Hope Obioma Opara, the president and co founder of the forthcoming Eko International Film Festival (EKOIFF), just returned from the recently held 63rd edition of the annual Cannes International Film Festival, France. He shared his experience with us and further spoke on his plans and preparations for EKOIFF, which he also unwrapped at the global film gathering. “I attended this year’s Cannes in my capacities as the president of EKOIFF and also as the publisher of Supple magazine. But unlike last year’s, Nigeria did not have a pavilion and
only a few Nigerian journalists were there.
The Lagos state government sent the Permanent Secretary for
Tourism and Inter-Governmental Affairs and the Censors Board. Also Mr.
and Mrs. Fashola, the amiable parents of Governor Babatunde Raji
Fashola of Lagos State were there. The Lagos state delegation came to Cannes to promote the Lagos Film
City project, which is to be located in Badagry. The Lagos Film City will be the
Hollywood of Nigeria when completed. And we met with top executives of KODAK at an
exclusive party on a luxury yacht, where the Lagos state delegation
publicized the Lagos Film City project and I also informed the international
guests about the EKOIFF, coming up in Lagos this
July. I had a very important meeting with KODAK executives on how we can improve the quality of Nollywood cinematography.
We also talked about them supporting EKOIFF.”
Speaking on the major attractions at Cannes, Opara said Senegal and
South Africa competed for the top prizes and one of the most moving and
touching films was “Life, Above All", a movie on the stigma and trauma of
AIDS in South Africa. “Many of the viewers left the theatre in tears after
seeing it. But the big question at the festival was where is Nollywood? We need to work harder to compete with the best in the film world. I am very confident that we have all it takes in terms of ambitious directors, daring producers, outstanding actors and actresses to pitch in every film festival in the world. And that is why we want to use EKOIFF to bring the film world to Lagos every
July and attract thousands of tourists to Nigeria.”
On the number of films that had been submitted so far for EKOIFF, Opara further disclosed thus: “We have received over 33 films so far and 21 of them are by
filmmakers from Europe and other parts of the world, including a Spanish
film that has won over 100 awards, and one film called “Made in Japan”. We
are excited that many foreign filmmakers are willing to come to Nigeria
for EKOIFF.
We are doing our best with able members of the Organizing Committee
and our European media partners who have publicized EKOIFF to over 4,000 filmmakers and over 77, 000 film festival media
agencies in the world.
We need the cooperation and support of the Lagos state government since
this is the host state, the federal government, the local and
multinational companies and everyone to do their best to join us to make
the inaugural outing a success. Nigerian filmmakers and others should go to our website for accreditation details.”
For the most authoritative news in the Nigerian entertainment/showbiz industry and more...
Monday, May 31, 2010
EKOIFF unveiled at Cannes, gets KODAK support
Hope Obioma Opara, the president and co founder of the forthcoming Eko International Film Festival (EKOIFF), just returned from the recently held 63rd edition of the annual Cannes International Film Festival, France. He shared his experience with us and further spoke on his plans and preparations for EKOIFF, which he also unwrapped at the global film gathering. “I attended this year’s Cannes in my capacities as the president of EKOIFF and also as the publisher of Supple magazine. But unlike last year’s, Nigeria did not have a pavilion and
only a few Nigerian journalists were there.
The Lagos state government sent the Permanent Secretary for
Tourism and Inter-Governmental Affairs and the Censors Board. Also Mr.
and Mrs. Fashola, the amiable parents of Governor Babatunde Raji
Fashola of Lagos State were there. The Lagos state delegation came to Cannes to promote the Lagos Film
City project, which is to be located in Badagry. The Lagos Film City will be the
Hollywood of Nigeria when completed. And we met with top executives of KODAK at an
exclusive party on a luxury yacht, where the Lagos state delegation
publicized the Lagos Film City project and I also informed the international
guests about the EKOIFF, coming up in Lagos this
July. I had a very
important meeting with KODAK executives on how we can improve the quality
of Nollywood cinematography. We also talked about them supporting EKOIFF.”
Speaking on the major attractions at Cannes, Opara said Senegal and
South Africa competed for the top prizes and one of the most moving and
touching films was “Life, Above All", a movie on the stigma and trauma of
AIDS in South Africa. “Many of the viewers left the theatre in tears after
seeing it. But the big question at the festival was where is Nollywood? We need to work harder to compete with the best in the
film world. I am very confident that we have all it takes in terms of
ambitious directors, daring producers, outstanding actors and actresses to
pitch in every film festival in the world. And that is why we want to use
EKOIFF to bring the film world to Lagos every
July and attract thousands of tourists to Nigeria.”
On the number of films that had been submitted so far for EKOIFF, Opara further disclosed thus:
“We have received over 33 films so far and 21 of them are by
filmmakers from Europe and other parts of the world, including a Spanish
film that has won over 100 awards, and one film called “Made in Japan”. We
are excited that many foreign filmmakers are willing to come to Nigeria
for EKOIFF.
We are doing our best with able members of the Organizing Committee
and our European media partners who have publicized EKOIFF to over 4,000 filmmakers and over 77, 000 film festival media
agencies in the world.
We need the cooperation and support of the Lagos state government since
this is the host state, the federal government, the local and
multinational companies and everyone to do their best to join us to make
the inaugural outing a success. Nigerian filmmakers and others should go to our website for accreditation details.”
only a few Nigerian journalists were there.
The Lagos state government sent the Permanent Secretary for
Tourism and Inter-Governmental Affairs and the Censors Board. Also Mr.
and Mrs. Fashola, the amiable parents of Governor Babatunde Raji
Fashola of Lagos State were there. The Lagos state delegation came to Cannes to promote the Lagos Film
City project, which is to be located in Badagry. The Lagos Film City will be the
Hollywood of Nigeria when completed. And we met with top executives of KODAK at an
exclusive party on a luxury yacht, where the Lagos state delegation
publicized the Lagos Film City project and I also informed the international
guests about the EKOIFF, coming up in Lagos this
July. I had a very
important meeting with KODAK executives on how we can improve the quality
of Nollywood cinematography. We also talked about them supporting EKOIFF.”
Speaking on the major attractions at Cannes, Opara said Senegal and
South Africa competed for the top prizes and one of the most moving and
touching films was “Life, Above All", a movie on the stigma and trauma of
AIDS in South Africa. “Many of the viewers left the theatre in tears after
seeing it. But the big question at the festival was where is Nollywood? We need to work harder to compete with the best in the
film world. I am very confident that we have all it takes in terms of
ambitious directors, daring producers, outstanding actors and actresses to
pitch in every film festival in the world. And that is why we want to use
EKOIFF to bring the film world to Lagos every
July and attract thousands of tourists to Nigeria.”
On the number of films that had been submitted so far for EKOIFF, Opara further disclosed thus:
“We have received over 33 films so far and 21 of them are by
filmmakers from Europe and other parts of the world, including a Spanish
film that has won over 100 awards, and one film called “Made in Japan”. We
are excited that many foreign filmmakers are willing to come to Nigeria
for EKOIFF.
We are doing our best with able members of the Organizing Committee
and our European media partners who have publicized EKOIFF to over 4,000 filmmakers and over 77, 000 film festival media
agencies in the world.
We need the cooperation and support of the Lagos state government since
this is the host state, the federal government, the local and
multinational companies and everyone to do their best to join us to make
the inaugural outing a success. Nigerian filmmakers and others should go to our website for accreditation details.”
Vivian Ejike’s Private Storm shocks Nollywood
Following the huge success recorded with her last movie, Silent Scandal, which equally snatched a joint plaque at this year’s AMAA, sexy, stylish and meticulous female film producer, Vivian Ejike, is poised to drop another bombshell for Nollywood, movie buffs and her teeming fans and followers very soon.
The former top banker who cherishes rare and exotic titles for her numerous works, calls this one- A Private Storm. Can you beat that? Written, passionately produced and funded by Miss Ejike, a French graduate from the University of Port-Harcourt, the star-studded flick has an admixture of leading thespians drawn from both Nollywood and the emerging Ghana film industry also known as Gollywood. Leading the galaxy of stars that dazzled in the movie, which thematically centres on domestic violence and abuse are the duo of Ramsey Noah and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde. Also on board the big budget movie are popular names such as: Ngozi Ezeonu, Ufuoma Ejenabor , Ghanaian import, John Dumelo and a host of others. Shot and directed on several choice locations within and outside the Lagos metropolis by the duo of Lancelot Imasuen and Ikechukwu Onyeka, A Private Storm, promises to be a generational change for Nollywood when eventually released.
“In fact, A Private Storm is a movie that is bound to take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. It will make you laugh, cry, sad, mad, happy, love, hate, and then.... you’ll want to love all over again,” said Ejike.
The movie which was shot with the best technical equipments, courtesy of Ejike’s Purple Pine Production studios, is an expose on domestic abuse and violence, an unspoken evil, which ravages our society today and the silent acceptance by victims.
Speaking further, widely-traveled Ejike, from Nri, Anambra State disclosed that A Private Storm will be premiered in major cities around the world before finally being released on DVD. “I can assure you that fans and movie lovers are in for a thrill with A Private Storm,” she added.
A quick glance at the synopsis of the coming blockbuster further reveals this exciting scenario. “Handsome, young, suave and successful, Alex is a total package.... with a massive grudge!! On the other hand, pretty, young and sassy Gina is living every girl’s dream. Engaged to the most eligible bachelor, she does seem to have it all.....However, beyond the picture-perfect lives of Alex and Gina, lie a huge ego, a massive insecurity, a monstrous rage, a fierce passion, an unconditional love and a determination beyond reasonable limits, all of which set in motion, the rapid wheels of an impending storm, whose rage could destroy all in its path.”
Also gathered that Miss Ejike and her crew intend to storm some major international film festivals with this great make –believe work of art this year. All these are aimed towards giving the film the international appeal and attention that it truly deserves, before releasing it on shelves.
The former top banker who cherishes rare and exotic titles for her numerous works, calls this one- A Private Storm. Can you beat that? Written, passionately produced and funded by Miss Ejike, a French graduate from the University of Port-Harcourt, the star-studded flick has an admixture of leading thespians drawn from both Nollywood and the emerging Ghana film industry also known as Gollywood. Leading the galaxy of stars that dazzled in the movie, which thematically centres on domestic violence and abuse are the duo of Ramsey Noah and Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde. Also on board the big budget movie are popular names such as: Ngozi Ezeonu, Ufuoma Ejenabor , Ghanaian import, John Dumelo and a host of others. Shot and directed on several choice locations within and outside the Lagos metropolis by the duo of Lancelot Imasuen and Ikechukwu Onyeka, A Private Storm, promises to be a generational change for Nollywood when eventually released.
“In fact, A Private Storm is a movie that is bound to take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. It will make you laugh, cry, sad, mad, happy, love, hate, and then.... you’ll want to love all over again,” said Ejike.
The movie which was shot with the best technical equipments, courtesy of Ejike’s Purple Pine Production studios, is an expose on domestic abuse and violence, an unspoken evil, which ravages our society today and the silent acceptance by victims.
Speaking further, widely-traveled Ejike, from Nri, Anambra State disclosed that A Private Storm will be premiered in major cities around the world before finally being released on DVD. “I can assure you that fans and movie lovers are in for a thrill with A Private Storm,” she added.
A quick glance at the synopsis of the coming blockbuster further reveals this exciting scenario. “Handsome, young, suave and successful, Alex is a total package.... with a massive grudge!! On the other hand, pretty, young and sassy Gina is living every girl’s dream. Engaged to the most eligible bachelor, she does seem to have it all.....However, beyond the picture-perfect lives of Alex and Gina, lie a huge ego, a massive insecurity, a monstrous rage, a fierce passion, an unconditional love and a determination beyond reasonable limits, all of which set in motion, the rapid wheels of an impending storm, whose rage could destroy all in its path.”
Also gathered that Miss Ejike and her crew intend to storm some major international film festivals with this great make –believe work of art this year. All these are aimed towards giving the film the international appeal and attention that it truly deserves, before releasing it on shelves.
Nigerian filmmaker shines with Hollywood-bound movie, Legacy
Nigerian-born-London-based writer and director Thomas Ikimi recently made history and attracted global attention, especially from Hollywood and other serious filmmaking nations, when he held the world premiere of his new movie, Legacy. The well-publicized event took place at the closing gala of the Glasgow international film festival, Scotland. The highly commendable feat, alongside the film, are still enjoying rave reviews among some leading Western media organizations, especially those based in Hollywood. Legacy, a psychological thriller produced by Scotland-based Black Camel Pictures in collaborations with Deal Real, Nigeria, stars international actor and one of Britain’s brightest acting talents, Idris Elba.
Legacy, which revolves around a traumatized US black soldier that went AWOL after an assignment in Eastern Europe, is the second feature film from Ikimi, which he equally co-produced. According to elated Ikimi, all the funding for Legacy, came from Nigerian corporations and individuals. Speaking further, he said: “Without a doubt, this film couldn’t have been made without the support I got when I came to Nigeria to raise capital. None of the investors had been involved with financing films before, but they wanted to support me because they believed in the idea of a young Nigerian making a mark on the international motion picture scene as a creator, not as an actor.”
Elba, who’s fondly remembered for his role in The Wire, portrays the character of Malcolm Gray in Legacy. Other international thespians that supported Elba in the film are: Clark Peters, Eamonn Walker, Richard Brake, Monique Curnen and Julian Wadham. Commenting on the movie, Elba had this to say: “The script was phenomenal and halfway through reading it; I was convinced I wanted to do the film…” Also, with an executive producer role in the movie, Elba was very involved with the project. “There are many themes in the film, but you are allowed to walk away at the end with your own idea of what you have seen… It was a very complex film for me to make as an actor,” he added.
Interestingly, Ikimi’s first feature film, Limbo, was made in 2005, while he was still a student at the Columbia University, New York. It was financed on his student’s credit card. According to Amrit Walia of Deal Real Entertainment who partnered with Ikimi on Legacy, they were delighted working with Ikimi on the first ever movie of its kind, written, produced and directed from Africa for Hollywood and the global film audience. Legacy was made on a budget of fewer than one million Dollars, and Ikimi believes that was a proof that developing a more robust media production studio representing Nigeria, West Africa and Africa as a whole, is possible. Ikimi hinted that he intends to develop films and media linked more directly to Nigeria and African stories and themes. He also believes that it won’t be long before Nigeria can produce films that regularly compete for top honours and acclaim at the international box offices, awards and festivals.
In a telephone chat with us, Mr. Paris Harcourt, the media consultant to the producers of Legacy, disclosed that a world premiere of the movie would hold in Nigeria, towards the last quarter of 2010, adding that it vividly tells the psychological story of two brothers in conflict.
Legacy, which revolves around a traumatized US black soldier that went AWOL after an assignment in Eastern Europe, is the second feature film from Ikimi, which he equally co-produced. According to elated Ikimi, all the funding for Legacy, came from Nigerian corporations and individuals. Speaking further, he said: “Without a doubt, this film couldn’t have been made without the support I got when I came to Nigeria to raise capital. None of the investors had been involved with financing films before, but they wanted to support me because they believed in the idea of a young Nigerian making a mark on the international motion picture scene as a creator, not as an actor.”
Elba, who’s fondly remembered for his role in The Wire, portrays the character of Malcolm Gray in Legacy. Other international thespians that supported Elba in the film are: Clark Peters, Eamonn Walker, Richard Brake, Monique Curnen and Julian Wadham. Commenting on the movie, Elba had this to say: “The script was phenomenal and halfway through reading it; I was convinced I wanted to do the film…” Also, with an executive producer role in the movie, Elba was very involved with the project. “There are many themes in the film, but you are allowed to walk away at the end with your own idea of what you have seen… It was a very complex film for me to make as an actor,” he added.
Interestingly, Ikimi’s first feature film, Limbo, was made in 2005, while he was still a student at the Columbia University, New York. It was financed on his student’s credit card. According to Amrit Walia of Deal Real Entertainment who partnered with Ikimi on Legacy, they were delighted working with Ikimi on the first ever movie of its kind, written, produced and directed from Africa for Hollywood and the global film audience. Legacy was made on a budget of fewer than one million Dollars, and Ikimi believes that was a proof that developing a more robust media production studio representing Nigeria, West Africa and Africa as a whole, is possible. Ikimi hinted that he intends to develop films and media linked more directly to Nigeria and African stories and themes. He also believes that it won’t be long before Nigeria can produce films that regularly compete for top honours and acclaim at the international box offices, awards and festivals.
In a telephone chat with us, Mr. Paris Harcourt, the media consultant to the producers of Legacy, disclosed that a world premiere of the movie would hold in Nigeria, towards the last quarter of 2010, adding that it vividly tells the psychological story of two brothers in conflict.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
A2Z shoots Igbo action movie… sets new car ablaze
Ndi-nto (Kidnappers), a new action packed Igbo language movie is poised to thrill and serenade movie buffs within and outside Nollywood soon. From the award winning stable of Arinze Ezeanyaeche-led A2Z Production, the forthcoming flick would definitely revolutionize Nollywood in terms of storyline, costumes and high-end props. Shedding more light on the big budget movie currently being shot on locations in Delta, Anambra, Edo and Lagos States respectively, youthful Ezeanyaeche further revealed that his brand new Peugeot 406 car, was equally set ablaze and burnt beyond recognition, while shooting a dangerous scene in Asaba. On why he’s returning to movie making, after a five-year hiatus from Nollywood, Ezeanyaeche, whose stable churned out acclaimed movies such as: End of Money, Jadon, Desperate Billionaire, Awilo, Goodbye New York and several others, disclosed that he decided to stage a big come back, because of his love and undying passion for Nollywood and movie buffs. “My love for Nollywood is unrivalled. Having watched Nollywood drifting apart for so long and moving without direction, I decided to help balance and stable the industry with this new movie. At least, it’s an action packed and well scripted Igbo language movie, which I’m optimistic will help revive Nollywood as well as the already dead Igbo language movies in Nollywood. It took me five years to research on this project, which I’m very sure would take Nollywood to the next level. Our dream at A2Z Production is to always give Nollywood the best. And I can assure you that Ndi-nto, which mirrors the current insecurity in Nigeria, is a blockbuster with a global appeal and message…”
Directed by Arinze Ezeanyaeche with hi-tech production equipment; the fast paced non-stop thriller equally parade names like: Ernest Asuzu, Gentle Jack, David Nwajei and a host of others in tough-talking roles and well-directed stunts.
“Although, it was not easy, but I burnt my glittering Peugeot 406, to bring out the best in this movie. In a nutshell, it’s the story of a crooked Governor who abandoned the thugs that helped him get into office… The consequences are better imagined than experienced… Expect full action when the movie comes out later this year”, said Ezeanyaeche whose outfit discovered the singing duo of J-Matins and Duncan Mighty.
Directed by Arinze Ezeanyaeche with hi-tech production equipment; the fast paced non-stop thriller equally parade names like: Ernest Asuzu, Gentle Jack, David Nwajei and a host of others in tough-talking roles and well-directed stunts.
“Although, it was not easy, but I burnt my glittering Peugeot 406, to bring out the best in this movie. In a nutshell, it’s the story of a crooked Governor who abandoned the thugs that helped him get into office… The consequences are better imagined than experienced… Expect full action when the movie comes out later this year”, said Ezeanyaeche whose outfit discovered the singing duo of J-Matins and Duncan Mighty.
International endorsements for Eko film festival
With experiences and ideas gathered over the years while attending film festivals around the globe, Hope Opara is poised to host the first ever Eko international film festival between July 7 and 12, 2010. His passion and journey into the world of film festivals began in November 2008, when he attended the 30th edition of the Nantes film festival in France.
He later raised the stakes when he attended the 62nd edition of the Cannes Film Festival, and had a memorable encounter with super star actress, Angelina Jolie. He happily documented the life changing meeting in Supple magazine, which he started publishing and editing since August 2008, after six years experience as a successful printer.
Hope returned home with the motivation to launch a new film festival buoyed by the much publicized report of Nigeria as having the largest movie-making industry in Africa and the second largest in the world.
“A close associate of mine came up with the name: Eko International Film Festival. He posted it online in August 2009. By the following month, it was duly registered by me. Both of us had never undertaken any film festival project before now and knew definitely that we would be needing help.”
He eventually found a mentor in the person of Bruno Chatelin, co-founder of filmfestivals.com, a web portal launched in 1995. Bruno was in charge of the launch of over 250 films during his tenure as Marketing Director and Managing Director for Columbia TriStar Films and Twentieth Century Fox.
After meeting Bruno in Paris, they sealed a deal that makes filmfestivals.com a media partner to Eko international film festival, a feat Opara described as an unprecedented morale booster that would help realize his dream of turning his festival into a world-class gathering of movie people.
To network and gather more experience for his forthcoming festival, Opara returned again to Europe for the Rotterdam International Film Festival in the Netherlands, as well as the 60th edition of the Berlinale, in Germany. “I now feel convinced that I could put together a successful world-class film festival.”
Hardworking Opara had this to say on funding: “We are making sacrifice towards raising the needed funds for Eko International film festival, and what we need most is money to host the filmmakers and accredited journalists and enough to rent the halls we would need to screen selected films.
We need over a million dollars to make this dream of a mega film festival a reality.
We have started the fund-raising drive. We are seeking the cooperation and support of local and international sponsors. We have attracted the interest of some Nigerian banks and we expect to close deals with some prospective sponsors shortly,” he explained.
Interestingly, news of the forthcoming festival is currently spreading within and outside Nollywood, especially on the internet and Hope Opara is upbeat. “Eko international film festival will provide exciting new business and tourism opportunities. It’s going to be great fun for filmmakers and lovers of films in Nigeria and many thousands of film aficionados coming from outside our shores. The festival will definitely be a plus for Nollywood and Nigeria… For more info, kindly visit our site, www.ekoiff.com"
He later raised the stakes when he attended the 62nd edition of the Cannes Film Festival, and had a memorable encounter with super star actress, Angelina Jolie. He happily documented the life changing meeting in Supple magazine, which he started publishing and editing since August 2008, after six years experience as a successful printer.
Hope returned home with the motivation to launch a new film festival buoyed by the much publicized report of Nigeria as having the largest movie-making industry in Africa and the second largest in the world.
“A close associate of mine came up with the name: Eko International Film Festival. He posted it online in August 2009. By the following month, it was duly registered by me. Both of us had never undertaken any film festival project before now and knew definitely that we would be needing help.”
He eventually found a mentor in the person of Bruno Chatelin, co-founder of filmfestivals.com, a web portal launched in 1995. Bruno was in charge of the launch of over 250 films during his tenure as Marketing Director and Managing Director for Columbia TriStar Films and Twentieth Century Fox.
After meeting Bruno in Paris, they sealed a deal that makes filmfestivals.com a media partner to Eko international film festival, a feat Opara described as an unprecedented morale booster that would help realize his dream of turning his festival into a world-class gathering of movie people.
To network and gather more experience for his forthcoming festival, Opara returned again to Europe for the Rotterdam International Film Festival in the Netherlands, as well as the 60th edition of the Berlinale, in Germany. “I now feel convinced that I could put together a successful world-class film festival.”
Hardworking Opara had this to say on funding: “We are making sacrifice towards raising the needed funds for Eko International film festival, and what we need most is money to host the filmmakers and accredited journalists and enough to rent the halls we would need to screen selected films.
We need over a million dollars to make this dream of a mega film festival a reality.
We have started the fund-raising drive. We are seeking the cooperation and support of local and international sponsors. We have attracted the interest of some Nigerian banks and we expect to close deals with some prospective sponsors shortly,” he explained.
Interestingly, news of the forthcoming festival is currently spreading within and outside Nollywood, especially on the internet and Hope Opara is upbeat. “Eko international film festival will provide exciting new business and tourism opportunities. It’s going to be great fun for filmmakers and lovers of films in Nigeria and many thousands of film aficionados coming from outside our shores. The festival will definitely be a plus for Nollywood and Nigeria… For more info, kindly visit our site, www.ekoiff.com"
Monday, May 10, 2010
Chima Okoroji returns with Lost Soul
Handsome Chima Okoroji, the youthful brain behind Nollywood hit movies such as: Coming to Africa, Blind Fury, Tears of a Mother, Dying to Live, Joy of a Mother, D-8 and a host of others, is poised to make another daring move in the nation’s motion picture industry.
Okoroji is currently on locations lensing his long-awaited soap-opera-Lost Soul with some established and up and coming thespians from Nigeria and other West African countries.
According to the soft spoken filmmaker, Lost Soul is a youth-oriented project that was inspired by the many daunting challenges facing them in a society that is fast neglecting them. “At the end of the day, what we want to achieve with Lost Soul is to help the youths in our society regain and reclaim their rightful positions in the scheme of things. The older generation has dealt our youths a heavy blow and will continue to do so, until we fight back by claiming what is ours. By the time this soap hits the airwaves, it will expose the many challenges and sins of our youths. The dirty things the society has pushed them into doing, just to survive. With this project, the orientation of an average Nigeria youth would begin to change for the better. Imagine IBB, saying that the youths cannot be trusted with leadership positions, that is an insult on us. How old was Gowon when he ruled us and completely changed the face of Nigeria?”
On when the soap would hit the air, embittered Okoroji, lamented the dearth of funds for the project. “It boils down to what I was saying earlier about youths’ like me not being encouraged or supported by the society or government. This is a self sponsored project and I have spent several millions of my own money prosecuting this laudable project. All efforts to get corporate bodies to be part of this project, has failed woefully. In fact, as I’m talking to you, we’ve called off shoot, because of paucity of funds. So, as soon as proper funding comes our way, we would complete the soap and put it on air for Nigerians and the rest of the world to watch and applaud. It’s painful that a lot of youths with good ideas and projects to execute cannot find support from corporate bodies and well meaning individuals. Our youths are daily suffering and smiling’’.
Meanwhile, the twisted story of Lost Soul, revolves around a young graduate who left school and couldn’t secure a a paying job several years after leaving the university. He eventually fell in ‘lust’ with a married woman, because of her fat purse and comfortable life style “It’s a complicated and twisted storyline about how our harsh and unfair society drives youths into unhealthy ideas and behaviours’’.
Okoroji is currently on locations lensing his long-awaited soap-opera-Lost Soul with some established and up and coming thespians from Nigeria and other West African countries.
According to the soft spoken filmmaker, Lost Soul is a youth-oriented project that was inspired by the many daunting challenges facing them in a society that is fast neglecting them. “At the end of the day, what we want to achieve with Lost Soul is to help the youths in our society regain and reclaim their rightful positions in the scheme of things. The older generation has dealt our youths a heavy blow and will continue to do so, until we fight back by claiming what is ours. By the time this soap hits the airwaves, it will expose the many challenges and sins of our youths. The dirty things the society has pushed them into doing, just to survive. With this project, the orientation of an average Nigeria youth would begin to change for the better. Imagine IBB, saying that the youths cannot be trusted with leadership positions, that is an insult on us. How old was Gowon when he ruled us and completely changed the face of Nigeria?”
On when the soap would hit the air, embittered Okoroji, lamented the dearth of funds for the project. “It boils down to what I was saying earlier about youths’ like me not being encouraged or supported by the society or government. This is a self sponsored project and I have spent several millions of my own money prosecuting this laudable project. All efforts to get corporate bodies to be part of this project, has failed woefully. In fact, as I’m talking to you, we’ve called off shoot, because of paucity of funds. So, as soon as proper funding comes our way, we would complete the soap and put it on air for Nigerians and the rest of the world to watch and applaud. It’s painful that a lot of youths with good ideas and projects to execute cannot find support from corporate bodies and well meaning individuals. Our youths are daily suffering and smiling’’.
Meanwhile, the twisted story of Lost Soul, revolves around a young graduate who left school and couldn’t secure a a paying job several years after leaving the university. He eventually fell in ‘lust’ with a married woman, because of her fat purse and comfortable life style “It’s a complicated and twisted storyline about how our harsh and unfair society drives youths into unhealthy ideas and behaviours’’.
The Woman of Calabar rocks the airwaves
TV buffs are currently having a swell time watching and applauding The Woman of Calabar, which recently hit the airwaves, courtesy of Kaymouzo media productions. The Woman of Calabar, is the TV adaption of the highly successful play written by renowned playwright, Elechi Amadi. It finally hit the big screens in Lagos and Rivers States stations respectively with a bang. The 30–minute serial, which occupies the 5.30pm belt on Galaxy TV, Lagos, on Mondays and prime time, every Thursday on RSTV, was adapted and produced by pretty Victoria Ajayi, the head honcho of Kaymouzo media productions (KMP) and directed by Jide Alli. The 13-episode drama, seethes with romance and ethnic bigotry essentially. It further highlights the erroneous beliefs and misconceptions about efik maidens.
Parading popular faces like; Tina Mbah, Ngozi Nwosu, Toyin Osinaike, Ombogogo Ombo and promising acts such as: Emnanuel Ozzi and Ify Omalicha, the story revolves around the over-protective Debo Akrika, who would not allow her only son, Eme to marry a Calabar girl. Mrs Akrika’s anxieties are not unconnected with the age-long myth that Calabar women often cast spell on their men in order to keep them. Worse still, the sad memory of Debo’s brother who suffered a cruel fate allegedly in the hands of his lover, incidentally, an Efik woman, lingers.
Meanwhile, two botched attempts by Debo to separate the love-birds set the stage for a final face off between Adia and her would-be-mother-in-law. Filled with suspense and display of wits, the eventual confrontation between Debo and Adia culminates in a great revelation that fosters quick resolution of the conflict. The resolution however, reaffirms the imperative of love and unity in a multi-ethnic, multi-racial society like Nigeria.
Parading popular faces like; Tina Mbah, Ngozi Nwosu, Toyin Osinaike, Ombogogo Ombo and promising acts such as: Emnanuel Ozzi and Ify Omalicha, the story revolves around the over-protective Debo Akrika, who would not allow her only son, Eme to marry a Calabar girl. Mrs Akrika’s anxieties are not unconnected with the age-long myth that Calabar women often cast spell on their men in order to keep them. Worse still, the sad memory of Debo’s brother who suffered a cruel fate allegedly in the hands of his lover, incidentally, an Efik woman, lingers.
Meanwhile, two botched attempts by Debo to separate the love-birds set the stage for a final face off between Adia and her would-be-mother-in-law. Filled with suspense and display of wits, the eventual confrontation between Debo and Adia culminates in a great revelation that fosters quick resolution of the conflict. The resolution however, reaffirms the imperative of love and unity in a multi-ethnic, multi-racial society like Nigeria.
When will Genevieve Nnaji stop posing?
Sincerely, the way and manner our so called stars respond and react to simple questions thrown at them could be so annoying, amateurish and grossly unprofessional.
Most of these stars that are media creations are usually the first to accuse entertainment journalists of writing false and unconfirmed stories about their private lives. Meanwhile, they are quick to bungle their chances, whenever you reach out to them for clarifications, which will further help to balance the ‘usual’ unconfirmed stories about them.
A good example is the on-going Genevieve Nnaji and D’banj’s love story.
The Koko Master a couple of weeks ago granted an interview to a respected soft sell magazine and openly declared that he is currently enjoying a sizzling romance with Miss Nnaji. In fact, love struck D’banj said they are madly in love with each other and that he decided to make it public because he was tired of playing hide and seek with Genevieve, his Juliet. In his words: “Genevieve is more than my girlfriend, she is my baby… Right now, Genevieve is the only woman in my life…We want to be together and we don’t want to hide it anymore…”
The following week a very senior female editor from the same magazine went after Genevieve, to ascertain her side of the story. And surprisingly, the dodgy actress neither confirmed nor denied the story. Instead of a simple yes or no, Genevieve kept playing the artful dodger, thus cheapening her status and embarrassing D’banj, who had earlier told the world they are hot as an item. What an insult to the Koko Master turned lover boy. Hear Genevieve’s response on the public interview D’banj granted over their love story: “I can only say that I would like to keep my private life private and I really don’t have anything to say… D’banj is an adult and he has said something… let’s just leave it at that…”
Till date, observers are yet to fathom what Genevieve was trying to avoid or achieve by refusing to say a simple yes or no, to a harmless question.
By dodging the question, she has further created rooms for more speculations and insinuations in the minds of her fans and even the media.
Most of the so-called stars in Nollywood claim to follow Hollywood trends, but end up disgracing and rubbishing those they are supposed to be emulating.
In Hollywood standards, serious and professional stars, always come out bold to either accept or deny speculative or unconfirmed stories, especially those bordering on their private lives. This is one of the qualities of a star that people look up to as a role model. Most stars over there do it themselves or through their publicists, thus helping to clear the air over innuendos or imaginary tales being bandied around, especially in the media. Who knows, maybe, with the above quote from Genevieve, she does not want to be associated with D’banj or even seen hanging out with him publicly. Poor D’banj.
Her dazed fans still can’t fathom why she is not proud of admitting publicly that they are dating, despite the way and manner D’banj wholeheartedly told the whole world about their love story.
Genevieve, please stop disgracing and downgrading D’banj and quickly accept or deny whether the two of you are dating or not. Act like a true Nollywood star now and stop posing (forming).
Most of these stars that are media creations are usually the first to accuse entertainment journalists of writing false and unconfirmed stories about their private lives. Meanwhile, they are quick to bungle their chances, whenever you reach out to them for clarifications, which will further help to balance the ‘usual’ unconfirmed stories about them.
A good example is the on-going Genevieve Nnaji and D’banj’s love story.
The Koko Master a couple of weeks ago granted an interview to a respected soft sell magazine and openly declared that he is currently enjoying a sizzling romance with Miss Nnaji. In fact, love struck D’banj said they are madly in love with each other and that he decided to make it public because he was tired of playing hide and seek with Genevieve, his Juliet. In his words: “Genevieve is more than my girlfriend, she is my baby… Right now, Genevieve is the only woman in my life…We want to be together and we don’t want to hide it anymore…”
The following week a very senior female editor from the same magazine went after Genevieve, to ascertain her side of the story. And surprisingly, the dodgy actress neither confirmed nor denied the story. Instead of a simple yes or no, Genevieve kept playing the artful dodger, thus cheapening her status and embarrassing D’banj, who had earlier told the world they are hot as an item. What an insult to the Koko Master turned lover boy. Hear Genevieve’s response on the public interview D’banj granted over their love story: “I can only say that I would like to keep my private life private and I really don’t have anything to say… D’banj is an adult and he has said something… let’s just leave it at that…”
Till date, observers are yet to fathom what Genevieve was trying to avoid or achieve by refusing to say a simple yes or no, to a harmless question.
By dodging the question, she has further created rooms for more speculations and insinuations in the minds of her fans and even the media.
Most of the so-called stars in Nollywood claim to follow Hollywood trends, but end up disgracing and rubbishing those they are supposed to be emulating.
In Hollywood standards, serious and professional stars, always come out bold to either accept or deny speculative or unconfirmed stories, especially those bordering on their private lives. This is one of the qualities of a star that people look up to as a role model. Most stars over there do it themselves or through their publicists, thus helping to clear the air over innuendos or imaginary tales being bandied around, especially in the media. Who knows, maybe, with the above quote from Genevieve, she does not want to be associated with D’banj or even seen hanging out with him publicly. Poor D’banj.
Her dazed fans still can’t fathom why she is not proud of admitting publicly that they are dating, despite the way and manner D’banj wholeheartedly told the whole world about their love story.
Genevieve, please stop disgracing and downgrading D’banj and quickly accept or deny whether the two of you are dating or not. Act like a true Nollywood star now and stop posing (forming).
Monday, April 12, 2010
AMAA 2010: Nigeria leads the rest of Africa
Nigeria’s Nollywood, which suffered a devastating blow at last year’s annual African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), in the hands of other African movie makers, gloriously bounced back to the front rows at this year’s grand gathering tagged: African Dreams. In fact, a total of 53 countries slugged it out in the 24 available categories, thus making the recently held sixth edition, a tension-soaked event.
The glamourous and unarguably, the biggest award and reward system for film stars and practitioners on the African continent, held over the weekend in Yenogoa, the capital of oil rich Bayelsa State. Amazingly, some Nigerian filmmakers and stars went home with most of the biggest and most prized awards in different major categories.
Nigerian-born emerging filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, was the star of the long and memorable night. The Figurine, his latest movie, carted home five awards, the highest for the night. The Figurine won in the following categories: Heart of Africa award for best film from Nigeria, best visual effect, best performance by an actor in a leading role, which went to star actor, Ramsey Noah, best cinematography and finally, the keenly contested award for best picture.
Interestingly, another movie that made Nollywood proud at the awards night, which was beautifully anchored by the duo of Basorge Tariah and Rita Dominic with support from a Kenyan colleague, was The Child. The Amstel Malta powered movie grabbed two awards in the categories of best editing and makeup, respectively. Also, top producer, Vivian Ejike’s Silent Scandal, got a joint award in the most promising actress category with Imani, a Ugandan flick. Chelsea Eze, the joint winner, was however absent at the event.
Femi Odugbemi’s work, Bariga Boys, as well as Fulani from Ifeanyi Onyeabor, further helped to raise the bar of the Nigerian motion picture industry, with plaques in the best documentary and art direction categories separately.
Even outside our shores, The Tenant, a heart wrenching movie painstakingly shot by Nigerian filmmakers living in Canada, won in the best screenplay category, while Soul Diaspora, another good film shot by a group of Nigerians residing in the US, smiled home with a trophy in the best film by an African filmmaker in Diaspora category.
The fast evolving Ghana film industry (Gollywood), was also not left out at this year’s AMAA. Three of their quality films collectively carted home a total of seven awards, in various categories.
While, The Perfect Picture clinched awards in the categories of best actress, best supporting actor and best director, another Ghanaian flick, I Sing of a Well, was victorious in the categories of best sound, costume and special jury prize.
They rounded off their memorable night with another diadem in the best original soundtrack category, courtesy of the movie, A sting in a Tale.
Surprisingly, the Kenyans, who were the stars of last year’s awards, only managed to grab two trophies, in the 26 shortlisted feature films that made it to the grand finale.
Togetherness Supreme, Kenyans only movie that made it to the finals, won awards in the categories of: best child and most promising actor categories.
Countries like: Malawi, Egypt and South Africa, also got an award each in the categories of best supporting role, animation and short film in that order.
Aside the awards presentations, musical performances from some notable acts like : Omawunmi, J- Martins, the Bayelsa cultural troupe alongside some foreign acts, further helped to add verve and vim to the event, which was well- attended.
The night climaxed with the coming on stage of the two notable Hollywood stars specially invited by the organizers, Glynn Turman and CCH Pounder. While on stage, both black US stars, paid glowing tributes to AMAA, for bringing them home to motherland, adding that it was good to be home and congregating with their black brothers and sisters.
In her extempore address, elated but visibly tired Peace Anyiam Osigwe, the CEO AMAA, immensely thanked Bayelsa State, United Bank for Africa (UBA) and all those that had hugely supported AMAA, since inception six years ago. She also urged African filmmakers to continue telling the true African stories in their productions as well as turning their dreams into realities for the world to watch and applaud. “I want African filmmakers to continue telling our own stories, because nobody can tell it better than us. We must also strive to always turn our dreams into realities; AMAA is a good example of a dream that was later turned into reality...”
Governor Sylva Timipre of Bayelsa State, who was accompanied to the awards by his wife and several top government officials, was full of praises to the organizers of AMAA, for continually placing Bayelsa on the global map, in the last six years. He further pledged his State’s continued support for AMAA. Timipre, who was swathed in all black traditional attire with a matching bowler hat, concluded by urging all to return to the riverine State next year, for another scintillating and bumper edition of AMAA.
The event, which many described as another plus for Nollywood and indeed, the African continent, also honoured King Boama Darko Ampaw, from Ghana, with a Lifetime Achievement Award, for his immense contributions to the growth of the African film and cinema industries, in the last 40 years.
All these notwithstanding, some practitioners and guests also queried the rationale behind giving three actresses with different roles in the same movie, the award for best actress. “I’ve never seen or heard that before, how can you lump three actresses together and give them a joint award?” queried a dazed guest at the event.
AMAA 2010 winners at a glance:
-Best Documentary, Bariga Boys (Nigeria), Femi Odugbemi.
-Best Short Film- The Abyss Boys (South Africa), Jan Hendrik Beetge .
-Best Animation- Hanayns shoe (Egypt).
-Best Film by an African Filmmaker in Diaspora, Soul Diaspora (US/Nigeria).
-Best Film in Africa Language –Imani (Uganda).
-Heart of Africa Award for best Film from Nigeria, Figurine- Kunle Afolayan ( Nigeria).
-AMAA Achievement in Sound- I Sing of a Well (Ghana).
-AMAA Achievement in Art Direction- Fulani (Nigeria), Ifeanyi Onyeabor.
-AMAA Achievement in Editing-The Child (Nigeria).
AMAA Achievement in Costume – I Sing of a Well (Ghana).
AMAA Achievement in Visual Effects-Figurine (Nigeria), Soji Ogunaike.
Best Original Soundtrack – A sting in a Tale (Ghana).
Best Performance by a Child – Togetherness Supreme, (Kenya).
Most Promising Actress – Silent Scandal and Imani (Nigeria and Uganda), Chelsea Eze and Rehama Nanfuka.
Most Promising Actor-Togetherness Supreme (Kenya), Wilson Maina.
Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role-Perfect Picture (Ghana), Adjatey Anang.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role- Seasons of a Life (Malawi), Tapiwa Gwaza.
Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role,
Perfect Picture (Ghana), Jackie Appiah, Lydia Forson and Naa Ashoku Mensa-Doku.
Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role – Figurine (Nigeria) Ramsey Noah.
Best Screenplay – The Tenant – (Nigeria).
AMAA Achievement in Cinematography, Figurine, (Nigeria), Yinka Edwards.
Best Picture – Figure (Nigeria).
Best Director – The Perfect Picture (Ghana) Shirley Frimpong Manso.
Special Jury Prize- I Sing of a Well (Ghana).
Life Time Achievement Award – King Ampaw (Ghana).
Monday, March 29, 2010
Dry Waters for world premiere
Nollywood practitioners, stakeholders, associates as well as dignitaries from both the public and private sectors are set to storm the forthcoming world premiere of Dry Waters.
The anticipated evening of fun, relaxation and networking holds on Saturday, April 17, 2010, at the upscale Terrakulture, Victoria Island, Lagos; amid cheers and banters.
Elaborating more on the premiere, which is already serenading Nollywood, the producer cum financier of Dry Waters, Miss Chinasa Joy Onyechere, disclosed that she and her team have already stepped up plans and preparations for the D-day.
Onyechere, who’s the current Treasurer of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), further promised to make the event grand and memorable for all the specially invited guests coming, adding that the premiere would further reposition Kech Production Studios, her outfit, within and outside Nollywood.
Directed by Kelvin Ibanichuka, the suspense- filled two-hour movie, also boasts of some leading names plying their trade in Nollywood. Among them are: Monalisa Chinda, Kenneth Okonkwo, Paul Obazele, Chidi Ihezie- Okafor, Remy Ohajianya and a host of others.
Screen-played by Adim Williams, Dry Waters is thematically woven around critical family issues and how such issues could affect the larger society, if not properly handled from the foundation stages. “I have produced and funded over a dozen films in Nollywood, but decided to premiere this one elaborately, because it’s a story very dear to my heart. Dry Waters, was painstakingly shot over a period of six months, We intend to immediately begin the cinema showings after the world premiere, so that movie buffs can come out to watch and applaud what we are offering them. We look forward to welcoming and entertaining all at the premiere …” Onyechere declared.
Surprisingly, Nollywood, which was on the verge of collapsing last year, due to several internal and external crises is fast opening up to world class premieres, such as this one. The premieres are also gradually helping to revive and reposition the industry for greater challenges and prospects.
Meanwhile, it is pertinent to note that the premiere of Dry Waters, is following in the footsteps of Jungle Ride, which held a couple of weeks ago, at the posh Silverbird Galleria.
The anticipated evening of fun, relaxation and networking holds on Saturday, April 17, 2010, at the upscale Terrakulture, Victoria Island, Lagos; amid cheers and banters.
Elaborating more on the premiere, which is already serenading Nollywood, the producer cum financier of Dry Waters, Miss Chinasa Joy Onyechere, disclosed that she and her team have already stepped up plans and preparations for the D-day.
Onyechere, who’s the current Treasurer of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), further promised to make the event grand and memorable for all the specially invited guests coming, adding that the premiere would further reposition Kech Production Studios, her outfit, within and outside Nollywood.
Directed by Kelvin Ibanichuka, the suspense- filled two-hour movie, also boasts of some leading names plying their trade in Nollywood. Among them are: Monalisa Chinda, Kenneth Okonkwo, Paul Obazele, Chidi Ihezie- Okafor, Remy Ohajianya and a host of others.
Screen-played by Adim Williams, Dry Waters is thematically woven around critical family issues and how such issues could affect the larger society, if not properly handled from the foundation stages. “I have produced and funded over a dozen films in Nollywood, but decided to premiere this one elaborately, because it’s a story very dear to my heart. Dry Waters, was painstakingly shot over a period of six months, We intend to immediately begin the cinema showings after the world premiere, so that movie buffs can come out to watch and applaud what we are offering them. We look forward to welcoming and entertaining all at the premiere …” Onyechere declared.
Surprisingly, Nollywood, which was on the verge of collapsing last year, due to several internal and external crises is fast opening up to world class premieres, such as this one. The premieres are also gradually helping to revive and reposition the industry for greater challenges and prospects.
Meanwhile, it is pertinent to note that the premiere of Dry Waters, is following in the footsteps of Jungle Ride, which held a couple of weeks ago, at the posh Silverbird Galleria.
Street Champz raises the bar in reality shows
Street Champz, a brand new talent hunt cum reality TV show that will proactively advance creative entertainment and generously reward talents in the categories of music, drama, comedy and entertainment variety act, has berthed with so many mouth-watering prizes and benefits for interested Nigerians. Interestingly, Kevin Pam, the Jos, Plateau State born emerging entertainer/celebrity, who won the fourth season of the popular reality TV show-Big Brother Africa; is the face of the project. Hugely powered by Street Champz UK, a United Kingdom based entertainment and artiste Management Company founded by some Nigerian born but UK based entertainment personalities. Mr. Pam also doubles as the project’s Public Relations Officer.
While speaking at the unveiling ceremony Mr. Pam, also known as Jostified disclosed that he signed up to work on the project because it aligns with his ambition of giving up and coming entertainers the opportunities to showcase their talents. He further described the Street Champz project as different and unique, adding that the show represents a determination on the part of some well meaning and reputable Nigerians to improve the lot of the talents that abound in Nigeria. “Nigerian is blessed with talents. We have not even discovered one percent of the talents that we have in this country”. He also posited that Street Champz as a unique project has been designed to bring a new experience to the viewing public in Nigeria, the moment it goes on air soon.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the project’s management team, Prince Emman-Stanford Amgbaduba maintained that Street Champz was founded to discover raw talents in entertainment and arts from the streets. Prince Amgbaduba further stated that the board of Street Champz was propelled to introduce the project because of the need to nurture, promote and manage such talents to their full potentials and stardom as well as providing the unique platform. Street Champz, he maintained provides the platform for the talents to contest in four categories that include; music, drama, comedy and variety act. ‘This is why the project is unique. We are looking at talents in four different areas and not just in an area, which is the trend. Our recurring theme in this project shall be excellence at all levels at all time and to achieve this, we are bringing in foreign experts and companies to partner with us on this project. We have also signed on the best of
Nollywood and the entertainment industry in the country to be judges, consultants, mentors, presenters and project managers for this project. Some of our judges include: Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Alex Usifo and Oritz Williki”.
Veteran musician and entertainer, Oritz Wiliki who attended the unveiling ceremony commended the organizers for bringing in a new dimension in talent hunt shows to Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the project and Chairman of the UK chapter of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Mr. Chucks Mordi stated that winners in each category of the reality show would receive five million naira in cash, an SUV and a two-year career development programme in the United Kingdom. While, the runner up in each category will receive one million naira in cash, in addition to a two year career development contract, while the second runner up in each category will each receive seven hundred and fifty thousand in cash and a two year career development contract. Mordi further explained that the career development angle became necessary in order to avoid the issue of dumping the winning talents soon after the project, as it has become the practice with most reality shows. “A career development scheme that will expose the talents to the industry through mentorship and grooming. Apart from ensuring that they receive their
winnings, the artiste management arm of the company will work with the winners to ensure that the winners produce at least two professional works during this period” he submitted. The Administrative and Finance Director of the project, Mr. Olaniyi Ogun maintained that as a global entertainment and artiste management company, they have put in place a high performance business modules that will further expose the talents after the show.
Shedding more light on the level of technical input, Mr. Kingsley Kerry, the Technical Director of Street Champz assured that they will deliver a reality show of international standard whose recurring theme will be excellence at all levels and all times. “We shall be deploying the latest in technology as never seen before. We have contracted experts in lighting and graphic designs. It will interest you to know that the foreign experts that have been contracted are the same ones behind X-factor, one of Britain’s hottest talent shows.” Soft spoken Kerry who has been working in both television and film for over a decade disclosed that the company has contracted Bold Faces presenter, Tricia Eseigbe Kerry and Veronica Edafe among other presenters to anchor the show, which will begin soon with a nationwide audition where 39 finalists will emerge from the boot camp for the live broadcast of the competition. The boot camp as Kerry explained will be the
sifting point for all winners recruited from the States and from each category.
Tricia Esiegbe Kerry who was present at the ceremony said she was glad to be part of the project, adding that the organizers are definitely going to change the concept of reality shows in Nigeria.
While speaking at the unveiling ceremony Mr. Pam, also known as Jostified disclosed that he signed up to work on the project because it aligns with his ambition of giving up and coming entertainers the opportunities to showcase their talents. He further described the Street Champz project as different and unique, adding that the show represents a determination on the part of some well meaning and reputable Nigerians to improve the lot of the talents that abound in Nigeria. “Nigerian is blessed with talents. We have not even discovered one percent of the talents that we have in this country”. He also posited that Street Champz as a unique project has been designed to bring a new experience to the viewing public in Nigeria, the moment it goes on air soon.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the project’s management team, Prince Emman-Stanford Amgbaduba maintained that Street Champz was founded to discover raw talents in entertainment and arts from the streets. Prince Amgbaduba further stated that the board of Street Champz was propelled to introduce the project because of the need to nurture, promote and manage such talents to their full potentials and stardom as well as providing the unique platform. Street Champz, he maintained provides the platform for the talents to contest in four categories that include; music, drama, comedy and variety act. ‘This is why the project is unique. We are looking at talents in four different areas and not just in an area, which is the trend. Our recurring theme in this project shall be excellence at all levels at all time and to achieve this, we are bringing in foreign experts and companies to partner with us on this project. We have also signed on the best of
Nollywood and the entertainment industry in the country to be judges, consultants, mentors, presenters and project managers for this project. Some of our judges include: Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Alex Usifo and Oritz Williki”.
Veteran musician and entertainer, Oritz Wiliki who attended the unveiling ceremony commended the organizers for bringing in a new dimension in talent hunt shows to Nigeria.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the project and Chairman of the UK chapter of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Mr. Chucks Mordi stated that winners in each category of the reality show would receive five million naira in cash, an SUV and a two-year career development programme in the United Kingdom. While, the runner up in each category will receive one million naira in cash, in addition to a two year career development contract, while the second runner up in each category will each receive seven hundred and fifty thousand in cash and a two year career development contract. Mordi further explained that the career development angle became necessary in order to avoid the issue of dumping the winning talents soon after the project, as it has become the practice with most reality shows. “A career development scheme that will expose the talents to the industry through mentorship and grooming. Apart from ensuring that they receive their
winnings, the artiste management arm of the company will work with the winners to ensure that the winners produce at least two professional works during this period” he submitted. The Administrative and Finance Director of the project, Mr. Olaniyi Ogun maintained that as a global entertainment and artiste management company, they have put in place a high performance business modules that will further expose the talents after the show.
Shedding more light on the level of technical input, Mr. Kingsley Kerry, the Technical Director of Street Champz assured that they will deliver a reality show of international standard whose recurring theme will be excellence at all levels and all times. “We shall be deploying the latest in technology as never seen before. We have contracted experts in lighting and graphic designs. It will interest you to know that the foreign experts that have been contracted are the same ones behind X-factor, one of Britain’s hottest talent shows.” Soft spoken Kerry who has been working in both television and film for over a decade disclosed that the company has contracted Bold Faces presenter, Tricia Eseigbe Kerry and Veronica Edafe among other presenters to anchor the show, which will begin soon with a nationwide audition where 39 finalists will emerge from the boot camp for the live broadcast of the competition. The boot camp as Kerry explained will be the
sifting point for all winners recruited from the States and from each category.
Tricia Esiegbe Kerry who was present at the ceremony said she was glad to be part of the project, adding that the organizers are definitely going to change the concept of reality shows in Nigeria.
Mahansa returns with Da Statement
Although, Chukwudi Ugwu better known as Mahansa studied Estate Management at the Enugu State University of Technology; but his body and soul have always been with music. A passion he has spent two decades practicing within and outside our shores.
For Ugwu, Mahansa means a swan bird when translated; and music to him should be rendered without inhibitions, just like the birds in the air caress and criss cross the open skies without hindrances.
With two existing albums to his credit, his latest effort entitled: Da Statement, is currently enjoying massive rotation on the airwaves. And he hopes to embark on a global tour with the very deep work with 15 tracks, soon.
According to the Ngwo, Enugu State born artiste, “I have been in and out of music during my days in the university because of my academics and I have performed at Shell Club, Rotary Club, among other places mainly because of the nature of my music.
I created a kind of music genre, which I called Afrociori. It’s a fusion of African, Occidental and Oriental cultural musical elements. I can travel to Brazil and add their musical pattern to my songs. Song is universal. My kind of music is not the popular kind. It is deep. The messages are mainly about serious issues like corruption, epidemics, hunger, among others. My previous two albums, “Entrapment” and “This Pain Must Go”, were products I did to support Rotary Club International in its polio eradication programme. They are there to attest to the kind of messages in my songs.”
The widely traveled crooner who has performed in many parts of the world like: Jo’burg, India and several other places, however, lamented that his major challenge is funding and the right platform for his kind of music to evolve.
Commenting on music in Nigeria, Mahansa said, “It is time for people to open their ears to new things. They should listen to something more reflective and stand on serious issues. We need to know where we are in the scheme of things.
Everybody operates at his or her own level. Some musicians here are making money, getting commercial breakthroughs but they don’t have depth. We do music that would last overtime, music that would outlive us. These are the things I stand for as a very deep musician.”
For Ugwu, Mahansa means a swan bird when translated; and music to him should be rendered without inhibitions, just like the birds in the air caress and criss cross the open skies without hindrances.
With two existing albums to his credit, his latest effort entitled: Da Statement, is currently enjoying massive rotation on the airwaves. And he hopes to embark on a global tour with the very deep work with 15 tracks, soon.
According to the Ngwo, Enugu State born artiste, “I have been in and out of music during my days in the university because of my academics and I have performed at Shell Club, Rotary Club, among other places mainly because of the nature of my music.
I created a kind of music genre, which I called Afrociori. It’s a fusion of African, Occidental and Oriental cultural musical elements. I can travel to Brazil and add their musical pattern to my songs. Song is universal. My kind of music is not the popular kind. It is deep. The messages are mainly about serious issues like corruption, epidemics, hunger, among others. My previous two albums, “Entrapment” and “This Pain Must Go”, were products I did to support Rotary Club International in its polio eradication programme. They are there to attest to the kind of messages in my songs.”
The widely traveled crooner who has performed in many parts of the world like: Jo’burg, India and several other places, however, lamented that his major challenge is funding and the right platform for his kind of music to evolve.
Commenting on music in Nigeria, Mahansa said, “It is time for people to open their ears to new things. They should listen to something more reflective and stand on serious issues. We need to know where we are in the scheme of things.
Everybody operates at his or her own level. Some musicians here are making money, getting commercial breakthroughs but they don’t have depth. We do music that would last overtime, music that would outlive us. These are the things I stand for as a very deep musician.”
Worship for Change reaches out
Fountain of Praise, a Christian oriented organization that is heavily involved in Christian worship, music production, concerts, music workshops, entertainment, philanthropy and social entrepreneurship recently empowered orphans and specially challenged children and organizations catering for their daily needs.
It formally presented cheques and gift items to lucky beneficiaries from the proceeds of its 2009 edition of Worship for Change concert, an annual gospel music fiesta that began in 2006. The very colourful event was witnessed by the media and some dignitaries drawn from different walks of life.
While making the presentations to the six beneficiaries drawn from the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute, Jakin NGO, Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation and the Ikorodu and Badagry sickle cell clubs respectively, Pastor Wale Adenuga , said he was optimistic the gifts would help the inmates of the above homes live more fulfilling lives.
Speaking further, Adenuga, who’s the head honcho of Fountain of Praise maintained that their goal was basically to use their influence in partnership with individuals and organizations, who believe strongly in their vision of empowering orphans and specially challenged children to live more fulfilling lives in the society.
“Hopelessness does not reside far from each of us. We see it in the eyes of both the young and old. While we cannot solve every problem, we have got to do something about the ones we can,” Adenuga explained.
Amazingly, since inception in 2006, they had organized five star-studded and well attended concerts and also raised almost N10million collectively from these events.
Past beneficiaries include: Downs Syndrome Association of Nigeria, Hearts of Gold Children Hospice, Arrows of God Orphanage, Patrick’s Speech and Language Centre and Hepzibah Orphanage.
For the current beneficiaries, a cheque of N550,000, was presented to the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, while the Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute and JAKIN NGO, got cheques of N450,000 and half a million respectively. The Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation got a surprise N443, 000, worth of drugs. The life changing organization also used the sums of N167,000 and N212,000, respectively to buy drugs for the Ikorodu and Badagry Sickle cell Clubs.
The dazed beneficiaries separately thanked the organization immensely, for remembering and donating generously to their needs.
It formally presented cheques and gift items to lucky beneficiaries from the proceeds of its 2009 edition of Worship for Change concert, an annual gospel music fiesta that began in 2006. The very colourful event was witnessed by the media and some dignitaries drawn from different walks of life.
While making the presentations to the six beneficiaries drawn from the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute, Jakin NGO, Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation and the Ikorodu and Badagry sickle cell clubs respectively, Pastor Wale Adenuga , said he was optimistic the gifts would help the inmates of the above homes live more fulfilling lives.
Speaking further, Adenuga, who’s the head honcho of Fountain of Praise maintained that their goal was basically to use their influence in partnership with individuals and organizations, who believe strongly in their vision of empowering orphans and specially challenged children to live more fulfilling lives in the society.
“Hopelessness does not reside far from each of us. We see it in the eyes of both the young and old. While we cannot solve every problem, we have got to do something about the ones we can,” Adenuga explained.
Amazingly, since inception in 2006, they had organized five star-studded and well attended concerts and also raised almost N10million collectively from these events.
Past beneficiaries include: Downs Syndrome Association of Nigeria, Hearts of Gold Children Hospice, Arrows of God Orphanage, Patrick’s Speech and Language Centre and Hepzibah Orphanage.
For the current beneficiaries, a cheque of N550,000, was presented to the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, while the Society for the Safety of the Insane and the Destitute and JAKIN NGO, got cheques of N450,000 and half a million respectively. The Temitayo Awosika Health Foundation got a surprise N443, 000, worth of drugs. The life changing organization also used the sums of N167,000 and N212,000, respectively to buy drugs for the Ikorodu and Badagry Sickle cell Clubs.
The dazed beneficiaries separately thanked the organization immensely, for remembering and donating generously to their needs.
Home in Exile now showing @ the Cinemas
Home in Exile, the big budget film directed by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen has berthed at the Cinemas nationwide, after a very colourful and well-attended premiere. Speaking on the success of the premiere and why he decided to storm cinemas with the film, Imasuen, with over 100 Nollywood movies to his credit, as a director, said the premiere was a pointer to the fact that Nollywood has fully bounced back. He further explained that by hitting the cinemas, movie buffs will have the opportunity of watching and applauding a true Nigerian story based on hard work and perseverance.
“Home in Exile, was shot last year and premiered first at the Odeon Cinema, London. The world premiere was graced by both Nollywood and Hollywood stars. We just had another well attended and star-studded premiere in Nigeria recently. The essence of the premiere was to allow Nigerians see this movie and know that there is no place like home. It’s our own little way of helping to rebrand and reposition the battered image of Nigeria. Parents and their children, especially those living abroad, have a lot to learn from this interesting movie”, he posited.
Speaking further, Imasuen declared that the film is now showing at major upscale cinemas nationwide. “We are already showing at Silverbird and Genesis Deluxe Cinemas nationwide and the response from the movie loving public has been exceptional. This is a new era and we are following global best practices inherent in the film world. We want to change a lot of bad practices in Nollywood with Home in Exile and that we have already started this 2010. We are redefining standards in Nollywood that I can assure you”.
Produced by Lancewealth Image in collaboration with JJ Barry Entertainment, Home in Exile, a heart wrenching story of the excruciating pains and untold hardship and harassments that Nigerians living abroad go through as well as the challenges they face at home, aptly tells the true Nigerian story. Notable Nollywood stars in the movie include: Justus Esiri, Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Chimwetalu Agu and several others.
“Home in Exile, was shot last year and premiered first at the Odeon Cinema, London. The world premiere was graced by both Nollywood and Hollywood stars. We just had another well attended and star-studded premiere in Nigeria recently. The essence of the premiere was to allow Nigerians see this movie and know that there is no place like home. It’s our own little way of helping to rebrand and reposition the battered image of Nigeria. Parents and their children, especially those living abroad, have a lot to learn from this interesting movie”, he posited.
Speaking further, Imasuen declared that the film is now showing at major upscale cinemas nationwide. “We are already showing at Silverbird and Genesis Deluxe Cinemas nationwide and the response from the movie loving public has been exceptional. This is a new era and we are following global best practices inherent in the film world. We want to change a lot of bad practices in Nollywood with Home in Exile and that we have already started this 2010. We are redefining standards in Nollywood that I can assure you”.
Produced by Lancewealth Image in collaboration with JJ Barry Entertainment, Home in Exile, a heart wrenching story of the excruciating pains and untold hardship and harassments that Nigerians living abroad go through as well as the challenges they face at home, aptly tells the true Nigerian story. Notable Nollywood stars in the movie include: Justus Esiri, Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Chimwetalu Agu and several others.
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