Nolly Silver Screen ISSUE 04 MAY 2014

10 Nollywood Cross Over Stars out now on DVD Write October 1 & Win Behind Cinema tickets Nollywood DVDs the scenes Gift hamper pictures 2014 Africa Movie PORNOGRAPHY IN Academy Awards NOLLYWOOD: Nominations A rising trend MICHELLE BELLO Blazing Nollywood’s trail

1 EDITOR’S NOTE www.nollysilverscreen.com

REVIEWS COMPETITIONS

NEWS INTERVIEWS

GHOLLYWOOD AWARDS ARTICLES RED CARPET

PHOTO: ODUTAYO ODUSANYA ODUTAYO PHOTO: CINEMA LISTINGS Read about her 2014 AMVCA win and What a journey it was to the 2014 her next plan for Flower Girl (p.7). Africa Movie Academy Awards nomi- nations in Johannesburg, South Africa. We also have interviews with Ghol- SHORT FILMS It was a great experience for me to lywood star Eddie Watson (p. 9), rub minds with people who are equal- the creative force behind Render to ly as passionate about African cinema. Caesar , Desmond Ovbiagele (p. 12) Get the full list of nominees (p. 10), and the producer of Murder at Prime WEB SERIES red carpet pictures (p. 13) and my Suites, Jumafor Ajogwu (p. 14). FESTIVALS personal essay (p. 5). We really cannot wait to see who will clinch the coveted Read the reviews (p. 11), attempt the prize statuette this year. Nolly Pop Quiz (p. 9) and write to us DOCUMENTARIES (p. 2). Enjoy! Our cover girl, Michelle Bello epito- AUDITIONS mises the drive of New Nollywood; Isabella Akinseye hardworking, grounded and visionary. @iakinseye THEATRE SOME OF THIS EDITION’S CONTRIBUTORS

Agina Eberechukwu Wilfred Okiche Gbolahan Adams Oluwaponmile Innocent Ekejiuba Gloria is a graduate believes in God, medi- runs his own media com- Orija is studying Food is an alumnus of Obafemi of Mass Communica- cine, music and movies. pany where he has han- Science and Technology Awolowo University. He tion from Ahmadu Bello A medical doctor, occa- dled numerous projects at the Federal University is the Deputy Editor University, Zaria. She is sional writer, columnist for different clients over of Agriculture, Abeoku- of Nolly Silver Screen a freelancer and con- and profiler. He profiles the years. He sees himself ta. She loves writing and (the website and the tributes entertainment 10 Nollywood actors venturing into animation, has published several magazine). An avid blog- stories for The Nigerian who have crossed over developing his comic works in the newspapers. ger and budding graph- Telegraph. Check out from English speaking brands and staging an She interviews people on ics designer, he reviews her piece ‘Pornography movies to acting in other exhibition. View his car- their favourite Nollywood Phindile’s Heart and in Nollywood: a rising languages and back (p. toon strip ‘Rollicking Nol- movie title for the Vox Yellow Fever (p. 11). trend’ (p. 9). 3). lies’ which focuses on the Pop section (p. 4). Check out his Nolly Pop Africa Movie Academy Quiz (p. 9) and ‘Top 5 The first Nollywood The first Nollywood Awards (p. 4). The first Nollywood Nollywood cinemas’ (p. movie she bought was movie he bought was movie she bought was 12). August Meeting. Letters to a Stranger. The first Nollywood Mother Dearest. movie he bought was The first Nollywood Follow @aginaebere Follow @drwill20 Ije. movie he bought was Follow @ o_ponmile Games Men Play. Follow @gadamsyn Follow @Prince_ice Write 2 CONTENTS May 2014 ‘n’ FEATURES 3 10 NOLLYWOOD CROSS OVER STARS win 5 MY JOURNEY TO THE 2014 AFRICA MOVIE ACADEMY AWARDS NOMINATIONS 9 PORNOGRAPHY IN NOLLYWOOD: A RISING Write to us about what you have and stand a TREND enjoyed in this edition 12 TOP 5 NOLLYWOOD CINEMAS chance of winning fabulous prizes. This month, we will be giving out 2 DVD. Also copies of After the Proposal up for grabs are cinema tickets to see a Nollywood movie in Nigeria and a gift hamper.

Email: [email protected] Get in touch via social media www.facebook.com/nollysilverscreen www.google.com/+nollysilverscreen www.twitter.com/nsilverscreen 13 www.instagram.com/nollysilverscreen INTERVIEWS 7 MICHELLE BELLO: BLAZING NOLLYWOOD’S TRAIL 9 Q & A WITH EDDIE WATSON READERS’ CORNER 12 UP, CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH DESMOND OVBIAGELE The mag rocks! 14 TALENT ON THE RISE: JUMAFOR AJOGWU Nneji Eke

COMPETITION 2 FREE GIVEAWAYS I saw the magazine...serious passion REGULARS project there o! I really admire your 1 EDITOR’S NOTE resilience. 1 CONTRIBUTORS’ BIOS Thanks for all the stories too. 2 READERS’ CORNER Ibraheem Aladejobi 4 CELEBRATIONS THIS MONTH 6 ON SET 10 NEWS 11 REVIEWS One thing I enjoy about 13 RED CARPET Nolly Silver 14 DVD RELEASES Screen is the simplicity and honesty in their opinion. That’s what journalism should be. Jumafor Ajogwu

6 You can now read your EXTRAS 4 VOX POP 4 WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS favourite magazine Nolly 9 NOLLY POP QUIZ

NOLLY SILVER SCREEN TEAM Silver Screen on PUBLISHER CONTRIBUTORS Quill and Scroll Creatives Olumuyiwa Awojide issuu.com/nollysilverscreen Gbolahan Adams EDITOR Agina Eberechukwu Isabella Akinseye Wilfred Okiche Oluwaponmile Orija DEPUTY EDITOR Innocent Ekejiuba EDITORIAL BOARD Temitayo Amogunla GRAPHICS & LAYOUT Bola Atta Isabella Akinseye Bola Audu Toni Kan CONTACT US Email letters to [email protected]

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

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. 3 10 Nollywood Cross Over Stars BY WILFRED OKICHE When you think Nollywood, the first thing that comes to mind is the English-speaking Nigerian stars and the films that they appear in. However, a lot of them have proved themselves versatile and proficient in languages and interpreting roles that demand for more ethnic input. These 10 stars have made the leap from English films to those in the indigenous languages and back again. PHOTO CREDITS: LEFT (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM) Premium Times; CNN.com; Nigeriafilms.com; Nigeriafilms.com; BellaNaija.com RIGHT (FROM TOP TO BOTTOM) Nigeriafilms.com; 36ng.com; Nairaland.com; Nigeriafilms.com; Theeagleonline.com Mike Ezuruonye - The queen of crossover, Funke Akindele The Nollywood lover boy most fa started her career in television as lead mous for his roles in English speaking in the United Nations Population Fund films was looking for a change of pace sponsored programme role when actress cum producer Dayo I Need To Know Amusa offered him the lead in her film After finding it difficult getting work in . - Unforgivable released in 2013. His per the English films, she crossed over to formance had only a few lines of Yoruba the Yoruba sector and soon became but it was considered good enough to a top actress/producer. Her 2009 film win him the Best Yoruba Actor trophy at Jenifa became wildly successful and the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards. its follow up Return of Jenifa more commercially successful.was even Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde Kenneth Okonkwo Omosexy may reign supreme as one of Kenneth Okonkwo became the first modern Nollywood leading man af Africa’s finest now but it is important to - note that she has been able to success- ter his pioneering performance in the Kenneth Nnebue groundbreaker fully combine working in both English Living and Yoruba films. Her versatility has even in Bondage. Speaking mostly in Igbo, had her mumble a few Igbo words in Okonkwo followed that appearance in some of her English films set in the East. films likeBetrayal but soon made the She has appeared alongside Tony Umez transition to English speaking movies. Koso- and Shola Shobowale in films like Of recent, he has appeared alongside rogun and Oyato. Mercy Johnson in the award winning comedyDumebi the Dirty Girl. WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS Yomi Fash-Lanso Most of the country was introduced to Uche Jombo-Rodriguez Yomi Fash Lanso after his break out role The recently pregnant Mrs. Rodriguez as a gold digging hustler who makes achieved fame and success as a good in Wale Adenuga’s iconic televi- scriptwriter and actress in films like sion series Super Story. Following this Adure. She later moved to producing success, he has appeared in countless movies and set up her own production Yoruba films including studios - Uche Jombo Studios. In 2011, Jenifa and Omolade and does the occasional work she appeared in the Yoruba title in English speaking films. Dewunmi Iberu produced by Dayo Amusa. Ime Bishop Umoh Umoh is a comic actor who has found Ms. Henshaw is one of Nollywood’s success in movies produced by Emem enduring leading ladies and has been Isong and her Royal Arts Academy. He in the game for 20 years now. A Best has appeared in indigenous films like Actress Africa Movie Academy Award where he Uyai, Udeme Mi and Edikan winner (AMAA) in 2008 for the film has spoken in his native Ibibio tongue. Stronger Than Pain, Henshaw made the He has also starred in English films like leap to the Yoruba film divide in 2011 and Weekend as lead actress in Saheed Balogun’s In the Cupboard Eti Getaway. Keta and impressed many with her delivery of her few Yoruba lines. Liz Benson Nkem Owoh Time was when Liz Benson was queen of Owoh is an Africa Movie Academy Nollywood and what a reign she en- Award winner for Best Actor but is best joyed. No one could match her in terms known for his comic character Osuofia of star power and this translated easily which he has parlayed into multiple into film roles in all genres. She had the successful films. He stays true to his country under her spell and we were Ofor roots, appearing in Igbo films like pleasantly surprised (and rewarded) when na Ogu and Ode-Eshi and switching she made her Yoruba speaking debut in them up with crossover appearances Tunde Bamishigbin’s and Eeku Ida. She in films likeWisdom of Thomas followed this appearance up in 2007 with Stronger Than Pain. another fine outing in Toko Taya. 4

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE STARS VOX POP “Hone your craft. Work on What is your favourite your craft. Who you know may get you in the door Nollywood movie title? but your work ethic will keep you in the room.” Last Flight to Abuja CHET ANEKWE BIMBO SOLANKE Nollywood actor Figurine TAIWO ADIGUN “You don’t get about directing because Phone Swap you see or saw someone else direct. DEOLA ALAMU You’ve got to be inspired and when Igboya you get inspired, take time to learn the GBEMI job. Go to school and study directing or Keeping My Man learn on the job like I did under a very DEBORAH TAIWO Maami good director.” TOLU OLULADE JOHN UCHE, Mr. and Mrs. Nollywood director DEOLA SHONUKAN BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE BY OLUWAPONMILE ORIJA

MAY CELEBRATIONS 3 17 18 19 30 Genevieve Chris Kalu Yemi Susan Nnaji Attoh Ikeagwu Blaq Peters 5 My journey to the 2014 Africa Movie Academy Awards Nominations

My earliest memory of the Africa Movie Academy Awards was the You know what they say about time when you’re having fun; it flies glitz, glam, a Hollywood star and a Nigeria dominated awards. by quickly. The nominations night was upon us and I was prepared And of course, Bayelsa State. That was almost ten years ago. Then – camera and phone in hand. On the bus ride to Emperor Palace things began to change albeit gradually. Perhaps, the criticism Hotel, Johannesburg, I began tweeting and as soon as we arrived, was getting too much for the organisers and they began to work I started ‘snapping’ away. In between updating social media and hard to legitimise the ‘African’ claim in their name. All of a sudden, getting names of the people I had ‘snapped’, I was able to talk to countries like , South Africa and Kenya began to clinch more a South African filmmaker interested in collaborating with Nigeria. awards. But that wasn’t enough, the critics wanted more; they And yet people say that South Africans and Nigerians are always wanted a hitch free event devoid of lengthy and boring speeches at logger heads? Not at the AMAAs. And though the night started and one that had perfect logistics. That is not to say that there slowly, the familiar faces from back home began to appear in front were no good reports but bad news sticks. of my lens; Ramsey Nouah, Lydia Forson, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Fathia Balogun, Chinedu ‘Aki’ Ikedieze and Funso Adeolu. Others included I started paying more attention to the Africa Film Academy which Fred Amata, Paul Obazele, Chinwe Egwuagwu, Fidelis Duker, Chidi runs the awards and trainings when Malawi’s President, Mrs. Joyce Nwokeabia, Charles Awurum and Norbert Ajaegbu. And though Banda got involved. Still, my affair with the AMAAs started and there was no President Banda, the delegation from Malawi was led ended on the pages of the newspapers and blogs; viewing pictures by her daughter, Mrs. Edith Akridge. There were also representa- and reading reports. All that changed in 2013 when Confusion Na tives from government of South Africa and Namibia. There were Wa won Best Picture. I just wanted to watch the movie and see people from radio, TV, online and print media. Worthy of note, what an ‘AMAA film’ looked like. Did the film really deserve the -la Martin Ayankola and Martins Oloja, the Editors of two of Nigeria’s bel? Was it different from the usual Nollywood fanfare? And all the leading newspapers – The Punch and The Guardian were both noise about a Nigerian trained director – Kenneth Gyang? These present. Segun Arinze kicked off the event and performed superb- were just some of the questions that were swirling in my end. And ly as the compere of the night. that was the beginning of my journey to the 2014 AMAA nomina- tions. As expected, there was music, dance, speeches and food before the nominations proper. Listening to Ms. Peace Anyiam-Osig- THE AFRICA FILM ACADEMY MEANS BUSINESS. AMAA FOR THEM IS NOT JUST ABOUT PRETTY CLOTHES AND POPULAR FACES; IT IS MORE ABOUT CONNECTING AFRICA AND PRESENTING A POSITIVE IMAGE THROUGH FILM TO AN INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE.

Confusion Na Wa is not your typical Nollywood movie. It sits com- we speak passionately about the role of film in chang- fortably with the works of and Kunle Afolayan which ing people’s lives, I was convinced that The Africa Film Academy all serve as my evangelism tools in converting the naysayers and means business. AMAA for them is not just about pretty clothes critics who think they have seen it all on the Africa Magic chan- and popular faces; it is more about connecting Africa and present- nels. This movie scores on many fronts; intelligent script, attention ing a positive image through film to an international audience. to detail and great cinematography. It is a film you’ll watch with She spoke about the need for the Nigerian and South African your ears and mind wide open and your brain fully awake. So with government to forge better economic and cultural co-operation. my confidence in the AMAAs boosted, I wanted to support their “Our leaders should invest in our future and creative energy of the efforts in my own little way as a writer, photographer and digital young people be it in music, film, fashion and other areas through marketer. It was a brand I now wanted to be associated with. appropriate funding and regulatory framework that will make the creative industry viable just as the governments in India and Unit- As Editor of Nolly Silver Screen magazine and website, I started ed States did for their creative entrepreneurs.” Indeed, there is still sourcing for materials about the 2014 edition and contacted Shai- so much that can be achieved. Mrs. Ebizi Brown, Director General bu Husseini of The Guardian newspaper to be put on the mailing of Bayelsa State Tourism Development Agency had some good list. He promptly redirected me to Tope Ajayi of Portion Consult news to share. She said Bayelsa was ready to host the 10th anni- Limited reminding me that his role as a jury member would not al- versary of the awards and was also building a film city. “We have low him to function in a ‘marketing’ capacity. Let me just stop here beautiful and exotic locations that are good for shooting of your and say that when it comes to transparency, the AMAAs win hands films. We have stayed with AMAA in the last 10 years and we will down. There are no secrets about the membership of the jury, the continue as a state.” numbers of films submitted, the screening process and what to ex- pect generally. I was personally invited to come and see for myself Finally, the moment we had all been waiting for – the announce- during the screening process in Lagos. Unfortunately, I was unable ments of the nominations into the 27 categories of the awards to make it but I still got a report and pictures on Nollywoodaccess. came. And as the Jurors took turns in letting us know who made it com. Timely press releases were sent out and the website updated into this year’s list, it became obvious that the battle for suprem- regularly. The opportunity presented itself again for me to witness acy would be fought between Nigeria and South Africa. South Afri- an AMAA event – this time it was the nominations party in Johan- ca’s Of Good Report, Felix and The Forgotten Kingdom gave Nige- nesburg, South Africa. ria’s Apaye, Omo Elemosho, Accident and B for Boy a good run for their money. Ghana also showed promise with Potomanto, Good I already had expectations based on the last two Nollywood Old Days: Love of AA and Northern Affair and Kenya with Ni Sisi. awards I attended: Nollywood Movies Awards and Africa Magic Other successful countries included Mali, Cameroun, Mauritius, Viewers Choice Awards. These events had a lot of Nollywood peo- Tanzania, Gabon, Burkina Faso, Mozambique and Malawi among ple in attendance. People dressed like they were on the runway in others. The Diaspora was represented by Bahamas, Trinidad & Paris – all wanting to turn heads. Cars were given away and choice Tobago, USA, Canada, Jamaica and Venezuela. Unfortunately, no venues used not to mention the musicians who performed. To cut award will be given in the category of Best Film by an African living a long story short, a lot of money was spent from the marketing to Abroad due to quality of films received which the Jurors found the event proper. inadequate.

So arriving in South Africa, I was expecting a lot of popular fac- The night ended with an energetic performance from Kcee Limpo- es. Maybe I would see Hlomla Dandala or the filmmakers behind po which had everyone on their feet. And my cherry on the cake, Othelo Burning. From Nigeria, maybe the duo of Omotola Jalade- I spoke to a filmmaker from Burkina Faso who was interested in Ekeinde and would make an appearance. And collaborating with Nolly Silver Screen which is testament to the who knows President Banda might even come? I arrived a day to fact that AMAA does unite filmmakers across Africa. Ten years in the event so I was able to network and speak to other participants the business is no feat and I can only imagine what the organisers – a handful of filmmakers and gentlemen of the media. In those have in store for us. Bayelsa, here I come! two days, I learnt a lot from conversations over our meals. We talked about Nigeria, South Africa, Nollywood, the economy and The 2014 AMAAs will take place on 24 May. AMAA. Clearly, people were excited to be here and speculations - ISABELLA AKINSEYE were rife on which country would dominate the nominations. 6

PICTURES FROM THE SET OF KUNLE AFOLAYAN’S OCTOBER 1 7

MICHELLEMICHELLE BELLOBELLO BlazingBlazing Nollywood’sNollywood’s trailtrail BYBY ISABELLAISABELLA AKINSEYEAKINSEYE

Have you always wanted to work in their 20s). They would get married and rience as young women (thinking we have behind the cameras? in a year or two would get divorced and I found the perfect guy). So the film was re- Yes. Once I made the decision to be a started thinking ‘why, what is going on?’ ally for the younger audience for them to filmmaker, I wanted to direct and pro- Then I started to realise that it was be- think about their relationships and wheth- duce. Reading a script and getting it cause they were marrying for the wrong er they are marrying the right person. As translated into scenes and ultimately a reasons. I spoke to my priest and a mar- a society, people need a reminder of what whole movie is what is exciting to me. riage counsellor and they told me all kinds real love is all about. of horror stories of couples. I started to get different perspectives and I thought, How was it collaborating with Did your educational background ‘that’s scary, that’s my age group!’ There is your brother Jigi on the film? prepare you for a career in the a lot of infidelity and people just don’t re- We had a lot of fun collaborating togeth- film industry? spect the institution of marriage anymore. er. My brother is a genius when it comes My first degree was in Communications, People just think, ‘I am in love, I want to to screenwriting so bouncing off ideas specialising in Visual Media and I subse- get married, let’s see what happens.’ A few about the characters and different scenes quently did my Master’s Degree at Regent years later the love fizzles out, problems was very easy to do with him. We worked University specifically because they have start and it’s too much to handle and peo- long hours on the script for months and a great programme in Directing which I ple get divorced. then we went on to do several drafts of found extremely useful once I finished the script. He came up with the character and came back to Nigeria. So what is true love? of Stella as Kemi’s eccentric best friend. True love is not just ‘convenient’ love. In We also added Sapphire’s character in What inspired the Flower Girl the main characters of the film you can later drafts. One has to be very patient to story? see the different kinds of love going on. always improve on your previous draft by I was seeing a lot of divorces happening There is selfish love represented, sacrificial adding new or adapting various elements amongst the younger generation (those love and idealistic love which we all expe- to make the story the best it can be. What would you say was the sions,what has been the reaction Do you have 8 hardest thing in directing Flower by the different viewers? any new film in Girl? The movie has a few versions. The first cut the works or is It was doing the big scenes which in- was released in Nigeria and Ghana and the focus still volved a lot of extras such as the wedding then there was the international shorter on Flower Girl? version which Mr. Mahmood Ali-Balogun scene at the beginning of the movie, the The focus is still worked with us to re-cut. The response club scene in which we had to deal with on Flower Girl for from the UK audiences was fantastic. The more than fifty UNILAG students who the moment as the first cut was a bit longer and had a few were there as extras and the scene at the film is going to be more scenes in it and was really tailored Lagoon Restaurant. The airport scenes screened at the to the African market and everyone loved were especially hard to get done because Paris Nollywood it that way. We are preparing the version there was a time restriction involved so Week in June. for the DVD release as well which will there was a lot of pressure to shoot those We’re also having have more bonus features, deleted scenes scenes quickly but they were definitely discussions with and bloopers added to it. worth it. some other coun- tries that are inter- As a woman in a male-dominated What needs to happen for Nol- ested in screening industry, how have you been able lywood to become truly interna- the movie. We to hold your own? tional? have some other I don’t give any thought as to whether it’s First of all, we need to develop great sto- plans for the mov- a male or a female involved in a project. ries that are universal and that can cross ie, which include For me, it’s important to respect everyone over to the international market. We have it coming out on regardless of their sex. I am lucky enough a lot of amazing stories from different DVD and TV in not to have had any negative experiences genres that we can tell but you need the addition to it being over the years so it hasn’t been an issue right team to develop them that would at- entered for awards for me. For me, every time I do come tract not only the right investors but also in other festivals. across female directors or producers, I an international cast. Also, our technical There are also think it’s fantastic and I’m glad there are abilities need to be on an international other films that are now more females in the industry. We level. The market is definitely there, it’s in the works right support each other when we can. just a matter of putting the right struc- now that are being tures in place. developed. The film has gone to several countries and festivals, share with Congrats on your win at the 2014 You spoke about your mother us some of your high points. AMVCAs. Were you expecting it? supporting you, what does family First came the Ghana premiere which Thanks! It really meant a lot to me win- mean to you? was wonderful. The reception there was ning the 2014 AMVCA Trailblazer Award. Family means a lot to me. My parents overwhelming as there was so much love I wasn’t expecting it at all. In fact, I didn’t have been very supportive over the years shown to us by both the journalists and even know that that category existed! in so many ways. I’ve been extremely for- the fans. They were all very supportive. A When they called out my name, I froze tunate that they let me follow my dreams big shout out to all the fans over there! in my seat for a few seconds before it and didn’t try to force me to study the One of the major high points was when sank in and then I shot up and went to more travelled roads. I love them very the film was screened in the UK in Sep- the stage. It was hilarious. But on a more much. tember 2013 as it was our first cross over serious note, I feel so very honoured to into international territory. The feedback have received the award. I’ve been work- In one word, Michelle Bello is...? ing in this industry since 2007 and receiv- and reviews were amazing. The mov- Faithful. ie subsequently won two international ing the award has shown me that all my awards over there: the Best African Film hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. There’s always something new to learn and I What is the one thing you can’t at the Black International Film Festival, do without on set? and the Favourite New Nollywood Film realise that just because you have won an The particular individual who acts as our at the Screen Nation Awards. The movie award or two, you can’t sit back and gloat prayer warrior. was also screened in Los Angeles at the and think that fame is going to last you a Hollywood Black Film Festival and the re- life time. You have to be able to remain sponse there was fantastic too. Winning at the top and bring your ‘A’ game ev- If there was anything you could two awards in Nigeria during the AMVCAs ery single time you release a production, change about yourself, what meant a lot to us too. whatever it may be. I am really grateful would it be? to the AMVCAs for acknowledging me, as I’d be taller! Lol! Tell us about the planned French well as seeing my future potential. version of the movie. COVER PHOTO: Michael Oloyede of TIDG Any plans for the new car? The movie is going to have French sub-ti- Visuals. Make Up Artist by Michelle March I just plan on enjoying having it! It’s a tles and not be dubbed in French as there and hair by Teresa of Pacific Hair Artists. sports car and is a really smooth car to is so much that could be lost in transla- drive. It’s got state of the art gadgets tion. OTHER PHOTOS: Courtesy of Michelle inside so I’m having great fun figuring out Bello. how everything works. Thanks Hyundai! The film has different ver- 9 Pornography in Nollywood: a rising trend BY AGINA EBERECHUKWU

The issues around the Nigerian For him, it is important that filmmakers “show the morals behind film and video industry known every sex scene used in a movie and not concentrate on the com- as Nollywood are at once lift- mercial aspect of it as that passes the wrong message.” ing and depressing for many people. There are debates that For an Entertainment Editor, Tomi Adeyemo, “Some of the nude revolve around its moral, eco- bodies you see on screen could be for artistic purpose which is nomic and cultural values. The trying to portray certain things. For example, when talking about arguments and counter argu- slavery, you don’t expect the director to use fully clothed people ments usually boil down to the to depict that. Lupita had to be naked in 12 Years a Slave to drive nature of its content in particu- home that point.” lar nudity and sex scenes. Mrs. Catherine Izuagba, a mother and housewife, is alarmed at Nollywood over the years has the rising trend of pornographic content in Nollywood movies. “I transformed all aspects of don’t support it but that is what the audience wants and I feel for its production process from my kids because they really don’t have enough educational pro- screenplay to acting. A sample grammes to watch. My advice to movie makers is that they should of opinion from movie lov- go back to where we are coming from (days of Sesame Street and ers on their perception of the Tales by Moonlight). For the sake of our kids and sanity of the sys- evolving trend of pornographic tem, more educational films should be produced.” scenes in our movies raised some salient issues regarding morality and how it has affected our age long culture and traditions. According to Chigozie Macdom, “I Movies such as Domitilla, Glamour Girls, The Prostitute, Room 027 hardly watch Nollywood movies. There and Destructive Instinct are considered to be sexually explicit. Also is no moral lesson learnt. Sometimes on the list are Dirty Secret, Strippers in Love, Corporate Maid, Sin- they act like animals. I don’t think I can ful Act, Pregnant Hawker and Lesbian which all contain elements of play some Nollywood movies for my pornographic content. guests not to talk of watching it with my kids.” For web designer, Jude Ogunsanya who determines what movie to watch from how much ‘noise’ people make about it, he firmly Having heard from others their opinion believes that ‘sex sells.’ “People want to see it and discuss it but on Nollywood movies, it is important because they want to be discreet about it, they result to movies or to note that nudity is not exclusive to some other sites to satisfy their curiosity.” He added, “Sex revolves movies alone but also extends to Nige- around entertainment industry so people don’t really bother about rian music videos. It is only proper that it anymore rather they look forward to seeing what is new or lat- we maintain and uphold our age long est.” values (which are fast diminishing) as Africans. In addition, the censor boards For Paul Ubanaese, a social media critic, he belivieves that what should do everything within its powers you see or tag pornography is only a matter of choice. “Actually I to checkmate activities of desperate see more sex scenes or porn in music videos than I see in Nolly- producers who see making such mov- wood movies and what we call pornography here is nothing com- ies as a tool for cheap publicity and to pared to what we see in some foreign movies.” fast track their climb on the ladder of success.

Eddie Watson is a Ghanian partner. Beauty and intelli- actor. gence are pluses but what NOLLY POP I think holds a relationship What is your educational together the most is good QUIZ background? communication. BY INNOCENT I read Economics at university. EKEJIUBA At what age did you get What is one tip that has married? 1. Which award is saved you as an actor? 33. nicknamed ‘A Constella- Humility. Being humble is tion of Stars’? more difficult than being ar- What is your favourite rogant. See how easy it is for food? 2. Who did the score people to exhibit arrogance Cassava leaves stew with rice. of the short filmBlink? with just an improvement in their social or economic What is your fashion fetish? 3. Who directed the status. One of our African Earrings and tattoos. short filmIn Iredu? proverbs says, “The child that washes his hands very well Which football team do you 4. What is the name shall eat with kings.” Psalm support? of the first work of 22:26 says, “The meek shall Accra Hearts of Oak (Ghana), Stanlee Ohikuare fea- eat and be satisfied.” Invincible Eleven (Liberia) and tured on Nolly Silver Real Madrid (Europe). Screen website? What was the first Nolly- wood movie you saw in the Who is your secret Nolly- 5. Which Nollywood cinema? wood crush? online streaming site Mirror Boy. Hard to choose; I think Ni- was rated as number 1 in geria is blessed with a lot of the first edition ofNolly What quality do you love amazing talents and beauties. Silver Screen magazine? most in a woman? I love a woman that com- PHOTO: COURTESY OF Answers can be found Q & A with Eddie Watson municates very well with her EDDIE WATSON online. BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE N E W S 10 2014 AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Joselyn Dumas – Northern Affair ACHIEVEMENT IN MAKE-UP CHILD ACTOR (Ghana) AFRICA A Mile from Home – Nigeria Tobe Oboli – Brother’s Keeper Apaye – Nigeria (Nigeria) AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Once Upon A Road Trip – South Lebohang Ntsane – Forgotten FIRST FEATURE FILM BY A MOVIE Africa Kingdom (South Africa) DIRECTOR Felista’s Fable– Uganda Hlayani Junior Mabasa – Felix Roberta Durrant – Felix (South ACADEMY Potomanto – Ghana (South Africa) Africa) Chika Anadu – B for Boy AMAA 2014 AWARD AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST (Nigeria) AWARDS FOR ACHIEVEMENT IN YOUNG/PROMISING ACTOR Andrew Mudge – Forgotten SOUNDTRACK Evelyn Galle Ansah – Good Old Kingdom (South Africa) NOMINATIONS Once Upon A Road Trip – Days: For the Love of AA (Ghana) Harrikrishna & Sharvan Anenden The nominations for the 2014 South Africa Petronella Tshuma – Of Good – The Children of Troumaron Africa Movie Academy Awards Onye Ozi – Nigeria Report (South Africa) (Mauritius) were announced on 2 April Felix – South Africa Tope Tedela – A Mile from Dilman Dila – Felista’s Fable 2014 at a gathering of film- Of Good Report – South Africa Home (Nigeria) (Uganda) makers and press at Emperor Potomanto – Ghana Kitty Phillips – The Children of Joyce Mhango Chavula – No Palace Hotel, Johannesburg, Troumaron (Mauritius) More Tears (Malawi) South Africa. AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR Shawn Faqua – Lagos Cougars ACHIEVEMENT IN VISUAL (Nigeria) EFERE OZAKO AMAA 2014 EFFECT AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST AWARD FOR BEST SHORT A Mile From Home – Nigeria AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST ANIMATION FILM Haunted Soul – Kenya Omo Elemosho – Nigeria ACTOR IN A The Hare and the Lion – Burkina Siriya Mtungi – Tanzania Secret Room – Nigeria SUPPORTING ROLE Faso Dialemi – Gabon Ni Sisi – Kenya Desmond Elliot – Finding Mercy Thank God it’s Friday – Morocco New Horizon – Nigeria Of Good Report – South Africa (Nigeria) Leila – Nigeria Nandy l’orpheline – Mali Thapelo Mofekeng – Felix (South Khumba – South Africa Living Funeral – Nigeria AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR Africa) The Brats and Toy Thief – Phindile’s Heart – South Africa ACHIEVEMENT IN SOUND Yomi Fash-Lanso – Omo Mozambique Felix – South Africa Elemosho (Nigeria) AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Northern Affair – Ghana Aniekan Iyoho – Potomanto AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR DOCUMENTARY Nothing for Mahala – South (Ghana) ACHIEVEMENT IN Hamu Beya – The Sand Fishers Africa Tshamano Sebe – Of Good PRODUCTION DESIGN – Mali Of Good Report – South Africa Report (South Africa) Northern Affair – Ghana Portraits of a Lone Farmer – The Forgotten Kingdom – Of Good Report – South Africa Nigeria/Denmark South Africa AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Ni Sisi – Kenya Kushaya Ingagasi – South Africa ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING Good Old Days: Love of AA – Daughters of the Niger Delta – AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR ROLE Ghana Nigeria ACHIEVEMENT IN Vinaya Sungkur – The Children Apaye – Nigeria Sincerely Ethiopia – Ethiopia CINEMATOGRAPHY of Troumaron (Mauritius) Once Upon A Road Trip – South Patience Ozokwor – After the AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST OUSMANE SEMBENE AMAA Africa Proposal (Nigeria) DIRECTOR 2014 AWARD FOR BEST FILM Good Old Days: Love of AA – Marie Humbert – Potomanto Harrikrishna & Sharvan Anenden IN AN AFRICAN LANGUAGE Ghana (Ghana) – Children of Troumaron The Forgotten Kingdom – South Of Good Report – South Africa Barbara Soky – Brother’s Keeper (Mauritius) Africa The Forgotten Kingdom – (Nigeria) Shirley Frimpong Manso – B for Boy – Nigeria South Africa Lee-Ann van Rooi – Of Good Potomanto (Ghana) Omo Elemosho – Nigeria The Children of Troumaron – Report (South Africa) Andrew Mudge – The Forgotten Onye Ozi – Nigeria Mauritius Kingdom (South Africa) Ni Sisi – Kenya AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Jamil X.T. Quebeka – Of Good AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Report (South Africa) AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN EDITING Zengo Ngqobe – Forgotten Teco Benson – Accident DIASPORA SHORT Of Good Report – South Africa Kingdom (South Africa) (Nigeria) Passage – Bahamas Accident – Nigeria Kanayo Kanayo – Apaye Heaven – USA Once Upon A Road Trip – South (Nigeria) AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR Tickle Me Rich – Trinidad and Africa Mothusi Magano – Of Good BEST FILM Tobago Potomanto – Ghana Report (South Africa) The Children of Troumaron – Red – USA Felix – South Africa Joseph Benjamin – Murder At Mauritius Prime Suites (Nigeria) Potomanto – Ghana AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR Adjatey Annan – Potomanto The Forgotten Kingdom – South DIASPORA DOCUMENTARY ACHIEVEMENT IN (Ghana) Africa Finding Samuel Lowe: From SCREENPLAY Majid Michel – Brother’s Keeper Of Good Report – South Africa Harlem to China – USA/Canada B For Boy – Nigeria (Nigeria) Accident – Nigeria Freedom Summer – USA Of Good Report – South Africa No Bois Man, No Frad – Trinidad Accident – Nigeria AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST The jury decided that there and Tobago Potomanto – Ghana ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE will be no nominations for the Through the Lens Darkly: Black Felix – South Africa Uche Nnadili – B for Boy AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST Photographers and the Emer- (Nigeria) FILM BY AN AFRICAN LIVING gence of a People – USA AMAA 2014 BAYELSA STATE Linda Sokhulu – Felix (South ABROAD. GOVERNMENT ENDOWED Africa) AMAA 2014 AWARD FOR BEST AWARD FOR BEST NIGERIAN Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha – The 2014 AMAA will take place DIASPORA FEATURE FILM Accident (Nigeria) on 24 May 2014 at the Gloryland Tula: The Revolt – The Apaye Clarion Chukwurah – Apaye Centre, Bayelsa State. Netherlands B For Boy (Nigeria) AZU – Venezuela Accident Uche Jombo-Rodriguez, Nolly Silver Screen Kingston Paradise – Jamaica Murder at Prime Suites Monalisa Chinda and Daniella proudly supports the Retrieval – USA Omo Elemosho Okeke – Lagos Cougars (Nigeria) 2014 AMAAs. 11 R E V I E W S

Title: Dry Title: Yellow Fever

Genre: Trailer Genre: Documentary

Director: Stephanie Linus Director: Ng’endo Muk’ii

Year: 2013 Year: 2013

Yellow Fever contends the uncomfortable issue of African women’s comfort with their skin colour. A vital message and distinct feature of the documentary. Another admirable feature is the beautiful blend of elements such as animation, poetry, narration and immaculately artistic dance to show coordination in thoughts and depth of message. Where the documentary fails is that the poetic part of the narration sounds too mundane and seems disconnected from the narratives. More im- portantly, the documentary fails to grant a resolution to the issue raised as it Even though official trailer is not out, the unofficial inadvertently pushes for dull admission of facts rather than move for a rever- version of Dry which was released last year in the sal of ideologies. heat of the ‘Child Not Bride’ debate is one of the - INNOCENT EKEJIUBA best trailers to come out of Nollywood in recent times. Having followed Stephanie Linus’ work over the years, it is clear to see that the woman has really Title: Phindile’s Heart upped her game. Well done! A recent trend in Nollywood is that we have a num- Genre: Short Film ber of producers embracing ‘agenda’ movies and sacrificing the tenets of good filmmaking at the -ex Director: Claudia Noble pense of a message. For me, the mark of a true artist is in balancing the two. In the unofficial trailer ofDry , Year: 2013 Linus does not hold back in putting burning issues of rape, child marriage, obstetric fistula and the societal Phindile’s Heart reminds us of why short stigma that comes with it in our face. films exist. The direct and head on ap- She does not just tell us about them, she shows us proach in it is commendable. What is through the character of a young girl who is forced adorable about the production is Phind- into an early marriage with devastating results. This ile and her acting and what is beautiful girl as we discover represents 1 in every 10 women about it is the camera work and cinema- in Nigeria that suffer complications after childbirth tography. What we see here is an ama- as a result of obstetric fistula. The saddest thing is teurish work with a deep message and a that she could be your child. big heart. The full extent of the amateur- If I had to summarise the effect of this trailer in one ishness of the short film is obvious in the sound production and the acting. But phrase; it would be – emotional connection. I believe nonetheless, only the quality of sound production is a turn off, as the amateur- all the characters from Linus to Liz Benson Ameye ish acting adds to the adorableness of the production. who are trying to make a difference in the lives of - INNOCENT EKEJIUBA young women. I believe a nameless male doctor who agrees that his duty is to save lives but “did not sign a vow of poverty.” I see the health care centre burnt down and my heart goes out to the community. I see girls and women GUEST REVIEW suffering at the hands of their so-called sisters and I can relate with their story. I hear the simple yet ironi- Brave is a short film inspired by a true story, cal request of our protagonist; she says she “wants to based on the lives of a young couple who be a girl again” and I want to rewind things. seem to have happiness, love and comfort. I want her to go back to playing with her friends, Tragedy strikes on a night which was meant attending school, growing up and marrying the love to be special and marks the beginning of a of her life – not the person who paid for her like an nightmare both may not wake from and item in a grocery store. I never want that girl to be suddenly, love is not enough. my sister, mother, aunty, friend or even enemy. No- Wole Ojo and Adesua Etomi’s execution of body deserves to be used and left to Dry up from the simple and well written story was the inside out. heartfelt and made it easier for the message The review will not be complete if I don’t comment intended to be delivered beautifully. Brave’s on technique. From the background music to the remarkability couldn’t have been possible selection of scenes, the cast and crew deserve two without the impressive vision of a young thumbs up. The dialogue interwoven with the text on indie filmmaker who we should watch out for screen helps to drive the plot forward and engage in years to come. the viewer. I have most of the information I require including the name of the production company and The Verdict the chilling statistics. The only thing missing is the The editing was the least impressive element names of the actors as they appeared in view but Title: Brave for me but on the bright side, the movie given that this is an unofficial trailer, we can let that doesn’t try too hard to impress. It’s a simple slide. Genre: Drama movie with a strong message which I enjoyed Verdict –Watch Dry because it is really just that well and wanted to be longer than 30 mins. good but if you still need an excuse; it communicates Director: Lowladee - OLUMUYIWA AWOJIDE of movie review a powerful message in a compelling yet creative way. site www.sodasandpopcorn.com - ISABELLA AKINSEYE Year: 2014 12 TOP 5 NOLLYWOOD CINEMAS Up, Close and BY INNOCENT EKEJIUBA Personal 1. Silverbird Cinemas with Desmond Ovbiagele With a carefully laid down schedule, the cinema has been able to provide steadily Nollywood movies every week. Also, Silverbird has probably the larg- est collection of Nollywood movies and they screen INVESTMENT BANKER TURNED FILMMAKER them longer than most other cinema houses. More After over a decade in investment banking, I needed a different avenue for so, because of size and spread, this chain is one of self-expression and specifically wanted to contribute my ideas in the arena of the two most used cinemas for Nollywood movie the local film industry. premieres. INSPIRATION 2. Genesis Deluxe Cinemas I appreciate films that stimulate both intellect and emotion, and Michael Mann This is the other (director of films such as Heat, Collateral and The Insider) is one of the most most preferred adept practitioners of this level of art. destination for Nollywood movie premieres. Genesis PROFITABILITY OF NOLLYWOOD Deluxe On the typical micro-budget, Nollywood is potentially profitable, but at the Cinemas are in budgetary levels required to achieve the production values requisite for not three strategic only local cinema exhibition but also international festival selection, Nollywood locations and this has helped their appreciation of is definitely struggling. Paucity of available screens in the country, piracy risks Nollywood movies. They have a cinema house in the in DVD distribution and marginal popularity of online viewing make it hard for South-West (Lagos), South-East (Enugu) and South- investors to recoup their capital. South (Port Harcourt). While GDC is better known for having the latest Nollywood movies as they arrive, but what they don’t do is screen the movies for a RENDER TO CAESAR long time. They flow with the wind. I functioned as writer, producer, director and also raised the requisite financing as executive producer. 3.Film House Cinemas With three WRITING VS DIRECTING VS PRODUCING cinema hous- I would probably lean more toward the purely creative functions of writing and es (two in the directing but appreciate the importance of producing to ensure that the origi- South-West nal vision is protected right up to the end. and one in the South-South), Film House sure has a spread. CHALLENGES ON THE WAY Yoruba movies screen for a longer duration than Challenges were several, including raising the considerable amount of funds other Nollywood films in its Ibadan branch. required, securing the multitude of locations used, sound pollution from gen- erators in filming vicinity and compressing a very aggressive shooting sched- 4.Kada Cinema ule into a 35-day window (with overseas-based lead actor only available for 2 weeks). Most of all, shooting right through Christmas and New Year (i.e. the traditional time when everyone travels out for the festivities).

MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE ON SET One does stand out particularly – whilst shooting a criminal chase scene in an isolated area, a passing motorist saw the prop weapons in use, assumed that a Located in the Edo state, Kada Cinemas is one with live robbery operation was in progress, and promptly ran her car into a nearby an unusual dedication to Nollywood movies. Nolly- ditch before taking off for dear life! Fortunately no one was hurt, she saw the wood movies get a lot of screening here, but what is funny side of things after realising what was going on, and happily took pic- surprising is that they screen older movie more than tures with our celebrity cast on set. the more recent titles. PRIVATE SECTOR IN NOLLYWOOD 5. Ozone Cinema Private sector can broaden and deepen the ongoing practice of product place- ment and sponsorship of local movies, albeit with greater subtlety in their visibility to avoid turning off the very audience they are aiming to attract. How- ever, all around the world it is the governments that serve as the lifeline to their domestic industries by providing grants and other assistance on a transparent basis.

FINAL WORDS A decent cinema in a good location (Yaba, Lagos) Don’t compromise on quality no matter how long it takes – in the end, it’s but when it comes to Nigerian content, the Ozone is always worth it. always found wanting. Nonetheless, new releases do tend to get only one week of screening time before INTERVIEW: ISABELLA AKINSEYE they are removed. PHOTO: COURTESY OF DESMOND OVBIAGELE 13

2014 AFRICA MOVIE ACADEMY AWARDS NOMINATIONS

PHOTOS BY ISABELLA AKINSEYE

TOP (L - R) Peace Anyiam-Osigwe; Chidi Nwokeabia; Collins Talker; Temitope Ajayi; Isabella Akinseye. TALENT ON THE RISE: JUMAFOR AJOGWU JUMAFOR RISE: THE ON TALENT BOTTOM (CLOCKWISE) Fred Amata, Norbert Ajaegbu, Fidelis Duker, Azuka Ogujiuba, Johnny Muteba, Bond Emeruwa and Chi- di Nwokeabia; Azuka Ogujiuba, Mercy Michael and Mary Ekah; Chidi Nwokeabia, Fred Amata, Paul Obazele, Peace Anyiam- Osigwe, Fathia Balogun, Lydia Forson, Chinwe Egwuagwu, Madu Chikwendu and singer; Lydia Forson, Shaibu Hussein and Bola Aduwo. 14 D V D R E L E A S E S

Maami and the complete Mainframe collection now availabe on DVD Award winning movie Maami produced by Tunde Kelani alongside other Mainframe films was released on DVD during the 2014 Easter celebrations. The movie which has shown at film festivals features Funke Akindele, Wole Ojo, Tami- lore Kuboye, Tolani Abatti, Olumide Bakare, Fatai Rolling Dollar, Yinka Davies, Kayode Balogun and Biodun Kupoluyi. The film which follows the life of a help- less mother and her son is based on Femi Osofisan’s novel of the same name Maami.

Other DVDs also released included Ti Oluwa Nile 1, 2,3, Koseegbe, Agogo Eewo, The Campus Queen, , Thunderbolt (Magun), The Narrow Path, Oleku and .

-ISABELLA AKINSEYE

What inspired you to produce Murder at writer so he knew exactly what he wanted. I Prime Suites? can also say that he is one of the best direc- tors in the country. The same inspirations that make me do other movies; transformational content, What are your hobbies? inspired me to produce Murder at Prime Football and writing. I support Man-U. Suites. What is your take on the government’s What were some of the challenges you contributions to Nollywood? Jumafor Ajogwu is a Nollywood screen- faced and how did you overcome them? The government needs to put good policies writer and producer. He speaks to us about Making a movie in Lagos State is always a in place to checkmate piracy and also, invest his latest effort Murder at Prime Suites great challenge. The traffic can hinder you in setting up more theatrical houses. It is which was nominated for Best Nigerian Film from getting to your desired location but only by doing this that we can have value at the 2014 Africa Movie Academy Awards this can be overcome with proper planning. for the efforts we put in in filmmaking. Nominations. We set out a good plan for every stage of the filmmaking and I think that was our es- Which other areas of filmmaking would Briefly describe your educational cape route and of course, God. you like to explore? background. I would love to explore directing but that is I have a B.Sc. in Zoology from Nnamdi Aziki- What should viewers expect from this still very far to come by. I will need to con- we University, Awka. movie? quer my ambitions in producing first. I have They can expect the extraordinary. set targets. What inspired to get involved in film- making, in particular, producing? What informed the casting of major Nol- What next should we expect from you? I would first start by saying I started off as lywood actors and the director? Just expect something bigger. TALENT ON THE RISE: JUMAFOR AJOGWU JUMAFOR RISE: THE ON TALENT a screenwriter. I have always loved writing Every member of the cast in this movie de- since the age of 10. When I came into film- served their role. We took a lot of time cast- INTERVIEW: ISABELLA AKINSEYE making as a writer, I guess I didn’t have my ing and interviewing all of them. We wanted scripts made the way it was written. So I passion and professionalism and I think we PHOTO: COURTESY OF JUMAFOR knew I had to develop and produce them. got it. The director doubled as the screen- AJOGWU