with Tummins, As the interview comes to an end which he has suffered from for the past six to Caribbean’s finest exports. The Trinidadian to see a specialist on Harley Street who then Malcolm. He said, ‘People find it difficult to Janet Kay and Victor Romero Evans, he said Malcolm is preparing to go and see his long seven years. who has made an outstanding contribution referred him to St Bart’s. It was here where talk about it – they ask ‘How are you’ without these were ‘very exciting times’. He recalls, time friend, Percy who has installed a giant To raise awareness and funds for Malcolm to theatre, film and television, said of the they diagnosed him as having Non-Hodgkins referring to the cancer. The wives of my male ‘We were young and more or less acting screen in his living room. Tonight is their and the African-Caribbean Leukaemia Trust event: ‘It’s to raise awareness and funds for Lymphoma. He was told that it was not friends will phone on their behalf. People see like young people our age on that show. No black man’s cinema club, where they’ll watch [ACLT], an event was held at north London’s myself and the ACLT, African-Caribbean’s dangerous and treatable. me and see that I look well, but expect to see Problem won awards in the US’. a classic film, relax and enjoy life. Tricycle Theatre called Sweet Inspiration. need to pay attention to the fact that we need However, there had been some something different. We all die sometime.’ No Problem ran for four years and was Guests at the spoken word event included to donate blood. It’s also a celebration and a developments. In mid-2006, which Malcolm There is a 25 per cent chance that you can axed when Farrukh Dhondy, a co-writer for For more information on the Rudolph Walker, Janet Kay, Victor Romero reunion for the cast of No Problem and Get calls a ‘dark year’, during a routine check get a bone marrow match from a sibling but the show was appointed as commissioning African-Caribbean Leukaemia Trust Evans and Malcolm Frederick, who were Up, Stand Up and an opportunity for black he was told that he actually had a more sadly none of Malcolm’s three sisters’ were a editor for C4. visit: www.aclt.org joined by guest artists, Kwame Kwei-Armah, actors to show solidarity.’ aggressive form of the cancer and his match. This is why a donation from someone In 1980 the cast set up the Black Theatre Westwood Park - Season 1 (10th Robbie Gee, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Danny It’s great to talk about the fun side of prognosis was two to five years. from the community is so important. There Cooperative [renamed NITRO] so when the anniversary edition) is now available on John Jules, Eddie Nestor, Carroll Thompson, the event but there is an underlying reason With this devastating news Malcolm and does seem to be some sort of stigma or fear in show came to an end they continued touring DVD from Amazon US. Larrington Walker and Angela Wynter. why the event was held at all. Difficult as his wife Beverley decided to ‘bugger off’ and the black community when it comes to giving England and Europe. They staged shows such Singers were mostly from the London the subject may be to broach I ask Malcolm take their two children Remi, 9, and Kamal, blood. The statistics speak for themselves. as Welcome Home Jacob, Trinity and Mama Community Gospel Choir. how he is feeling, health wise. He replies, 7, out of school so they could spend time in It seems that the only way to increase the Dragon. They had a strong following and fans

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Ghana’s Media, a Slice of the Action > Antonia Hines KNOW GHANA’S MEDIA A SLICE OF THE ACTION

Antonia Hines concept features Ghanaian Hip-Life artist dips into Ghana’s Abrewa Nana as one of the “soft-spoken and media culture finely finicky” Idol judges. Many people also sit in front of the box to All the great watch Ghanaian soap operas, which try and stories you may home into the realities of daily life. Sitcoms have heard about like Taxi Driver and Home Sweet Home are Ghana are true. on par with British soaps like EastEnders and The country is Coronation Street in terms of popularity. rich in history However, the viewing figures are different and culture, and for Ghanaian films. The saturation of you can’t help Nigerian films (Nollywood) in the country has noticing the calm nature of its citizens. overshadowed the Ghanaian film industry, Some people say that these factors have which was once considered the best on the contributed to Ghana's media industry. African continent. Others put it down to political stability. But, Movies like Kwaw Ansah’s Heritage Africa one thing is for sure, the media is dedicated in the 80s were globally-recognised for to assisting the country's peaceful, democratic providing educational value to Ghanaians, development. Africans and people in the Diaspora. Since I travelled to Ghana for a journalism work then, the film industry has taken a nose dive placement at the Daily Graphic, the country’s with many Ghanaians favouring the glitz and leading newspaper. It was there that I saw glamour most Nollywood productions offer. the commitment each journalist, broadcaster Time will tell whether the film industry will SPOTLIGHT ON… and filmmaker had to the well-being of the return to its heyday, but with filmmakers like community – a declining factor in the UK. Emmanuel Apea behind Run Baby Run and The sensational media tactics we see in Nana King responsible for Omama: Royal Nana King Mensah – best known as Nana King Britain take a back seat in Ghana, with the Blood there's a chance for the Ghanaian film – is one of the few people with the potential to Press dedicating their time to constructive world to return to its former glory. revolutionise the Ghanaian film industry. news stories. The State-owned newspaper, Whether it’s the press, radio, TV or The Daily Graphic, go for informative film, the media in Ghana seem focused on The director, actor and screenwriter started out as content, especially concerning political and developing the nation to be the priceless gem a poet and later progressed into the world of film. economic affairs, considered priority issues. of Africa’s west coast. His first movie was Shoeshine Boy (1990s) about a The same goes for the independent young girl in Ghana disguised as a boy to get work. newspapers – no melodrama, just useful, He often works under the umbrella of Nanaganaba analytical stories with purpose. A similar Productions and lives in the US. train of thought is taken by radio stations. The Press don’t completely shy away from tabloid reporting. The Graphic, for example, I GHANA BECAUSE..... FILMOGRAPHY has a number of weekly newspapers like ...of the peaceful, God-fearing nature of the people. The Mirror, Graphic Showbiz and Graphic It’s my second home - even though I've only visited > The Beast Within, characterisation Sport offering human interest stories. And the country once and I'm not even Ghanaian! between African religion and western Christianity; those people with a taste for high society can > The Noise of Silence, a rich African family adopt opt for glossy magazines such as Ovation ANTONIA HINES, WRITER a girl going blind; International – the African version of Hello. If you were to host a party to celebrate 50 > Omama, a young man is sent to the US to help Popular culture is also reflected on year’s of Ghana's independence who would be his people in Ghana television. Many music lovers tune into TV3’s your guest of honour? Music Music. The live music show offers a President of Ghana - J. A. Kufuor platform for local artistes and debutants Ghana's finest export? to perform tracks ranging from High-Life Tic Tac, VIP (Hip-Life artists) and Nana King - film to Hip-Life music. There's also Idols West producer, director and actor. Africa on M-Net Africa, which is proving to be popular. The show based on the Pop Idol

www.screennation.co.uk 85

The Tapestry of Ghana THE TAPESTRYScreen Nation caught up with an eclectic OF mix GHANA > Krishna Maroo KNOW of Ghanaian influenced designers….

Ozwald Boateng has put Ghanaian designers SAMATA ANGEL on the map, but there are new kids on Samata Angel is an up and coming clothing THE TAPESTRY OF GHANA the block– Screen Nation spoke to three designer (her company is called Samata’s THE TAPESTRY OF GHANA designers – one lives in the states, another Muse); she is also a musician, writer and the in the UK, and the last is from East Germany fashion editor of The – but they have one thing in common – their Talent Magazine. Welcome to the wonderful world of Tina What do you think of >> “Ghanaians know love for Ghana and her style. After moving Akosia Atiemo – fashion designer, greeting the Ghanaian Fashion from Cambridge card publisher and general bundle of scene at the moment? fashion! Particularly KOFI ANNAN to London, Samata loveliness. Ghanaians know Born in Accra, Ghana, Kofi Annan grew up began customising for fashion! Particularly in in Ghana where you in the USA and stumbled onto the fashion friends and family, Name: Tina Akosia Atiemo, 35 Ghana where you might scene by chance. He began producing college and then moved on Occupation: Greeting Cards Publisher and least expect it, we take might least expect fashion shows and then started studying ANNEGRET AFFOLDERBACH to participating in Fashion Designer pride in the way we graphic design. He then began volunteering Annegret Affolderbach is an unlikely ambassador for fashion shows and carry ourselves and that it, we take pride in at New York Fashion Week, and was struck by Ghanaian fashion. Born and raised in East Germany, events such as the How did you get into the fashion industry? also extends to what we the lack of African representation in popular Annegret studied fine art in the UK and stayed on for Face of Asia at Clothes My mum bought me a lovely green fabric wear and how we dress. the way we carry American fashion. further study. Sparked by adventure and innovation, she Show Live. which I created a design with just in time Ghanaians have a classy Annan said, “I took a chance and created launched her lifestyle design company ‘CHOOLIPS’, and Winner of the UK for my 27th birthday. I wore the dress to a fashion sense. ourselves”. a few sample designs for what I thought an then went on to show at London Fashion Week 2003 Urban Fashion Award for Best Couture Line friends wedding which fell on the same day, Does your work have a Africa-themed contemporary line would look supported by a Prince’s Trust grant. of 2006 was a huge compliment for the British it was admired and my first orders came Ghana influence? like.” CHOOLIPS have won numerous awards for innovative Ghanaian. On a trip to the US, Samata was through. Each time I wear that dress I get the Definitely, there is there before the sellers arrive at dawn and He continues, “One of my biggest sellers was textile developments, and in 2006 Annegret won ‘Best asked also to join J.Lo’s design team. same reaction with it. It’s such a simple, no something in the way the Northerners dress suddenly seeing them marching through and a shirt I did early on of Dr Kwame Nkrumah. Global Commercial Print & Design’ in the Design4Life But no matter where she will work, her frills design, but I guess that’s what makes it that I find appealing which is evident in my setting up…colours of the clothes and cloth You'd be surprised how many non-Ghanaians Ghana competition. designs will also have an underlying Ghanaian classic. Now it’s my vintage dress. work. I’ve also designed adaptations of the they’re wearing illuminating with the rising recognise and respect him.” She understands that fashion can nurture well-being, influence – “bold Kaba and Bou-bou which are a constant sun, and the volume gets louder and larger Kofi’s work includes intricate and create sustainable resources and opportunities at statements and colour theme that I work with. and it all happens in the blink of eye. symbols and patterns, and his every level. and an underlying What has been your career highlight so far? Best dressed Ghanaian? early designs incorporated “Ghana’s rich natural resources, its local textile spirituality”. Being offered the role of costume designer Ghanaian radio and TV personality Dede Adinkra symbols and images traditions and the colours of its landscapes in a “Ghanaians for an up and coming Hollywood film about Mantey. Dede’s style is individual to her, and of Ghanaian life. marriage of silhouettes, colour schemes & print have an inherent a story from Ghana. I’m excited not only she has a creative way in how she puts it all He was nominated for layouts popular in the West.” understanding of the because I get to dress my favourite actress together. the Rising Star Award In the near future, CHOOLIPS are hoping power of colours and ever, but this is also something that will take What are your plans for the future? by the Fashion Group to launch ‘Kimono – fly in African skies’, are vibrant people so my career to another level. I took a long break to re-energise, but I’ll be International; his fusing African, Japanese and British textile their attire will always Who or what is your inspiration? springing back with some interesting projects shirts were included traditions reflect their energy in It’s different things at different times. Makola in the pipeline. in the celebrity gift aiming “to a strong but always Samata X modelling one market in Accra is an interesting one. Getting myspace.com/tiamodesigns bag at the American raise the appropriate way”. of her designs Music Awards, and public’s www.samatasmuse.com he also lists Akon as a awareness fan of his work. of HIV and poverty in I GHANA BECAUSE..... Africa”. Watch out : Ghana 50 ...a good part of it has helped in shaping who I’ve When you think of Ghana what is the first thing Annegret’s dresses will be become. that comes to mind? launched by TopShop at the @ the V&A Museum - Sweet Cape Coast pineapples in my juicing I GHANA BECAUSE..... beginning of April as the How are you celebrating Ghana’s 50 years of machine. ...it is my home and inspiration. first Fairtrade range to hit Summer 2007 independence? What is your fondest memory of Ghana? the UK High Street. I’ve been invited to take part in my second fashion There was a lady that lived across the street from How are you celebrating Ghana's 50 years of choolips.blogspot.com www.vam.ac.uk show featuring Ozwald Boateng in London. So it’s a my house and she taught me how to make meat independence? privilege to be part of a programme that will also be pies, bo’float (dumpling), achomoh (pastry sticks) With some kenke and fish at home with my family honouring one of Ghana’s biggest achievers in the and condensed milk toffees. I’d dress up with my and friends western part of the world. floppy pair of aluminous green frame sunglasses and If you hosted a party to celebrate 50 years of If you hosted a party to celebrate 50 year’s of a head wrap and sing a ‘bo’float’ rhyme I’d made up Ghana's I GHANA BECAUSE..... Ghana’s independence who would be your guest in Twi to attract my customers. independence who would be your guest of ...you simply cannot NOT LOVE IT. It leaves an I GHANA BECAUSE..... of honour? Why are you proud to be Ghanaian? honour? imprint all over you once you have had a true taste ...Ghana is known for being one of the friendliest I’ll invite the spirit of freedom & justice and all things I feel privileged for the tiny portion of what I do and Dr Kwame Nkrumah. I'd love to hear him talk about of it. (if not THE friendliest) and welcoming African nice for my people, then after that the doors are open. can do to contribute to the big pie that makes Ghana the old days. countries. We take people as family and make Who is Ghana’s finest export? so realised around the world….and of course THE Why are you proud to be Ghanaian? When you think of Ghana what is the first thing them feel at home. Former secretary general of the United Nations Kofi BLACK STARS!!! Because Ghanaians have been at the centre of so that comes to mind? Annan. He played a big role in putting Ghana on the many important events, also it's my home and a When can I go back please? I am proud to be Ghanaian because we are friendly, map. fine one at that. hardworking and spiritual people who achieve. Annegret’s images: Tabeisa; Kofi Annan image: Annansi Annegret’s images: Tabeisa; Clothing Company; Samata X images: samaphotos

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The Tapestry of Ghana

> Krishna Maroo KNOW

THE TAPESTRY OF GHANA THE TAPESTRY OF GHANA

Designed by Tina Atiemo

Designed by Annegret Affolderbach

Designed by Tina Atiemo

Samata and a model wearing her design at the Images: Kofi Anaan images - Annansi Clothing Company, Samata X image - Catcher Images: Kofi Anaan images - Annansi Clothing Company, Designed by Tina Atiemo clothes show live Designed by Kofi Annan

88 www.screennation.co.uk Film Africa > Kene Mkparu KNOW FILMAFRICA FILM RELEASES

> THE SUCCESSOR – (UK/NIGERIA) WARRIOR HEART – (NIGERIA) A FILMAFRICA PRODUCTION A FILMAFRICA PRODUCTION Starring: Stephanie Okereke, Olu Jacobs, Monjaro, Starring: Genevieve, Olu Jacobs, Okaro FILM Dakore Egbuson, Miquel Brown and Yasmine Maya. Synopsis: An epic native Nigerian war drama with a Synopsis: Largely set in Eastern Nigeria, The romantic twist. Successor is a moving romantic drama that tells Cinema release: March 2006. the story of a royal family’s contention with cultural To play in Odeon cinemas in London prejudices amidst their obligation to uphold traditional values. > A GOAT’S TAIL – (UK/GHANA) Cinema release: September 2006. Played in 4 Odeon A FILMAFRICA DISTRIBUTION, COMING SOON Cinemas in London Starring: Godfred Nortey, Leslie Cook, Simon James Awards: AfroHollywood Award 2006: Best Actor UK, Morgan, Jason Ramsey, MC Creed Best Actress, Best Producer UK and Best Director UK Synopsis: A Julius Amedume drama on the true story AFRICA of a Ghanaian man’s struggle to earn a living when include Osuofia in London, Living in Bondage, distribution and exhibition of Nollywood and he relocates to the UK. Nortey plays the Ghanaian Igodo and Games that Women Play. African-oriented films in the UK. taxi driver who meets a British tourist in Ghana and Kene Mkparu (Managing Director) has over befriends her. She promises to help him come over to NOLLYWOOD 15 years experience in business management London but he soon finds that life in London is not as IN THE UK MARKET and cinema operations management. He is he had imagined. In the UK, Nollywood films have a huge a General Manager with Odeon Cinemas, Proposed cinema release: March 2006. appeal and fan-base not only within the UK’s biggest cinema chain. His film credits To play in Odeon cinemas in London Nigerian community but also amongst as producer include The Successor (2006) the larger African-Caribbean community, and Lucky Joe (2006). 1998-99 he was guest > ALI & AWRALA – (DENMARK/UK/SOMALIA) particularly in London. As a matter of fact, presenter on a weekly film review show A FILMAFRICA DISTRIBUTION, COMING SOON it can be argued that Nollywood films are on BBC Hereford & Worcester radio. 2001- Synopsis: A romantic drama about a young Somali progressively displacing Hollywood and 2004 he wrote weekly film review columns couple whose relationship is opposed Western films in African homes. The African for The Streatham Post and London Extra Proposed cinema release: March 2006. market on the continent (especially in West newspapers. He presents a film review show To play in Odeon cinemas in London Africa) still provides the primary audience for BEN TV. for Nollywood films but with the growth Nkem Ajoku (Chairman) is an acclaimed of African communities in the UK demand investment banker with portfolio in the FilmAFRICA hopes that these screenings will be for these films has equally grown here. stock exchange, capital market, fund & the beginning of regular and commercial releases Historically the Nollywood film industry with asset management, mergers & acquisition, of Nollywood films in UK cinemas. The market is its low-budget financing model had largely corporate finance, public sector finance, out there, particularly in London, and the cinemas focused on VHS and VCD (video CD) formats private placements & public share issue as > LUCKY JOE – (UK/NIGERIA) are within easy reach of this market. All that are for the African continental markets but in well as general banking. Nkem is Managing A FILMAFRICA PRODUCTION needed now are the right films of the right production recent years we are seeing a growing shift Director/Chief Executive Officer of Manivest Starring: Patience Ozorkwo, Okey Bakassi, Monjaro, standard for theatrical release as well as the right to DVD format particularly for the markets in Asset Management Limited in Victoria Island, Jide Kosoko, Uru Ekeh company with a good understanding of the UK film Western societies. Lagos, Nigeria. As a film enthusiast, Nkem Synopsis: A hilarious comedy with two friends who exhibition industry to distribute them. This is where is the Executive Producer of the Nollywood live from hand to mouth in the slums of Abuja but FilmAFRICA steps in with its wealth of expertise in NOLLYWOOD romantic drama The Successor (2006) and have their fortunes changed overnight when their the creative, distribution, exhibition and business Nollywood – A Rising Dawn in the UK Cinema NOLLYWOOD IN UK CINEMAS the Nollywood comedy Lucky Joe (2006). paths cross a corrupt government official on the run sectors of the film industry. scene. FilmAFRICA aims to pioneer change A BRIEF OVERVIEW Although there had not been a mainstream Obi Emelonye (Creative/Executive Director) from the law. A deadly cat and mouse chase ensues. and provide a model for theatrical exhibition Nollywood as a film industry came to the fore commercial release of a Nollywood film in is a film director, writer, editor and lawyer. He Cinema release: November 2006. Played in 6 Odeon Contact: of such films in the UK. in the early ‘90s in Nigeria when television UK cinemas, attempts had been made over is a member of the Director’s Guild of Nigeria and Cineworld cinemas in London and Manchester Telephone: 020 7529 1493 / www.film-africa.com programme makers seized on a chance the years by film producers as well as event and The Law Society. His film credit as Email: [email protected]; For years the question has been asked, when opportunity to exhibit their production organisers to showcase Nollywood films here. writer/editor/director includes Damned Good [email protected] are Nollywood (Nigerian) films going to start contents on home video format. This was But these films, when they got the rare screen Friends (1998) a comedy set in South East showing in mainstream UK cinemas. With then ‘christened’ Nollywood in the wake time in the UK were mainly shown in non- London, Who’s Next? (2001), which has since the proliferation of multiplexes since the late of the Hollywood and Bollywood brands. cinema venues or in low-key, independent been translated into and re-voiced in French ‘80s, UK cinemas have provided exhibition Nollywood releases over 50 different film venues. But this was changed September (Qui Suivra?), Two Weeks to Live, (2001,) home to films from different parts of the titles into the Nigerian market every month 2006 with the release of the Nollywood a love drama, Voodoo, Enemy’s Fate, Final world. Hollywood dominates it, but even making it the largest film producing industry film, The Successor, in Odeon Cinemas by Assignment, The Picture of a General and foreign language European art-house films in the world – larger than Hollywood and FilmAFRICA UK Limited. Sweet Betrayal. His most recent titles include are accommodated. Nollywood has come Bollywood. The average annual turnover Echoes of War (2003) which was nominated knocking as world films vie for limited screen generated from Nollywood home videos is ABOUT FILMAFRICA for Best W African Film Award at the Screen space in the multiplexes. between $90-100 million with over 80% of FilmAFRICA is a film entertainment company Nation Film Awards 2004, Ebony (2005), The this generated in the Nigerian market alone. focused on providing expertise and Successor (2006) and the comedy Lucky Joe Some of the best selling Nollywood films consultancy services for UK production, (2006).

90 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 91 Me, Me, Me: Ortis Kwame Deley > Krishna Maroo DISCUSS ME ME ORTIS KWAME ME DELEY Screen Nation caught up with entertainer do have a few of my own properties. and qualified pharmacist, Ortis Kwame What jobs have you done in the Deley, and talked Marcus Garvey, French past? kissing and why he would never do a reality I’ve been a cashier at Boots and TV show Sainsbury’s, and also a ride operator at Chessington Park and What’s your favourite book? Zoo. ‘The Killing Joke’ (written by Alan Moore What are your top three films? and drawn by Brian Bolland). It’s a graphic I’m Gonna Get You Sucka, novel about Batman and Joker. It’s dark and Spiderman 2 and Rocky 4. brutal. If you weren’t an entertainer, what What’s your most inspirational quote? would you be? Marcus Garvey said: “If you have no A pharmacist – I have a degree in confidence in self you are twice defeated in Pharmacy and so I am a qualified the race of life. With confidence you have pharmacist. won even before you have started.” What’s your most memorable Tell us about your humble abode acting moment? A family home in a modest place in London. I have been blessed in my career It’s not the bling lifestyle, but that’s the way to have had many, so I don’t know. I like it - it’s a warm house, full of love. But I Will Smith and Sting were cool. I have had too many – I’ve been spoilt. What’s your worst presenting moment? I GHANA BECAUSE..... I don’t let any mistakes I make ...one, that’s where my roots are at; and two, it’s a faze me. But the worst thing about country of some of the most beautiful people of this presenting is waiting around! world – inside and out. What do you do to unwind? The way other people do – chill out enjoying it. ORTIS KWAME DELEY, 33, with my friends, listening to music, music, What do the Screen Nation Awards mean PRESENTER AND ACTOR music, music, music!!! I do martial arts, go to you? How are you celebrating Ghana's 50 years of out on my motorbike…I like variety in my It’s nice to get a nod in terms of black independence? relax time. achievement. But it is an odd one sometimes, I will be in Australia seeking out other Ghanaians and When did you have your first French kiss, because if BAFTA turned round and said waving my Black Star flag! and who was it with? they were black only, there would be uproar. I If you hosted a party to celebrate 50 year’s of It was with Saith when I was 15 or 16. It took hope that one day we will all have an Oscars/ Ghana's independence who would be your guest a while to get past the teeth knocking! BAFTA’s which includes all cultures. of honour? Who is the love of your life? Who would you like to work with? My parents I have experienced love twice, and I am Well, my favourite presenter and best mate Who is Ghana's finest export? experiencing it now. – Angellica Bell. In the future, I would like Amma Asante What is your most treasured possession? to work with anyone who can challenge and When you think of Ghana what is the first thing At the moment, my family educate me at the same time. that comes to mind? Did you go to drama school, or have any Would you ever do celebrity Big Brother? It’s the colours – the lush greens and reddish-brown acting lessons? Nope, nope, nope! One – I see it as a way of of the soil – the beautiful countryside. No, didn’t even go to a drama class! getting lots of attention in a desperate way! What is your fondest memory of Ghana? What did your parents want you to do when Two – I want my work to speak for itself and The size of my family and the amount of love they you grew up? Three - Real stars have an air of mystery showed me; a total stranger. Whatever I wanted to do, as long as I went about them. through the whole system of education Besides…I have a mouth that will open up Do you feel your best is yet to come? and get me in trouble! Definitely! I am still learning and still

www.screennation.co.uk 93 Me, me, me: Amma Asante > Craig Joseph DISCUSS ME MEME AMMA ASANTE Filmmaker Amma Asante offers her all to Kes, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Screen Nation the Godfather Prequel Who are your top three singers? What’s your favourite book? Patti LA Bell, Mariah Carey and David Gray Back Roads by Tawni O’Dell – It had quite an – Music is My Life impact on me when I read it What is your favourite TV Show? What is your most Coronation Street – inspirational quote? Because it is so bloody Our deepest fear is not well written and when that we are inadequate, its funny its so funny! our deepest fear is that If you weren’t a we are powerful beyond filmmaker what would measure, it is our light you be doing? not our darkness that I think I’d work for frightens us most - some form of charity, Nelson Mandela probably in the Which school did you attend? What’s your favourite medical field. Barbara Speake Stage School Restaurant? What’s your most What did your parents want you to be when The Wolsley memorable career you grew up? Favourite Perfume? moment to date? My parents were quite liberal and my Father Paris Seeing a rough assembly of my rushes for my would listen to us and work out what we What jobs have you had in the past? film A Way of Life, and collecting my BAFTA. wanted to do and then they would do what The Box Office of the Dominion Theatre and What’s your worst career moment? they could to help make it happen. a hotel receptionist Coming down from the high of being Do you feel the best of you is yet to come? What are your top three films? commissioned to write seven scripts, spending Absolutely, if it had already come and gone three years writing them only to find the I’d want to just roll over and die! project gets dropped. What do the Screen Nation Awards Mean What was it was like on your first day of to you? your first feature film? It’s important for us to take time and I GHANA I have a horrendous fear of dogs, I stepped basically pat ourselves on the back for the onto the set bright and early ready for work we have done, as a community it’s How will you be celebrating Ghana breakfast, and all of a sudden an Alsatian important for us to acknowledge the impact Independence? ran onto the unit. I was mortified because and sensibility, its encouraging and its I might be going over; I just need to work out if I my location manager ended up protecting me necessary for us to work towards bettering can make it to the parade! from this dog. Other then that it was a great ourselves. If you hosted a party to celebrate Ghana’s day! Who would you like to work with? independence who would be your guest of Favourite filmmaker? I’d like to work with Robert De Niro and honour? Ken Loach – He never compromises on his Oprah Winfrey. My Mom and Dad! vision. Have you ever said to someone “Do you Who is Ghana’s finest export? What do you do to unwind? know who I am?” June Sarpong is doing a fantastic job and Kofi I listen to music. Not Exactly, when I was 15 I was in Grange Annan. When did you have your first real kiss and Hill, I was trying to get into a club and the When you think of Ghana what is the first thing with whom? bouncers wouldn’t let us in I turned to one that come to mind? At school in the girls toilet with a fellow actor and said “I’m really special” and he replied My two Grandmothers, family and roots are the Lee Whitlock “Yes, to your Mother! Now go home!” most important things to me. Who is the love of your life? Would you ever do reality TV? Why are you proud to be Ghanaian? My Husband Charlie Hanson of course! NO! I look too horrific in the morning plus I Because we are leaders! Who was your first celebrity crush? wouldn’t be able to get my weave done! Probably John Travolta! Who is your screen icon? Halle Berry

www.screennation.co.uk 95 Kwaw Ansah > Steve Ayorinde and Olivier Barlet DISCUSS

KWAW >> I told the Americans that I knew how to tell my own story. I had the trust of my African How did you manage to make your films? Was it private money? colleagues and I didn’t want to abuse it. I K.A.: I had to go to the bank and let me tell you something. I had gone all over the place didn’t want history to be distorted. I knew and everybody said: how can a private make that at the end of the day they would want to money? The bank says it is a risky business: we are not prepared to finance it. But one please their American public. said: ok, we will try it, but we need a house ANSAH from you. I didn't have a house. My wife got t o p r o d u c e a s m a l l e r to tell her father. My father-in-law calls me t r a i n f r o m w h a t w a s l e f t a n d w e r o d e o n i t and says: I heard you had a lot of hard time African continent and democratic f o r a b o u t 6 0 k i l o m e t r e s . I t h o u g h t t h a t t h i s and you want to make a film and the bank governance from 1945-1995. But before I w o u l d b e a g o o d t h i n g t o s h o w. T h e n , m y t e a m wants a house. Why didn't you tell me? I have took up that challenge, I told the Americans c a m e b a c k a n d s a i d t h a t t h e Wo r l d B a n k faith in you; I believe you can make it. Here that I knew how to tell my own story. I had w o u l d n ' t b e v e r y h a p p y. I w a s h e d m y h a n d are the papers, take it. I nearly collapsed: the trust of my African colleagues and I didn't a n d s a i d : " Yo u c a n h a v e y o u r p r o j e c t b e c a u s e your father-in-law is giving you a house: want to abuse it. I didn't want history to be I c a n n o t t e l l a l i e . " A n d t h e p r o j e c t c o l l a p s e d . if you are not able to take the house back, distorted. I knew that at the end of the day B u t a s f a r a s I a m c o n c e r n e d , I a m v e r y there's a chance of losing your wife too! You they would want to please their American h o p e f u l . I w a n t t o b e l i e v e t h a t i t ' s b e t t e r l a t e can imagine: I couldn't sleep. Eventually, I did public. The true story has to be told. They t h a n n e v e r. T h e i s s u e o f f o r i n s t a n c e N i g e r i a n Love brewed in an African pot and paid off put 13 million dollars in the first episode, f i l m s n o t r e a l l y a c c o r d i n g t h e p o s i t i v e v a l u e s the loan and took the papers from the bank, in just one episode! Then it came to telling o f A f r i c a t o m e i s t e m p o r a r y. I ' m s u r e i t c a n which I brought back to my father-in-law. He the story and even the academics said that b e r e c t i f i e d v e r y s o o n . O n e d a y m i n d s w i l l said to keep them but I said: no please take if you want to tell the African Story the first m e e t t o r e a l l y s e t t h e s t a g e f o r t h e A f r i c a n them back! The second time, luckily I had my president you have to talk about is Nkrumah. c i n e m a t o c o n t i n u e . own house and I used it as a collateral. It was agreed. My counterparts were African- O. B . : I s T V A f r i c a t a k i n g t h i s d i r e c t i o n t o O.B.: Did it then come to a time where it Americans. Unfortunately, they wanted to s h o w a n e m e r g i n g A f r i c a ? wasn't possible to finance a big production please the American public. Henry Hampton K. A . : Ye s . B u t I m u s t s a y t h a t t h e Fo r d by private means? said that the American public wouldn't be Fo u n d a t i o n p r o j e c t h e l p e d m e q u i t e a b i t . K. A.: After Heritage Africa, the experience happy about Nkrumah and that there was 3 0 0 , 0 0 0 o r 4 0 0 , 0 0 0 d o l l a r s w e r e Fo u n d a t i o n The Father of Ghanaian Cinema has been so bitter! I thought that the success a very famous farmer at that time. So they m o n e y. T h e r e s t c o m e s f r o m m y a d v e r t i s i n g of Love brewed would have open doors for used that story and it was an insult. Then, a g e n c y, t h e b i l l b o a r d , o u t d o o r s a n d w h a t n o t . me but even windows were shut. It was like it came to another issue: women. I said I t h a s b e e n q u i t e a s t r u g g l e f o r t h e p a s t 2 0 >> Those were the starting all over again! And during that that we are always talking about men in y e a r s t o g e t t h i s f a r. time it didn't take too long for Ghana to struggle. They proposed an important woman Steve Ayorinde: Thank you for the opportunity eight years to come out with Love brewed days of community sell its industry, for the Malaysians to turn in South Africa called Mama Ngoye. She C o u r t e s y o f A f r i c a n Fi l m Fe s t i v a l , I n c . to speak with you. The name of Kwaw Ansah in an African Pot. The whole story is a film it into a TV Station. Alongside the films, actually led the thing. We took her. Another is to a large extent one of the most significant story: being able to do it in the private life; each child my film production was starting its owned woman came to mind: Winnie Mandela. An of African Cinema. Has there been a break or sector and to get it out was quite a challenge. advertising agency. Then I was selected to African-American woman said: "But she's a change in focus since that outstanding film? I collapsed several times. Fortunately, the was a child of the lead African filmmakers like Cheickh Oumar murderer." I said: "No, this is getting too far." film became a success. I remember when it Sissoko to team up with Henry Hampton's Then, they wanted an African achievement. BIOGRAPHY Kwaw Ansah: No, there has been rather a was first premiered in Lagos at the National community. We must Blackside serving as co-executive producer We travelled to South Africa, to Ethiopia, to pause to reorganise, perhaps to meet a bigger Theatre, Mko Abiola was the guest of Honour. bring back some of to produce Hopes On The Horizon, a Ford Eritrea and found a story there: Eritrea's > Born in Agona Swedru, Ghana 1941 challenge. There was a time when cinema Before the film started, he said: "My brother, Foundation sponsored documentary series independence was unique because they took > Starts production company, in Ghana was active. When colleagues like I have to fly tonight and I don't have much these nostalgic things on the struggle for independence on the it from another African country: Ethiopia. Film Africa [Accra] 1977 Ola Balogun or Ousmane Sembène and Co. time for films, but amongst the things I After Eritrea took independence they > First feature film, Love Brewed in the were meeting at various forums to discuss understand, one is the jingles of money. As for parents to share realised that the mass public transport had African Pot 1980 the future of the industry. Of course, it was soon as the film starts, I will beg to leave." been damaged. Trains and tracks had been > Second feature film, Heritage Africa 1988 expensive and to make one film, it took The film started and Abiola sat through it to with their children damaged: the sleepers taken to be used in the > Heritage Africa wins top prize at FESPACO nearly a million dollars. Having no colour the end and he said that it was a long time war and so on. They wanted to revive it and (Pan-African Film Festival in Ouagadougou, laboratory, we had to do the post-production since he had sat through a film. He donated The World Bank offered 40 million dollars Burkina Faso ) 1989 outside, in our, shall I say, masters' countries! 5,000 Nairas. In 1981, it was a lot of money: the community. We must bring back some of for the reconstruction. So they put out a call > Moves into documentaries, So we had to struggle on our own to do you could buy three or four cars! these nostalgic things for parents to share to all the old railway engineers and about Crossroad of People; the little we did. Whenever we met at any I have a TV-series called the Good Old with their children. When I was struggling 90 of them came, the youngest was about 75. Crossroads of Trade 1994 festival, there were very few English speaking Days. I want to show children of Nigeria, with all the handicaps in my quest to make a They started work and they managed to put > Hopes on the Horizon filmmakers, not because we couldn't make Ghana, Sierra Leone, because we all had one film, I had been hardened. It didn't kill me: a train back on the rails, but it was a smaller [Co-executive producer] 1996 films, but because the support to make the tradition of upbringing. Those were the days I'm still alive. train as they couldn't get the spare parts for films was not there. That is why it took me of community life; each child was a child of Olivier Barlet: You spoke about financing. the original train and they made their own

96 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 97

UK Filmmaking Talent - Julius Amedume > Julius Amedume DISCUSS UK FILMMAKING TALENT

A Goats Tail is the first feature film written who I needed to collect some The one thing I’ve always to be able to be working within my chosen and directed by Julius Amedume of paperwork off to film in remembered is that things career path. If there is a moral to this story JULIUS Amedume Films. The story is about a taxi certain land marks and days happen for a reason. The or a way to end all the trials and tribulations driver (Kojo) who meets an attractive tourist to find an interpreter who next day of shooting was I experienced throughout this project is that called Cynthia whilst she visits Ghana for spoke the different languages at Labardi beach. The three years later after completing the film the day. Four months later he ar rives on her the unprofessional actors I lighting broke down, and I have had four major screenings and all of AMEDUME doorstep in England. Filled with ambitions chose to act in my film spoke. we had to improvise with them have been sold out. Two in London’s of succeeding as a poet Kojo soon realises I remember going to the flash lights plus one of our West End went very well and two in Los where the grass is greener on the other side. slaughter yard to look for a sound machines packed Angeles at the Pan African Film Festival goat and remembered the in due to the moisture in where I met loads of established actors who Making this film was a dream, a life changing stench of dried blood and the the air from the ocean. are interested in me and my next project. journey, and a problem that I was constantly swarm of vultures, perching Since arriving in Ghana it I got nominated at this festival and won an trying to solve. I started this process, which in wait for any discarded was just one problem after award there for directorial vision. There’s a would eventually take three years, in a room goats flesh, on the roof another, it was a testing distribution deal with no windows for three months writing the tops overlooking the yard. time me and I found myself on the cards and script. The script was organic and constantly I remember thinking that questioning myself, how much a DVD deal. The grew as the project went along as the budget if I fail, that I would be the I wanted to make this film, was films soundtrack was raised, actors came on board and we vulture’s next meal. I didn’t prepared to take and I started is in the shops started to shoot. Filming took place in Ghana find a goat but I did find a examining my own abilities in the UK and and England and had all the elements which goat’s horn which was to be my as a writer, producer and a America, and first feature filmmakers are warned not to do. main protagonist’s memento of director. the music videos Like multiple locations, a bus full of actors his childhood. The problems became are being rotated including children and animals. Plus having a Rehearsing with some of the more and more stressful on some UK bi-lingual cast in which you need interpreters non professional actors was a and I remember getting a music channels. to communicate to. Some would call me big headache, some of the long phone call from a friend But most of all ambitious with a project set up to fail, but distance phone conversations of Godfred saying that I feel proud nothing is worth doing if it isn’t a challenge I and character breakdowns I he had been arrested for that through say. had emailed them helped, but some domestic fight he thick and thin In October 2004 my small crew and I were trying to talk to someone through had gotten himself into. I then had to I persevered to on a plane taking off from Heathrow airport an interpreter is a difficult and visit him in jail and talk to the police officers see my vision heading to Ghana. The film equipment challenging thing. When Lesley Cook arrived to try and get him out. The next couple of onto screen and made a body of work that will exceeded our combined weight allowance at she was thrown straight in at the deep end. days I realised that Godfred didn’t know not only benefit me, the actors and the crew the airport and I got nervous as they x-rayed On the first day of principle photography how to drive, even though he had two driving involved but will hopefully inspire others to my film stock which could have damaged we shot the scenes which took place in the scenes in the film. I had to arrange driving make their film ideas into reality. the unprocessed film. Sitting on the airplane Grandmother’s courtyard. Everything that lessons and then eventually ended up towing I felt anxious, scared and at the same time could go wrong, did. It started with the film the car to film his scenes. The goat died of A Goats Tail will be in selected cinemas confident. As I sat there in that moment of camera constantly jamming. It was the hottest heat stroke before we could shoot its final in march and the soundtrack is available realisation, and I got closer to the destination, day of the trip so far and the light meter scenes and I had to run around for two days from www.Agoatastail.Com and good record the adrenalin started to kick in and I couldn’t readings which were high exposures. My child trying to find an identical one. stores. believe how lucky I was that my perseverance actor disappeared for an hour, five minutes With the Ghana shoot behind me I had and willpower had brought me so far and I before we were going to do a take and a fight to tackle the London shoot. This brought was on a plane going to make a film which I broke out half way through filming. But a whole lot of problems on its own. I could wouldn’t trade in for anything in the world. looking on the bright side of things I was one talk about how my film was delayed by nine We stayed in Accra, Ghana’s capital and I step closer to my goal, I was doing something months whilst I had to go to court in London I GHANA BECAUSE ..... had purposely decided that all the actors and I loved and these problems were only making to get Godfred a visa since he was denied ...it’s the land of creation crew should stay together in the same house me stronger as a filmmaker and as a person. one in Ghana; or how I funded the rest of which would be a sort of boot camp. We were the project on credit cards when the budget JULIUS AMEDUME , 29, FILMMAKER in Ghana for only a month, which was a short ran out. Or how I sourced the rest of the How are you celebrating Ghana's 50 years of schedule to complete such a large amount of equipment I needed to complete the film independence? scenes. My lead actress Lesley Cook arrived through eBay; or getting myself and some I wanted to screen my film A Goat’s Tail in Ghana a week after us and my lead actor Godfred of the actors nearly arrested whilst filming as part of the celebrations. If not I’ll have a big plate Nortey was a Ghanaian resident. Godfred scenes in London’s West End. of fufu and light soup and chill out with my parents. had never acted before so my first task was to On the whole, I think it was an interesting Who is Ghana's finest export? Kofi Annan teach him how to act and destroy his personal experience, I learnt a lot and I achieved a When you think of Ghana what is the first thing insecurities and fears. great deal when looking at all the obstacles that comes to mind? The constant sunshine and I knew this trip would be problematic, that I overcame. I grew stronger and became evenings spent chilling on the beach. and these problems would be hard to tackle. more focused and re - evaluated myself, my What is your fondest memory of Ghana? In Ghana everything takes twice as long beliefs and my career. I learnt about some of Being a child and playing on my dad’s farm. to do and three times as long for people my strengths and weaknesses, I became more to understand. It took days to find a man confident and happy that I am fortunate

100 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 101 Ligali flips the script > Emma Pierre DISCUSS LIGALI FLIPS THE SCRIPT

Seeing Representation: Who’s Imagination? seen as inferior or irrelevant. Yet, there is clearly a huge market for the consumption In March this year, we released our first of documentary film made by African people documentary film, Maafa Truth 2007, which that can articulate the political heart beats of reveals the truth about British slavery, a global community. African resistance and the disingenuous The other side of this coin is that non- 2007 bicentenary. The documentary has African film and documentary makers fall been widely and well received nationally over themselves to document the diversity and internationally which reinforced to of the exotic, fascinating lives of the Other, us the hunger that African audiences have leading to a perverse situation where we for quality film and documentary that see ourselves through the eyes of a ‘white’ is unashamedly focused on the political, supremacist lens. In her book, Race, Sex cultural and social realities of African people and Class at the Movies, an essay about in light of the poverty of representation the American documentary, Hoop Dreams, that has resulted in African film being (about two African-American teenagers marginalised or worse, not being made at all. who aspire to become basketball players) This hunger is further evidenced by the many cultural critic, bell hooks states that hours I have spent in Maarifa bookshop in Europeans “…wanting to see and “enjoy” Dalston, watching people purchasing DVD’s images of [African people] on the screen is and reconstruction of the African aesthetic of Lion Mountain (Dir: Louis Buckley), John often in no way related to a desire to know identity. During the pre production stage, Henrik Clarke: A Great and Mighty Walk real [African] people”. Additionally, they it became clear that there is a huge demand (Dir: St. Claire Bourne) or Dr Joy DeGruy- will resort to worshipping “at the throne of for a documentary about this multifaceted Leary’s Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome ‘black’ mediocrity… [which] will always seek issue that provides a much needed historical amongst others. to nurture that which is half-formed in the context. Some filmmakers will persistently assert ‘black’ (sic) expressive culture.” I am having The ethnic majority in Britain are proudly that “because I am African, it doesn’t mean hideous flashbacks of the low grade polemic expanding their colossal body of work that I must make films about or for African tabloid journalism in the guise of The documents their history, their diversity of people”. I can’t help but be perturbed by Trouble with Black Men, Black like Beckham social experiences and even their perspective the subtle inference that underpins this and White Girls are Easy all of which were on other cultures. This is not to say that statement. There is an made by African people and served to we should only ever make films about or implication that to make superficially entertain the masses through for African people, our social and cultural such films requires a their demeaning representation of what they responsibility implores us to document limiting mindset, inhibits all termed ‘black culture’. and consequently cement our histories, career development Hooks also reminds us that cultures, experiences and perspectives. I and ultimately does ‘representations colonise the mind and the close by saying this movement has already not appeal to the imagination’. No one is more capable of begun to positively snowball. Along with the ‘holy grail’ of a wider realigning the way we think and imagine than increasing availability of African cinema audience. These films, ourselves. We are in the process of making a from the Continent, documentary films such and therefore their documentary that examines the cultural and as Malcolm’s Echo (Dir: Dami Akinnusi) potential audience, are political motivations behind the destruction and Slave Catchers, Slave Resisters (Dir: Menelik Shabazz) are quenching the thirst for the much needed cultural media that will revolutionise the way we see world and ourselves. There is clearly a huge market for the Ligali is a non-profit, African organisation committed to promoting self determination consumption of documentary film made by through education and the media by creating resources of diverse historical, social, African people that can articulate the political cultural and political interest for and by African people. heart beats of a global community. Web: www.ligali.org Email: [email protected]

www.screennation.co.uk 103 The Sweet Sound of Ghana > Krishna Maroo DISCUSS

THE SWEET SOUND OF GHANA

Screen Nation delivers a beginners guide to African beats. The laid back vibes of West MY GHANA, some of Ghana’s succulent sounds. Go on, Africa transcend into something special with MY MUSIC have a dabble and experience the raw West the addition of some brass. African passion Ghana’s rich history of popular music Adelaide Damoah, artist reflects the republic’s rich history. Highlife “I only listen to Ghanaian music The Ghanaian music scene is a concoction of not only represents Ghana’s struggle and then when I am at my parent’s house, but goodness. Genres are crossed, dissected, and triumph, but it documents the history and the I have grown up on it. They listen to Highlife, then put back together again to create a mish- transitions Ghana has made. Pat Thomas, Ben Braku. Certain songs remind me of mash, which actually works really well. During the 60s a hybrid of highlife, ‘afro- growing up, from Christmas, parties and just travelling The unique blend of musical genres, pop’ surfaced, with stars such as Pat Thomas in the car with my dad playing the radio”. and development of sub genres are slowly and George becoming more popular with non-Ghanaians. Darko taking Le*Jit, rapper/vocalist (myspace.com/lejitimate) So, where do we start? the lead. Also “Reppin’ on my ends, Ghana and UK; at this time, So that we can battle the big USA” – Rise Up UK artist HIGHLIFE – THE FOUNDATION a young man Africa is a gold mine for music and infectious named Daddy Dame Betty Asafu-Adjaye, founder of the Mission beats. Highlife was a term coined by Lumba was Dine Club: Ghanaians during the British colonial reign, also making “Land of our birth, we pray to thee” This Methodist when wealthy Europeans attended society waves – but in hymn is a signatory Ghanaian tune. parties. The music consisted of a fusion Europe. Krishna Maroo with Sway at the Note: Dame Betty sang down the phone to us! of European brass bands and traditional When Urban Music Awards immigration Charles Thompson, CEO, Screen Nation: laws in the UK changed, many Ghanaians “My favourite artists are the band Osibisa, but my migrated to Germany. Thus, a new sub genre favorite tracks are any Mapouka type track by any was born – with Daddy Lumba grabbing the Ghanaian artists.” I GHANA BECAUSE..... genre wholeheartedly and making it his own. NaNa: It’s beautiful He is one of Ghana’s most successful artists, RK: It’s the land of my knowledge and is now on his twentieth album! sound for the league of new Ghanaian musicians. It’s all about energy. The sounds NANA, SINGER, 28 AND RAS KWAME, HIPLIFE – THE SITUATION represent where you are from and where you BROADCASTER, 34 The only way Hiplife can be described is are at. How are you celebrating Ghana’s 50 years of that it’s a fusion of Highlife and hip-hop. It’s Moving away from the African continent, independence? a global sound, mixing elements of African, we see Ghanaian Diaspora representing. RK: Hoping to go to Ghana. If not I’ll be going to a British and American vibes. British-Ghanaian artists include Dizzee local Ghanaian food spot and dipping my hand in a Following a stint in the US, Reggie Rascal, Lethal B, NaNa, The Mitchell big bowl of Fufu Rockstone, the founder of Hiplife, delivered Brothers and Sway, with broadcaster Ras If you hosted a party to celebrate 50 years of rap in a local Ghanaian dialect with a Kwame paving the way. Ghana has directly Ghana’s independence, who would you invite? distinctive mixed-up sound. The genre is now and indirectly, produced some memorable NaNa & RK: Dr Kwame Nkrumah one of the biggest in Ghana. artists, genres, and styles. Who is Ghana’s Finest Export? The genre takes traditional elements of RK : Michael Essien Highlife, and fuses them with the big beats Check out these wonders, and savour the When you think of Ghana, what is the first thing from the US and UK hip-hop scene. The sound flavours Ghana has to offer: that comes to mind? reflects the changing face of young Ghanaians. Tic Tac, E.T. Mensah, Ashanti Brothers, NaNa: Red clay floor Drum machines are traded in for Genesis Gospel Singers, Hi-Life International and palm trees traditional African beats, creating a signature and Rex Omar. RK: Fufu and light soup and chicken What is your fondest >> Did You Know? Obrafo released a track memory of Ghana? RK: The five years I was called 'Kwame Nkrumah' honouring the great studying my O’levels leader. He even recorded a song about his mother, and the mother’s of the African Nation.

104 www.screennation.co.uk Alrick Riley > Krishna Maroo DISCUSS ALRICK RILEY

We caught up with stylish, savvy and wrote for Desmond’s. Speaking of an incident earlier this year, switched-on director Alrick Riley to talk about With these credentials, it’s hard to believe he said: “I was walking down the road with his career and black British cinema. the man wants more, he explained: “When one of the actors, the reaction is absolutely you’re in this job, all you want to do is get fantastic, and women can’t contain themselves Acclaimed black British director, Alrick better, find new challenges. And that’s what – they scream and shout, they cry, they want Riley has directed some of the grittiest, slick I’m always trying to do. All I’m thinking his autograph, demanding to know when and stylish programming to have graced our about is what is the next challenge? How can ‘Babyfather’ is coming back.” screens. I raise my game? How can I improve myself The impact of the show is undeniable, Credits include the much missed as a director?” within the black community and outside it. Babyfather and the much respected Judge By always striving to be better, Alrick Slick and stylish drama’s such as Spooks John Deed, with Hustle, Spooks and Silent ensures that he remains at the top of his and Hustle have allowed him to tap into the Witness, being a handful of dramas that game. His career highlights include working stylised simplicity of a new era in British Alrick has waved his magic wand over. on TV drama Cops, which won BAFTA’s for drama. In the early stages of his career he played two years in a row, and the groundbreaking The future looks bright for Alrick, with a rude boy in Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em Babyfather, the BBC’s first black mainstream new documentary projects on the horizon, as (1975), appeared in Scum (1979), and also high budget drama. well as writing and making the transition to long form feature length films. Many believe that black British cinema leaves much to be desired. Alrick reveals that There has never been a proper “there needs to be more of everything.” The core complexities need to be surfaced, black film movement, with possibly as “we have barely scratched the surface of the things which are going on with our the exception of what is currently community.” He has nothing but praise for pioneering happening in Nollywood at the moment black films such as Menelik Shabazz’s Burning an Illusion, but cannot help but feel like we have not reached the stage where we can create waves in the media. “There isn’t a cinema movement. That’s how I see it – that’s the problem. There has never been a proper black film movement, with possibly the exception of what is currently happening in Nollywood at the moment. They need to make films that interest them - its more likely that then they will find an audience. With the explosion in digital media, I think it is possible to make pretty low budget stuff and get them out there and really learn, and really let people know what they’re thinking,” he said. Alrick continues: “I just think that we need to talk about it in an intelligent, responsible, strategic way, so that people might understand where it’s coming from, and we don’t fall into the trap of glamourising gun violence.” With the complexities within the black community, the more black British films there are, the more room for debate and progression. So what are Alrick’s thoughts on this? He commented: “I think there is a huge canvas for which to paint these contractions, so we can see them and discuss them and argue about them, but also laugh and enjoy them as well”.

www.screennation.co.uk 107 I Need me some Screen Nation > Dona Croll DISCUSS

BIOGRAPHY

Most notable TV appearances since 1976 > Boys from the Black Stuff > Casualty > Desmonds > Us Girls EastEnders > Bremner Bird and Fortune > Family Affairs > The Bill > Gimme Gimme Gimme > Silent Witness I NEED > Doctors 2007 ME SOME > Little Miss Jocelyn 2007

Her many films include SCREEN > Hallelujah Anyhow > Tube Tales > I Could never be your NATION Woman > Manderlay > Eastern Promise. Dona Croll first graced our screens in 1976, Screen Nation probes the parts that other read on to discover the changes she’s seen in events do not reach. In this forum we can Theatre the prickly game they call show business acknowledge and celebrate work which has > Elmina’s Kitchen yet to reach a wide audience but is good > She has also been a constant presence on the Another year, another Screen Nation work made in the face of much and well stage, most recently in The Christ of Coldharbour Awards Ceremony, another frock!! Let’s all documented adversity. Lane in which she played a pole dancer. congratulate ourselves that we are all still At each ceremony I am reminded that we here practising our crafts and are able to big are still at the “we” stage. By which I mean up each other in the spirit of love and support that we all work together to ensure our for another year. rightful place in the industry. We are mindful many talented writers who are giving the For me the Screen Nation Awards provides of our place in the world and give as much world the stories from our point of view and a yearly forum where we can meet to network, help and support to each other and mentor in that direction the future lies. exchange information [not gossip!] and younger people both in front and behind the As an actress I have seen many changes congratulate ourselves on our continuing camera to ensure a greater chance of all of us over the years. We have much to applaud contribution not only to our industry but being successful. We also remember the older in the attitude of the BBC in their efforts also to our community. It is an important practitioners who have carved out the paths to change the whole ethos of broadcasters. event not only for its continuing success and on which we now tread. It was my pleasure Public service broadcasting after all has a survival but also for its role in affirming our last year to present Mona Hammond with responsibility to the public. The result of impact on the cultural life of this country. a lifetime achievement award. Mona, along their shift in attitude means we see fewer We all need some sort of public approbation, with others, was instrumental in forming my examples of “tokenism”. As diversity becomes sometimes it is forthcoming in other fields attitude to my work when I was a young girl. a serious social philosophy, we are now being of the industry but this is “Fi we t’ing” and “A long time ago” I hear you all heckle! cast with regard to talent and temperament. as such holds a special place in our hearts. I am encouraged yearly to meet and I am now encountering many more black greet new young talent at the Screen Nation crew members than I used to and many more event. It is a confirmation that as a creative decision makers in the departments of make force we have longevity, courage and a up, costume etc. We still have a long way to Another year, presence which is echoed in other fields of go but we have to recognise and celebrate the artistic achievement, such as music, fashion, steps we have taken and plan strategies for another Screen photography, literature and fine art. the steps yet to be taken. Film and TV is the most powerful art form Much has been written lately of our Nation Awards that exists, because it can change people’s successes across the pond. I see it as a positive perception of their lives and the world. As development. We are actors who can attract Ceremony, an example, we all know that cowboys killed an international market and we belong to a “injuns” because many films tell that story global community. Not Screen Britain but another frock. but how many people know that were it not Screen Nation. for the “injuns” the cowboys would not have I will certainly enjoy this years’ event for survived? Not many, because there are few all the reasons above but also to show off my films that tell us that story. Big up to our new frock.

108 www.screennation.co.uk Screen Nation’s 10 > Ihunna Eberendu DISCUSS SCREEN

“Vanessa Williams is a beautiful and talented NATION’S actress, who for some reason or another has never got that one big role, to take her career to the next A list of only 100 Black Screen Icons is too short to pay homage 1 2 4 5 level, but she to our burgeoning film and TV industry. Therefore Screen Nation has always has decided to bring you a list of just some of the talents that did carried not make it. herself with dignity and In July 2007 Every Generation Media and Soul Food, I style and comes BFI launched 100 Black Screen Icons. Via Know What across on screen as an online poll the public were invited to You Did Last a strong black woman, vote for their icons. The results saw Denzel Summer and who's charming Washington (All-time Black Screen Icon 8 Mile amongst others. In whilst also sexy but and Black Screen Icon: Actor) and Oprah 2002 Phifer upped the stakes definitely not to be Winfrey (Black Screen Icon: Woman & by landing a starring role in messed with...... Black Screen Icon: Producer) come out on popular US medical drama ER Where others have top. Here’s ten that didn’t make the list. as the hot-headed Dr Gregory 6 7 8 10 sold out and used the Platt. lightness of their skin 1> MEKHI PHIFER colour, she appears As a young heartthrob he even had Brandy 2> PAUL BARBER to have stayed true & Monica fighting over him. Harlem born Liverpudlian veteran Paul Barber to her roots. Black Is 9 Phifer’s decision to attend an open casting is probably best remembered as Del Beautiful!!” Marlon call for Spike Lee’s Clockers paid off as he Boy’s friend the dim-witted Denzil in Palmer, Director, Kush landed a lead role as drug dealer Ronald long-running sitcom Only Fools and Horses. 5> OMAR EPPS 7> STAN LATHAN Films “Strike” Dunham. After this impressive Earning his place in the history books stripper Omar Epps made his feature film debut Father of actress Sanaa Lathan unless you’re 9 debut he won roles in High School High, in 1997 he played steel-worker turned Horse in The Full Monty which is still one alongside the late Tupac Shakur in Ernest a film buff his name may not instantly of the top ten highest grossing films at the R. Dickerson’s Juice. Two years later he ring a bell. His directorial career began UK box office. His TV credentials include landed the lead role in John Singleton’s on the pioneering children’s educational appearances in Porridge, Minder, Cracker, thought-provoking drama Higher Learning. programme Sesame Street. In the 70’s and Coronation Street, Brookside, Casualty and Roles followed including the Wayans’ 80’s Lathan worked on high profile award- >>"The omission of Naomie Holby City. spoof Don’t Be a Menace to South Central winning dramas such as Sanford & Son, While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood, The Waltons, Hill Street Blues, Fame, and 9> VANESSA WILLIAMS Harris just further indicates 3> NAOMIE HARRIS Scream 2, The Wood, Love & Basketball Miami Vice. In 1984 Lathan directed the Former Miss America Vanessa Williams’ For former child actress it’s only a matter and Alfie. After playing a brief recurring Harry Belafonte produced Beat Street, a hard work finally paid off once she landed we do not value our own of time before a big budget leading role role as Dr. Dennis Gant in ER back in ‘96, ground-breaking film on the hip hop genre. the role of Wilhelmina Slater in the hit beckons. In 2002 her role as Selena in Epps donned the white coat again to star In the 90’s his forte was comedy and he comedy series Ugly Betty. A credible home-grown talent. Let's Brit horror flick 28 Days Later was the big alongside Hugh Laurie as Dr. Eric Foreman produced and directed episodes of Moesha, recording artist Williams won awards for break she needed and she has not looked in the award-winning US medical drama Def Comedy Jam, Cedric the Entertainer her lead role in the 1997 movie Soul Food. not forget that among her back since. House. Presents, The Steve Harvey Show, Dave In March 2007 she received a star on the Chapelle specials, The Rosie O’Donnell Hollywood Walk of Fame. many accomplishments she 4> LARENZ TATE 6> MARTIN LAWRENCE Show and The Bernie Mac Show. With the inclusion of the Hughes Brothers Like Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy, 10> VIVICA A. FOX has played a very pivotal in the list it seems strange not to include Lawrence is part of the league of black 8> BILL DUKE Ms Fox is rumoured to be starring in an Larenz Tate who played the leading man comedians who made the successful At 6’4’’ Bill Duke portrays characters upcoming movie about the rise and fall character in the Pirates of in their films Menace II Society and Dead transition from stand-up to the silver you’d hate to get on the wrong side of. of pop legend Whitney Houston. Early Presidents. After moving to California at screen. A small role in Spike Lee’s Do During the 80’s when action flicks were on in her career Vivica won small roles in the Caribbean franchise, nine-years-old and enrolling onto a drama the Right Thing was followed swiftly by all the rage he co-starred alongside Days of Our Lives, Who’s the Boss, The program with his two elder brothers the trio supporting roles in House Party 1&2 and Arnold Schwarzenegger in Commando Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Beverly Hills: which is one of the most began receiving small roles a year later. As Boomerang amongst others whist from and Predator. He has also shared billings 90210. Her big break came in 1996 when a youngster Tate made appearances in 21 1992 to 1997 his hit sitcom Martin was with Goldie Hawn, Mel Gibson, Whoopi she starred in Set It Off and Independence successful franchises to Jump Street, The Wonder Years, Matlock aired on the Fox Network. It was his 1995 Goldberg, Steven Seagal, Sir Ian McKellen Day. As well as her lead role in Tarantino’s and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air amongst film Bad Boys co-starring Will Smith that and Anthony Hopkins. As a director he blockbuster Kill Bill Vol. 1 Fox secured date." Michael Morgan, Film Editor, other. His film career kicked off when he established Martin Lawrence had “arrived”. has an impressive list of credits including roles in Soul Food, Batman & Robin, Why reached 18 with the role of O-Dog, the Since then Martin Lawrence has co-starred Dallas, Hill Street Blues, Cagney & Lacey, Do Fools Fall in Love and Juwanna Man. Touch magazine gun-toting teenager in Menace II Society. alongside Tim Robbins, Eddie Murphy, Fame, Miami Vice and Sister Act 2: Back in She is currently filming Major Movie Star Other credits include Love Jones, Why Do Tim Allen and John Travolta. His 2000 the Habit. co-starring Jessica Simpson due for release 3 Fools Fall in Love, Ray and Crash. film Big Momma’s House grossed over in 2008. $117,000,000 at the US Box Office.

110 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 111 Gina's travel tales > Krishna Maroo UNWIND GINA’S TRAVEL TALES

From Acapulco to Iraq, Nightmare holiday? bit of activity thrown in. Screen Nation discusses Yeah that was my holiday in Mexico that was Do your prefer going on holiday with a all things travel with the worst. partner, friends, or family? comedy veteran Gina Is there anywhere you would love to go? Mmmm. I prefer to go with my partner Yashere I would love to go to Thailand. It sounds actually. ‘Cos we have a good time together, like a fantastic place, a nice mix of cultures, and there’s not too many people to think Most memorable holiday? people. I wouldn't mind trying out a bit of Tai about. None of the ‘Ah what do you want to It would be Sydney, Chi....and Buddhism. do today?’ You’re always under pressure to fit Australia – that was Is there anywhere you would never go? in with the group. When there are two of you, fantastic or Ghana, either I did say Iraq, but then I ended up going. I there’s not too much to think about. one or the two. They’re got booked out there to do some shows for Have you ever been, or would you go to a both fantastic for different reasons. soldiers and I thought nudist beach? Favourite holidays? ‘hmmm, a challenge’. (Laughs) Not until Yeah, they were my favourites. So I took the challenge >> It started to I lose about four Worst holiday? and went and did it. stone! But that’s I went to Acapulco, Mexico. I had seafood on What was it like? absolutely rain, proper a no! the beach that made me violently ill, and I Iraq was awful, but the Is there a celebrity ended up on a drip for dehydration. And then gigs were great! storms, thunders and you would never we decided to drive from Acapulco to Mexico Do you prefer big dream of going on City, which was about a six hour drive. It was cities, or undiscovered we realised then, we holiday with? a lovely sunny day when we left, and we had places? Jim Davidson. a convertible jeep. About three hours into I like a bit of both. didn't have a roof for (Laughs) the drive, it started to absolutely rain, proper Have you ever Have you always storms, thunders and we realised then, we holidayed with a the jeep. lived in England? didn't have a roof for the jeep. So, we ended partner? Yes. up getting absolutely soaked and miserable, Oh yeah, yeah. We get If you were to live cold. And we didn't have any cash, only credit on very well, so it’s easy. somewhere else, where would you live? cards, and no petrol station would take credit What’s your ideal honeymoon location? It would have been Sydney, Australia, if there cards and we were running out of petrol. So Anywhere in the Caribbean. I’d love to go were more black people there. Canada, I it was quite precarious I should say. It was somewhere where there’s a cross between nice think. I love Canada. I have just come back horrible. beaches to hang out and sleep on, but with a from Montreal, and that was the perfect mix of cultures and friendliness. So it would be Canada. Where’s the best place you have travelled to through work? Wow, I have been to so many places through work. Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai. I think Hong Kong was my favourite. Any particular reason? I love shopping when I’m away. And it’s fantastic for gadgets and diamonds, which are my two favourite things in the world. Which three essential items do you always take on holiday? Always two good books at least. Music – me iPod and speakers. And me jewellery — I feel naked without my jewellery. If you had to flog your town as the hottest tourist location, how would you sell it? Well, I’m in London. It’s the best mix of cultures, it’s the least segregated, and best culture. Shame about the weather!

Gina Yashere is embarking on a worldwide tour, visit www.ginayashere.co.uk for further information.

www.screennation.co.uk 113 Kojo's world > Krishna Maroo UNWIND

KOJO'S WORLD

Krishna Maroo caught up with travel bug Shorts, man. Damn...hoohooo. Make sure was the World Cup. We were filming for and comedy and poetry entrepreneur, that’s capital letters – SHORTS!! the childrens TV show, Mighty Truck of Kojo. Have you ever been on holiday with a Stuff, so that’s been the best place to go to. girlfriend? Going to the World Cup was an amazing Most memorable holiday? Yes to Orlando. It was nice. I don’t think we experience. February 2006, I went to Disney World in went for a romance holiday, we just went to go What are your three essential items to Florida. The real one as I like to call it. It out and have a laugh really. take on holiday? was just an amazing experience. What would be your ideal honeymoon My phone. I could not breathe without Favourite holiday? location? my phone.Umm..oh yeah, I’ve got asthma When I went to Miami for Spring Break Ummm...Ideal honeymoon location...Wow, as well, so my asthma pump (laughs). A with the boys. That was a week of partying I don’t know, probably partner, yeah, a female non-stop. It’s got a beach, the weather was Hawaii. Or Jamaica. definitely. nice, and it’s laid back so that was cool. Not Kingston or nothing If you had to flog your Worst Holiday? ghetto like that. There’s home town as the next best When me and my mum went to Chicago, lots of beautiful places in tourist location, how would and we were just arguing all week. Jamaica. you sell it? Where would you love to go? Who would you rather Oh good Lord. I wouldn't I would love to go to a tropical island, like go on holiday with? Your call it Hackney, I would Hawaii. Somewhere that’s laid back, where girlfriend, family or probably call it Hackney- you can just chill, walk around naked and your friends? Upon-Sea. So, I’d lie and do nothing. My boys, yeah 100 per say that it’s got a nice Where would you never go? cent my boys. seaside when it’s just a Ukraine. There’s no reason for me to ever Have you always lived in river. I’d say that there’s a be in Ukraine. In this life you never know England? massive black community where your job takes you sometimes. But I I had one year when I down here. You got the can’t see any reason why I would ever end lived in Ghana, when I was Hackney Empire. So many up in Ukraine. about seven. Other then that, the rest of my famous people in the past have performed Have you had any holiday nightmares? life’s been here. down there. Various different foods. You’ve When we [some friends] were coming Do you remember much of it? got African food, you’ve got West Indian home from Miami, the cab driver was late Yeah, I went to school there. Looking back food, you got Chinese food. And you got and made us miss our flight. There were, now, it was an important part of my life, I Kojo – Oh yeaaaaah. eight of us and we had to get on separate found out about my background, first hand. Any last words? flights. So that was quite funny, but it was And I think it gave me a little bit of discipline I love travelling. I travel at least twice a horrendous. as well. year. I’m going to LA on Monday. I try and Do you prefer going to big cities or would Would you go and live there again? get out as much as I can. you rather go somewhere undiscovered? No, I dont think I could ever live there, but I I'm a city boy, I’m used to that. I don't think will have a house there. It would be a place I Kojo can be seen in the Mighty Truck I’ll be able to go on holiday without hearing would visit at least once a year. of Stuff on Saturday’s 9 am, BBC 2/ a car horn...or an engine. Best place you have travelled to through CBBC. Kojo’s Da Comedy Funhouse at On the beach, are you a speedo or shorts work? Corks, London W1. Visit www.myspace. kinda guy? Wow, I’d have to say Germany, only ‘cause it com/dacomedyfunhouse for further information.

>> I wouldn't call it Hackney. I would probably call it Hackney-Upon-Sea.

www.screennation.co.uk 115 The Celebrity Chef > Patrick Williams INSPIRE THE CELEBRITY CHEF

Patrick Williams, chef and proprietor of The truly started to make his mark. The Terrace’s unique pavilion style Terrace Restaurant gives Screen Nation Whilst working at the Criterion in 1999, hideaway, offers a refreshing escape from readers a chance to try one of his popular Patrick started to explore his interest in the hustle and bustle of busy London life dishes at home. Caribbean ingredients, developing and and an exceptional dining experience. Taking re-crafting dishes in his spare time. This advantage of its idyllic location the Terrace British-born Patrick Williams’ passion for inspired the inception of his successful book, restaurant also offers a stylish Al-fresco cooking began at school where he had his The Caribbean Cook. dining experience and a pre-booked bespoke sights set on being a top chef. His Jamaican In October 2005, Patrick opened The silver service lunchtime or early evening parentage and family love of food further Terrace in London’s Lincoln’s Inn Fields. picnic. inspired his interest. The Terrace is Patrick’s first solo venture In addition, Patrick and his team caters Today, he is a renowned chef and following the success of his co-owned bar and for private and corporate events including restaurateur credited for cooking modern restaurant, ‘The Green’ in NW2. The Terrace, parties, launches, receptions and seasonal and traditional British dishes with his unique is a stylish purpose-built restaurant within barbeques at The Terrace. Caribbean stamp. His mission is to educate a stunning London setting, providing fine and inspire his diners, broadening their dining and good service all at an accessible culinary knowledge of Caribbean ingredients. price. This project was the result of a chance “The British have a rich and diverse meeting and a tender bid to Camden Council. CRAB & MANGO cultural palate and this has been influenced The Terrace is the perfect platform for by a broad range of international ingredients Patrick to showcase his unique cooking talent. SALAD used today in top restaurants as well as At the core of Patrick’s offer today is his domestically. British cuisine truly reflects classical French training which he combines Serves 4 the melting-pot nature of British Society, with his love of Caribbean ingredients 400g/14oz white crabmeat yet Caribbean influences are still untapped. and a ceaseless commitment to using fresh Juice of 1 lime It’s my aim to help de-mystify Caribbean produce. In turn, Patrick’s energy and 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise ingredients by serving this produce alongside inspiration is fuelled by his passion for re- 3 mangoes, peeled, deseeded and diced modern and traditional British classics. This crafting traditional British and Caribbean Fresh coriander leaves cuisine is part of our society and it’s time staples; focusing on clean and simple that these influences spread throughout the flavours, injecting new vitality with a tweak For the dressing cultural mix and into high street restaurants of ingredients and successfully re-introducing 3 tablespoons coconut water too. “ these to his clientele. 2 tablespoons lime juice Patrick has followed a varied career path The Terrace’s menu and ambience adapts 1 tablespoon pimento oil that’s firmly rooted in classical French according to the changing demands of diners 1 red chilli cooking. He commenced training at Mirabelle throughout the day, from breakfast to dinner, 3 tablespoons freshly grated coconut under Herbert Berger, moving onto top and includes a wi-fi system to meet business 1 tablespoon olive oil London eateries including Café Swiss, The needs. There is also an extensive wine list of A splash of lime juice Ivy and The Canteen. As head chef at Greens over 40 new and old world wines including 16 Salt and freshly ground black pepper Oyster Bar and Restaurant in 1998 Patrick varieties offered by the glass or carafe. Mix the crabmeat with the lime juice and mayonnaise and refrigerate.

Combine the dressing ingredients. Add mangoes. Spoon half the mangoes into a ring and top with the white crabmeat. Top with the rest of the mangoes. Garnish with coriander leaves.

The Terrace restaurant is located at: Lincoln’s Inn Fields London, Holborn, London WC2A 3LJ. www.theterrace.info, 020 7430 1234 Opening times: Breakfast: 8.00-11.00am Lunch: 12.00-3.00pm Dinner: 6.30-9.00pm The restaurant is a non-smoking environment and is closed on Sundays.

www.screennation.co.uk 117 Elegant African and Caribbean Cuisine Sophisticated African and Caribbean places for wining and dining UNWIND

>> Anthony Cumberbatch Executive - Chef for 2007 Screen Nation Awards Banquet

AZOU triangles of light pastry filled with brie and > Antonia Hines and Jennifer Rock goat’s cheese was a winner. Our portions were healthy in size and They say that cooking is indeed a science, price (averaging out to £9 per head), MOMO alcoholic cocktails on offer, the Emerald is a so it is no surprise that former biologist but our choice of the Tagine Constantine > Sam Fernando refreshing and thirst-quenching alternative. Chris Benarab from Algeria has managed to – tender lamb, potatoes and chillies in a The starters were just as good with a balance the right ingredients to make Azou a hot spicy sauce – was more like a heavy The wonderfully located Momo restaurant warm mozzarella salad proving to taste unique dining experience. soup dish. Another option could have is a little piece of North African escapism as good as it looked and for the more He is the owner and head chef of the been Azou’s special couscous dishes served in the centre of London. The space within, adventurous of you a wild pigeon dish homely, west London eatery that offers with vegetables, chicken or lamb shank, and authentic design are just some of the tasted sublime. I am assured that the authentic North African cuisine in intimate apparently a house favourite. elements in the plus column, although these pigeons came from Scotland and not surroundings. Think flavours from Morocco, The hospitality in Azou makes the dining don’t add up to a top quality experience, Trafalgar Square, either way I don’t care Tunisia and Algeria. out experience extra special. Chris often thankfully the service and food are also of they were delicious! >> 'the spicy prawns Set in a small-sized room, you are came out of the kitchen to greet and exchange the highest order. Regardless of your culinary With a variety of main courses the immediately drawn to the powerful décor. pleasantries with guests who appeared to be a needs (vegetarians and those who require one that stood out (and something of a with coriander and Sachets of silk cloth draped along the regular clientele. Halal food rejoice!), there is something specialty) was the Lamb Canon rolled in ceilings, eclectic ornaments and warm earthy It’s that personal touch that probably mouthwatering delightful for everyone. filo pastry served with wild mushrooms. the savoury triangles tones all helped to foster a Mediterranean draws actor-comedian Ricky Gervais to Azou, Having been established several years ago, I was tempted to try something else, but feel. just one of the celebrities Chris named as his the restaurant has developed something of when something is this good you can’t go of light pastry filled We decided to go for the corner seating guests. For us it was the hospitality, value for a cult following, which means taking anyone wrong. As a side dish the Merguez (spicy area with the customary North African low- money and sheer North African ambience, there will result in a positive reaction (you lamb sausages) were finely flavoured and with brie and goat’s table surrounded by jumbo-sized cushions. which you will get from this restaurant. really could impress people if that’s what authentic to their North African origins. Our starters were a haven dedicated to you’re after…). With a reasonably priced menu and superb cheese was a winner.' seafood and marinated vegetables dipped Azou, 375 King Street, Hammersmith, Although there is a bar, tearoom and service; I want more, more. in authentic herbs and spices served with London, W6 9NJ bazaar attached to the site, we only tried out Algerian flat bread. Choosing the spicy 020 8563 7266 the restaurant and every aspect of the place Momo, 25 Heddon Street, Regent Street, prawns with coriander and the savoury www.azou.co.uk looked enticing and exciting. Of the two non- London, W1B 4BH, 020 7434 4040

ZIGNI HOUSE One of the most distinct, yet spicy > Krishna Maroo flavours encountered was through the Zigni sauce – a rich mix of over 40 stone ground Eritrean and Ethopian food are a rare find spices in a slow-cooked curry. The taste in this country, so I recommend you delve is similar to some Indian food, but has a into the depths of Islington and sample a mix distinct African flavour to it. of flannelly sour bread, spicey curried meat The buffet seems overwhelming as CARIBBEAN SCENE For the main course we both had chicken and casserole vegetables at the Zigni House. there are a lot of different flavours. Don’t > Sharon Jackson and Brian Smartt starters I had skewered chicken which was Absorb the African artifacts adorning the underestimate how full the Injera bread presented in a gourmet style, my partner walls, the animal hinds beneath your rear and will make you feel. My advice it to try a I had the pleasure of dining at Caribbean had jerk chicken wings. Once again the bargainous £8 buffet at this splendid family- little, and then taste the individual dishes. Scene restaurant which had only been opened presentation was excellent. run East-African restaurant, bar and cafe. The menu has a good mix of meat and for two weeks. While I was waiting for my For the main course we had curried Chef, owner and author of two cookery vegetarian dishes, and the venue also caters starter I had a baileys cocktail which was mutton and rice and peas and oxtail books (in her native language Amharic), Tsige for large groups, so get in touch beforehand delicious. I used this opportunity to look and white rice. Both were professionally Haile, suggested we take ‘small small’ samples and special arrangements will be made. around the restaurant; it is basically in two presented and the oxtail was delicious and of the dishes, which ranged from casseroles Service could be improved, but on halves. One section is contemporary and cooked off the bone. The sauce that came and curries to spicy humous and spinach the whole it’s delightfully laid back and modern the other has a beach theme. At the with it was gorgeous. The mutton was well based dishes. inexpensive. It’s a shame that the dessert start of the evening the lights were quite seasoned but a bit salty not good when we The filling Injera bread is a staple at Zigni. menu is so European, but be sure to try the bright but they were later dimmed which have to be watching our blood pressure. The It is a white, sour rolled up pancake made of traditional beer or coffee. created a warmer effect. Jazz and reggae service was good and we will go back again. wheat and rice flour which is then fermented, music was being played in the background and has a bizarre consistency. It’s not quite Zigni House, 330 Essex Rd, London, N1 3PB which added to the Caribbean theme. Caribbean Scene, ExCeL, London Marina, bread, but doubles up as a scooping device 020 7226 7418 If you get bored of looking at your dinner 17 Western Gateway, London E16 1AQ. 020 for succulent pieces of meat or curried www.zignihouse.com partner then you could look through the glass 7511 2023 vegetables. Cutlery is available for the faint- windows at the views of Canary Wharf which www.caribbeanscene.co.uk hearted. is beautiful at night. Caribbean Scene photo: Clive Kofi Allen

118 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 119

Hooked on a Book > Sophia Jackson and Justin Darkwah INSPIRE HOOKED ON A BOOK Had enough of film and television? Then curl up with one of these hot reads

exploding just six inches from his head. Although no one thought it possible, he survived intense bouts of brain surgery having emerged from a coma. This is a book of bravery which will leave readers inspired and ready to take on the world.

Ghana Black Gold of the Sun, by Ekow Eshun I felt the book was excellent. I could immediately identify with the experiences of Ekow Eshun for the reason being I was born in London, schooled in London, but always tried to maintain that essential connection to home, Ghana. When I was younger, I at times, found it difficult to adapt to British culture. The decibel Penguin Anthology, volume but these are only the tip of the iceberg that Having said that, going home to Ghana was one: new voices from a diverse culture consists of a wide range of writers who have equally challenging at times because I wasn't Contemporary Britain is given a literary emerged from the migrant communities in really seen as Ghanaian, being that I was makeover in this anthology of stories from a recent years.” born in UK. The way in which I made the diversity of non-mainstream voices. Fellow judges include television presenter process easy was simply to embrace both Ten writers from various backgrounds June Sarpong. The global short stories are cultures, which I feel Ekow successfully did. I including South Africa and Pakistan thought-provoking and captivating in the way appreciate the book because it goes deep into to Manchester and Hackney were the they tackle issues of generational discourse, the culture of Ghana and uncovers some of competition winners whittled down by a panel assimilation, freedom and restriction and the true riches and beauty of the country. of judges. good old fashioned love. Tottenham MP David Lammy, minister for culture is the patron of the decibel, Arts Johnson Beharry VC, Barefoot Soldier: a Council England and Penguin collaboration. story of extreme valour by Johnson Beharry He said: “We are known all over the world This is the inspiring and compelling as a country that produces great writers. We story of Grenada’s Johnson Beharry. His I GHANA BECAUSE..... are familiar with the novels of best-selling heartbreaking, brutally frank but humorous It's who I am, it's where I am from and it's the authors such as Zadie Smith and Monica Ali, tale is one of remarkable courage. In March essence of me. 2005, the honour of being the first living recipient of the Victoria Cross – the highest JUSTIN DARKWAH, 32 reward for gallantry — for almost 40 years BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER was bestowed on him. How are you celebrating Ghana's 50 years of NEWS Beharry was a private with the 1st independence? Battalion Princess of Wale’s Royal Regiment. By returning home to be with my parents and Penguin Books and decibel, Arts Council England During his time in the British army, he saved enjoying what Ghana has prepared. have joined forces for the second time to give new lives at the risk of endangering his own and If you were to host a party to celebrate 50 writers the opportunity to showcase their work. survived near-death experiences. year’s of Ghana's independence who would be Writers are invited to submit non-fiction personal Aged 19, he arrived in Britain from a your guest of honour? accounts of the experience of immigration to the family of eight and leaving behind his violent, I'd try and get Lauryn Hill to be the MC, for she is UK for the competition. The winning authors will alcoholic father. Young Johnson Beharry the essence of a beautiful black African woman see their stories published in a Penguin anthology came in search of a brighter future but that could consciously engage an audience and entitled Volume 2: Personal Tales of Immigration walked straight into a life of more dangers throw down some entertaining vocals, being that to Britain in November 2007. The closing date for than what he left behind. He decided to join it's a party. entries is Monday 2 April 2007, and the anthology the army before his life took a turn for the Who is Ghana's finest export? of the winning entries will be published by Penguin worse and became an unsuspecting hero. Kofi Annan in November 2007. Visit www.artscouncil.org.uk for At 24-years-old, in southern Iraq he saved When you think of Ghana what is the first thing more information. the lives of 30 comrades in an act of bravery. that comes to mind? As if this wasn’t enough, he then went on to Family, home and good food. reverse his vehicle out of an ambush zone, having survived a rocket-propelled grenade

122 www.screennation.co.uk For the Love of Anthony > Marie Fatayi-Williams INSPIRE FOR THE LOVE OF ANTHONY In the wake of the London Bombings of 7/7 Marie Fatayi-Williams touched the hearts and imaginations of a nation when she delivered her iconic speech in desperate attempt to find her son, Anthony. He is now known to have been one of the 52 innocent people who lost their lives that day. For the Love of Anthony is a tribute to her only son, taken away in a vicious unthinkable manner. Marie’s strength and raw passion have bought to life a story that will move anyone who has ever grieved for a child. Here’s an extract.

I’m writing this on Valentine’s Day. It is see him or speak with him again physically seven months in this life, but my heart still expects and seven days since my son was killed, it. My heart is maimed, and it does not and recalling the understand. events of that awful day and night are almost too much to Today has been a day of agonies, and also bear, almost too much to tell. of a miracle. Today has There was one special letter that Anthony I think of that moment when the phone wrote to me, which I very much wanted to been a day rang, when I was so desperate for news, put in this book. I remembered I’d had it a when I was surrounded by friends yet few months earlier, but now I could not find of agonies, feeling so alone, and it seems as though that it. I told everyone I had lost it, and I was instant has been repeating itself endlessly, so upset. Believe it or not, it has turned up, and also of a for seven months and seven days. mysteriously and miraculously, today, on Valentine’s Day. miracle. Whenever the phone rings, whenever I see a young man in the crowd who has This morning, feeling very sad and full Anthony’s build or Anthony’s smart of pain, I prayed in front of my little altar clothes, whenever I hear a door open or where I have placed Anthony’s photograph. catch a movement from the corner of my eye, my heart lurches. I know I can never I shed a tear; I talked to him and I said,

www.screennation.co.uk 125 For the Love of Anthony > Marie Fatayi-Williams INSPIRE

never let that sort of clutter bother me. There were so many things on the floor that I had simply put down and left there.

But something inside me prompted, ‘Why don’t you take a look around here?’ I said, ‘Look for what? I’m not searching for anything in particular at the moment.

There are old things down there, new things, what could I possibly want from this lot? But actually I think I do need to tidy this corner a little bit . . .’

So I just kept removing things, saying to myself, ‘Oh, this old thing, I’ll put ‘This time this here. I’ll put that there.’ There is solace last in small tasks. And as I moved three little year I was in London and bags, there at the bottom was one more, an you sent me a huge bouquet of airline bag, the kind of plastic carrier that flowers.’ you use to carry all the free bits and pieces they load you with. On that day, he really surprised me! The doorbell rang and I opened it to a huge vase I picked it up, thinking, what’s this bag crammed with roses and greenery. I said, doing here? What could be in it? I looked ‘Wow, from who?’ And the card said, ‘For into it and there were a couple of books and my mummy, with all my love. Anthony.’ some papers. The first book I pulled out of this bag was a spiritual book. It was one of He had ordered it through a florist from the books that I have bought for comfort work. He called me later and said, ‘Hi, during the time that I have been grieving. Mummy, are you having a nice Valentine’s I’d read it and put it away, and I couldn’t Day?’ I said, ‘Yes! You made my day!’ for the life of me think where I’d put it, because someone had given me another I could hear a smile in his voice as he book and I’d started reading that. There are old said, ‘Yeah, yeah, I love you lots, I hope you’re happy, I really do.’ I said, ‘Me too.’ I just took this book out of that bag, things down opened it, and from the page I flicked open, When he came home, he warned me, ‘I’m Anthony’s letter fell out. I took the letter there, new things, taking my and my eyes filled with tears. I held it to girlfriend out tonight – I know you me and said, ‘Oh! On Valentine’s Day, you what could I understand I can’t spend Valentine’s Day showed me this with you.’ book and you gave me this letter to calm possibly want my heart. I said, ‘But you’ve done it already, from this lot? But because you sent me this huge bouquet. Oh, how I have been searching for it. Oh So off you go, enjoy your dinner.’ That my Anthony, you have reached out to me actually I think I was how it was last year, so this year I felt today with love even from beyond.’ I read so sad. I was in agony. Can you imagine if the letter again and again, and at the end it do need to tidy anyone had told me that that was the last says, ‘Love you lots, Mummy, Anthony xx’. Valentine’s Day he would ever phone me or So a little smile came back to my face, after this corner a little tell me he loved me? I would have said, ‘It everything that had happened that day. I can’t be true.’ got down on my knees and just said, ‘Thank bit . . .’ you.’ About an hour after I had steadied my emotions, I was sitting at my computer. To order your copy of For the Love of Anthony’s picture is beside that too. I had Anthony by Marie Fatayi-Williams, (Hodder decided I had to do some work. There were & Stoughton Publishers) at the special price books and paper bags scattered all around of £10.49 including p&p (RRP £12.99), the table and the computer, and I have please call 0870 755 2122 and quote offer code BSH316.

126 www.screennation.co.uk Pure Gold – Black British Talent > Krishna Maroo INSPIRE

“My work is inspired by my physical and emotional pain, with each painting PURE GOLD telling a story”. BLACK BRITISH TALENT

Screen Nation caught up with Adelaide is inspired by my physical and emotional Where do you see yourself in ten years actress Thandie Newton and comedienne Bassett is an amazing actress who deserves What do the Screen Nation awards mean to Damoah - artist, entrepreneur and all-round pain, with each painting telling a story. I am time? Tameka Empson. All of these people define more recognition than she gets. you? goddess. also inspired by my own life experiences along The plan is that I will be an established and black British talent. Favourite film? A positive way of recognising and rewarding with issues which affect the society in which respected artist with a successful gallery What do you do in your spare time? My favourite films change on a weekly basis! black talented individuals in the film and TV Adelaide Damoah is actually incredible, and we live. called Damoah Arts representing independent Apart from paint? I like to swim, I read when Right now my favourites are the last two that industry, a very good thing. so is her work. The self taught artist made her Do you come from an artistic family? world artists. I get the chance and I like to party, a lot. I watched - Japanese films called Old boy debut exhibition ‘Black Brits’ in 2006 and has The short answer is no! My Dad once sat In your opinion, who or what defines black Do you have a favourite TV/radio and Battle Royale. Amazing cinematography, For more information visit: now set up her own company - Damoah Arts, down with me in my house and tried to British talent? programme? crazy storylines and gory fight scenes! http://www.myspace.com/adelaidedamoah which represents independent world artists. produce a portrait of my Mother who was Talent according to the dictionary is defined Not really, because I work from home, the TV Do black British artists get the credit they http://uk.youtube.com/adelaidesart Who/what are you influences/inspiration? sitting next to him, let’s just say that she was as a person who possesses unusual innate is always on whilst I work and when I rest, so deserve? http://www.saatchi-gallery.co.uk/yourgallery/ I first became passionate about art during not impressed! ability in some field or activity. But in my I am a self-confessed TV addict and I watch No they do not in my opinion. There are artist/details.php?id=575 my secondary school years when I studied What are your plans for the future? opinion, there are many different forms all sorts of films, dramas, documentaries, plenty of talented black individuals in this the life and art of Mexican artist Frieda In terms of my work, I have eight exhibitions of talent, I come across them all the time, soaps and reality TV! Whilst driving, I do like country plugging away doing what they Pictures Images provided by Adelaide Khalo. Her work was so deeply personal and planned for the next five to six years. The from the every day unsung heroes to the to listen to BBC London and LBC 97.3 do best and not getting enough or any Damoah autobiographical that I could not help but be exhibitions will be mainly solo shows, but performers and artists who are in the Do you have a favourite black actor? recognition at all. However, the work that drawn in and her way of drawing inspiration I also plan to start to include other artists mainstream and underground. There are so I love Denzel Washington, Blair Underwood Screen Nation has been doing over the years from her own life was the catalyst that got in group shows organised by myself. The many examples I could give, for example the and Hugh Quarshie for their talent and their is starting to change that so that is a positive me moving in the same direction. My work ultimate aim is to set up the gallery. singer Mr Alexander, the actor Aml Ameen, ability to make my heart skip a beat! Angela thing.

128 www.screennation.co.uk www.screennation.co.uk 129 Poetic Justice > Carl Ramsay, Ishea Brown, Fiona McKinson, Simon Watson INSPIRE

Screen Nation asked four POETIC talented poets to inspire you with JUSTICE their lyricism. TV ON BLACK LET US CELEBRATE OUR COLOURFUL BEING ISHEA BROWN SIMON WATSON

I r e m e m b e r w h e n I w a s y o u n g B l a c k B r i t i s h f e m a l e b o o k w r i t e r s w h o w i n V i s u a l l y v i s i o n i s a p o e t i c a n d N o Pr o b l e m w a s o n T V, I a w a r d s a n d w r a p t h e i r h e a d s i n A f r i c a n l o v e r f e l t s o a t h o m e w h e n i t u s e d m a t e r i a l , n o t t ry i n g t o e s c a p e f r o m t h e i r r o o t s T i m e t o i n d u s t r i a l i s e t h e s e t o c o m e o n b e c a u s e t h e s e a n d h e r i t a g e . m o v e m e n t s o f c o l o u r p e o p l e o n T V, t h e y l o o ke d A l l b r i l l i a n t m i n d s i n s p i r e l i ke m e . B l a c k n e w s r e a d e r s w i t h h a r d c o r e A f r i c a n w o rt h n a m e s a n d t h e y s t a t e i t p r o u d l y w i t h o u t T h e s e l f i s t o b e c e l e b r a t e d T h e C o s b y S h o w w a s a n o t h e r o n e t h a t f e e l i n g a n y s h a m e . T h o u g h g r e e d t r i e s t o h a v e u s t a i n t ’ s f i x m a d e m e f e e l p r o u d a s t h e r e w a s a We s h a l l n o t b e i n v a i n i d o l s s u c c e s s f u l b l a c k f a m i l y o n t h e T V, c o u l d B l a c k r e p r e s e n t a t i v e s i n Pa r l i a m e n t J o y o u s o u r s o u l s t o t i m e l e s s s c e n e r e v i v a l t h a t o n e d a y b e m e ? c o n t r i b u t i n g t o t h e c h a n g i n g f a c e o f t h o s e i n c o n t r o l , f e w a r e t h e s e b u t i t ’ s a s t a rt . C e l e b r a t e t h a t w e a r e n o t c o l o u r e d b u t I r e m e m b e r t h e t h i n g t h a t r e a l l y u s e d t o c o l o u rf u l a n n o y m e , y o u k n o w t h e s t e r e o t y p i c a l W h e r e a r e t h e l e a d e r s o f t h e n e w w o r l d t h e We s h i n e a n d r i s e o n e v e ry s c r e e n i m a g e o f a b l a c k f e m a l e , d a r k - s k i n n e d , o n e s t o b r i n g t h e c h a n g e ? N o t h i n g l i ke t h a t t o ke n p a r a d ox i c a l l y l o w c u t h a i r, p l a i n J a n e l o o k i n g a n d j u s t o r i g i n a l r i d i c u l o u s l y b o r i n g t o ke n k i n d ! Yo u k n o w t h e o n e s w i t h a r e a l h e a rt , v i s i o n E v e ry h u e h a s p o w e rf u l s t o ry t o t e l l a n d t h e w i l l t o b r i n g r e a l c h a n g e . A s c r i p t t h a t m a n y h e a rt s f e e l f u l f i l l e d Pi m p s a n d s i n g l e m u m s o n a l o w i n c o m e A r o u s i n g e m o t i o n s o n c e b e f o r e l o s t s t ru n g o u t o n d ru g s l i v i n g o n a c o u n c i l Wi t h t h e c o u r a g e o f a w a rr i o r a n d t h e w i s d o m Fi n d i n g o u r s e l v e s a g a i n i n r e m e m b r a n c e e s t a t e t h e s t e r e o t y p i c a l l i s t g o e s o n . T h e s e t o f a w i s e s o u l , a c h a n g e i s g o n n a c o m e , o f i m a g e s o f h o w a l l b l a c k p e o p l e s u p p o s e d l y r e m e m b e r t h a t s o n g ? T h e c o l o u rf u l d r a m a t h e a t r i c a l c o m m u n i c a t e , l i v e a n d g e n e r a l l y c a rry o n . W h a t ’ s y o u r c o n t r i b u t i o n i n t h i s t i m e o f 4 a l l B r i t i s h c i t i z e n o f h o t d e s c e n t i t i s f o r u s O v e r t h e y e a r s t h e r e ’ s b e e n a c h a n g e h a v e c h a n g e ? t o k n o w y o u s e e n ? T h a t o u r p r o c r e a t i n g b r i n g s w a rm t h t o t h e T h e r e a r e a l o t m o r e p o s i t i v e i m a g e s o n O n w a r d s o l d i e r’ s t h o s e w h o a n s w e r t h e c a l l , w o r l d , t h e T V. t o b r e a k d o w n a n d t h r o w a w a y t h e b oxe s w e Re s t a s s u r e e a r s a r e d r a w n h a v e b e e n p l a c e d i n f o r s o l o n g . A n d l i p s q u i v e r i n s u s p e n s e a t h o w w e a c t Yo u k n o w t h e o n e s t h a t r e a l l y t u rn o n s t e r e o t y p e s o n t h e i r h e a d . Wr i t e a n e w c h a p t e r t h a t a l l o w s r e a l A c t o r s t o e v e ry d a y i s s u e s ex p r e s s i o n o f w h o w e t ru l y a r e t o l i v e o n . O n l y t ru e c o n v i c t i o n Yo u k n o w t h e o n e s w i t h b l a c k m e n w h o S t r o n g e s t t h r o u g h t h o s e o f h a r a s s e d a d v i s e o n h o w t o b u d g e t y o u r m o n e y a n d F o l l o w y o u r d r e a m s m a ke a p o s i t i v e m e l a n i n p a y o f f y o u r m o rt g a g e i n t w o y e a r s . c o n t r i b u t i o n b y l e t t i n g t h e w o r l d s e e h o w H e r o e s a n d w a rr i o r s u n t o l d d i v e r s e , t a l e n t e d a n d s p e c i a l w e a r e . A r e g i v e n a n o p p o rt u n i t y t h r o u g h f u t u r e © I-by-design c h i l d r e n W h e r e f a t e i s y e t a g a i n c o m p o s e d Copyright © 2006

www.screennation.co.uk 131 Poetic Justice > Carl Ramsay, Ishea Brown, Fiona McKinson, Simon INSPIRE

MORE THAN ONE GOD BLACK JEWEL BY CARL RAMSEY FIONA MCKINSON

Would U believe Jet: like black jewel that we believe charming, shining bright in more than one Set in stone screen God? beyond action, We line up and camera, and light! sign up and dance transformed back into that mindless dancer Dazzling spectators with creative in the raving church Better we welcome the disaster and just pay talent and grace. of wine up. contribution to whoever your master As we praise the God of rave Live life a lickle piece faster – While away the Yet some won’t risk remembering. A God who doesn’t soul save or give gifts to years/with wilder peers who shed secret silent Instead they forget your face. the brave tears about wanting something different but When Decoration Day dawns But preaches the gospel of sex appeal don’t quite know how to go about it You lie unadorned. Where DJ’s and MC’s act as pastors of the Pick up the Bible/ Read the Qu’ran but still touch and feel doubt it So unembellished black jewel must be As women cavort and dance in their outfits We still believe in more than one God pawned. like a second skin How many of us roll up the gum papers to Relinquished in times of impoverishment Where confidence comes from the bottom sniff the vapors of our imagination black jewel goes missing. Untraced steps of bottles of Brandy, Vodka and Gin Need to break down the weed and crush up mark your journey on your way to future. And ravers spin the Seeds / B4 we can truly speak elevation Out of their minds / Stop smoking and look at the state our Like black bird with clipped wings you Leaving their reason and troubles behind children are in travel to new belts. As they get caught up in the world of We see this but still no building or owning A far you find blind eyes opened, televised musicality buildings where each one can teach one. Curtains drawn, Where promo videos inform local gangsters Put down your issues for a second – listen to They see you and the many who came and their next-door hoes and reach one. before you. How to dress to express that they are in the It doesn’t have to be as heavy as taking on know - of not owning your own soul full personal – responsibility. No more partitions, no more hidden Music and fashion Gods have a firm hold Just know that U have the ability to respond talent. with one doctrine that if U don’t look the and do so. The window of the world has exposed you part then stay in the cold So that we can at least acknowledge the and them. So now we have a queue of the Young and beast and move slow. The shining glass reflects some difference the Old who are desperately trying to re- Towards a greater sense of content / Where in high definition and on widescreens. capture that euphoric high money is better spent and heightened Attempting to find his Miss Right and her attention is lent to what really matters. Reflecting you as me or he or she Perfect Guy The dreams of grandeur of my Grandma Turning fiction into fact Just as the musical video suggests have been shattered. Whilst hope for us all Telling stories untold A place where men are judged by their has been battered. Breaking the mould. money and thuggery But not yet to non-existence. Whilst wannabe Princess is valued simply by All we really need is the want to and some But black jewels shine brightest beyond the size and shape of her breast on chest persistence the glass. It’s one confused mess Developing a greater resistance to the selling When like goldsmith they With no apparent beginning or end of our mind space. engrave their own cases. So even if U spend the next Ten nights in I’m not just detailing what some might call And like onyx or opal they – realizing that this is not the answer the black race. define their own roles in their Guaranteed within the next few weeks U But each and all a’ dem face in our airy cyber jewellery boxes. community – where there is no common unity. Copyright © 2006

132 www.screennation.co.uk Historical Ghana > Elvina Quaison, Ghana Black Stars Network INFORM

Ghana’s history has been a turbulent and the Caribbean were on the rise. By the 18th In 1947 the united Gold Coast Convention difficult one; however the essence of Ghana Century there were English, Danes, Swedes (UGCC) emerged comprising of Kwame has remained a people on the rise, working and Portuguese residing and trading in Nkrumah, George Grant, Akuffo Addo, hard to overcome any and all adversity. Ghana. William Ofori Atta, Obetsebi Lamptey, Ako After 50 years of struggle, transition and By the 19th century there remained only Agyei and J Tsiboe. Their aim was to ‘lead development, it is with excitement we wait to the British and the Danes, in 1874 the Dutch their country into a new age’. see, as well as contribute, to Ghana now so withdrew and the Gold Coast became a crown Ten years later their dream became a in 50 years time we have something to look colony. reality when on the March 6, 1957 Ghana back and be proud of. The influence of the British on the Gold emerged as the first Sub Saharan African Coast was far reaching impacting on culture, country to gain Independence. Ghana is a name which represents a the geographical structure of Ghana and the [email protected] country rich in gold, culture, warriors and forms of industry and trade that took place. building relationships for trade, growth and Following World War I Germanic Togoland sustainability. was added to the Gold Coast extending the Ancient Ghana was located 400 miles land mass of the British colony and creating North-West of where modern Ghana can be the geographical boundaries we know as found today. Ghana was the name given to modern Ghana. the kings in the Wagadugu Empire; in 1240 Movements for political freedom started LEADERS OF GHANA AD it was absorbed into the larger Mali soon after World War II, this movement 1957 - 2007 Empire. There are descendents in modern of thought was influenced by a realisation Ghana who can be traced to the Mamprussi, that colonisation was a form of oppression Dagomba and Gonja people of the North. similar to what many had seen while fighting > 1957: Mar 6 - Dr Kwame Before Ghana became known by its for their colonial rulers. At the same time Nkrumah is inaugurated as current name it was given the name of Mina there were a number of Ghanaians who were President of Ghana, the first by the Portuguese, before receiving the studying in various European countries Sub Saharan African country to name Gold Coast by the British which is the including Britain, France, Germany and gain Independence name that held the longest. As its name sake Russia. They were being taught ideas of > 1966: Feb 24 - While suggests Ghana’s land was rich with gold this freedom and equality, as a result social Nkrumah is in China, a coup quickly attracted the attention of traders consciousness was developing fast. takes place bringing the from the Arab world and Europe. In 1945 a monumental conference took National Liberation Council (NLC), led by General In 1482 the Portuguese erected a place in Manchester, a number of prominent Joseph Ankrah, into power. permanent structure, Elmina’s Castle, this member’s of Africa’s history were in > 1969: General Ankrah replaced by Brigadier was to trade in gold, ivory and slaves. In attendance such as Hastings Banda, Dr Akwasi Afrifa 1958 the Dutch arrived and built forts at Kwame Nkrumah, Obafemi Awolowo and August - an election for a new National Assembly Komenda and Kormantsil. It was during this Kenyatta. This conference ignited action in is held, the Progress Party (PP) wins and is led period that interest focused on slaves as the those who had been thinking about freedom by Dr Kofi Busia, who is subsequently appointed needs of the plantations in the Americas and for their home countries and pan-Africanism. President. > 1972: Lieutenant Colonel Ignatius Acheampong leads a military coup that brings National Redemption Council to power. > 1979: May - A coup is attempted and fails led by Flt-Lt Jerry Rawlings June 4 - Junior officers stage Ghana's first violent coup. Armed Forces Revolutionary Council formed under Flight Lieutenant Jerry John Rawlings. HISTORICAL July - Hilla Limann elected president in July. > 1981: Rawlings stages second coup, December 31. Provisional National Defence Council established with Rawlings as chairman. > 1992: Jerry Rawlings elected president GHANA November 3 in national presidential election. > 1993: Ghana's Fourth Republic inaugurated January 4 with the swearing in of Rawlings as president > 1996: Jerry Rawlings re-elected president for second and last term > 2000: Presidential and Parliamentary elections took place on 7 December. Opposition leader John Kufuor becomes the new president of Ghana > 2001: Kufuor sworn in as the new president on January 7

www.screennation.co.uk 135 How to beautify yourself for the Screen Nation Awards > Jennifer Akoto MIRROR

optimum movement. Shorter styles should opt for a dramatic change, (which still should suit you) adding hairpieces to create a soft ‘updo’ style leaving strands to frame the face. 1 WEEK TO GO This should be the last week of your Dermalogica facials, however now is the time to book the ‘special’ for the big day. This is the Crème De La Mer exfoliation facial treatment (£95). This can be booked at Harrods (0207 734 1234). Although this may appear costly the results, I can personally say are amazing! And well worth the price. This should be booked now for the day before the event. This is also the time to book you manicure, pedicure and eyebrow shaping. If your wallet is feeling generous then this all can be done at Harrods’s Urban Retreat. If not your local salon should also have manicurists and beauticians on site. Don’t forget this should be booked for the day before the event. THE DAY This is the day after your Crème HOW TO de la Mer facial and your skin will look like honey and feel like BEAUTIFY silk, this creates a perfect base for your make up. YOURSELF FOR THE Begin by applying MAC’s Select SP15 liquid foundation SCREEN NATION with a brush. This ensures that you get an even, yet light finish. AWARDS (Don’t worry if you look a bit chalky initially but it needs a good five minutes to blend into your skin). Simple yet dramatic should be the theme of the night, focusing on the mouth or the eyes. Ladies, read on for the most glamorous treatment will be devised, according to your If you are of a darker complexion, the latter beauty products to use for the hottest awards skin type. should be your choice. ceremony of the year Your daily shower routine will now include For the eyes, use NARS eyeshadow in Night a daily exfoliation (Instead of every 3 days). porter. This is a black eye shadow with green Yippee! You’ve just received your invitation After showering slap on Clinique’s Sparkle and gold specks. This gives a shimmery to the Screen Nation Awards. Without further Skin exfoilator (£16.50) to slough away dead smoky effect. For the rest of the face I ado, let the preparations begin. skin cells, leaving your skin sparkly and would suggest Using MAC products, as they smooth. always lead with current seasons trends. 4 WEEKS TO GO After applying the eye shadow, follow with Pop down to Harvey Nichols and pick up 2 WEEKS TO GO lashings of pro lash mascara in black and line Dior’s new wonder body gel, Plasticity (£30) Now is the time to take a trip the lower inner eye with their eye pencil in this gel does exactly what it claims. It can down to your local hairdresser Engraved. As this is such a dramatic look, the actually give your body slimmer appearance. to discuss possible styles for the rest of the\face should be kept quite nude. Even after 8 days your skin can appear up to big event. Try not to stick to your For your cheeks, use a bronze style blusher; 30% smoother. This gel should be massaged usual everyday style, which is why try Format, a peachy brown shade that into your skin twice a day for maximum it’s wise to attend this visit to your also acts a bronzer when brushed over the effects. stylist. This season hair still seems cheekbones. To finish add a slick of lip-gloss This is the time to start to book your weekly to be following the natural trend. If in the form of their lip gelee in Slicked Pink. facials, to achieve the most from your skin. you want to wear your hair down Dermalogica offer a ‘face mapping’ service. for this event then I would suggest So now your hair’s done and your nails are Prior to you facial, every area of your opting for a style with loose curls, looking good too, you’re good to go and enjoy face will be analysed and a specific facial almost waves, allowing your hair the do.

www.screennation.co.uk 137 The List – What’s the point of wearing the right sized bra? > Kyra Pitter MIRROR

Kyra Pitter, owner of The Fitting Studio breaks 2> Raise your hands over down the benefits of wearing a good-fitted your head. Is there ‘fallout’? bra. Are your boobs poking out from beneath the bottom of your bra? The media is full of people on the good-fitted- Does your bra ride up at the back? bra band wagon including Oprah Winfrey. This could mean that the band size With nearly 80 per cent of women in the of your bra is too big, which also UK wearing incorrectly fitted bras, for the means that your boobs are not being sake of boobs everywhere let us hope and supported. pray that this is one wagon that does not run 3> Does your cup runneth over? out of steam. Also known as the 'four-boob Discovering your right bra size can be life- syndrome’. Your bra is too small changing. This might sound a bit over the top for your breasts, making excess but it is easy to underestimate how much your breast tissue pop above the figure can change when your boobs are in the cups. This looks terrible right place and not sitting on your stomach, (especially in a closely fitted knees or toes. You can even look pounds outfit), but is easily avoided by a wearing your right lighter and it is cheaper than any boob job. bigger cup size. bra size can feel very But, “Hello?”, even if you suspect that you 4> Not all bras are equal. Every strange in the beginning are wearing the wrong bra size how do you go brand or style within a brand but, please, please bear about finding the perfect fit? measures slightly differently with it. Be prepared to be Men, read on to find out how you can do in the cup and band. Just pleasantly shocked at the your bit for the cause and help the lady in as you would never different ‘bra-d’ image your life solve her bra related issues. Next buy a pair of shoes you see in the mirror. time you see her in her bra, take a sneaky without trying 6> No matter what peak and see if any of the points below relate. them on for size, THE LIST: your age your Ladies, the following bra-fitting hints and bras can differ boobs can look up tips should help you find your bra nirvana. depending on WHAT’S THE and perky. their exact 7> It is a myth 1> Back sizes correlate roughly to a dress cut and make, POINT OF that sexy, fun or size. For example, a size 10 woman should so always try beautiful lingerie probably wear a 28-30 bra back size, size 12 a before you buy. WEARING THE is reserved for the 30-32, size 14 a 32-34 and so on. 5> The feeling of smaller cup sizes. RIGHT SIZED 8> There is no such thing as multi-purpose BRA? bra. Is the bra you are wearing enhancing your outfit? Or giving the critics more to bitch about. Maybe you should consider the following basic bra shapes to create the perfect shape and outline?

A plunge bra offers superb shape and support and maximises your cleavage for those sexy low front numbers. A strapless bra is ideal for off-the-shoulder, strapless, or strappy outfits. A t-Shirt bra is great for really close fitting tops. It is seamless to create a smooth and clean silhouette. Once you have been fitted correctly, you too will be feeling the rather strong urge to go over to women who are so not getting it right and shout “Woman pick dem up!”

Appointments can be made with Kyra Pitter at The Fitting Studio phone: 0208 613 8038 email: [email protected] web: www.thefittingstudio.co.uk 49 Dartmouth Road, Forest Hill, SE23 3HN

138 www.screennation.co.uk On the cover Let’s make up > Sophia Jackson MIRROR > Ihunna Eberendu MIRROR ON THE COVER

H e r e ’ s a s n e a k b e h i n d t h e s c e n e s o n t h e w i t h O x y g e n M o d e l s . e a t a n d h o w d o y o u s t a y s l i m ? S c r e e n N a t i o n c o v e r s h o o t a n d a n i n t e rv i e w S c re e n N a t i o n : I f y o u d i d n’ t g e t i n t o M a rg o : N o . A l t h o u g h I h a v e a h e a l t h y w i t h o u r c o v e r g i r l J a m a i c a n - b o rn M a r g o m o d e l l i n g w h a t w o u l d y o u h a v e l i ke d t o d o ? a p p e t i t e , m y b o d y i s n a t u r a l l y s l i m b u t I M o rr i s o n , 2 4 M a rg o : I w o u l d h a v e g o n e t o u n i v e r s i t y a n d d o j o g a n d exe r c i s e t o f e e l e n e rg i s e d b u t LET’S s t u d i e d Fr e n c h . I t h o u g h t a b o u t t e a c h i n g b u t g e n e r a l l y t h e w o m e n i n m y f a m i l y a r e b u s t y C a t h y H a s s a n , p h o t o g r a p h e r a n d c r e a t i v e k n o w n o w t h a t I d o n’ t h a v e t h e p a t i e n c e . I a n d v o l u p t u o u s . I d r i n k a l o t o f w a t e r b e c a u s e d i r e c t o r b e h i n d t h e s t r i k i n g S c r e e n N a t i o n a l w a y s w a n t e d t o b e a m o d e l b u t i n J a m a i c a a s a l i t t l e g i r l I l i ke d t h e t a s t e o f w a t e r a n d m a g a z i n e c o v e r r e v e a l s t h e m a g i c b e h i n d t h e t h e r e a r e n o r e a l o p p o r t u n i t i e s t o g o a b r o a d e a t a l o t o f f r u i t s a n d v e g e t a b l e s a s t h a t ’ s h o w MAKE c o n c e p t : a p a r t f r o m M i s s J a m a i c a a n d I w a s n’ t I w a s b r o u g h t u p . I l o v e j e r k c h i c ke n , a c ke e “ I w a n t e d t h e c o v e r t o c o n v e y t h e l a u g h t e r i n t e r e s t e d i n t h a t . W h e n I m e t D w i g h t Pe t e r s a n d s a l t f i s h a n d e v e r y t h i n g J a m a i c a n . a n d s a d n e s s t h a t g o e s h a n d i n h a n d w i t h t h e I r a n w i t h t h e o p p o r t u n i t y. I a m s t i l l g o i n g S c re e n N a t i o n : I s t h e re l e s s w o r k f o r b l a c k d i f f e r e n t m a s k s t h a t a c t o r s w e a r a n d t h e w a y t o d o a Ps y c h o l o g y d e g r e e w i t h t h e O p e n m o d e l s ? t h e y m o r p h i n t o d i f f e r e n t r o l e s . T h e m o d e l ’ s U n i v e r s i t y, t h o u g h . M a rg o : Ye s . I t ’ s a r e a l s h a m e t h a t t h e r e ’ s i m a g e w a s s h o t a n d t h e n t h e S c r e e n N a t i o n S c re e n N a t i o n : S o , w h a t’ s i t l i ke b e i n g a l e s s w o r k f o r b l a c k m o d e l s a n d t h e r e ’ s s t i l l a w a r d m a s k w a s m o r p h e d o v e r h e r f a c e . m o d e l ? m a j o r r o o m f o r i m p r o v e m e n t . T h e r e a r e a “ I g o t a v i s i o n a n d i t ’ s g r e a t t o a c t u a l l y s e e M a rg o : UP i t m a ke d a y l i g h t . I t w a s i n t e r e s t i n g t o s h o o t I t ’ s g r e a t . a n d s e e t h e v i s i o n w o r k . M a rg o ’ s [ t h e m o d e l ’ s ] I t ’ s a n O u r a m a z i n g c o v e r s h o t t h i s y e a r i s c o u rt e s y L e n a : I w a s s t u d y i n g a t t h e t i m e . I ’ d b e e n S c re e n N a t i o n : W h i c h b e a u t y e s s e n t i a l d o f a c e w o r k s p e r f e c t l y a s s h e ’ s q u i t e s c u l p t u r e d . e a s y o f m a ke - u p a rt i s t Le n a H rn c a r o v a s t u d y i n g B u s i n e s s , L e i s u r e & To u r i s m a n d y o u n e v e r l e a v e h o m e w i t h o u t ? “ We u s e d g o l d b o d y p a i n t o n t h e m o d e l l i f e s t y l e . m a ke- u p b e c a m e o n e o f m y p r o j e c t s . I ’ d L e n a : T h e r e a r e a f e w ( l a u g h s ) . A s a m a ke- u p a n d i t t o o k f o u r h o u r s t o a c h i e v e t h e l o o k M y f i r s t L e n a H r n c a r o v a’ s c r e d i t s i n c l u d e s h o w s a l w a y s b e e n c r e a t i v e ; a n d I h a d t o d o s o m u c h a r t i s t i t ’ s h a r d . I w o u l d s a y m a s c a r a , e y e l i n e r w e w a n t e d b u t M a rg o d i d n’ t m o a n . S h e ke p t l o v e i s f o r S i e m e n s , S w a r o v s k i , Fi r e t r a p , Re d o r r e s e a r c h o n i t a n d t h e n I d e c i d e d t o s t u d y a n d a n e y e b r o w p e n c i l . h e r d i g n i t y. S h e h e l p e d t o b r i n g t h e m a s k t o t r a v e l l i n g D e a d , Re e b o k , L’ O r e a l a n d Vi d a l S a s s o o n m a ke- u p . T h a t w a s f o u r y e a r s a g o . S c re e n N a t i o n : D o a n y o t h e r m a ke- u p l i f e a n d m a ke i t o rg a n i c . I t w a s i n t e r e s t i n g a n d I ’ v e a m o n g s t o t h e r s . S h e h a s w o r ke d w i t h S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t h a s b e e n t h e m o s t a r t i s t s i n s p i re y o u ? t h e w a y t h i s i n a n i m a t e o b j e c t c o m e s t o l i f e b e e n t o c e l e b r i t i e s s u c h a s s u p e r m o d e l s J o d i e K i d d d i f f i c u l t b r i e f y o u h a v e h a d t o f u l f i l t o d a t e ? L e n a : O f c o u r s e I h a v e t o b e a w a r e o f t h e a n d L e n a H r n c a r o v a’ s , t h e m a ke- u p a r t i s t L i b y a & E r i n O’ C o n n o r a n d p r e s e n t e r M e l a n i e L e n a : T h i s h a s b e e n o n e o f t h e m o s t f a s h i o n s a n d w h a t i s o n t h e m a r ke t s o I g e t f o l l o w e d t h e b r i e f c l o s e l y. T h e m o d e l h a d w h i c h S y ke s . T V- w i s e h e r p r o j e c t s h a v e i n c l u d e d c h a l l e n g i n g . T h e r e h a v e b e e n t i m e s w h e r e t h e m a g a z i n e s f r o m a b r o a d . T h e r e a r e m a n y t h e p e r f e c t f a c e a n d f e a t u r e s t o r e p l i c a t e w a s t h e B r i t a i n’ s N ex t To p M o d e l a n d T h e C l o t h e s I h a v e h a d t o d o m a ke- u p i n [ d i f f i c u l t ] m a ke- u p a r t i s t s t h a t I ’ v e h a d t h e c h a n c e t o t h e m a s k’ s Af r i c a n f e a t u r e s a n d h e r i t a g e g r e a t e s t I feel lucky I can do what I do S h o w 2 0 0 7 . T h e r i s i n g c r e a t i v e s t a r s p e a k s c o n d i t i o n s ; i n t h e r a i n o r o u t s i d e . T h i s w a s a s s e s s l i ke G i n a B r o o ke , A s h l e y Wa r d a n d [ i t o r i g i n a t e s f r o m G h a n a ] . I w a n t e d i t t o t r i p o f t o S c r e e n N a t i o n a b o u t t h e u p s a n d d o w n s c h a l l e n g i n g . K a y M o n t a n a . I ’ v e l e a r n t l o t s f r o m t h e m . r e p r e s e n t t h e e s s e n c e o f S c r e e n N a t i o n w h i c h a l l a s I o f t h e m a ke- u p i n d u s t r y a n d s h a r e s s o m e S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t a re t h e b e s t a n d w o r s t E v e r y t i m e y o u w o r k w i t h s o m e o n e d i f f e r e n t r e f l e c t s t h e ex p e r i e n c e o f Af r i c a n p e o p l e i n m e t C o l o n e l G a d d a f i . I h a v e a l s o w o r ke d i n l o t o f h a i r s t y l i s t s w h o d o n’ t k n o w a n y t h i n g i n s i d e r s e c r e t s . t h i n g s a b o u t y o u r j o b ? y o u a l w a y s l e a r n f r o m e a c h o t h e r. W h e n y o u f r o n t o f a n d b e h i n d t h e c a m e r a . Fr a n c e , U S, S p a i n , I t a l y, S o u t h Af r i c a a n d a b o u t a f r o h a i r. I d o n’ t w e a r w e a v e s o r h a i r S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t w a s t h e i n s p i r a t i o n L e n a : T h e b e s t t h i n g s a r e t h a t w i t h m a ke- u p s t o p l e a r n i n g y o u b e c o m e u n i n s p i r e d . “ I t w a s i m p o r t a n t t o ke e p t h e c o n c e p t t i g h t e n j o y m e e t i n g d i f f e r e n t p e o p l e . I ’ v e m a d e ex t e n s i o n s a n d s o m e s t y l i s t s f r e a k o u t a n d I b e h i n d t h e c o v e r s h o o t ? t h e r e a r e n o l i m i t s . Yo u c a n ex p r e s s s o m u c h S c re e n N a t i o n : W h i c h c e l e b r i t y w o u l d y o u a s w e w e r e u s i n g r a w m a t e r i a l s s o h a d t o m a ke a m a z i n g f r i e n d s . I f e e l l u c ky I c a n d o w h a t j u s t t h i n k ‘b e c r e a t i v e – y o u’ r e a h a i r s t y l i s t ’ . L e n a : We t r i e d t o d o s o m e t h i n g d i f f e r e n t w i t h m a ke- u p . T h e r e a r e n o b o u n d a r i e s . l o v e t o m a ke u p ; f o r g o o d o r b a d re a s o n s ? s u r e t h e p a i n t d i d n’ t d r y, t h a t i t w a s t h e r i g h t I d o . I w o r k o n c o m m e r c i a l s , p r i n t s a n d t h e A l s o , s o m e m a ke- u p a r t i s t s d o n’ t h a v e y o u r r a t h e r t h a n t a k i n g a p i c t u r e o f a m o d e l w i t h Yo u c a n r e a l l y c h a n g e p e o p l e a n d g i v e t h e m L e n a : J e n n i f e r L o p e z . T h e p e r s o n w h o n e e d s k i n d o f g o l d . I f i t w a s t o o m u c h o f a s h i n y c a t w a l k – I d o e v e r y t h i n g . T h e b a d s i d e i s t h e s k i n t o n e s o y o u r s k i n l o o k s f u n n y. t h e m a s k . We d e c i d e d t o m a ke h e r i n t o t h e m o r e c o n f i d e n c e . T h e w o r s t t h i n g s I w o u l d a m a ke o v e r i s A m y Wi n e h o u s e . S h e n e e d s a g o l d i t w o u l d h a v e l o o ke d c h i n t z y a n d c h e a p . w o r k c a n g e t s l o w a n d i t ’ s c o m p e t i t i v e . A l s o , S c re e n N a t i o n : W h o d o y o u a d m i re i n t h e m a s k . Fo r t h e c o v e r w e u s e d t h e i n s p i r a t i o n s a y a r e t h e c o n d i t i o n s t h a t y o u h a v e t o w o r k m a ke-o v e r a n d s o d o e s B r i t n e y. B u t I w o u l d We c h o s e t o s h o o t o n w h i t e t o ke e p t h e i m a g e t h e r a t e s h a v e g o n e d o w n b e c a u s e t h e r e a r e s o m o d e l l i n g i n d u s t r y ? t o m a ke h e r i n t o t h e m a s k b u t y o u c a n s e e a i n ; s o m e t i m e s t h e l o n g h o u r s . S o m e t i m e s y o u l o v e t o m a ke u p J L o ; t o s e e i f s h e r e a l l y i s s o a e s t h e t i c a l l y c l e a n . I f w e h a d s h o t o n b l a c k m a n y m o d e l s . T h e i n d u s t r y i s s a t u r a t e d . Yo u Margo: Naomi Campbell – I think she’s a good l i t t l e b i t o f s k i n w i t h t h e p a i n t d r i p p i n g s o i t d o n’ t k n o w w h e r e t h e l o c a t i o n i s g o i n g t o b e b e a u t i f u l . l i ke t h e 2 0 0 6 S c r e e n N a t i o n Aw a r d s m a g a z i n e a l s o h a v e t o b e s o c a r e f u l n o t t o b e t r i c ke d b y model and has been doing it for ages. She l o o k s l i ke i t ’ s m e l t i n g . u n t i l t h e l a s t m i n u t e . B u t , I w o u l d s a y t h e r e S c re e n N a t i o n : D o y o u h a v e a n y t r a d e t i p s c o v e r I d i d , i t w o u l d h a v e l o o ke d m o o d i e r. d o d g y a g e n c i e s , t o o . wanted it, went for it and is still holding on. S c re e n N a t i o n : W h e n d i d y o u d e c i d e y o u are more positives than negatives; I love my y o u c a n g i v e t o a c h i e v i n g f l a w l e s s m a ke u p ? S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t w a s y o u r f i r s t c a t w a l k She’s fearless. I admire her. I like Tyra Banks w a n t e d t o b e a m a ke- u p a r t i s t ? job. L e n a : N e v e r l e a v e t h e h o u s e w i t h o u t m a s c a r a ! ONE-TO-ONE WITH THE ex p e r i e n c e l i ke ? and any really good, successful black model. T h e r e a r e l i t t l e t r i c k s y o u c a n l e a r n . O n e o f SCREEN NATION COVER GIRL M a rg o : I t w a s s c a r y a n d m y k n e e s w e r e S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t w a s d o i n g t h e S c re e n t h e b e s t t r i c k s i s e y e l a s h c u r l e r s w h i c h n o t – MARGO MORRISON t r e m b l i n g – I t h o u g h t I w o u l d f a l l . N o w, I l o v e N a t i o n c o v e r l i ke ? m a n y p e o p l e u s e . E y e l a s h c u r l e r s , m a s c a r a , S c re e n N a t i o n : H o w d i d y o u g e t i n t o d o i n g f a s h i o n s h o w s b e c a u s e a s s o o n a s y o u M a rg o : E v e r y o n e w a s f u n t o w o r k w i t h a n d l i p- g l o s s a n d a l i t t l e b i t o f b l u s h e r i f n o t h i n g m o d e l l i n g ? g e t o n s t a g e y o u j u s t f o rg e t e v e r y t h i n g . C a t h y H a s s a n [ t h e p h o t o g r a p h e r ] w a s g o o d . e l s e . A l i t t l e b i t o f c o n c e a l e r g o e s a l o n g w a y. M a rg o : I w e n t t o a n a l l - g i r l s s c h o o l a n d S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t q u a l i t i e s d o y o u n e e d T h e h a i r s t y l i s t w a s c o o l a n d t h e m a ke- u p S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t a d v i c e w o u l d y o u g i v e w a s d i s c o v e r e d i n H i g h -S c h o o l b y a s c o u t t o b e a s u c c e s s f u l m o d e l ? a r t i s t w a s g o o d . S h e u s e d g o l d , l i q u i d m a ke- u p Never leave the house t o a n y o n e w h o w o u l d l i ke t o g e t i n t o t h e [ D w i g h t Pe t e r s ] w h o w a s l o o k i n g f o r m o d e l s M a rg o : B e a u t y i s n o t e n o u g h a s t h e r e a r e s o t o p a i n t m y f a c e a n d w a n t e d m e t o l o o k l i ke I i n d u s t r y ? t o i n t r o d u c e t o t h e i n t e r n a t i o n a l s c e n e . H e m a n y b e a u t i f u l g i r l s b u t y o u d o n e e d t o h a v e w a s m e l t i n g . I w a s t o p l e s s a n d i t w a s c o l d a n d L e n a : T h a t i t c a n b e d e c e i v i n g . I t i s a h a r d m e t m y m o t h e r a n d a t 1 6 d u r i n g t h e E a s t e r g o o d s k i n . A l s o , a n i c e p e r s o n a l i t y a n d b e b y t h e t i m e w e ’ d f i n i s h e d m y t r o u s e r s w e r e i n d u s t r y t o g e t i n t o . Ke e p g o i n g a n d y o u h a v e v a c a t i o n I w e n t w i t h h i m t o N e w Yo r k f o r t w o c a l m , e a s y t o g e t a l o n g w i t h , p r o f e s s i o n a l a n d g o l d a n d I w e n t h o m e o n t h e t u b e w i t h g o l d without mascara! t o ke e p c r e a t i v e . I w o u l d s a y y o u h a v e t o b e i n w e e k s a n d t o o k m o r e p h o t o s . I t h e n f i n i s h e d h a v e g o o d t i m e- ke e p i n g – n o t j u s t t a l l a n d a l l o v e r m e . I ’ m l o o k i n g f o r w a r d t o s e e i n g t h e t h e r i g h t p l a c e a t t h e r i g h t t i m e . G e t a s m u c h s c h o o l a n d t o o k m y A- l e v e l s . At 1 9 I t o o k a s k i n n y. f r o n t c o v e r a n d i t ’ s g r e a t t o g e t c o v e r s i n y o u r i n s p i r a t i o n a s y o u c a n .

Images provided by Cathy Hassan y e a r o u t a n d c a m e t o t h e L o n d o n a n d w o r ke d S c re e n N a t i o n : W h a t k i n d o f f o o d d o y o u b o o k .

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Ainsley Harriott & Ray Fearon Noel Clarke & Aml Ameen Charles Thompson, Lyricist and guest Caroline Chikeze Tim Campbell and Alex Amosu Anjela Lauren Smith

Amoy Chung, Dir Screen Nation & Becky, Tractor Chucky Venice and Phina Put your hands in the air Films Oruche like you just don’t care Sky Andrew & Gillian Joseph Mica Paris & Guest Rakie Ayola, Wil Johnson, Kwame Kwei-Armah Makosi and guest Vanessa BB6 & Anya, Make me a Supermodel 105 New Bond Street T 020 7491 8105 www.flawlessandco.co.uk Registered In England & Wales London W1S 1SX F 020 7629 1911 Info@flawlessandco.co.uk Company Reg No. 591 5678 The Wisdom Page > Nicke Adebowale KNOW THE WISDOM PAGE Screen Nation gives you some amazing facts so you can impress your fellow diners at this year’s awards night.

> The Color Purple shares the record for the > Marianne Jean-Baptiste the first black most Oscar nominations without a single win; British actress nominated for an Academy it got 11 nods in 1985 but no prizes! award is also an accomplished musician. She composed the score for Mike Leigh’s Secrets > John Singleton is the youngest person ever and Lies follow up Career Girls and has to be nominated for a Best Director Academy recorded an album of blues songs. Award for his debut feature Boys ‘n’ the Hood at the tender age of 24. > 2005 best supporting actress BAFTA winner Thandie Newton was first choice for > Jamie Foxx is part of an elite group of Lucy Lui’s role in Charlie’s Angles. She had father was in the US Air force and much of actors (just 10) to be nominated for both Best to pull out when the Mission Impossible II her early childhood was spent in Europe. Leading and Best Supporting Actor in the shoot overran. MI 2 went on to gross over same year. $200 million almost twice as much at the US > Oscar Micheaux was the first African- box office than Charlie’s Angels. American to make a film with 1919’s The > It wasn’t until 2004 that Phylicia Rashad Homesteader. He also gave screen legend Paul became the first black actress to win a Tony > 2002 Academy Award nominee Queen Robeson his first film role in 1924’s Body and award in the ‘Play’ category for Lorraine Latifah was the first female hip-hop artist to Soul. Hansberry’s Raisin in the Sun. be awarded a star on the Hollywood walk of fame. > Denzel Washington’s Academy Award > Desperate Housewives star Alfre Woodard nominated turn as Malcolm X was voted as is one of the most honoured African-American > Gordon Parks who sadly passed in 2006 the 17th greatest performance of all time by actresses ever, with 4 Emmy’s, 3 Screen was the first African-American to direct for a readers of Premier Magazine. Actor’s Guild awards, a Golden Globe and a major Hollywood studio. 1984 Oscar nomination. > In 1994 Whoopi Goldberg became the first > 2005 Screen Nation award winner Melvin woman to host the Academy Awards; she did > Sidney Poitier won a Best Actor BAFTA Van Peebles’ family have a love of the letter the job again in, 1996, 1999 and 2002. award for The Defiant Ones, five years before M and filmmaking. With 3 generations worth his ground breaking Oscar win for Lilies of including Mario, Megan, Max, Maya, Marley > Stevie Wonder won Best Song at the 1984 the Field. and Mandela all featuring on celluloid. Oscars for ‘I just called to say I love you’.

> BAFTA winner and Academy Award > Academy Award nominee Spike Lee is > In 1966 Bill Cosby became the first nominee Samuel L (Leroy) Jackson is the a huge Arsenal fan and boasts ex-Gunners African- American to win an Emmy award for highest grossing box office actor in the world. talisman Thierry Henry as a personal friend. his performance in I Spy. He won two more The $3 billion dollars his films have taken Emmy’s in 1967 and 1968. in surpasses the previous record holder > Screen Nation Award winner Pam Grier Harrison Ford. lived briefly in England at 8-years-old. Her > Diane Parish the Royal Television Society best Actress award winner in 2001 for Babyfather studied at RADA. Academy nominees Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Sophie Okonedo were in the year above her and 1996 Olivier Award winner Adrian Lester was in the year above them.

> Lost and Get Rich or Die Tryin’ star Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje was born and raised in London and has a masters in Law from Kings College, University of London. He speaks fluent English, Italian, Yoruba and Swahili.

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Celebrating years of independent thinking