EVENTS

Kambili Ofili’s “Shaping Us” Wins Best Film, African Diaspora At TINFF

Published

4 hours ago

September 20, 2024

"Shaping Us" Wins Best Film, African Diaspora At TINFF | fab.ng

British Nigerian filmmaker Kambili Ofili has achieved significant recognition for her debut feature, “Shaping Us“. “Shaping Us” is awarded Best Film: African Diaspora at the 2024 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival. She wrote, directed, produced, and starred in the film.

Earlier this year, “Shaping Us” garnered attention with nominations in six categories. These include Best Drama, Best Film – Nollywood, Best First Film – International, and Best Film – African Diaspora.

Ofili founded the black and woman-led film production company Clear Skies Films & Production, which is committed to showcasing authentic and diverse African stories. Her company’s mission is to challenge stereotypes and inspire change through impactful filmmaking. Despite lacking prior industry experience, Ofili’s passion and talent have led to the success of “Shaping Us.”

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In response to the film’s award, Ofili expressed her deep gratitude and enthusiasm for the filmmaking process. Her dedication to storytelling and her commitment to representing African narratives have undoubtedly contributed to the film’s triumph.

“I poured my heart and soul into this film, and I’m incredibly humbled by the recognition it has received. I hope Shaping Us will spark conversations and empathy around often stigmatised topics and make viewers navigating these situations in their real lives feel seen and understood.” she said.

Edith Nwakenta co-produced “Shaping Us.”

It is a compelling drama that explores the intricate lives of six close-knit friends. The film’s narrative follows these characters as they confront and overcome the complex challenges that come with adulthood.

Through their journeys, the story talks about weighty themes such as the struggle with infertility, the isolating battle against postpartum depression, and the emotional turmoil of divorce. Amidst these trials, the film shows the resilient bonds of friendship that provide strength and support to the characters.

The production team continues to refine the film, though they have yet to announce an official release date. “Shaping Us” boasts an ensemble cast that brings depth and authenticity to the story.

Bucci Franklin leads the group, supported by talented actors Uzoamaka Aniunoh, Omowunmi Dada, James Gardiner, Floyd Igbo, and Jordan Bangoji.

Each performer infuses their character with nuance and relatability, creating a rich performances. In an unexpected twist, popular comedian Lasisi Elenu makes a cameo appearance, likely adding a touch of humor to balance the film’s more serious moments.

Get more movie updates here.

Related Topics:African Diaspora Best Film Movies Shaping Us TINFF

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EVENTS

Tyla Wins Best Afrobeats At The 2024 VMAs

Published

1 week ago

September 12, 2024

Reporter

Tyla Wins Best Afrobeats at the 2024 VMAs | fab.ng

South African music sensation Tyla made history at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). She became the first female African artist to win the prestigious Best Afrobeats award. Her groundbreaking victory was a testament to the immense talent and diversity of African music. This challenges the narrow perception that African music is solely represented by Afrobeats.

Hosted by the dynamic Megan Thee Stallion at the UBS Arena in Queens, New York, the 2024 VMAs showcased a significant breakthrough for African music. Tyla’s chart-topping hit “Water” secured her the coveted Best Afrobeats award.

With this award, she matches up with a stellar lineup of African artists. These artists include Burna Boy, Tems, Davido, Ayra Starr, Lojay, and Pheelz. Additionally, she was nominated for Best New Artist and Best RnB.

After receiving her award from the iconic Lil Nas X and Halle Bailey, Tyla expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of the VMAs. She emphasized the significance of her win for Africa. She highlighted that the success of “Water” not only had a global impact. Also, the song demonstrated the immense potential of African music to transcend genres and become mainstream pop.

“Like this is just so special but also bittersweet because I know there’s a tendency to group all African artists under Afrobeats,” she said. “African music is so diverse, it’s more than just Afrobeats.”

Tyla’s victory follows in the footsteps of Rema, who claimed the inaugural Best Afrobeats award last year for his hit song “Calm Down” featuring Selena Gomez. This series of wins underscores the growing recognition and appreciation for African music on the global stage.

Meanwhile, Taylor Swift dominated the night with an impressive seven wins, tying for the most overall awards. Eminem also made a significant impact, securing the most solo male artist wins.

Watch the moment Tyla received her award below:

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Get more updates here.

EVENTS

Flavour Headlines Sold-Out Concert At The OVO Wembley Arena

Published

3 weeks ago

August 27, 2024

Reporter

Flavour headlines sold-out concert at the OVO Arena | fab.ng

Flavour, a prominent Nigerian musician, continues to captivate audiences across Africa with his distinctive sound after nearly two decades in the industry. On August 24, 2024, Flavour achieved a significant milestone by selling out the OVO Wembley Arena in London. He delivered an electrifying performance that showed his extensive musical repertoire.

The concert featured tracks from Flavour’s eighth studio album, “African Royalty,” released in December 2023. Fans were treated to live renditions of hit singles such as “Game Changer” and “Levels.” These tracks have been dominating the airwaves since their release. The event also saw guest appearances from fellow Nigerian music stars Phyno, Falz, and Iyanya.

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Notable personalities in attendance included socialite and businessman Cubana Chief Priest, Asa Asika (co-founder of The Plug and Davido’s manager), singer Chike, and international footballer Alex Iwobi. Their presence underscored the wide-reaching appeal of Flavour’s music across various sectors of Nigerian society.

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This sold-out London concert further cements Flavour’s status as one of Africa’s most iconic artists.

Throughout his career, spanning nearly two decades, he has garnered numerous awards and accolades for his unique musical style. This skillfully blends African cultural elements, particularly his Igbo indigenous music.

In a recent appearance on the Adesope Podcast, Flavour emphasized his identity as an African artist rather than an Afrobeats artist. He called for media attention to be broadened beyond the rising global profile of Afrobeats. Also, he advocated for greater recognition of diverse musical genres across the African continent.

With this successful show at the OVO Wembley Arena, Flavour joins the ranks of other Nigerian stars like Adekunle Gold and Kizz Daniel. These artists have also sold out the prestigious venue in 2024. This achievement not only highlights Flavour’s individual success but also underscores the growing international appeal of Nigerian music as a whole.

Flavour’s continued success and his advocacy for a more inclusive representation of African music on the global stage demonstrate his commitment to both his artistry and the broader African music industry. As he moves forward in his career, Flavour remains an influential figure in shaping the narrative of African music worldwide.

EVENTS

“The Interrogation Of Lotanna” Wins Best Nollywood Short Film At RTF Fest

Published

3 weeks ago

August 27, 2024

Reporter

The Interrogation of Lotanna wins best Nollywood short film | fab.ng

“The Interrogation of Lotanna,” a compelling Nigerian short film, has achieved international recognition. The movie won the Best Nollywood Short Film award at the prestigious Realtime International Film Festival in Birmingham, UK.

This thought-provoking piece is the brainchild of director and writer Reginald Jumbo. He is affectionately known as Grandmaster Prime. The collaborative efforts of producers Ibukun Serah Adetoyinbo and Ore Oba brought the production to life.

The film’s success highlights the growing global influence of Nigerian cinema. It tells the gripping tale of Captain Ardo, a military commander tasked with suppressing a rebellion in eastern Nigeria. Ardo’s primary objective is to locate and apprehend Zuru Nkwu, the elusive leader of the insurgency. After months of fruitless searching, a promising lead directs Ardo to a suspect named Lotanna. Despite enduring intense interrogation and torture, Lotanna steadfastly maintains his innocence, creating a tense and morally complex narrative.

A talented ensemble brings this story of “The Interrogation of Lotanna” to life.

It features performances by William Chinoyenem, Cassey Oritsejolomi, Anthony Nwahiri, Francis Sule, Michael Embraiz, and Mr. Rala. Their portrayals add depth and authenticity to the film’s exploration of conflict, loyalty, and the human spirit under duress.

The Realtime International Film Festival has been a pivotal platform for independent filmmakers since its inception in 2016 by Stanley Ohikhuare. This is where “The Interrogation of Lotanna” triumphed.

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Over the years, it has played an important role in nurturing talent and fostering a creative economy. The festival’s impact is evident in the successful careers it has launched. Moreover, over 150 young filmmakers see their work featured on major streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon.

Additionally, this year’s festival showcased several other notable Nigerian productions alongside “The Interrogation of Lotanna.” What’s more, these included “Garden of Healing” produced by Ozor Uche, “Kaka” by Prince Daniel, and “Arinye” by Seun Afolabi.

In conclusion, the strong presence of Nigerian films at the festival underscores the country’s growing influence in the global film industry. Indeed, it highlights the wealth of talent emerging from Nollywood.