MASKS

Today, the word ‘mask’ just popped in my head and I decided to look it over in my mind’s eye. Wikipedia tells us that “a mask is an object normally worn on the face, typically for protection, disguise, performance, or entertainment.”

In all the words used above, ‘disguise’ and ‘performance’ got my attention. I am not talking about using a mask for stage performances or to help someone avoid an assailant. I mean the disguise and performance that have to do with locking up who you really are so the world sees someone you feel they want to see, the perfect man that receives accolades even when he cringes inside with imperfection and pain.

LESSONS FROM 'BLACK PANTHER'

It has been awesome watching the tangible impact of the fictitious land of Wakanda on the lives of people worldwide. I have  seen African- Americans and people of other races dress in trendy African outfits, heard a lot of discussion centered around this movie and it's projection of Africa. I hope that these possibilities that have come to the fore will be taken in as a call to action, rather than buried after the Black Panther euphoria by us. A lot has been on my mind and the following are are a few thoughts that I came up with after seeing the movie. I hope they will open your eyes as wide as they did mine.

Ike Nnaebue - "I'm an Incurable Optimist..."

In the ‘New Nollywood’, a modern variant of the Nigerian movie industry, I am amazed at how often social media is flooded with fresh movie alerts. We have been ushered into a divergent dispensation of the cinemas which our parents enjoyed in Nigeria, based on the consistent display of contemporary work. In the midst of all the innovation, there are some movie makers who stand out with the quality and spread of their work, one of such is Ike Nnaebue; a screenwriter, singer/songwriter, producer and director. He is also the CEO of Treasure Wells Academy as well as Passion8 Communications and has produced, directed or written pieces which have received accolades in Nigeria and the diaspora.  His most recent accomplishments with ‘Loving Daniella’ which received three nominations at the Las Vegas

Film Festival and produced the winner of the Best Actress category as well as ‘Dr. Mekam’ which won the Best Screenplay and produced the Best Actor in the Nollywood Travel Film Festival early this year, have heightened our expectations as we await more from this all-rounder and his team before the year wanes. Join me as we take a short trip into the world of Ike Nnaebue with this interview.

CHAT WITH CHRIS ODEH

Chris Odeh is a producer, project manager and marketer. He is the Founder and senior producer for Sozo Films, as well as Talent Manager for Ramsey Films. He co-owns Ibuzor Studios and Project Arewa -indigenous content production companies - which he runs with some partners, and has produced content for both local and international platforms like Homevida, MNET, Africa Magic, ESSPIN and a host of others. Some of the movies he has produced or co-produced are Make a Move, Learning Curves, Oloibiri Retold, ‘Chasing Hanifa’. He also has television shows and documentaries like The Dr. Ketch Show, ACGSF, and, Chapters in his portfolio. His script titled Enitan won the award for the Best Child Friendly Short Film in the 2011 Homevida awards, and he has worked with notable actors in the industry, both local and international. He has a chat with Omonefe Eruotor about his career:

Calabar and Film

Calabar is a city where entertainment thrives. The yearly carnival which is viewed nationwide and beyond is like a homecoming event with residents and visitors on the streets in December, basking in the euphoria. The city gained some momentum in film when Ebonylife TV occupied the ultra- modern Tinapa Studios, shooting world class drama series and reality shows; while hosting the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2013 and 2014, that had guests from over ten African countries as well as the United States and the United Kingdom; and also,  by holding the Cross River Movie Awards, which brings celebrities from across the country.