MOVIES

“I’ve always had a hunger for visual storytelling” – Genevieve Nnaji Talks About “Lionheart”

Published

6 years ago

September 10, 2018

FAB.NG

Genevieve Nnaji sat down with Women and Nollywood prior to the premiere of her directorial debut “Lionheart” at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) to discuss the inspiration behind the movie, challenges she faced and her inspiration for going into filmmaking.

The star actress and filmmaker described “Lionheart” as

“an inspiring drama about family values, succession, and most importantly, female empowerment. It highlights the various challenges faced by women, particularly in male-dominated industries.”

On what drew her to the story, Genevieve said:

“The message and the environment which forces a heroine to shoulder the load. Questions of succession, gender roles, and traditional versus modern ideals surround the story. Plus, that it was rooted in African culture which made it even more fascinating. So, drawing inspiration from a close friend and family run businesses in Nigeria, “Lionheart” was created.”

Genevieve told Women and Hollywood she

“wants people to reflect on the endless possibilities of growth and success that come with men and women, the old and the young, working together: a world where insecurities are tackled and equality is encouraged,” after seeing the movie.

“We need to be more open and accepting of competition instead of feeling threatened by it,” she added.

Her biggest challenge making the film will be “playing both roles of director and lead actor,” she says. “Fortunately, I was surrounded by a very efficient and effective crew. With their help, plus adrenaline and sheer determination, we were able to make a movie,” she added.

When asked about what inspired her become a filmmaker, she said:

I’ve always had a hunger for visual storytelling. There is so much material out there that is still untold — countless real-life stories from within and outside Africa, and today, we have the chance to tell it ourselves. My hope is that Africans will have adequate representation globally, and be given a seat at the table in big studio productions as we continue to grow and improve from within the continent.

I also believe that my generation of women need to continue to work at paving a path better than the one that exists today for the future generation of women in film.

Read more on the interview on Women and Hollywood.

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Nigeria Selects “Mai Martaba” As International Feature Film (IFF) Contender For 2025 Oscars

Published

2 days ago

October 30, 2024

Reporter

Mai Martaba as international feature film contender | fab.ng

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee has selected the epic Hausa film, Mai Martaba as its contender for the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 97th Academy Awards. The Committee announced in an official statement that they selected the film to contend for the Oscars because of its theme and visual appeal.

“The Nigerian Official Section Committee (NOSC) selected the film for its relevant theme of diverse voices in decision-making and inclusive leadership and its visual and technical appeal,” the post said.

Acclaimed director Prince Daniel produced and directed the epic Hausa film “Mai Martaba.”

The Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) has selected as its contender for the International Feature Film (IFF) category at the 97th Academy Awards. The NOSC announced this decision in an official statement, praising the film’s powerful themes and visually captivating qualities.

“Mai Martaba” explores the complexities of power, love, greed, and betrayal within the context of an ancient African kingdom. The film presents a transformative tale that challenges conventions and celebrates female leadership. Notably, it offers a fresh perspective on the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The NOSC’s voting members are an impressive roster of industry luminaries. They include award-winning filmmaker and NOSC Chairperson Stephanie Linus. Victor Okhai, the President of the Directors’ Guild of Nigeria (DGN), is also a member. Veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde is on the committee. Former DGN President Andy Amenechi is a member. Yibo Koko, a theatre practitioner, is on the committee. Writer/director Izu Ojukwu and prolific film producer Emem Isong are also members.

Additional members include Ali Nuhu, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC). Kene Okwuosa, the Co-Founder and Group CEO of Filmhouse Cinemas, is a member. Director Dimeji Ajibola is on the committee. Writer/director Jude Idada is a member. Director John Njamah is on the committee. Actress/polyglot Meg Otanwa is a member. Producer/director Blessing Effiom Egbe is on the committee. Actress Ijeoma Grace Agu is a member. Journalist/film critic Victor Akande is on the committee.

“Mai Martaba” was filmed in Daura, Katsina State, Nigeria.

The film tells the story of an ancient kingdom that experienced a trade boom through the Trans-Saharan trade exchange, but then faced a fierce internal power struggle among the powerful Agadashawa ruling clan, leading to its downfall.

The film was released theatrically in Nigeria and also selected for the prestigious Septimius Awards in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

The NOSC’s 15-member committee unanimously voted “Mai Martaba” as their top choice to represent Nigeria in the IFF category at the 97th Oscars.

The IFF Executive Committee will now determine the next stage for the film’s journey to the prestigious awards ceremony, which will be held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, and broadcast live to over 200 territories worldwide.

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A post shared by NG Official Selection Cmte. (@officialnosc)

Get more updates here.

MOVIES

“Just Us Girls” Returns For A Third Season This November

Published

3 days ago

October 29, 2024

Reporter

Just Us Girls returns for a third season this November | fab.ng

The creators of “Just Us Girls” have launched the third season of their popular Nigerian web series. The season will premiere on YouTube on November 5, 2024. The production network shared a teaser for the new season on their official Instagram page.

“SAVE THE DATE. Just Us Girls Season 3 will be coming to your screens soon! Are you ready? It’s time to get everyone who hasn’t heard about the series on board, to share and tell a friend. Season 1 & 2 was a dress rehearsal, it’s time for a show!” the post said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JustUsGirlsGlobalNetwork (@justusgirlsglobal)

Fans can now follow the continuing stories and adventures of their favourite characters as the series builds upon its successful previous seasons. The show’s return marks another milestone in Nigeria’s growing web series landscape. It maintains its position as one of the country’s most engaging YouTube productions.

A dedicated group of women formed Just Us Girls Global Network to address challenges facing the female gender.

The movement traces its origins to a column in Bliss. This is the monthly relationship newsletter at David’s Christian Centre, a youth-focused church under the leadership of Kingsley and Mildred Okonkwo.

The initiative has expanded far beyond its humble beginnings as a column discussing women’s issues. It now serves as a vital platform where women find healing, acquire knowledge, build lasting friendships, and discover hope for their futures.

The web series centers on the complex lives of four women who must confront their personal secrets and inner demons. Meanwhile, they must make crucial life decisions to survive their daily challenges. Each character brings unique struggles and experiences to the narrative.

Indeed, this compelling series showcases both the difficulties women face and their remarkable victories. Through its storytelling, Just Us Girls demonstrates the essence of female empowerment by portraying how women can unite to accomplish remarkable achievements.

MOVIES

Nollywood Director, Tosin Igho Unveils Trailer Ahead Of His Movie, “Suspicion”

Published

3 days ago

October 29, 2024

Reporter

Tosin Igho unveils trailer ahead of his movie, ‘Suspicion’ | fab.ng

Director Tosin Igho has released the trailer for his latest thriller, “Suspicion”. The movie will premiere on Prime Video on November 28, 2024. The Nollywood filmmaker took to Instagram to announce this exciting development.

He included a detailed synopsis of the film in his post’s caption.

“A young man delves into the sinister world of black magic after the brutal murder of his best friend and his daughter. As he hunts for vengeance, he faces moral dilemmas and shocking betrayals threatening to shatter his closest relationships. In this gripping tale of friendship, love and revenge, he must confront his newfound powers and decide how far he will go to deliver justice,” the post said.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Suspicion_movie (@suspicion_movie)

Film enthusiasts and fans have shown overwhelming interest in this new addition to Nigerian cinema following the announcement. Igho’s upcoming thriller plans to highlight his unique approach to filmmaking while strengthening his reputation among Nollywood’s most influential directors.

The production team strategically released a teaser earlier this month to build anticipation among potential viewers. Igho has creatively expanded the story of the lead character from his 2008 short film “The Suspicious Guy” in this new feature-length thriller. “Suspicion” delves deep into the harrowing experiences of people affected by ritual practices.

The director has assembled a powerhouse cast for this project. Stan Nze, Omowunmi Dada, and Kalu Ikeagwu take on leading roles. Uzor Arukwe and Shaffy Bello bring their considerable talents to supporting characters.

The ensemble also features veteran performers Tina Mba and Tony Akposheri, alongside rising stars Ashafa ‘Small Mummy’ Salamot and Francis Sule.

Boma Akpore and Esegine Orezi Allen round out this impressive lineup, promising compelling performances that will bring the story to life.

Watch the trailer below.