₦airaland Forum

It is important to publicize your works, be it songs, films, books, events, products, services through various platforms, irrespective of where one is domiciled. No matter how talented you are or how you drool over your works being creative and top notch quality based, without publicity, and good one at that, the Nation and the world will never get to know about it. Popular artistes, authors, filmmakers, entrepreneurs, companies, deployed the powerful tool of publicity and have reaped the rewards.

You may even want to spread the news about new or existing products/services/brands or profile your event in the news, or make a major announcement in Nigeria. From professional press releases, press kits, electronic interviews/coverage (TV/radio), Newspaper interviews/stories to online, press conferences, press briefings, print ads, one platform, Wise Insight has proven to be a reliable and ‘affordable’ platform that ‘delivers optimal’ services. Through this they have aided those seeking to realize their works out in the open, to come true. In 2014, they are committed to doing more to help make your dreams come true.

really commendable... source : http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/12/30/get-your-songs-films-books-events-products-services-out-in-the-open/

The Film Adaptation Seminar 2013, organized by film critic, Augusta Okon, held on 6th December, 2013. It certainly was an intellectually stimulating and richly enlightening discourse, with an array of the finest minds from the designated spheres. The theme of the seminar was tagged “Film Adaptation: A gold mine and reading drive in Nigeria”.
Segun Oyekunle, MD/CEO of Abuja Film Village International delivered the key note address, coupled with the eagle minded speakers who did justice to the subthemes; Exploring the art of making film adaptations in Nigeria (Tunde Olaoye writer/director of Married But living Single), Film Adaptation: Exploring Possibilities in Nigeria (Victor Okhai, founder In-short international film festival), Literature & Film : The Nexus of transmutation in Nigeria, Dr Adebola Ademeso (film scholar and Senior lecturer LASU), Understanding the legal framework for film adaptation (Barrister Folarin Dalmeida,Partner at Acuity Solicitors).

It was the general consensus that film adaptations stemming from Hollywood constituted about 70% of its film producing records and has served as a good platform for authors, filmmakers and publishers to obtain commercial success and sustain the reading drive. Reading of books allows one to draw from the imaginative bank as the unfolding scenes occur from the pages of books as against the visual medium. Nigeria indeed boasts of a plethora of creative authors with great works which could be adapted to the big screens. More of negative news/stories/articles making the headlines in the media were dominantly deployed in contra-distinction to other aspects of adaptation.

Various issues were distilled unveiling the clogs impairing the progress of film adaptation within our shores such as ; ignorance of possibilities/opportunities the concept provides based on the rigged mindset of filmmakers preference for original productions, marketers who double as Executive producers calling the shots and having low-ebbed interest in film adaptations, high risk of uncertainty in either replicating the source of work in its entirety or making changes, lack of film tools to reproduce certain descriptive/narrative scenes from the pages of authors works, large volume of authors works to be compressed into less than two hours film running time, worrisome disconnect between authors and filmmakers, issues of acquisition of rights & royalties, funding problems in the adaptation process, authors always waiting for filmmakers to approach them first, authors use of ‘big grammar’ in their works which producers are averse to, considerable length of time and expertise needed in the process which producers are reluctant to engage in based on their knack for quick returns, absence of relevant skills needed for adaptation by screenwriters, entertainment as strong contenders against reading books, lack of publicity of the film adaptation process from the onset with authors not being carried along in the production process and featured in the media spotlight, poor planning & lack of strategies for cinematic success amongst others.

Certain solutions were subsequently proffered, ranging from taking a portion of a story and developing same, as was done in The Passion of The Christ, which dwelt on the death rather than the nativity/lifetime of Christ, authors should go for scriptwriting/screenwriting training to acquire the skills needed to adapt their works, screenwriters also to enhance professionalism via regular training which can bring about specialization in adaptations, accessibility to funds have been made possible via the FG’s Project Act Nollywood which filmmakers could key into via their online site, more seminars and fora that would overtime strengthen the bond and enhance collaboration between both spheres should be conducted, lawyers should be involved from the onset when parties intend to collaborate and not wait till a dispute arises, adaptation must not be done as a replica all the time as some changes capable of spicing up the story to modern day audience should be utilized by the screenwriter, authors can approach filmmakers with their works for adaptation purposes but should be careful not to sell their creative rights for a publicity pottage, investors should key into establishing more cinemas and modern film studios to ‘up’ the production bar, amongst others.

It certainly was worth the while with guests such as Hope Opara (President Eko International film festival), Prof Akachi Ezeigbo (co-winner NLNG 2007 & 2012 first runner up Wole Soyinka prize for literature), Chief Dr Remi Ohajianya (Two term Chairman Actors Guild of Nigeria Lagos Chapter), Femi Onileagbon (Chairman of Association of Nigerian Authors Lagos Chapter ), Iquo Dana Eke ( 2013 NLNG long list nominee), Myne Whitman (founder of Naija stories.com) in attendance.

There were also emails from those outside our shores who wrote to air their views/opinion about the concept of film adaptation such as Prof Jonathan Haynes (Prof of English Dept Long Island University USA), Azubike Erinugha (filmmaker Germany)... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/12/22/nigerian-film-adaptation-challenges-solutions-unveiled-at-fas-2013/

The art of scriptwriting, with certitude, demands a fine blend of ingenuity, uncompromised sound professionalism via the deployment of vital skills acquisition, to unveil a well-crafted story… something that is utterly lacking in Nollywood flicks. Well if you’re a scriptwriter, or filmmaker/director with a knack for same, then it’s time to step up the game!.

I-Skill Ltd and Beeta Universal Foundation via their strategic alliance (I-skill Beeta Arts) are organizing a unique Master class in scriptwriting, which will run from October 28th 2013 to November 8th 2013 (9:30am to 4pm daily) at the I-skill Centre, 290A Ajose Adeogun street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Writers who have at least one credit to their names, in the spheres of film, stage, radio, tv and seek to utilize their skills in the rewriting stage of script development, will benefit immensely from this professionally structured Master class. This wonderful package comes at a subsidized course fee of N150,000… did your eyeballs just pop out of their sockets? …hey don’t be so melodramatic!…it’s definitely worth it, with a rich course content; script analysis, principles of dramatic story telling (structure, time and space management, character subtext, scene construction), developing scripts to their maximum dramatic potential, amongst others.

Nigerian born International, Dr Oladipo Agboluaje has been named as the facilitator for the course. He is a versatile writer and lecturer of playwriting for screenwriters at the Florida State University, London campus. Some of his brilliant array of works include but not limited to ‘Season of courage, Deluge, Area Boys, Say Goodbye Twice, and The Wish Collector, amongst others. He is a member of the Writers Guild of Great Britain, English PEN, African Theatre Association and has been a writing tutor for many theatres and networks across the UK, including the National Theatre and the BBC. He is an award recipient of the Alfred Fagon Award, a nominee for the Laurence Olivier Award, and The Writers Guild Award UK. He was the workshop leader ‘Stage Write’ for the Sydenham Arts Festival in July this year.

Hmm…with this sort of enviable pedigree and that of the organizers, you certainly can’t go wrong. So what are you waiting for?…I-Skill Centre…here i come!

High flying film critic, Augusta Okon, has officially unveiled the teaser riddle in the build up to the gathering of eagles at the “FAS” in November, 2013. The riddle which has been tagged “How Smart Are You?”, is meant to test people’s knowledge about an important subject matter.

The event is being kept under wraps for the time being, however, the organizers say it will, without an iota of doubt, initiate a transforming process that will impact positively in the ‘Industry’.
Try solving the riddle beneath using the clues in the poster as a guide and let’s see how smart you are!. We’ll look out for your answers via this medium. The correct answer will be revealed on October 25th,2013.

THE RIDDLE

I have been around for a long time, a generation yanked off by a century, though not as old as my contemporary within this shores. I didn’t have a flying start at the beginning and grappled to be relevant over the years. A homosapien from one of the cardinal points of dominance fell in love with me and I have always been part of his...read more of the riddle and solve on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/08/16/film-critic-releases-teaser-riddle-ahead-of-fas-can-you-solve-it-2/

City People Entertainment Awards 2013 held sometime ago at The Haven, Ikeja, Lagos. The annual event witnessed celebrities gracing the occasion. The under-listed unveils the list of winners for this year’s event:

MOVIES

Best Actress of the Year (English) – Mary Uranta

Best Actor of the Year (English) – Yul Edochie

Best Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – Femi Adebayo

Best Actress of the Year (Yoruba) – Mercy Aigbe

Nollywood Face of the Year – Rita Dominic

Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – Damola Olatunji

Best New Actress of the Year (Yoruba) – Bukky Adekongbe

Best New Actor of the Year (English) – Rex Okunzuwa

Best New Actress of the Year (English) – Blessing Patrick

Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – Tayo Amokade (Baba Ijebu)

Best Supporting Actress of the Year (Yoruba) – Mide Funmi-Martins

read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/07/17/city-people-entertainment-awards-2013-view-list-of-winners/

Kunle Afolayan is set to produce his latest movie “October 1″. The New York Academy alumnus is not resting on his oars following the success of his movies, Irapada, The Figurine;Araromire and Phone Swap. Unlike other film makers who wait to show case their movies to the world after post production, he has followed the ideal practice of letting the world in before serving the main visual dish.

His cast and crew are ready to hit the set, which comprises of Sadiq Daba, Kehinde Bankole, David Bailie, Kayode Olaiya, Nick Rhys, Fabian Lojede...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/07/10/kunle-afolayans-new-movie-october-1-view-poster/

The movie “You or I” was written, produced and directed (talk about triple duties) by Saidi Balogun. It stars Saidi Balogun, Kevin Barry (aka Kayode Oyinbo), Elizabeth Croydon, Shira Oyive, and Adunni Adewale.

You or I was shot in four countries, namely, Spain, United States, South Africa, and Nigeria. It tells of an African man’s journey into the western world and the dialogue is... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/06/26/white-man-who-speaks-yoruba-stars-in-saidi-baloguns-you-or-i/

Juilet Ibrahim stars in the movie titled “The Number One Fan”. It was directed by Moses Inwang with a group of other stars such as Ayo Makun a.k.a AY (The Comedian), Yemi Blaq, Kofi Adjorlolo, Prince David Osei, Eddie Nartey, Zainab Sheriff, and Keita Ossei.

The movie unveils the life of an actress, Lala Gam-Hammond who after carting away various awards calls it quits. Her heart throb is on her mind... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/06/23/juilet-ibrahim-stars-in-the-number-one-fan/

Misfit is based on a true story surrounding a victim of abduction, assault and molestation who finally gets liberated. It is the first feature motion picture produced by House5 Production, an outfit that has prior to this period won awards for short films, documentaries and has been involved in many independent projects.
Misfit is its first feature film, and has Ijeoma Agu as the lead actress... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/06/14/ijeoma-grace-agu-stars-in-misfit-november-2013/

1897, is a new movie from legendary director Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, parading stars such as Segun Arinze Paul Obazele, Mike Omoregbe, with special appearance by Justus Esiri(now deceased). The film focuses on the invasion of the Benin Kingdom by the British Empire in 1897 and how they carted away ancient artifacts belonging to the kingdom.

1897 boldly attempts to unearth the real deal behind the invasion... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/05/22/invasion-1897-lancelot-imasuen-goes-historical/

The Twin Sword… an epic fantasy produced by Samaila Vangawa and directed by Geoffrey Gaina, stars Justus Esiri(now late), Alex Usifo, Ibinabo Fiberesima, Emmanuel France, Alfred Atungu, and Kas Jonathan. Others featured in the movie include Sugar Chika Asoegwu, Tony Goodman, Magaji Mijinyawa, and Lonny John Lohnan. The movie clinched the Prize for Achievement in Visual effects at the AMAA 2013 held in Bayelsa state.

The movie unveils the performing of a sacred ritual of Rai in the Kingdoms of the middle world which must be done for humans to live in perpetual peace, unity and prosperity. The next 200 years sees the (Waziri) the trusted right hand man of King Muktar of Arah (in whose kingdom lies the responsibility of performing the ritual), betraying the trust and invariably humanity, by using the Sword instead to perform the ritual that would make him... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/05/08/the-twin-sword-an-epic-fantasy-movie-by-samaila-vangawa/

The movie “BROKEN” will premiere at the Silverbird Entertainment Centre in Abuja on March 28, 2013. The movie was directed by Bright Wonder Obasi, and parades stars such as Nse Ikpe- Etim, Bimbo Manuel, and Kalu Ikeagwu, with Iyke Adiele, Tehilla Adiele, Shalom Sharon Bada, Mary Chukwu, and Maksat Ampe, as part of the cast.

The movie revolves around the duo of a man and woman, Kalu Ikeagwu and Nse Ikpe Etim,whose lives are entangled in marriage,separation, chaos...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/27/broken-set-to-premiere-in-lagos/

The winners of the Afrinolly Short Film Competition 2013 have been announced. Read prequel to this news with regards to the run up to this announcement on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/01/afrinolly-short-film-competition-2013-view-shortlisted-films/

Winners for Short Film

First Prize ($25,000): Dara Ju – (Anthony Onah)

Second Prize ($10,000): The Promise – (Akin Okunrinboye)

Third Prize ($5,000): read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/12/winners-of-the-afrinolly-short-film-competition-2013/

Amanfo. It stars Majid Michel, Yvonne Nelson, Ice Prince Zamani, Omawumi Megbele, Eddie Watson, Francis Odega, and Luckie Lawson.

The movie unveils the business mogul,Dab Ansah Williams, who battles with cancer and has been handed a period of six weeks to live by his doctors. Having such a short time to live, he embarks on a mission to talk his children into returning home, most of who were born out of wedlock... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/08/yvonne-nelson-set-to-premiere-new-movie-house-of-gold/

The short film titled “Bless-In” from the stables of Ifektive Entertainment, produced by Ifeoluwa Salako made the top ten nominations list for best short film at this year’s edition of the Afrinolly Short Film Competition. Some may raise eyebrows as to the multiple roles of Ifeoluwa Salako who trippled as the director, producer and narrator… but hey isn’t it all about being...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/03/short-film-bless-in-by-ifeoluwa-salako/

To Serve With All Our Strength is a short film that has been shortlisted for the 2013 edition of Afrinolly Short Film Competition. It was written by Alexandra Hul, produced by Pever Bem and directed by Ishaya Bako. It boasts of a cast comprising of Chioma Nwosu... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/03/02/short-film-to-serve-with-all-our-strength/

Ama K. Abebrese one of Ghana’s top rated actresses, on February 17, 2013 at the Westminsiter Park Plaza London, venue of the 2013 Screen Nation Film & TV Awards, won the International African Film Personality award.

Ama beat via an on-line voting system other nominees such as Jackie Appiah, John Dumelo, Joseph Benjamin...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/02/19/ama-k-abebrese-clinches-award-at-screen-nation-film-tv-awards-2013/

Malawi will be the host nation for this year’s (2013) nomination night, of the prestigious African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). This was unveiled on January 24, 2013, by the CEO of AMAA, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe and is billed to run from March 14 to March 17. On the nomination night, March 16, nominees who made the list in various categories will be announced.P-square will be on hand on March 15 to set the nomination weekend rolling...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/01/30/amaas-nomination-night-2013-slated-for-malawi/

Iconic filmmaker, Tunde Kelani, is set to start Dazzling Mirage’s pre-production. The veteran who is known for his passion in adapting literary works into film, declared his intention to do so recently. The prints version of Dazzling mirage was authored by Olayinka Abimbola Egbokhare and set to be adapted to the big screen by the sensational screen writer based in the UK, Ade Solanke.

Dazzling Mirage unveils the story of a young, talented, beautiful lady suffering from the dreaded sickle cell disease... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/01/22/tunde-kelanis-film-adaptation-of-dazzling-mirage-commences/

Weekend Getaway is a movie jointly produced by the trio of Emem Isong,Ini Edo and Monalisa Chinda. Slated for private screening prior to its release in March 2013, the movie parades the likes of Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, Ini Edo, Monalisa Chinda, Uti Nwachukwu, Bryan Okwara, Alexx Ekubo, Beverly Naya, and Uru Eke. Imeh Bishop Umoh, Bobby Obodo, and Ini Ikpe featured in the movie as well.

Weekend Getaway is a suspense-filled drama genre based movie which revolves ... read more on
http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/01/20/weekend-getaway-hits-nigerian-cinemas-in-march-2013/

“The gods are still not to blame”, hits Nigerian Cinemas on April 19, 2013. Those with a literary background will certainly be familiar with the title, though modified. It’s an adaptation of the popular tragedy play “The gods are not to blame” written by Ola Rotimi, which brought the African flavour to the orignal story as seen in the Odepius Rex story.

The movie was directed by Funke Fayoyin and parades quite a good number of stars such as Carol King...read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2013/01/16/the-gods-are-still-not-to-blame-hits-nigerian-cinemas-april-19/

Director Akin Omotoso, is set to release “Man on Ground”, indubitably an award winning movie, as seen from the records. Silverbird cinemas will play host to its release on January 25th, 2013. Man on Ground stars Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Fabian Adeoye Lojede,Fano Mokoena,and Thishiwe Ziqubu.

The movie unveils the issue of xenophobia in South Africa,and was screened at various film festivals such as the Africa International Film Festival... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/12/27/man-on-ground-to-hit-cinemas-in-january-2013/

Frank Rajah is shooting his new movie titled “The Refugees” and locations happen to be in Ghana and Atlanta.The Ghanaian shooting has been wrapped up and Atlanta will be the next location in 2013. Majid Michel and fast rising sensation Belinda Effah are taking on the lead roles.

Both had previously starred in the movie “Brother’s Keeper”, with Ikechukwu Onyeka in the driving seat. The movie centers around three wanna be artistes... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/12/19/majid-michel-belinda-effah-to-star-in-the-refugees/

Short films are not produced dominantly in Nigeria in contra-distinction to feature films or even your regular dubbed home video movies with parts 1 – 4. “When Fishes Drown” is a new short film from Soji Ogunnaike and it stars Wole Ojo (Maami), Seun Kentebe, and Tana Adelana (Single and Married). It explores the over flogged theme of domestic violence… but hey there are many ways to skin a goat right?.. so he must have brought in creativity into this short film... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/12/12/when-fishes-drown-a-short-film-by-soji-ogunnaike/

The duo of Charles Aniagolu and Frank Adekunle Macaulay,combined forces to direct the movie, “Streets of Calabar”, which has been termed as’a dark comedy’. The movie stars Rita Dominic, Wale Ojo, Anthony Ofoegbu, Keppy Ekpenyog, Maynard Eziashi, and Lisa Kill.

The movie revolves around Chuks Oti, a scammer and illegal immigrant in London who gets deported to his native land,Nigeria. He wriggles his way out of a possible jail term and ends up in the holiday resort city, “Calabar”. He lives with his loyal, British girlfriend Margaret, who had travelled with him to Nigeria.

Chuks takes on menial jobs to make ends meet, but life is difficult. He runs into Mike, an old colleague in the scamming business, and with no jobs they find themselves back in the criminal world.They find themselves in danger, no small thanks to De Don, a leader of a gang, thriving in underground arms and drugs… he’s hatched an evil plan to takeover the peaceful streets of Calabar... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/12/03/streets-of-calabar-hits-nigerian-cinemas-soon/

Producer and director Elimihe Osezuah has unveiled his movie “First Cause” which stars the likes of Gabriel Afolayan, Jackie Idimogu, Ugochokwu C. Ukaogo and features Nosh Josh, Peachman Akputa, Uche Nwokocha, Chinwe Claudiana Craig, Akintola Akin-Lewis, and Adesewa Josh.

The story revolves around Frank, a young Nigerian schoolteacher, who falls in love with the daughter of his employer via her photograph.His employer initiates arrangements for both to meet.. with a proviso... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/11/24/gabriel-afolayan-stars-in-elimihe-osezuahs-first-cause/

Moses Inwang and Padita Agu have joined hands to produce “The Last Three digits”, incidentally directed by Moses. The movie stars the likes of Nonso Diobi, Dr SID, Padita Agu and features Bimbo Manuel, Rachel Oniga, AY, Ali Baba, Abiola Atanda (Madam Kofo), Moyo Lawal, Yemi Blaq, Kevin Ikeduba. The cinematographic feel was by Okey Oku and the movie was shot in Lagos and the UK.

The story revolves around Alex, who after a chance meeting with Audrey, receives her phone number… but his joy is short lived as the phone digits are incomplete. He begins to randomly input the remaining three digits hoping that one set would be Audrey’s. However, the dialling of the wrong set of digits sees him being caught in the den of a violent gang, where he escapes death by the whiskers... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/11/12/dr-sid-don-jazzy-ali-baba-a-y-unveiled-in-the-last-three-digits/

HOODRUSH – MOVIE REVIEW by Augusta Okon

Movie Title : HoodRush
Starring: Bimbo Akintola, O.C.Ukeje, Gabriel Afolayan, Chelsea Eze, Ijeoma Agu
Directed by : Dimeji Ajibola
Genre : Musical

HoodRush is highly powered by music, an unusual genre adopted by Dimeji Ajibola in telling the story about love, passion, lofty dreams religiously stalked by ‘shattered pro’, daring ruthlessness… faced in Pursuit of Happiness. The lip synched songs which tow the Bollywood path, unveils song after song, which triggers off cinematic restlessness, except you’re a fan or patience happens to be one of your virtues. It is child’s play when compared to Bollywood’s renowned customary musical lifestyle powered on the big screen, but it still finds a sense of identity in the maze of untapped genres in Nollywood.

Two vocally talented brothers Shez (O.C.Ukeje) and Tavia (Gabriel Afolayan) dangle at the bottom of the social ladder. They dream of breaking into stardom having entered into series of talent hunt shows. The mega star dream is once more shattered following a scammed audition of a talent hunt show. Tied down with the chains of penury, despair and misery, Shez clutches at the straw of freedom Alhaja Kadisha- AK1 (Bimbo Akintola) offers him. This unwholesome relationship is financially rewarding and he dives into the pool of greed and selfishness, scheming to have his record label, but there’s a price he has to pay.

Lost in the garden of love he re-connects with the beautiful Shakira (Chelsea Eze) who becomes one of the victims caught in AK1’s business net, cast into the sea of illegality. Tavia , the younger of the two, still keeps the candle of hope burning having signed them up for the latest talent hunt show, “African Idol” organized by the renowned American Idol. He’s in love with Kelechi (Ijeoma Agu) who has been downtrodden by life and robotically obeys the whims and caprices of her aunt. She carries an emotionally torturing secret in her heart and with Shez lost in the sick world of guilty pleasures, the boys are on the verge of loosing out on a great opportunity that could change their lives forever…

Bimbo Akintola (Freedom in Chains) was spectacular, unequivocally playing the role of a sugar mummy, struggling with the waves of romantic insecurity, bitterness, chain smoking, ruthlessness and greed. She certainly hasn’t lost that golden touch in character interpretation. O.C.Ukeji and Gabriel Afolayan brought it on, as they lip synched to songs recorded originally by them. Gabriel gave a brilliant, emotionally triggering delivery in a heart rending scene that unveiled the consequences of making wrong choices, with his love Kelechi, (Ijeoma Agu of Hollywood Indie movie “AINA” by Maarore Pictures, and other soaps/stage productions, surprisingly the weakest link in the acting chain), bailing him out of his predicament.

The movie boasts of nice aerial shots, good cinematography, great songs worthy of massive airplay (written by Patrick Matthias) especially “Shakira” and “I believe in you boy” ... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/11/10/hoodrush-movie-review/

In – Short Film festival 2012, a short film festival organized by the International Film and broadcast academy (with Victor Okhai at the helm of affairs), in partnership with Goethe Institute, was held last month. A statement from the Chairman of the jury Shaibu Husseini, captures the three days film screening process with the emergence of the winners thus :

“… We looked through over 40 entries comprising short films, short documentaries and a couple of infomercials that aptly captured the theme of this year’s festival, which is ‘Simple Idea…Great movies’. The unprecedented number of entries, in all categories and from different countries of the world, can lead only to this conclusion: that the IN-SHORT film festival has, indeed, become a truly international event. I served on the jury last year, and comparably I would like to report that this year witnessed a remarkable increase in the quality of the films submitted.

From their technical qualities to the acting and directing, the 2012 film slate is most impressive. We saw films that were well shot and whose stories were dramatically imaginative with diverse thematic concerns and narrative techniques. The competition in most categories was very strong and our decisions reflect much thought and debate.

In all, the Jury is impressed by the quality and diversity of the storylines of the films presented. We saw films that told real and uplifting stories: films that were compelling, films that were visually stylish, films that took full advantage of the power of the lenses to explore the world, and films that signaled the emergence of a whole crop of young and ambitious filmmakers who are determined to keep cinema alive and well.

In fact it took us longer time to agree on the eventual winner in the different categories because of the unarguably high standard and convincing styles clearly evident in the nominated films.But we saw films that left us with sour tastes as though we tasted burnt bread. Not only were their stories implausible, it was spurious and their scripts did not match their visual sophistication. The Jury also wishes to highlight that the documentaries entered this year were of very low quality compared to the maiden edition. Indeed the Jury didn’t find their examination of the relationship between subject and the filmmaker, fascinating. Therefore we found that improvement was needed in the documentary film category. The Jury therefore had to take the painful decision not to give an award in that category because of shortcomings, especially the perceivable low artistic level. So there will be no award for the documentary category this time around. But we have included two categories this year and that is the music and special effect category. We observed efforts by some filmmakers to make these elements count in their films.

We commend the advances being made by these directors and producers and specifically single out these short movies- Loop, Silver Lining, The Birth and To Live Again for Honourable mention. We applaud Loop for its bold innovation; Silver Lining for offering a refreshing insight into autism, a condition of which parents and the general public need to be aware of, The Birth for its treatment of the Jos crisis and To Live Again for offering a non-stereotypical insight into the issue of HIV/AIDS. We are, therefore, unanimous in our decision to honour these four films with a Honourable Mention from the Jury…”

Shaibu Husseini as stated earlier was the Jury chair, with these notable members: DR. BOLA ADEMESO (Senior Lecturer at the Department of Theatre Arts, Lagos State University), DR. BECKY ANGYUR (Visiting Research Fellow/film and media scholar), AUGUSTA OKON (published writer, lawyer, event manager, film critic and blogger), YEMI OLADEINDE (Journalist, film critic, programmer and PR/Media Consultant).

NOMINEES AND WINNERS FOR IN-SHORT FESTival 2012

1. BEST SCREEN PLAY
1. BIG DADDY
2. NATIONAL CAKE
3. SILVERLINING
4. TILL DEATH DO US PART
5. TO LIVE AGAIN

WINNER: NATIONAL CAKE

2. BEST SOUND
1. MIND TRIP
2. BIG DADDY
3. TO LIVE AGAIN
4. TILL DEATH DO US PART
5. LOOP

WINNER: LOOP... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/11/01/till-death-do-us-part-shines-at-in-short-international-film-festival-2012-view-list-of-nominees-and-winners/

Sequel to the success of her movie “Small Boy” which clinched two awards at AMAA 2009, Michelle Bello takes it a step further by returning with a new romantic comedy “Flower Girl”. The movie stars Damilola Adegbite, Chuks Chukwujekwu, Chris Attoh, Eku Edewor,Bikiye Graham Douglas, Ahide Adum, Patrick Doyle, Tosan Edremoda-Ugbeye,and Teni Aofiyebi.

Flower Girl unveils Kemi, (whose parents are florists). She works in their shop selling flowers and day dreams of marrying her beloved boyfriend, Umar. He has promised to propose to her when he gets the much desired promotion. Of course she grows impatient, as she’s bombarded by embarrassing remarks from her parents… she even begins to plan her wedding in advance.

At last her heart throb gets his promotion … but breaks up with her… hmm… guys!. Anyway, devastated, she gets hit by a car and the driver happens to be... read more on http://9aijabooksandmovies./2012/10/31/damilola-adegbite-of-tinsel-fame-stars-in-romantic-comedy-flower-girl/