Nigerian filmmakers need to show more originality —Egbowon

Actor and film producer Felix Omolola Egbowon gives an insight into his career and his production
schedule in this interview by ADERONKE ADESANYA.

What prompted you to start an acting career?

For my career, acting has been a craft that I have been passionate about since time immemorial. Whenever I watched home movies in my formative years, I loved the spians so much that I was determined from a young age to make it my ambition. By the time I got the chance to become one, I entered the Icon School of Performing Art run by the boss, Ibrahim Yekini Bakare (King Kesari).

How long have you been a film producer and actor?

I’ve been a film producer for two and a half years?

How and when did you discover your passion for acting?

Of course, during my formative years I always acted at school and at church. All of that made me excited for the job.

How has the industry been for you so far? Any challenges?

There is no denying that being in the industry has not been easy. Undoubtedly, every field has its own challenges, just like acting. But I keep going because of my passion for it. It’s easy for an audience to dismiss a movie as unreasonable, but it just takes a professional to know what’s gone into a production psychologically, physically, financially, and so on. Well, as I would always say, our work is our audience’s delight, so my passion for the work keeps me going when challenges arise.

Besides acting, are there other things you are involved in?

Besides acting I own a boutique and I am an entrepreneur. However, none of them compare to acting for me.

How profitable have the acting and production career been for you?

I’m still in the process. Of course it’s not bad. I’m fine.

Tell us about your latest production, Tani Mi. What was the inspiration for the movie?

Tani Mi, the movie is a dream come true for me. It is a true life story given to me by my boss, Ibrahim Yekini Bakare. That was supposed to be my first production, but I wasn’t ready for that role at the time, so I produced another, titled Jomi.

Who is your role model in the industry?

There are a lot of people I look up to in the industry. The list is endless. My main mentor is my boss, Ibrahim Yekini Bakara (President Kuti).

Do you have a dream role?

No, I don’t have a dream role. I can play any role, I like a challenging role.

How do you approach crew members for a film production?

Recruiting crew members for a movie production is an important part of a movie producer’s job. My approach to recruiting would start with researching potential crew members and their skills. I would use my network of industry contacts such as other producers, directors, actors, etc. to find out who has the best experience and skills for a particular project.

How do you respond to a negative review of your work?

Negative reviews are part of the tools that will help me do better next time. I like it when people correct me. I am open to correction. I can separate negative criticism from positive criticism. Both are useful. We can’t know it all.

What value do you think Nollywood movies bring to the people?

Nollywood movies are praised for promoting cultural and social values ​​resulting in Nigeria’s progress. Nollywood offers so many cultural values ​​and morals of the people.

What factors do you consider when casting a project?

When casting a project, I always think of the actors who would play and deliver the role perfectly. Also, I will normally consider the market angle of it. Besides giving people a chance to learn from the story, we need to make a good movie that people will watch so we can make a lot of money to produce the other project. I also believe casting is one of the most important parts of producing a movie. It is essential to find the right people for each part so that the story comes to life on screen. I always strive to put together a cast that works together to tell the best possible version of the story.

What are some of the most important skills for a film producer?

The main skill of a movie producer is to understand the industry and know more about the movie industry before getting into it. His responsibilities include planning filming schedules, hiring staff, cast and crew, managing cash flow, schedule and budget. He has to cooperate with marketing companies and distributors. Also communication is very important, communication is key when it comes to working with actors, directors, crew members and other stakeholders involved in the production process. It is essential that producers are able to communicate their vision and expectations effectively, while also being able to listen to the ideas and feedback of others.

What do you think is the most important aspect of producing video content?

I believe the most important aspect of producing video content is having a clear vision for the project. It is essential to understand what you want to achieve with the video and how it will be used to create something that meets the needs of the client or audience. This means taking into account the target group, budget constraints and other factors that can influence the production process. Once this is established, I focus on creating a plan that outlines the steps needed to bring the vision to life.

What has been your favorite role in your career so far?

My favorite role was that of a doctor and an intelligent officer.

How often do you think a film producer needs to update his skills and knowledge?

As a film producer, it is important to me to keep abreast of the latest trends in filmmaking and technology. This means that I am constantly looking for ways to improve my skills and knowledge. I attend industry events such as conferences and seminars, read relevant publications and take online courses to ensure I have the most up-to-date information.

If you could change one thing about Nollywood, what would it be?

Nigerian filmmakers should show more originality and reflect the positive image of women, cultural values ​​and norms in Nigeria, instead of focusing on old fetish-cultural practices that are capable of putting the people, especially women, in a bad daylight to viewers.

Tell us something about yourself that is not of common knowledge?

People usually don’t know that I am a jovial person. I am extremely playful. They mistake me for a “too serious” person, which is laughable.

What are your plans for the rest of the year?

For me, this year in the industry has been great so far. I only pray for better years ahead. I only look forward to more profitable productions and approvals in the years to come.

What advice do you have for young people just starting their careers, specifically regarding Nollywood?

My advice to young people is to make sure they discover their hidden talent. God has given everyone a talent. It is left to you to discover your latent and make good use of it. And also if you have a dream, go for it. As far as you can dream it, you can achieve it. Be praying and don’t give up! Giving up should be expunged from your dictionary.

Do you have upcoming projects you are working on?

It is a movie titled Oba Meji (Two Kings).

Can you share some experiences from your early life?

I graduated. I studied mass communication. Growing up was fun because I was lovingly raised by my parents in Lagos. I come from a Christian family and my parents are very religious.

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