From now onwards, we will be bringing reviews of foreign movies. Skeleton crew is just the begining. Enjoy!


In the early 1970’s, a remote mental institution next to the Russian border was shut down by the police. Before it was closed, Dr. Andersson made a series of snuff films using his patients. The doctor filmed all the murders in 8mm, and started to call himself ‘The Auteur.’ Thirty years later, an American film crew arrives in Finland to shoot a horror movie about the massacre, and are unaware that they are about to become the stars of their director’s real life snuff film. This was a great movie. It is very unique. There are some surprising parts. There are a lot of sense that would capture a sadistic’s heart. I give this movie a rating a 10. In the beginning I will warn you it is sort of slow, and stupid, meaning you scream use common sense to the characters, but that it the idea of the movie at first. Then it does a total switch-a-roo and fulls the audience. It is a fabulous film.

Networking with Genevieve

Nollywood diva Genevieve Nnaji is breaking new grounds with her brand new face book-like social networking forum website. It is place where all her friends, fans and even critics can network directly with her and with each other. The site, http://www.genevievennajifanbook.com, is just another testament to the fact that Genevieve is a star that has the interest of her fans at heart.Blockbuster learnt that the new site is part of the rebranding and repositioning strategy for Genevieve, which is being packaged by her new US-based managers, Stingomania Entertainment Inc. owned by Mr. Ope Banwo, former M.D of Dove Media Plc, who is also planning a return to the industry as an Entertainment Attorney and Manager.Genevieve has promised to formally unveil the site in May.

Coutesy:

Sun newspaper.

Nollywood in limbo as Kenya, South Africa rule AMAA Awards

But for Funke “Jenifa” Akindele, Mercy Johnson, Tunde Kelani’s Arugba and wonder kid actor, Richard Chukwuma, who gave the home audience something to cheer at the 5th African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) held at the Glory Cultural Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State last weekend, Nigeria’s outing at the grand awards ceremony would have paled into insignificance.Funke whose role as Jenifa in the movie of the same title had earned her multiple awards at the Future Awards held earlier in the year, won the prestigious Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role ahead of her compatriots, Stephanie Okereke, Nse Etim, and Stella Damasus. Mercy Johnson, who like Funke was also absent at the ceremony clinched the Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role plaque for her role in Live to Remember while Chukwuma was rated AMAA Best Child Actor, for his role in the movie, Small Boy.Kelani’s chart-buster, Arugba, which had ten nominations, was only successful in two categories: AMAA Achievement in Costume and Heart of Africa Award for Best Films from Nigeria. Others who also made the country proud included the make-up artiste of the film, Live to Remember, which was voted best for AMAA Achievement in Make Up, and Izu Ojukwu’s Cindy Notes, which won AMAA Achievement in Cinematography.However, the evening of glamour and variety entertainment, which had in attendance Governor Timipre Sylva, Oscar award-winning American actors, Forest Whitaker and Danny Glover, and a galaxy of Nollywood stars witnessed the home crowd watching bemusedly as Kenya, Egypt and South Africa carted home the major awards of 2009 AMAA, sponsored by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Bayelsa State government.It was an evening the acclaimed prolific Nollywood went to roost. In fact, a hush fell on the capacity-filled hall as Kenya’s entry, From A whisper stole the show, clinching the Best Picture, Best Original Soundtrack, AMAA Achievement in Editing, Best Director and Best Screenplay diadem. Egyptian actor, Farouk Alfishawi was voted the Best Performer by an Actor in a Leading Role, and the country’s entry, Seventh Heaven had clinched AMAA Achievement in Sound prize.South Africa’s entry, Gugu and Anadile produced the Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Film in African Language, and Most Promising Actor and Actress respectively at the show compered by the irrepressible Julius Agwu, screen diva Kate-Henshaw-Nuttal and Ghana’s Kofi Bucknor.The verdict, to movie aficionados was a vindication of AMAA as a true pan-African movie awards. It was also a wake up call for Nollywood hitherto immersed in self-deceit as Africa’s prime film market. The development may have prompted Nigeria’s ace-cinematographer, Tunde Kelani while receiving the plaque for Heart of Africa Award for Best Films from Nigeria to throw a challenge at the visitors, “I can see that this year, AMAA has introduced real competition to the movie awards. Mark you, we’ll go back to the drawing board and I promise that they won’t have it easy next year.” With that statement, the battle line was drawn between the home industry and it’s counterparts in Africa and in the Diaspora. How strongly Nollywood can respond to this challenge, time would tell. AMAA 2009 recorded the widest continental presence with entries coming from Egypt, South Africa, Uganda, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, among others. From over 400 entries received, the works were pruned down to 20, listed in the 24 categories vied for in Yenagoa last Saturday.Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, CEO, AMAA, in her opening remarks reminisced on the journey so far in building the AMAA brand. She lauded individuals and corporate Nigerians especially the United Bank for Africa (UBA) that has identified with the organizers since inception.The show also had its sober moment when the organizer paid glowing tributes to some of the fallen Nollywood stars. It was one of the pulsating moments of the awards as the audience rose to their feet to catch glimpses of the deceased on screen. The chief host, Governor Sylva equally reiterated Bayelsa’s commitment to the awards. He stressed that he is looking forward to a time film practitioners would flood the state to shoot films. The governor, who was accompanied to the event by his wife, Alayingi promised to provide movie infrastructure that would make the state attractive to movie investors.


Story:

Sun News

Olu Jacobs is Made in India for Papa Ajasco + AMAA Best Actress Crown

Olu Jacobs is Made in India for Papa Ajasco
The face of Nollywood star, Olu Jacobs is set to grace the popular television comedy series, Papa Ajasco and Company. The veteran actor will be featuring in the new series of the programme entitled Made in India.Jacobs, who’s playing the role of a Vice Chancellor in the series, says he feels good working with Wale Adenuga, the producer because “the script is treating a prevalent issue in our campuses”.Made in India dwells on the nagging issue of sexual harassment in the campuses, with the attendant tug of war between the lecturers, who indulge in it and the authorities that are equally bent on sanitising the system. “It is a good script, because it’s been a relentless war, quite traumatic for the female students. Some struggle to pay their school fees only to be harassed by some lecherous lecturers or cultists,” Olu Jabobs adds.The actor commended Adenuga for his creative ingenuity, and the subtle but consistent way he highlights the ills in the society and proffers solution through his drama programmes.“I have always been a fan of Wale Adenuga right from the days he was publishing the hilarious magazine, Ikebe Super. He’s a hard working and dedicated artiste, who infects people around him with the same kind of joy and excitement,” he states, adding, “Wale Adenuga is a detribalised Nigerian who where you come from does not matter to him but the creative talent in you,”Made in India, which would make its debut on screen soon parades adept role interpreters like Nnena (Yinka Olukunga) of the Super Story fame and a host of others. The programme was directed by ace director, Bolaji Dawodu.

AMAA Best Actress Crown: Funke ‘Jenifa’ Akindele, Stella Damasus or Stephanie Okereke?

As movie lovers begin the countdown to the 4th African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) billed for Yenagoa, Bayelsa State next Saturday April 4, 2009, a tough battle for the treasured award of “Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role” is imminent among six top actresses from Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya.Nollywood divas Stella Damasus, Stephanie Okereke, Nse Etim and Funke Akindele of Jenifa fame will slug it out with their counterparts like Corine Onyango (Kenya) and Uadia Buari from Ghana.Although, the Best Actress Award is just one of the 24 categories of the Africa’s premiere movie awards, sponsored by UBA and Bayelsa State government, the nominations have evoked anxiety among movie buffs as to where the pendulum will eventually swing. The reasons are not far fetched as our own Stella, Stephanie and Funke can hold their own any where, any day.Stephanie and Stella are popular faces and have always joined the yearly train, but if the current form of “Bigz Girl” Funke is anything to go by, then the law graduate of the University of Lagos may be unstoppable in the race for the diadem.But then upsets can not be ruled out from other contenders from Kenya and Ghana. Buari and Cnyango may not be popular faces in Nigeria the final judgment, however, rests with the Academy of International Jurors that will pick the winners few days to the ceremony. Also on the home front, movie fans are equally anxious about the eventual winner of the laurel for the “Heart of Africa Award for Best Films from Nigeria”. Apparently, a leveler for the English and Yoruba genres of the Nigerian film industry, in contention are Izu Ojukwu’s Cindy’s Note, Tunde Kelani’s Arugba and Tchidi Chikere’s Beautiful Soul. Others include Jenifa and State-of-the-Heart by Kingsley Omoife and Richard Mofe Damijo. Surprisingly only Arugba made the nominations for the overall Best Picture Award among the nominees for Heart of Africa Award.Kelani’s film, which is making waves in cinema houses across the country, is competing with works from Kenya, South Africa, Uganda and Egypt thus vindicating AMAA as a true Pan-African award. The same even spread of the Best Picture Award is replicated in the Best Director prize which also has Kelani’s Arugba slugging it out with other flicks from Kenya, South Africa, Uganda and Egypt. Beside Kelani and Chikere whose films had clinched AMAA plaques in the previous years, many of the stars are actually making their debut. A regular face in home videos coming after the generation of the likes of Ramsey Noah, Jim Iyke and Emeka Ike among others, Mike Ezuruonye is one actor movie lovers cannot just push aside. The widely-travelled dude will be in Yenagoa as a contender for the prestigious Best Performance by an Actor in a leading role for his role in the film, Assassin. Another star who may be making his debut in Yenagoa is the internationally acclaimed dancer and choreographer Peter Badejo. The artiste, who was honoured a few years back by the Queen of England with the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his immense contributions to the dance art, may jet into the country for AMAA 2009. He was short listed alongside Ezuruonye for featuring in Tunde Kelani’s Arugba.

Why I left Chidi MokemeFrom

Fresh face Nazareth Jesse popularly known as ‘Naz’ was not born with a silver spoon in her mouth. But determined to make it in a world of uncertainties, she knew hard work was her only route to success. And for her, success was not an option; it became a matter of survival to help feed her family. Luckily for her, on life’s journey she met a few people who propelled her into her destiny of becoming a movie star. In 2007 the Abuja based star wooed movies audience us with her role as Joy in the movie Girls’ Cot. Nazareth has continued to put her fans in a trance with her powerful performances, returning again this time in Stanley Ebonine’s yet to be released blockbuster movie Fear Not. The sultry Abuja actress had a chat with Aishat Barkindo of Sun News Publishing on different issues and why she had to spend 10 years in three different schools to get a Higher National Diploma. Read On:

You look so innocent and young. How old are you?

(Laughs heartily) Any woman that tells you that can tell you anything. Beware of her! A woman should seem quintessential. Never tell all, yet remain graceful. Anyway I am over 25 years old.+

What motivated you into becoming an Actress?

The passion first, then the need to try to make some extra cash to help train my younger ones. Most people don’t know this about me, but growing up was tough. I was the first of six children. Dad was a hall porter at a polytechnic and mum was a petty trader. I had to hawk foodstuff on the streets for her. Now when I look at where I am coming from to where I am now, I know God has really been faithful to me.

Your name seems to be on the lips of every Abuja big boy as the one to ‘take home to Mama.’ How does this reconcile with your being an actress?

Men love fantasies. But still am flattered. My roles at times tend to reflect my true nature of gentility, calmness, all essence of being a true African queen, so naturally men get attracted.

How many movies have you featured in?

Over 20 movies and still counting

What’s your background?

I taught you would never ask. I am from Rubochi village in Kuje Area Council in the Federal Capital Territory. So I am Gwari by tribe. But growing up days were spent in Bida, Niger state. I attended Government Girls’ Day Secondary School, Bida after which I spent close to 10 years trying to get a HND because of constant sexual harassment by some of my lecturers. Some would even want to have you in their office. I finally graduated from the department of Business Administration and Management after attending up to three universities. It wasn’t easy. Government should do something about some of these lecturers.

What of sexual harassment in the movie industry, that is Sex-For-Roles demands made on actresses?

Honestly Aishat, it’s not as prominent as experienced in the universities. Those students are really going through hell. In the movies, the stakes are higher for the girls, you could either walk away or say no. In the university you could be like me, insist on “no” and go through school for 10 years! Sanitizing the schools on this issue should be one of the Seven Point Agenda for Mr. President. I get more surprised when I read about sexual harassment in the movie industry.. I think most of these producers and Directors are the most harassed. Some actresses just for roles entice them by knocking at their doors at night and wearing nude dresses during the day. And you know these are ‘men’.

What is the most challenging role to date?

Ha! Having to play the role of a crack up prostitute in the movie Love and Likeness.How do you see the issue of lesbianism in the industry?I prefer men honestly, so I don’t know how to answer that question. It’s their choice and their body.

There is gist in town that a very powerful South-South Governor is madly in love with you?

(Smiles shyly) Honestly every man has the right to fall in love with a woman but it depends on the woman to reciprocate. I should say ‘no comment’ to this question.

Have you ever been hear- broken?

Not really, but I used to go out with Chidi Mokeme a.k.a GQ till I found out that we were too many for him to count so I bailed out. Then there was Jim Iyke, we were not lovers but very close, he could advise me like his younger sister. Chidi actually brought me into the movies in 2004.

How do you relax?

I’ve learnt to make some “me-time.” Sometimes I get so busy that I don’t even remember to eat. Then I get selfish for “me”. I always try to figure out those moments when I have to take some quiet time to reflect and breathe. I think for everyone it’s important to recharge yourself, whether you’re lying on the sofa, soaking up in the bath tub or hanging out with people you love, or you’re just walking around enjoying God’s beauty.

How do you see Nollywood in the next 10 years?

Ten years is too far. Nollywood will be the toast of the world in the next five years! Nigeria is a blessed country, with all our inadequacies, good things always happen to us. I’m especially happy about the way Globacom is trying to use Nollywood actors for endorsement.

What is favourate dish?

Tuwo shinkafa and miyan kuka.

Courtesy:Sun News Publishing

After my failed marriage, I’m a better person— Stephanie Okereke

So, how are you doing today?
I’m alright, thank you.
You’ve been away for quite sometime, what happened?
I was away to do my movie and after shooting, I returned home to attend the BOBTV event where many people demanded to see the movie, I think BOBTV is good platform for film makers to interact.
So how was the response at BOBTV?

Stephanie Okereke now freeIt was awesome, they loved it. I showed the movie on a Tuesday at the event and on Wednesday at the workshop, it was full hall when I arrived. There were a lot of young people and they asked questions on how I did it. Everybody is demanding to see the movie, I think the response was great.
Is that your first ever self produced movie?
Yes it’s the first movie which I wrote, directed, produced and acted all in one.
What was the experience like?
(Laughing) It was a lot of hard work but it was fun. All this happened because I wanted to do something different. In the beginning I was thinking about it myself; Can I do this? How do I go about it?. Should I do it I asked myself? . There were so many challenges ranging from funding, location, getting your cars and so on.
So how were you able, to do it?
Well I was able to do it by God’s grace. It’s just like any other moment you face challenges, then you have to tackle it the best way that you can.
How long have you been in the movie industry, do you think experience has anything to do with producing or directing a movie?
I’ve always been there so age has nothing to do here. I mean over there, they have young directors who are about 16, 17 years and above 50, age shouldn’t be a restriction. You don’t have to be old to be a director.
There are lots of young people in movies abroad. Most of the foreign movies you’ve watched were directed by young people. So as they grow in it, they keep improving and that means a lot of experience. I did my first move in 1997 when I finished secondary school.
Eleven years after, don’t you think it took so long to come this far?
First of all, I wasn’t expecting it and it just happened. And also in life, there is time for everything. There is time for you to make certain decisions and move to another level, so I think this is just the proper time for me to do this.
What is this movie all about?
The movie is centered around responsibility and commitment. A parent’s love for a child. It’s about a guy who doesn’t want to come into relationship and suddenly finds an unknown baby. And this baby opens the way of God for him to discover himself. So he’s going through the glass of the situation around him and then there’s his relationship with this Nigerian girl.
So it’s all centered around a man?
Yes, a man, the baby and the girl.
Where was this movie shoot and who are the stars?
It was all shot in Los Angeles (LA), and I used Americans, African American, and also some of our African actors.
And who are the American actors?
Well you wouldn’t know but they are quite big in America
You didn’t use any of the stars here in Nigeria?
No. I didn’t use any of my colleagues that you know. It wasn’t an issue of whether I use my colleagues or not. It was an issue of the script. I had to use only those who are characters in the script.
What was the experience like blending Nolly and Hollywood together?
It wasn’t much of a Nollywood thing but I represented Nollywood in the movie (I’m the girl in the story). Even though I didn’t have to tell them who I was, by the time they heard my name, some of them went to the internet and saw the things I had done and they screamed.
They saw that I had a lot of experience. And at the end, they learnt a lot from the movie and they love the fact that they worked with me.
What do you think could be responsible for low turnout of movies in Nollywood?
I think it’s a whole process of trying to get to a particular level and the fact that ideas are conflicting, different strategies and ways of implementing things. I think right now the Nigerian society is complicated as it is. And sometimes for solid things to happen, there has to be this phase of conflict which will soon be over.
So right now people are waiting to see which direction to go. Soon everything will still come back to normal.
There’s a feeling that the earlier we resolve this, the better for Nollywood because right now the situation is bad.
But some actors and actresses are hungry?.
Yes but when you say hungry, I’m like oh my God....Most people have not actually done any movie in the last one year...
Yes. It’s just like when the writers in America went on strike and everybody was complaining. Right now I think that every sector of the industry has to define their role (film makers, writers, distributor and even the censors board).
Again, since we’re trying to standardise and go global, it’s also important that we draw experience from the international community on how things should be done. People should also stick to their roles because what we see in Nollywood is people trying to interfere with creativity. And you know that creativity is something personal. The way Mr. A perceives is different from that of Mr. B. I believe that if we can do this, we’ll surely make a headway.
Are you saying there’s a lot of busy bodies in the industry?
It’s not about busy body but there is conflict in the industry. At this point, I think we need to harmonise. This conflict has been going on for about two years now. We have to come together this year and harmonise so that we don’t continue in conflict.
With all this conflict, do you think Nollywood can survive?
Yes Nollywood has come to stay and we are not going anywhere. This is just a phase we are going through and we will surely come out of it. The film makers know that this is the time for us to do more quality work and go global. So we have to stop doing movies for ourselves and family members. We should begin to do movies that can cut across several borders so that non-Nigerians can be able to relate with it.
We should also improve on the quality of our work, not this kind of haphazard movies we do in Nollywood. Right now I think there are lot of challenges for film makers.
With all this conflicts in the industry, how do you intend to market your movie?
The major thing is that I have a good work and people are willing to buy. For sure it will work out itself. Right now I’m doing a theatre release of it with Silverbird, then I’ll release DVD later.
Do you think it’s because of poverty that Nigerian movies are produced in part 1, 2, 3 and so on?
I want to let you know that it is poverty mentality that’s affecting Nigerians in almost all sectors of the economy so let’s not restrict it to Nollywood. I want do also let you know that film making pass different stages before it comes to DVD. But in Nigeria we are used to exploring only one stage which is the DVD.
Meanwhile you could make money if you do a theatre release or TV/Internet release before putting it in DVD.
That is why film makers are crying that Nigerians are not buying movies. But I think that they need to win back people’s confidence (give them reasons why they should buy a particular movie). These reasons are in improving the quality of our work. And when this is done even the people who no longer watch our movies will want to watch if they see a good one.
And as per marketing, I think we don’t use the right channel. A movie should be well promoted. A good example of a well promoted movie is the Slumdog Millionaire. Most people never knew the content before they subscribed to it.
People also complain that stories are recycled....
Somebody asked this question at BOBTV and I told them that there is nothing new again. Even in America, stories are recycled. It all depends on what angle you want to take it from and that’s where originality comes in. Julius Caesar has been done so many times but from different angles. Right now there’s nothing original.
What role do you think Nollywood should play in rebranding this nation.America was able to colonise the whole world today through entertainment. When people watch American movies, they want to behave like them. And that is sometime. When you visit America, it appears you know everywhere because you’ve seen it in the movies.
We are talking about rebranding this nation. So I think they should focus more on the movie industry because movies recreates life. While watching a movie, you see your life presented to you. Don’t forget that through movies, we sell our culture, tourism, perception of this country and a whole lot of things. Movies move from hand to hand, region to region so it’s easier to sell this country through movie because that’s how America colonised the world today.
It appears you are talking much about movies, what’s happening to your love life right now?
(Laughing) Right now I’m working on promoting and marketing my movie. Love life is something you don’t plan but when the mind is free and open, it comes. You don’t know who you may fall in love with. So at the appropriate time everything will fall into place.
Are you going to get married because you’re in love or because your friends are all getting married?

Right now I’m not married, I’m very single and I don’t want to go into that. No comments please.

You are like a role model to a lot of young ones out there, what advice will you give to them in terms of relationship?
At this point, you really have to think about yourself and what makes you happy as an individual because you have just one life to live.
Yes I went into a relationship and came out of it but what matters is the way you come out of it and what you do with yourself thereafter. It was just an experience I went through but I’ve moved on with my life. And believe me I’m a better person today because I’ve learnt so many things from that experience.
What was your experience like when you...
It was fun and I think it’s a good platform for a lot of young girls to discover themselves and decide which way they go from there. Once you have this platform, how you use it and what you become later matters a lot.
You once took part in the Most Beautiful Girl In Pageant, right?
Yes it was fun
Did it help your career?
Yes it did, it gives you a lot of confidence. Wearing a bikini and moving around a lot of people makes you more confident in yourself. So you’ve got to believe in yourself because if you don’t, you’ll end up being manipulated.
Are you into any form of humanitarian service?
With time I’ll have something an NGO. Sometimes I’m called upon to do some sort of humanitarian service which I oblige to as long as my face or something I say, will make a change.A
Will you remain like this forever?
Of course, I’m not going to stay like this forever. I’m enjoying my life the way it is right now. It’s not compulsory that I must have a man in my life. Life has different phases, there’s a time to be single, married and a time to have children. I am in the single phase.
May be the next phase you meet me, I may be in a relationship or I’m married.
You’ve come a long way in this industry, what trying moments have you faced?
Personally I don’t think I’ve had any such moments. It’s been great all through for me. This industry has made me who I am today.
Where are you from?
I’m from Ngor Okpala Local Government Area of Imo State. My full names are Stephanie Onyekachi Okereke.
Are you the only star from your place?
No. My aunty is also a star. She is the Director-.General of Nigerian Stock Exchange and my uncle is the King of my village.
So you are a princess?
Yes. I am.

Corutesy: Vanguard Newspaper

Funke Akindele unleashes the ‘JENIFA’ phenomenon

Suliat kan. Ayetoro kan.
If you dont ‘get’ the words above then you haven’t been touched by the ‘Jenifa’ phenomenon. ‘Jenifa’ is the brainchild of actress, Funke Akindele. Funke has been a successful actress for over a decade. She got her big break on the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA) sponsored youth-oriented TV show, ‘I Need To Know’. Since then she has completed her law degree at the University of Lagos and now she is pursuing her movie career in full throttle. Acting in English movies and then producing, writing and starring in Yoruba movie productions.
Her new movie ‘Jenifa’ is making major waves and is selling out fast! ‘Jenifa’ tells the all too familiar story of a young ‘village girl’ who moves to the city to enrol in university. Suliat (Funke Akindele) is a local champion in her humble hometown, Ayetoro. She is the most popular babe of them all and highly influential amongst her peers. She gains admission to university in Lagos and moves there with great expectations. At university, she is ridiculed for her style (or lack-there-of), her accent and manner of speaking then she meets a group of girls, things begin to change and Suliat is transformed to JENIFA….
The movie is actually pretty predictable but the humour, costumes and acting performances carry it along nicely. Its so commendable that Funke also wrote the script and produced the movie. The movie also stars Ronke Odusanya, Iyabo Ojo, Ireti Osayemi, Odunade Adekola, Eniola Badmus and Tola Oladokun.
This is definitely the movie of the moment! You can hardly go anywhere without hearing a conversation about it or some quips from the movie like Suliat/Jenifa’s buzz words ‘ooouushhh’ ‘Bigz Girlz’ etc…
The movie is so popular that it has inspired a song by Amplifyd Ft ID Cabasa

MARIE EBUKA

Nollywood actress, Marie Ebuka, in this interview talks about how she started acting, her love for the industry and what initially put her off from the career she loves so much. Marie Ebuka in her own words. BackgroundI am the last child of my parents. I have two elder brothers and one sister. I was born in Lagos and I am from the Igbo speaking part of Delta State. I wanted to become a Petroleum Engineer, because I was a good science student but I later changed my mind. But Theatre Arts was the last thing on my mind. I never thought I could make a career out of acting. I later got admission in to the University of Lagos to study Philosophy.On actingI started acting when I was in the university. My acting career started in year 2001 when I was introduced to Zeb Ejiiro Zeb gave me my first break in ‘Gentle Solution’ and that was how my career in acting started. I have featured in several movies and soap operas But most especially I have been able to carve a niche for myself as an action movie actress. I just love to be where the action is.On sex for roleBefore my break into the industry. I have heard a lot of negative things about the industry. How you must know somebody that is well connected to get a role in a movie. And how some actresses had to sleep around to be able to feature in a movie. That was a put off for me. Although, I wanted to be an actress I did not want any part of that. I wasn’t that desperate to do whatever it takes to be seen on screen. I didn’t know anybody in the industry and really didn’t know where to start from. But I had hope and I was sure someday if I was destined to become an actress, I would meet someone who is in the industry that will spot my talent and give me the break I needed. And I did. What I heard about the industry initially was a put off for me. I was not ready to give my body in exchange for a role in a movie, so I lost interest in acting and concentrated on my studies. I remembered that my parents were initially against my having a career in acting. But I insisted, I let them know my love for acting and they later gave their blessings. A lot of actresses are so desperate. They hang around producers’ offices till late at night all for a role. And I think they are the ones that are actually throwing themselves at the producers and directors. Because if you don’t hang around after an audition for whatever reason(s) no one will make an indecent proposal to you. I don’t lobby for a part I have never. If I am right for a part I will surely get the part. On nude sceneI don’t think I can bare it all in a movie. I can’t play a nude scene. It has nothing to do with whether I have a perfect figure or not. Of course, I am a very beautiful woman with the right curves, but I just can’t bare it all in front of the camera. Yes, I have done semi-nude scene before. I did a scene like that in one of my movies ‘President Must Not Die’. I can back the camera and take off my clothes, if the role demands it. And that is as far as I would go.On datingI have always been an independent woman right from my university days. I have done odd jobs to be able to pay my bills. I never liked running back to my parents to help me out financially. Life has not been all that rosy for me at one point or the other, friends have helped out with my bills. If I need something I like to be able to get it by myself I don’t like asking another person for help. I have never dated a man that is in the same industry. I don’t see them as men that are really looking for a long lasting relationship. I see them as colleagues and that is it. The men just want to have their fun and go brag about it. I have been heartbroken before. And it hurts so bad that it affected my acting career. I had to stop acting for sometime. But I got over it. I learned my lesson. Love is a serious thing I like to get to know a man before I can start talking about love. Courtesy Sun news

Most Popular Movies

Mama G In America

Genre ComedyDuration 01:31:53Director Mac Collins Chidebe StarringPatience Ozokwor, Ejike Asiegbu, Stephanie Okereke Synopsis A tale of an African mother in America...

Ago Alaago
Genre YorubaDuration 01:38:35Director Yemi Amodu StarringMoji Olaiya, Lanre Balogun, Saheed Balogun, Funsho Adeolu Synopsis A wife not content with her husband...

Beware Of Love
Genre RomanceDuration 01:31:07Director Samson Francis StarringRamsey Noah, Olu Jacobs, Clarion Chukwura Synopsis A young man and his father’s young wife...

Widow
Genre DramaDuration 01:25:00Director Kingsley Ogoro StarringStella Damascus Aboderin, Segun Arinze, Yemi Solade, Obiageli Molube Synopsis A true life story of a middle-aged woman accused of her husband’s murder by his family and is subjected to intense emotional and mental torture. She finds herself in a precarious situation that leaves her to the merciless hands of tradition...

The Last Oath

Genre ComedyDuration 01:33:00Director Moses Ebere StarringStella Damasus-Aboderin, Desmond Elliot, Ngozi Ezeonu Synopsis Playboy realises God is more important...

Thunderbolt (Magun)
Genre RomanceDuration 01:37:39Director Tunde Kelani StarringYemi Uche Obi-Osotule, Lanre Balogun, Wale Macauley Synopsis Two young people, an Igbo lady and a young man of Yoruba origin, meet and fall in love. But their passion challenges ancient folk wisdom and problems arise. Will their love be strong enough to defy tradition?...

All I Have 1

Genre DramaDuration 02:04:35Director Ernest Obi StarringRita Dominic, Ernest Obi, Mike Ezuruonye Synopsis A young lady with a past and her struggles...

Clash of Love 1
Genre Romance Duration 01:06:23 Director Ebere Onwu StarringRamsey Nouah, Chioma Chukwuka, Emeka Enyiocha Synopsis Lady vows to sway man who rejects her at all costs... Ya

Ma Afrika Episodes 1&2

Genre TV Series Duration 00:42.57 Director Thato Rantao Mwosa StarringNoro Ejaita, Nomsa L. Mlambo, Yana Bille, U-Meleni Mhlaba Synopsis Fictional drama series that fuses the lives of 4 African women living in Brooklyn, New York....

A Christmas Passion 1
Genre Romance Duration 01:08:06Director Charles Novia StarringDesmond Elliot, Kate Henshaw-Nuttall, Norbert Young Synopsis Christmas meets with a lady called Passion....

Wole Is AMBO 4 Superstar

"I FEEL so wonderful. It is my car. I am the winner of AMBO 4 and it is for real". Those were the words of an excited Adewole Ojo shortly after the keys to a brand new car and a cheque for N2.5 million were presented to him by the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Michiel Herkemij as star prize for emerging winner of this year's edition of Amstel Box Office (AMBO), Season 4.
A mild drama had earlier ensued when AMBO 4 'Fine Boy' Ajibade was named the winner in the keenly contested grand finals witnessed by a very large audience at Planet One in Maryland, Lagos over the weekend. Anxious fans and family members in the audience erupted in wild jubilation while some hit the stage with victory songs believing that Ajibade had been declared winner. But they were promptly brought back to reality with the announcement that Adewole was indeed the winner in the competition. Their joy melted away quietly as Wole, the 'Nice Guy', was upheld the preferred winner by majority public votes.
His declaration and affirmation by Herkemij, as winner, spontaneously led to wild jubilation. Wole's huge fans and supporters swooped on the stage to mob him as the victory song: "Stand Up, Stand Up, For The Champion..." rented the air. The very excited MD, accompanied by the Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries,Mr.Jacco van der Linden and the Amstel Malta Brand Manager, Mrs Ngozi Nkwoji made the presentation of a cheque for the star prize of N2.5 million and the car keys to a brand new car to Wole . Tope finished second runner-up while 'Daddy's Pet', Uche Nwokocha finished third runner-up as the last woman standing.
The final episode was both exciting and dramatic. It was anchored by the highly formidable duo of star actress Bimbo Akintola and ace comedian, Tunde Adewale, popularly called T A. The very versatile Sharp Band supplied a kaleidoscope of songs while the entire royal stars of Season 4 AMBO performed a well choreographed dance style they perfected while in AMBO movie academy to thrill the audience. Amstel Malta Brand Manager made a brief remark about the impact so far created by the show in the movie industry.
According to her, the first ever AMBO movie 'Sitanda' released into the market with the first AMBO winner, Azeezat as star actress, created an upset with its clean sweep of five awards at the Movie Academy Award. The second AMBO movie titled 'White Water' snatched four awards at the Movie Academy Award, with AMBO 2 winner and lead actor in the film, O. C. Ukeje winning the best up and coming actor award to cap it all.
The AMBO 3 epic film, 'Sidi's Note', featuring AMBO winner Bhaira Mckwuizu was only premiered about a forthnight ago at the cinema hall of Silver Bird Galleria, Lagos . It promises to be a big hit with high potentials for multiple awards at the next Movie Academy Award. Ukeje, the award winning AMBO 2 king, also gave good testimony of the many blessings of AMBO to future movie stars in Nigeria.
The AMBO 4 grand final battle was indeed very tight, hot and keenly contested by the four finalists. The organizers no doubt had a hectic time collating the votes as they kept pouring in from all over the country. The ice was believed to have been broken to produce a clear leader during the on-the-spot voting by the audience which witnessed the final rounds of the contest. They included top entertainers like Kenny Saint Brown, Essence, Felix Duke, and Koffi the comedian among others.
Everyone present was issued a voter card to vote their favourite finalist to emerge winner shortly after the four hot rivals made their last and final drama presentation on stage. They did a dress rehearsal from a scintillating scene in the multiple award winning movie, 'Sitanda'.
The same scene was assigned to the three male finalists to perform while Uche, the only female finalist, performed a separate scene. Clips from the selection of the four finalists and high points of their performances during the 21-day contest in the academy was earlier shown to the excitement of the audience for adequate assessment.
Then came the hour of final judgment and Wole carried the day, leaving his closest and hard fighting rival, Ajibade with a highly inspirational parting gift: "I thought I was the winner but it was Wole. I think God has a better plan and that was why it happened that way. Don't just worry; watch out for the stars because I will be among them, shinning too much," Ajibade declared.
Wole in a separate interview on his victory, could not help thanking God and everyone who voted to see him emerge winner. "To you all out there, I don't only see you as my fans but as my friends and loved ones. To all the Man U fans out there, I say one blood. Big shout out to every single fella in Meiran because that is where I hail from in Lagos State, and to my lovely girl friend Mosumola."
Born 24 years ago, Wole is a Creative Arts undergraduate of the University of Lagos. He was selected and admitted for AMBO 4 academy from the Lagos regional zone.

Africa Magic Celebrates 5th Anniversary

Last Saturday, Africa Magic honoured Nolly wood top practitioners at its 5th anniversary. Some of those honored were Zeb Ejiro , Fred Amata, Tunde Kilani, Chico Ejiro and many more.
At the event held at Eko Hotels and suites Lagos, various stake holders commended Africa magic management for the exposure it has given to Nigerian movies in the past five years. For instance, popular film producer Zeb Ejiro recalled that africamagic was launched in 2003 and since then, the channel has quickly become a buzzword on the continent,
According to him, he saw it as a good idea and this has benefited actors and actresses immensely, its widely population with Dstv audience for its mix of Africa movies, series, talk-shows and specials, all made in Africa. The result has been a growing audience demand that will be met with the start of Africamagic plus. For Managing Director Multichoice Media Mr. Joseph Hundah, Africamagic plus symbolizes growth and action. ”Aficamagic was the very first channel of its kind anywhere on the continent and it has proven, everyday since it began, that Africa audience embrace African stories, with AFRICAMAGIC PLUS, we aim to partner with producers in east and southern Africa and to offer an additional Africa focused channel.” At the event,he expressed satisfaction on the progress that Africa magic has made, saying that it has put Nollywood stars on the world map.
The 5th celebration of Africa Magic was moderated by a popular comedian Julius Agwu. President Actors Guild of Nigeria Ejike Asiegbu appealed for collaboration between producers, actors and actresses to uplift the Africa magic. First West African Idol, Timi Dakoro also present and he also participated at the event.

Faces of the Next Movie Stars

After a first of its kind white party organized to herald the Next Movie Star reality TV series in Sierra Leone last month, the show has finally come home to roost with 16 contestants storming the house penultimate Tuesday. Produced by Sola Fajobi led Digital Interactive Media (DIM), this year’s edition of the show is bigger, wider and better in terms of spread across the African continent. In the house are contestants from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Gambia. According to Fajobi, the vision of DIM is to take the world by storm by discovering and nurturing more talents in the movie industry and place them on the pedestal of stardom. “Our dream is to use Next Movie Star as a strategic public relations tool to project Africa’s image positively to the world, that is the reason NMS 2008 has taken a leap from that of last year which had Ghana as a major player,” he said.But then Fajobi is not limiting the scope of the show to just five countries, as there are plans to do the Next Movie Star Africa in the nearest future.The winner of NMS will go home with a brand new car, movie contracts, a flat for one year, $5,000 cash prize, all expenses paid trip to a European country and attendance of a major film festival in Europe. Other housemates will go home with up to N10 million worth of prizes.However, those who had the opportunity of attending the white party held at the prestigious Country Lodge in Sierra Leone last month had described it as glamorous in all ramifications and a red carpet event typical of what you see in Hollywood. The party was hosted by one of Nollywood's finest acts, Desmond Eliot who flew in to conduct the auditions and the red carpet party. Also in attendance were the society bigwigs of Sierra Leone including the Managing Director of GTBank Sierra Leone, Mr Akin George Taylor and Zain Sierra Leone top guns. The guests also included top actors and actresses in Sierra Leone like Famous. “The party, which was sponsored by Zain and supported by GTBank, ABC TV and Country Lodge, was held to launch the Next Movie Star in Sierra Leone, and to promote their entertainment industry to the corporate world. “The event was part of Next Movie Star Project Africa Plan to position the entertainment industry using the talent hunt reality TV show concept and the popular Nigerian movie industry as a vehicle,” Fajobi explained

I’m the next superstar of the movies- Adewole Ojo, AMBO winner

From the slum of Meran, a suburb of Lagos, a film star has emerged. He is 24-year-old Adewole Ojo, winner of the just concluded Amstel Malta Box Office (AMBO) reality TV show.Basking in the euphoria of his new star status at the Planet One in Maryland, Lagos penultimate Friday, Ojo, who was visibly shocked but excited as he was named the winner, thumped his chest and declared that he’s the real superstar of the box office.“I feel so wonderful. It is my car. I am the winner of AMBO 4 and it is for real,” Ojo enthused.Just before then, keys to a brand new car and a cheque for N2.5 million had been presented to Ojo by the Managing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, Michiel Herkemij as star prizes for emerging winner of this year’s AMBO.The final 10 contestants included Ajibade Omisade, 26, from Osun State, Uche Nwokocha, 22, from Imo State, Adewole Ojo, 24, a native of Oyo State; Solafunmi Sosanya, 25, from Ogun State, Balyesa State-born Tiem Okori, Fatima Sheidu, 25, from Kaduna State, Chukwudi Obido, 20, from Delta State, Nnena Udeh, 23, from Imo State, Tope Alake, 26, from Osun State and Chioma Ezeani, 20, from Enugu State.Nevertheless, a mild drama had earlier ensued at the ceremony when Ajibade was named the first runner-up in the keenly contested grand finale. Anxious fans and family members in the audience erupted in wild jubilation while some hit the stage with victory song with the belief that he had won. But that was not to be as they were promptly brought back to reality with the announcement that Ajibade has indeed been named first runner-up in the competition but not the real winner. But then Tope was announced as the 2nd runner-up while ‘Daddy’s Pet’, Uche Nwokocha finished as the 3rd runner-up, the last woman standing.The AMBO 4 grand finale was indeed very tight, hot and keenly contested by the four finalists. The organizers no doubt had a hectic time collating the votes as they kept pouring in from all over the country. The ice was believed to have been broken to produce a clear leader during the on-the-spot voting by the distinguished audience that witnessed the final rounds of the contest. They included top entertainers like Kenny Saint Brown, Essence, Felix Duke and Koffi, the comedian among others. Every one present were issued a voter card each to vote their favourite finalist to emerge winner shortly after the four hot rivals made their last and final drama presentation on stage. They did a dress rehearsal from a scintillating scene in the multiple award-winning flick, Sitanda. The same scene was assigned to the three male finalists to perform while Uche, the only female finalist performed a separate scene.Clips from the selection of the four finalists and high points of their performances during the 21-day contest in the academy were earlier shown to the excitement of the audience for adequate assessments. Then came the hour of judgment, and Wole carried the day leaving his closest and hard fighting rival, Ajibade with a highly inspirational parting gift.He says: “I thought I was the winner but it was Wole. I think God has a better plan and that was why it happened that way. Don’t just worry; watch out for the stars because I will be among them, shining too much.”But Ojo could not help thanking God and everyone who voted to see him emerge winner. “To you all out there, I don’t only see you as my fans but as my friends and loved ones. To all the Man U fans out there, I say one blood. Big shout out to every single fella in Meran because that is where I hailed from in Lagos State and to my lovely girlfriend, Mosumola.”

Nollywood stars thrill in Player Number Ten

Player Number Ten, a refreshingly new movie from the stable of Flavour Lab Entertainment, is currently enjoying rave reviews among movie buffs, pundits and critics. Produced by Mike Nliam and Directed by Abey Esho, the heart-wrenching flick vividly captures the stigmatization those living with HIV-AIDS, go through in their quest to live normal lives and mix freely with the larger society. Just like the title, the now selling movie, also examined critically, man’s insatiable lust for any thing in skirt, and the deadly consequences.Among the big names that sparkled in the movie are: Basorge Tariah, Monalisa Chinda, Yemi Blaq, Jim Lawson Maduike and many others.It is being marketed and distributed nationwide by Mighty Cozan and Associates in collaboration with Cosnoris International, as well as other leading video marts and outlets, for maximum home enjoyment.

AY WEDS HIS LOVE MARBEL

AY's superlative wedding to the love of his life, Mabel, which took place on saturday 29th Nov 2008 at Rev Chris Okotie's Household of God. AY reccently won the comedian of the year. Wow! This is indeed your year of breakthrough. Nollwood blog rejoices with you.

Stephanie Okereke premieres ‘Through The Glass’

Actress Stephanie Okereke launched her new movie ‘Through The Glass’ at the Silver Screen Theatre of the Pacific Design Centre in Hollywood, California some weeks ago.
It was a great day for the Nollywood star as she also received an Award of Recognition from the California Legislature Assembly and launched her clothing line ‘The SO Collection’. Stephanie graduated from the ‘New York Film Academy’ and this is her first self-produced commercially released movie.
Her new movie tells the story of a playboy who finds himself suddenly saddled with a baby, he then seeks the help of his Nigerian neighbour (Stephanie Okereke). The two find themselves falling for each other amid various hijinks. It stars Garreth Mckerchnie with Stephanie Okereke, Cheyenne Christenson, Brion Rose, Ranier L. Kenny, Geno Giordian, among others.

culled from bellanaija

Ini Edo & Phillip Ehiagwina Say Their Traditional ‘I DOs’

Saturday November 29 2008 was a very special day for Nollywood superstar, Iniobong Edo popularly known to fans as Ini Edo. The popular actress celebrated her ‘native laws and customs’ traditional marriage ceremony with her fiance, Phillip Ehiagwina.
In Ini’s hometown, Awa Iman in Onna Local Government area of Akwa Ibom State; over 4000 guests including friends, colleagues such as Mike Ezuruonye, Rukky Sanda, Rita Dominic, Empress Njamah, Anita Joseph, Emem Isong, Patience Ozokwor and numerous other well-wishers gathered to celebrate with the actress on her wedding day.
Its been a long road to get to this point for Ini and Phillip as their relationship has dogged by controversies including accusations from Phillip’s ex-wife, Ruth and has been closely scrutinized by tabloids but all that was left in the past as Ini and Phillip entered this new and exciting phase in their lives together.
The white wedding is scheduled to be held soon in the USA where Phillip is based.
All the best to the couple!

Roll Call
Emem Isong, Rita Dominic, Rukky Sanda, Oge Okoye

Rita Dominic Looking Stunning!

Rukky Sanda & Mike Ezuruonye

Osita Ikeme aka Paw Paw

Chinedu Ikedieze aka Aki

Empress Njamah

Patience Ozokwor aka Mama G

Desmond Elliot

culled from Bellanaija

WHO IS YOUR NOLLYWOOD ACTOR/ACTRESS OF THE YEAR 2008

The year 2008 saw of performances from the noolywood. Some were great, others wonderful, some were way below standard and others nothing to write home about. Did you watch any this out going year? What are you views? who are your heros. Naija has got alot of wonderful and talented acts. Naija films are also wonderful. Fellows I would like to know who is your actor / actress of the year 2008. Naija films must never die.

WELCOME TO NOLLYWOOD

Nollywood blog will showcase both budding talents and leading names in nollywood. Be assured that you are in for real fun from this blog as I will bring you up to date report on of your favourite actors and actresses. Welcome!