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.

For emphasis, there have been some notable movies shot in the city of Calabar, they include Biyi Bandele’s adaptation of Chimamanda Adichie’s Half of a Yellow Sun and Jeta Amata’s Amazing Grace. Over the years, there has been a slight decline in the film drive, despite attempts at local production. Ebonylife TV relocated to Lagos and AFRIFF moved on to other locations. Just recently, the cinema house where residents enjoyed watching movies shut it’s Calabar doors, leaving movie lovers with the online viewing option as well as purchase of Compact Discs (CDs) after movies are released.

This void has made an event like ’5 Movies and the Word’, a faith-based film festival, a welcome innovation. The maiden edition  will feature live screening of five films aimed at reviewing the effects of popular culture.

We look forward to more innovation and hope to see many more world class films, events centered around film and a new cinema in Calabar.

Copyright (C) 2018 Omonefe Oisedebamen Eruotor