FilmOne Distribution, is pleased to announce that the monumental film, October 1, from the stables of Golden Effects Pictures, run by ace filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, will be released in all Nigerian cinemas on Friday, the 3rd of October 2014, with special advance screenings from Wednesday October 1, 2014.

This masterpiece which was directed by Kunle Afolayan, was made with over N200million, and was shot in Lagos and Ondo state for over forty days, after four months on pre-production. The cast of the movie delivered great acting dexterity; veteran actor Sadiq Daba (hit 80’s TV drama series Cockrow At Dawn), Kehinde Bankole, David Bailie, Nick Rhys, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Bimbo Manuel, Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Demola Adedoyin, Kayode Olaiya, and Deola Sagoe.

October 1, a psychological thriller, unveils the story of Danladi Waziri (Sadiq Daba), a police officer from the North who is posted to the remote town of Akote, to investigate a series of female murder cases in the community and have the mystery solved before the Nigerian flag is raised on October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day.

The movie has been consensually dubbed by movie echelons, pundits and critics to record outstanding box office figures when released in Nigerian cinemas,stemming from its high technical quality output. A grand premiere has been slated for Sunday September 28th, 2014 at theEko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. October 1 received production sponsorship from the Lagos state Government, Toyota, Elizade Motors and Sovereign Trust Insurance.

According to Mr Kene Mkparu, the MD of FilmOne distribution, “Kunle Afolayan has not faltered in any of his movie productions since he made his directorial debut in 2007. He raises the bar with every movie he produces; Irapada, The Figurine, Phone Swap and now October 1. His filmmaking skills are truly exceptional and we are indeed proud to be the distributor of this outstanding work”.

Mr Afolayan believes strongly that there is so much potential for this kind of film and that people will start believing in indigenous film projects after watching October 1. One thing is crystal clear, Nigerians and non-Nigerian alike are waiting enthusiastically for the release of October 1 and will swarm the cinemas to watch the movie that is poised to leave a long lasting positive impression on all who see it.

The producer and distributor of October 1 urge all Nigerians and lovers of Nigeria to come out in large numbers to experience this cinematic showpiece.

Editor’s Note: This is a press release from FilmOne Distribution

There is a need for “a proper balancing of certain critical factors in the process of structuring and designing the most suitable framework for film distribution with appropriate intermediaries and trained operatives to sell the film products in a socially responsible manner while pursuing profit motives.” This was stated by Ms. Patricia Bala, the Director General of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), while speaking at the ‘Distribution in the Nigerian Film Industry’ conference. The conference was organised by the School of Media and Communication’s Nollywood Studies Centre and took place on the 26th and 27th of June, 2014.

Ms. Bala, who gave the keynote address on the first day of the conference, noted the vital role that distribution plays in “smoothening the flow of movies from filmmakers to consumers as it involves the process of making films/videos available for use or consumption by the final consumer.” Hence the importance of having in place “an efficient and effective distribution system.” This, she however went on to add, is lacking in the Nigerian film industry, which has a deficient distribution structure.

A good part of the problem, the NFVCB Director General indicated, can be traced to the informal character of much of the industry’s distribution system. She nevertheless added that it is more worrisome “that the noticeable weaknesses [of the system] are direct consequences of lack of experience, gaps in professional staffing, shortage of credible and legitimate outlets, which is a huge shortcoming that fans piracy, as well as the limited capacity to nurture relationships and the distribution footprints needed to reach audiences.” These weaknesses have led to huge financial losses for many of those that have ventured into the filmmaking business.

Ms. Bala went on to stress the need for greater synergy among all the stakeholders in the film/video distribution sector in Nigeria to promote a value-chain that takes into account the public interest…never sacrificing the greater good and societal wellbeing while keeping abreast of ever shifting dynamics of the operating environment.” She stressed the commitment of the NFVCB towards “creating the enabling environment for the industry to continue to flourish and blossom, contributing to the nation’s GDP to the benefit of all.”

The NFVCB Director General welcomed both the establishment of the Nollywood Studies Centre and the organisation of the conference itself. According to her, “the Nollywood Centre and this derivative conference on movie distribution are, no doubt, an unequivocal expression of a growing appreciation that movies matter and, in the specific context, this conference shows an awareness of the centrality of distribution in this dynamic industry.”

Earlier, in his introduction to the conference, the Director of the Nollywood Studies Centre (NSC), Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, explained that the decision to hold the conference was motivated by what the NSC was established to do. According to him, the NSC was set up to promote the study of the industry and to contribute to its development. Given the importance of distribution and the fact that it is key to the growth of the industry, it was only logical, he said, that the first conference of the NSC be centred on the topic. However, he noted that the goal of the conference was not merely to have another talk shop. Rather, it was hoped that the conference would serve to map the already existing solutions to the problems of distribution and to identify new possibilities. The mix of academics, industry practitioners, financiers and representatives of government agencies, Dr. Obiaya said, was indicative of what the conference organisers hoped to achieve.

Also speaking, the Dean of the School of Media and Communication, Prof. Emevwo Biakolo, in his welcome address, emphasised the importance of the conference. Everyone, Prof. Biakolo said, is aware that film production has escalated in the country, but one needs to question what has happened with distribution, which has not succeeded in getting off the ground. He went on to say that the conference would have to respond to questions such as whether the present distribution model was working and whether it is leading to consumer satisfaction. An additional importance of the conference, the Dean said, lay in the fact that it would facilitate the gathering of data and promote the further research.

The conference was then declared open by the Vice Chancellor of the Pan-Atlantic University, Prof. Juan Elegido. Prof. Elegido expressed his pleasure at the conference, noting that it fit into the tradition of the University, which strives to maintain a lively connection with industry. The subject matter of the conference, he said, was of special interest since distribution is a key concern for every industry. Distribution, he noted, is the real arena for competitive action.

Various papers from industry practitioners and academics were presented during the conference. The National Copyrights Commission (NCC) was also represented in the person of Barrister Chris Nkwocha, the Zonal Director of the NCC’s Lagos office. The event ended with a cocktail a raffle draw. The main prize for the raffle draw was donated by Microsoft, one of the main sponsors of the event.

Chike Maduegbuna, Steve Gukas, Mahmood Ali-Balogun and Tony Abulu

Native Filmworks Limited, one of Nigeria’s pioneer Film & TV Company and Producers of narrative feature, A Place in the Stars, hosted an Industry Announcement to unveil its first feature film on Wednesday, 20th August 2014 at Freedom Park, Old Prison Ground – Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos State.

Directed and produced by respected film maker, Steve Gukas, A Place in the Stars is a riveting account of drug trafficking; it focuses on how fake and adulterated medical drugs are being traded for billions of dollars – dangerous men willing to kill to protect this money and a young man with a nagging conscience sworn to get rich or die trying in a very corrupt country. How far is he willing to go?

A Place in the Stars features some of the best actors in Nigeria and international; the likes of award winning actor, Segun Arinze who is often identified for playing the role of a villain. Also starring in the movie are, Gideon Eche-Okeke, Dejumo Lewis, Yemi Blaq, Femi Branch, Matilda Obaseki, Julian Mcdowell, Armajit Deu and Amaka Mgbor.
At the event, guests were priviledged to watch the first official movie trailer with exclusive behind-the-scene snippets into the storyline and recorded video conversations from key crew members such as the Producer/Director, Steve Gukas; the Music Composer, George Kallis and others.

Mahmood Ali-Balogun, Chike Maduegbuna, Seyi Siwoku, Toyin Akinosho, Jahman Anikulapo, Bola Bello, Yinka Edward, Makin Soyinka, Dotun Olakunrin are some of the film and media experts at the event. Other notable guests include; Wale Ojo, Gideon Okeke, Yemi Blaq, Segun Arinze, Audu Maikori, Jeremiah Gyang, Lydia Idakula and many more.
A Place in the Stars is scheduled to Premiere in – Lagos/Abuja, South Africa, Kenya and in the West – London & New York/Houston Texas.

Steve Gukas (Director and Producer, A Place in the Stars)

Gideon Okeke

Segun Arinze

Yemi Blaq

Wale Ojo

Afolabi Adesanya

Tony Abulu

Audu Maikori

Osegba Cokerson

Sufi Alhassan

Tope Tedela

Omoye Uzamere

Lydia Idakula

Loise Isan

Oluchi Huomuo

Lady Kara

Steve Gukas and Femi Odugbemi

Wale Ojo and Mahmood Ali-Balogun

Chike and Jane Maduegbuna

Jahman Anikulapo, Segun Arinze, Steve Gukas and Gideon Okeke

Toyin Akinoso, Steve Gukas, and Kufre Ekanem (Corporate Affairs Adviser, Nigerian Breweries Plc.)

Segun Arinze, Steve Gukas, Wale Ojo, Gideon Okeke, and Alex Mouth

Gideon Okeke and Steve Gukas

Gideon Okeke and Lady Kara

Gideon Okeke and Tope Tedela

Raymond Okeke, Gideon Okeke, Seyi Siwoku, Segun Arinze, and Bola Bello

Seyi Siwoku of Jungle Filmworks

Segun Arinze

Femi Odugbemi

Overview of guests at the indusry announcement

Mahmood Ali-Balogun

Gideon Okeke

Gideon Okeke and Jeremiah Gyang

Black Silhouette is a gritty drama directed by Charles Uwagbai. The screenplay for the film was written by Dave Chukwuji and Doris Ariole. It stars Joke Silva, Ik Osakioduwa, Jude Orhorha, Femi Jacobs, Ivie Okujaye, Chigozie Atuanya, Grace Ofre, and Obi Madubogwu. It is scheduled for theatrical release in November 2014. Already, Ivie Okujaye has been nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role at the Best of Nollywood Awards 2014, for her performance in the movie.

Plot Outline
It is almost election year and and a ghetto brought up Senator, Maro Oti is about to make history as the first female Governor in Nigeria. Despite her husband’s disapproval she fixes an appointment with internationally acclaimed biographer, Eric Mobumba, and requests that he writes her memoir.

Eric Mobumba is elated at the opportunity but his excitement however starts to dwindle as Senator Maro’s tale of her past reveals a life of sexual abuse from childhood, prostitution as a teenager and an unresolved murder.

The biographer sees a woman laden with guilt and shame from her past, and all attempts to dissuade her from telling this bitter and horrific story fails as Maro will not be perturbed, convinced that closure will only come from telling the truth of her very dark past herself.

Watch the trailer below.

It’s nothing short of amazing what can be achieved when talents and passion come in contact with the right kind of training from great minds around the world. This is what happened recently in the Nigerian creative industry as it took a giant leap forward in just four weeks when 75 participants were put through a hands-on intensive workshop in different aspects of film making.

Del-York staff

Under the tutelage of experienced professionals from Hollywood and using only the best equipment in film making, these students were taught courses in editing, graphics design, directing, cinematography, special effects, production and set design, makeup and screen writing. The result of the intensive training was exhibited in the level of creativity and professionalism seen in a number of short films the students produced at the end of the workshop tagged ‘Film Made In Nigeria’.

Del-York students

The training course came to a climax on Friday 15th August 2014 with a well-organised Award Ceremony. The event which took place at the Muson Center, Onikan, Lagos was one of class, colour and style as it attracted the crème de la crème from various industries who all shared a common passion for growth of Nigeria’s creative sector.

Venue of the graduation ceremony

In attendance were several dignitaries including The Consular-General of France to Nigeria, Mr Francois Sastourne, Nollywood stars Monalisa Chinda, Segun Arinze, Ufuoma Ejenobor-McDermott and Mary Lazarus. Seasoned lawyer and Partner at Abraham & Co Solicitors Mena Ajakpovi also graced the occasion.

Mena Ajakpovi, Segun Arinze, Monalisa Chinda, and Linus Idahosa

The night saw the 75 participants graduate with certificates in their various areas of competences with awards presented to some outstanding students. Eight of the students’ short films were premiered at the Awards Night to a delighted audience who attested to their exceptional quality and impact on the future of Nigeria’s creative industry.

Monalisa Chinda presenting a graduating student with his certificate

Another high point of the night was a plenary session tagged “Conversations with Nollywood” moderated by Segun Arinze with two separate panels made up of the Hollywood faculty of the Del-York Creative Academy and stakeholders in the Nigerian creative industry such as actress Ufuoma Ejenobor-McDermott, Lawyer Mena Ajakpovi, President of the Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria Iyen Obaseki and Nollywood Actor and Filmmaker Francis Onwochei. They discussed the challenges facing the industry and proffered practicable solutions such as an improved distribution system for movies where all participants in the industry get their own fair share of profits.

Discussion panel

Del-York Creative Academy is an initiative of Del-York International, a media, marketing/broadcast communications and technology Services Company founded by Mr. Linus Idahosa. According to Mr Idahosa, the Academy would continue to help nurture the participants’ dreams until they get a strong footing in their chosen fields.

Linus Idahosa

This year’s program was mainly supported by President Goodluck Jonathan’s Intervention Fund under the aegis of Project ACT. This fund is being managed by the Ministry of Finance headed by the co-ordinating minister of the Economy Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and His Excellency, Chief Edem Duke, Minister of Tourism. Other sponsors include Ibis Lagos Airport Hotel, the Digital Bridge Institute, Jameson and Heritage Bank.

Collectively, their four-week investment in creative Nigerians has been immensely beneficial to the individual destinies of the participants and indeed, the country’s future.

Agip Recital Hall Muson Centre, Venue of the DCA 2014 graduation

Linus Idahosa and Monalisa Chinda

Segun, Sesan Otunba, John Kamara, and Linus Idahosa

Deji Ajose-Ojikutu, Wendelyn Slipakoff, Folake Faranpoju, and Sara Rabuse

Francois Sastourne – The Consular General of France to Nigeria sharing a few words with some lectures of DCA 2014 from America

Linus Idahosa and the Consular General of France to Nigeria Francois Sastourne

von Barros, Editing & Graphics Instructor DCA 2014

Jamal Speakes, Cinematography Instructor DCA 2014

Tope Tedela

Queen Martins with DCA Alumni and Nollywood actress, Tamara Eteimo

Mena Ajakpovi exchanging pleasantries with Linus Idahosa

Soloist Palmera singing the National Anthem

Graduating class singing the National Anthem

Performing Artiste Pita thrilling the audience

Sara Rabuse, Makeup Instructor DCA 2014

Andrea Manuela Giaccaglia – Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, Del-York International

A warm applause from a cross section of the faculty of the DCA 2014.

Ebele Enebeli and Deji Falope

Conversation with Nollywood in session

Cross Section of stakeholders from Hollywood and Nollywood during the forum Conversations with Nollywood

Stakeholders from Nollywood

Stakeholders from Hollywood

A graduating student speaking during the ‘Conversations with Nollywood’ session, while Segun Arinze looks on

Linus Idahosa Convener of Conversations with Nollywood congratulating stakeholders from Hollywood and Nollywood

Monalisa Chinda (middle) with some staff and students

Barmen preparing drinks for guests

Barmen preparing drinks for guests

Barmen preparing drinks for guests

Linus Idahosa flanked by some lecturers and students

Sara Rabuse flanked by some lecturers and students

Lecturers and students

Andrea Giaccaglia flanked by some lecturers and students

Sika Osei, Tope Tedela, and Temisan Ikomi

Segun Arinze

Monalisa Chinda

Sika Osei (Co-Host)

Editor’s Note: This is a press release from the Del-York Creative Academy

Can you act? Can you portray the traits described below? If your answer is yes, you are welcome to audition for an exciting new TV series!
Date and Time: Saturday 30^th August. From 8 a.m. onwards.
Location:  49B Oduduwa Crescent, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

1. 28 – 30 YEARS MALE:  An athletic build, extremely attractive, a warrior/ romantic hero. Kind, compassionate. Can be feisty, hot headed, rebellious. He drives a car, rides a motorcycle & can swim.
2. 40 – 50 YEARS MALE: Councilor, a man of the people. Charming, charismatic, and possesses the gift of the gab. Can be cruel.
3. 60 – 70 YEARS MALE: Patriarchal, air of nobility, wise mentor, loyal, responsible, wears a jolly smile but carries sadness, takes pride in what he does.
4. 14 – 16 YEARS BOY:  Chubby boy. Funny, curious, well-spoken and well mannered.
5. 16 YEARS BOY: Good kid, honest, loyal, kind. Protective of his family.
6. 40 YEARS FEMALE: Beautiful, curvaceous/leggy, sassy, sexy, confident. Can be snobbish, sarcastic, lazy & judgmental.
7. 32 YEARS FEMALE: From Edo State. A reluctant manager. Hates confrontation. Anxious and stressed. Kind, romantic but shy/introverted. Always looks harassed.
8. 60 – 70’S FEMALE: Firecracker. Looks old, frail and sweet but speaks her mind. Can come across mouthy and troublesome.
9. 40’S FEMALE: Works as a hawker/trader. Strong willed, traditional and practical.

FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES PLEASE CALL 08060284007 or 08025734569

DISCLAIMER: PLEASE NOTE ONLY ACTORS WITH DESCRIBED PROFILES WILL BE CONSIDERED. 

Aṣẹ́ (pronounced Ah-sheh) is a short film directed by Nabila Lester (Los Angeles). It was shot in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, and it is the forerunner to a historical fantasy TV series, which is currently in development. It stars Segun Olawale, Joy Kure, Emeka Celestine, Mary Chukwu, and Rabi Usman. Aṣẹ́ was produced by Adeola Adeosun, Arias R. Williams, Nabila Lester, Olabode Ogundipe, and Saddi Khali.

About the Film
Aṣẹ́ is an epic African tale. Set in ancient West Africa, it is the story of three ordinary teens on a seemingly ordinary day, who have a not-so-ordinary run-in with a dark and evil spirit known as Elemosho. Ase introduces the viewer to the ancient world of Oyo, heartland of the growing Yoruba empire, where mystical experiences are common and supernatural forces are always at play.

A Letter From Adam is a movie written and produced by Lydia Forson. It was directed by Sam Kessie, and it stars Lydia Forson, Wale Ojo, Naa Ashokor Mensah Doku, Akorfa Edjeani, Albert Jackson, Fred Kanebi and introducing Jeff Kumordzie, and Louie Lartey. It opens in Ghana on September 19, 2014.

Synopsis
A Letter From Adam is a contemporary story about love, loss, and hope, which will draw audiences into a realistic cycle of life seen through the pain of loss, the journey of self-discovery, and the courage and strength to find hope in the face of adversity. Set in the busy yet simple city of Accra, A Letter From Adam seeks to give the audience an often neglected truth about love — that love doesn’t always come in the form one often expects it to.

The fourth edition of LIGHTS, CAMERA, AFRICA!!! (LCA 2014) film festival will open in Lagos on September 25 and it will run through October 1. The festival will hold at the Federal Palace Hotel. It was started in 2011 and it is hosted by Lagos lifestyle centre, The Light House. The theme for this edition of the festival is LEGACY.

LCA 2014 will  feature a diverse range of African films, some of which are Oya: Rise of the Orisha, The Supreme Price, Sexy Money, and 100% Dakar . Kunle Afolayan’s new film, October 1, will be the closing film of the festival.

A Day With Death is a short film on the human fear of death written by Breanne Mattson, produced and directed by Asurf Oluseyi. The film stars Tuby Aiyedehin, Judith Audu, Tomiwa Kukoyi, Tunde Talabi, and Linda Joseph. The story throws light on the abnormal or persistent fear of one’s own death or the process of dying, which is referred to as thanatophobia.

It is a story of a cantankerous sixty-five-year-old woman Margaret (Tuby Aiyedehin) who has a few things to do before she goes and Death  (Judith Audu) will just have to hold off. This particular Reaper is a tall young lady whom Margaret quickly nicknames Kulapo. Being the charming lady that she is, Margaret convinces Kulapo to accompany her through the town for one day – tying up “loose ends.” Along the way, they develop a bond…

Asurf Oluseyi,the director and producer of the short film, was recently featured by on the recent Google Africa Connected Campaign across and he has shot several sketches and comedy skits in Nigeria and the UK. This is his first short film, and it was shot in Lagos. A Day With Death will be released on December 21, 2014.

Actress cum director, Stephanie Linus, has released the much anticipated trailer of her second directorial effort, Dry. The movie has been three years in the making. It was inspired by the true story of a young girl named Aisha, whom Stephanie met in Nigeria, many years ago.

The movie follows the trail of Zara’s (Stephanie Linus) trip to Africa, her constant turmoil as a result of inexplicable horrors from her childhood, her experiences and heartaches while working with young girls suffering from complications from early child birth as child brides, against the backdrop of a rich African culture.

According to Stephanie, “DRY journeys into heart-wrenching details of a culture not too many film dare to explore. The issue might seem controversial, but if it will set one girl free and open the minds of the people, and also instruct different bodies and individuals to take action, then the movie would have served its purpose.”

The film stars: Darwin Shaw as Dr. Alex, the legendary Liz Benson Ameye as the Matron, Bill McNamara as Dr. Brown, and Introducing Zubaida Ibrahim as Halima the teenager who had to endure a life not designed for a child: to be married to a man who was more than four times her age. Next Page Productions partnered with Aberystwyth University, Wales to shoot the film in Nigeria and in England.

Synopsis
Zara, a successful African doctor living in Wales is determined to stay away from her childhood memories and this now threatens her commitment to marry Alex, a gentleman she truly loves. Her mother, a missionary to Africa, has been unable to get Zara to go with her for her yearly medical aid trips to Africa. When her mother falls ill and unable to make a crucial trip and Zara discovers there is a strong possibility her long lost daughter might still be alive in Africa, she steered in a new direction to face and conquer her darkest fears. Her trip to Africa becomes inevitable.

Back in Africa, thirteen- year old Halima’s poor parents make her marry Sani, an old 60 year old man. With no idea of sex or its intricacies, she goes through a dreadful ordeal as her new husband repeatedly rapes her. Pregnant and after the delivery of her child, young Halima suffers a condition known as Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF). A health nightmare suffered by over 800,000 other women just like her, she is ostracize and abandoned by her husband, family and community. It is a period of rejection, isolation and despair for Halima.

Watch the trailer below.

The 48 Hour Film Project will come to Lagos for the first time in 2014. It is a global filmmaking competition spanning several cities, which was created in 2001 my Mark Ruppert. The 48 Hour Film Project (Lagos) will pit filmmakers from all over Nigeria against each other, in an attempt to see who can make the best short film in 48 hours. The Lagos producer of the 48 Hour Film Project is film director, Ike Nnaebue (A Mother’s Fight, Keeping My Man).

Ike Nnaebue (Lagos producer, 48 Hour Film Project)

The winning film in Lagos will go on to Filmapalooza 2014, where it will go up against films from other cities for the title of Best 48 Hour Film of 2014. Filmapalooza is the 48 Hour Film Project’s annual Screening and Awards weekend, where filmmakers from around the world meet to celebrate the best 48 hour films of the year.

A selection of the best films from Filmapalooza 2014 will be screened at the Cannes Film Festival, so there is a chance that the winning film from Lagos will go to the Cannes Film Festival. A specific date is yet to be announced for the 48 Hour Film Project in Lagos, but more information about the competition is available at The 48 Hour Film Project: Lagos.

As part of its developmental agenda for the film sector, the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) is planning to take 10 students to the United States for practical training in various aspects of filmmaking. Founder/CEO of the festival, Ms Chioma Ude, revealed that the top 10 students who show the most aptitude during the AFRIFF organized training workshops which will hold during this year’s festival will be eligible for the sponsorship.

This disclosure was made at her Victoria Island office recently, where she said that the training in America is planned as a reward scheme for these meritorious film students.
According to her, the scholarship will be to attend a short film course at a prestigious American university, and is a collaborative effort with a key AFRIFF partner.

The aspects of filmmaking to be taught at the workshops this year will be Acting; Scriptwriting; Directing and Cinematography. This year’s edition of the festival will hold from November 9 to November 16, 2014 at the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, Calabar, Cross River State.

Organisers say interested candidates for this year’s workshops should register at the new AFRIFF website, www.afriff.com, as only registered candidates will be eligible for shortlisting for the workshops. Registration for participation in all aspects at the festival begins from Monday, September 14, 2014.

According to Ude, this skill acquisition and youth development initiative was conceived using filmmaking as a veritable vehicle for youth empowerment. Tagged AFRIFF Talent Development Workshops, the initiative provides beginners and intermediate courses for young people. AFRIFF also organizes master classes for more established filmmakers and professionals in the industry.

Ude noted that the planned US training is in line with the vision of providing growth opportunities for graduates of the festival’s training program. she said:

“AFRIFF has since its first edition in 2010, provided free training and talent development opportunities for young people and aspiring filmmakers. We have provided ground-breaking education in Sound for Film, Cinematography and Screen Writing for over 500 students. This we have done in partnership with Sound & Motion Technical College and City Varsity, Cape Town, South Africa. We have also worked directly with students of the National Film Institute, Jos; the Creative Arts Department of University of Port-Harcourt; PEFTI Film Institute, Lagos, as well as other aspiring young film makers.

“We believe we can use this model for a social revolution that will change the economic horizon of the African film industry, by providing technical knowledge and skill sets to the abundant talents in our film community.

“AFRIFF 2014 team is currently resourcing for this year’s talent development training workshops in association with top industry partners who will also be announced later.”

The beneficiaries will be expected to shoot a short film after their course abroad, in fulfillment of their training billed to be entered into the festival’s students’ short category for the subsequent AFRIFF in 2015.

Future Gate Pictures, Phebean films and FilmOne Distribution, the Nigerian-based company credited with successful box office smash hits Half of a Yellow Sun and October 1, are pleased to announce the release of …When Love Happens a romantic comedy set for debut across cinemas in Nigeria from October 24, 2014.

This buzz-worthy romance flick was directed by MTV and Channel O Music video award-winning director Seyi Babatope (Ikechukwu’s Wind am Well ft Dbanj and Don Jazzy, Tinsel, and Ojos in the House) and boasts of an admirable cast list such as OC Ukeje, Gideon Okeke, Beverely Naya, Desmond Elliot, Weruche Opia, Oreka Godis, Wale Ojo, Bukky Wright, Bassey Keppy Ekpeyong, Helen Paul and Shaffy Bello. The film was produced by Seyi Babatope and Moses Babatope and has Kene Okwuosa and Kene Mkparu (of Filmhouse Cinemas and FilmOne Distribution) as Executive Producers.

When love Happens is a high art and glossy romantic comedy about the lives of 3 twenty something professionals in a modern technology connected Lagos and the hilarious and often bizarre adventures in finding romance.

When Love Happens has been well received by industry observers who have applauded it for its excellent production values, great acting and superb casting. The film has been tipped to light up the Nigerian box office in a year where the drama genre has dominated. A weekday exclusive celebrity premiere has been slated for Thursday October 16th, 2014 at the Genesis Deluxe Cinemas, The Palms, Lekki, Lagos.

According to Mr Kene Mkparu, MD/CEO of FilmOne distribution, “We are totally excited about the prospect of releasing our first romantic comedy to Nigerian cinema audiences and there is absolutely no doubt in our minds that they will be thrilled by the superb performances delivered in this film. With ‘When Love Happens’, FilmOne Distribution continues to display its unapologetic and unreserved support for Nigerian-made film content and we are confident of more superb productions coming out of the country”.

The Director, Seyi Babatope says “This film is a part representation of the richness and diversity in our industry, When Love happens speaks to the tenderness and warmth of our culture for a widening audience base and a different cinematic experience to be expected from Nigeria”

Watch the trailer of the movie below:

Can you act? Do you fit into any of the characters described below? Then you are in luck. AfricaMagic is hosting open auditions for an upcoming TV show.

Date: Saturday 20th September 2014
Location: 49B ODUDUWA CRESCENT, GRA, IKEJA
Time: From 8 a.m
28 – 30 Years Male: Has an athletic build, extremely attractive, hardworking, a warrior, compassionate, has a deep respect for people. He listens and cares, and tends to do the right thing. He drives a car, rides a motorcycle & loves to swim.
30 – 40 Years Male: Lean in build. Can pull a serious corporate look. He’s manipulative, ruthless and a risk taker.
32 Years Female: From Edo State. Hates confrontation. Introverted. Anxious and stressed; Very neat; Kind; Romantic but shy. Always looks harassed
40 Years Female: Beautiful, curvaceous/leggy, sassy, sexy, confident, snobbish, witty & judgmental.
40 – 60 Years Male: Weather beaten, funny, and talkative. Loves gardening and takes pride in his handy work.
GRANNY, 60 – 70’S Female: Firecracker. Looks old and sweet but is mouthy and troublesome. Can act frail.
14 – 16 Years Boy: Chubby Boy. Funny, Witty, Inquisitive, well spoken & can swim.
40’S Female: Speaks her mind; Strong willed; Traditional and Unromantic.

FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES PLEASE CALL 08060284007 or 08025734569
DISCLAIMER: PLEASE NOTE ONLY PEOPLE WITH DESCRIBED PROFILES AND WHO HAVE NOT BEEN AUDITIONED RECENTLY WILL BE CONSIDERED!!!!!

Afam Ezekude (DG, Nigeria Copyright Commission).

The Director General of the Nigeria Copyright Commission, Afam Ezekude, will deliver a keynote address with theme, “Piracy: Reality Check and The Way Forward,” at the Talents Meet Class, a Best of Nollywood initiative. The event holds Sunday, September 21st at the Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos.

A foremost intellectual copyright advocate, Ezekude said, “While we celebrate the achievement of Nollywood, we must equally underscore the need to ensure that the gains of this cultural revolution is sustained through a system that acknowledges and rewards the creative inputs of participants in the movie industry. This is because the various inputs are all products of creative genius of people whose basic resource is their intellectual abilities. The intellectual property system remains critical to the development of the creative industries.”

Panelists at the TMC include veteran actor, Jide Kosoko; President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ibinabo Fiberesima; filmmaker, Zik Zulu Okafor and foremost Nollywood marketers, Aina Kusoro and Abdul Rasaq. Celebrated Guardian newspaper film critic, Shuaibu Hussein, is the moderator.

According to Seun Oloketuyi, executive producer, Best of Nollywood Awards:

“The Talents Meet Class is a major component of our annual awards ceremony where we provide a platform for the stars and stakeholders of Nollywood to interact with the movers and shakers of corporate Nigeria while exploring areas of mutual interests between them.”

He said further that this year’s TMC is being hosted by the youthful chairman of Apapa Local Government Area, Hon. Ayodeji Joseph; “We are delighted at the interest Hon. Joseph has shown in Nollywood and it was in a bid to underscore this that he agreed to host us.”

A Letter From Adam is a new romantic drama written and produced Ghanaian actress, Lydia Forson, who won the AMAA 2010 award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The movie was directed by Atlanta-based Ghanaian director, Sam Kessie. It stars Lydia Forson, Wale Ojo, Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku, Akorfa Edjeani, Albert Jackson-Davis, Jeff Kumordzie, Louie Lartey, and Fred Kanebi. The movie was shot in Accra and will be released in Ghana on September 19, 2014.

A Letter From Adam is a contemporary story about love, loss and hope, set in Accra. It Check out the trailer below.

Lydia Forson and Jeff Kumordzie

Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku

Lydia Forson

Akorfa Adjeani and Lydia Forson

Lydia Forson

Lydia Forson and Wale Ojo

Lydia Forson and Wale Ojo

Fred Kanebi and Naa Ashorkor Mensah-Doku

Wale Ojo and Lydia Forson

Submission of entries is now open for the 2015 edition of the AfricaMagic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCAs).  The AMVCAs were created to celebrate the contribution of African filmmakers, actors and technicians in the success of the continent’s film and television industry.

The first edition of the AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards ceremony took place in Lagos in March, 2013, and saw the Best Actor and Best Actress in a Drama awards going to OC Ukeje and Jackie Appiah, respectively. In the 2014 edition, Nse Ikpe-Etim, took home the award for Best Actress in a Drama, while newcomer, Tope Tedela won the award for Best Actor in a Drama.

Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, Regional Director for M-Net (West), said: “We are pleased to announce the call to entry for the 2015 AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards. The African movie and television industry is brimming with exciting talent, and at AfricaMagic we contribute to the industry by not only giving these talents the platform to showcase their art and celebrating their achievements, we also encourage them to keep honing their craft.”

Following are submission guidelines for AMVCA 2015.

Guidelines

1. All films, made-for-television movies or television series are eligible for entry to the AMVCA if they were produced and broadcast or publicly exhibited during the period October 1st, 2013 to September 30th, 2014.
2. Entries open on Wednesday, 4 September 2014 at 9pm (CAT) and Close on Friday, 31st October 2014 at 6pm (CAT)
3. Prepare a reference video clip/trailer 2-3minutes long for your online submission.
4. Go online to amvca2015.dstv.com, which will you take you to a submission page.
5. Fill out the submission forms and upload the clip. A Unique reference numbers will be allocated to each completed online submissions.
6. Once you have received the unique reference number you will be required to send 2x DVD copies of the submitted project to:

Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards
P.O. Box 2963
Pinegowrie, 2123
South Africa
For attention – Manager: Local Productions Africa

The nominees for the Nollywood Movies Awards 2014, were announced at an event, which took place at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, on September 20, 2014. Nominees in twenty-three (23) categories were announced at the event. Following is a full list of the nominees:

1. Best Movie
   • A Mile Frim Home
   • Confusion Na Wa
   • Itoro
   • Make a Move
   • Unforgivable
   • False
   • Flower Girl
   • Brother’s Keeper
2. Best Lead Male
   • OC Ukeje (Confusion Na Wa)
   • Tope Tedela (A Mile From Home)
   • Kalu Ikeagwu (False)
   • Mike Ezuruonye (Unforgivable)
   • Blossom Chukwujekwu (Finding Mercy)
   • Frederick Leonard (The Accident)
   • Gbenga Akinnagbe (Render to Caesar)
   • Yul Edochie (Chioma The Weeping Queen)
3. Best Lead Female
   • Nse Ikpe-Etim Sule (I Come Lagos)
   • Ireti Doyle (Torn)
   • Chioma Akpotha (The Accident)
   • Mercy Johnson (Hustlers)
   • Dayo Amusa (Unforgivable)
   • Joke Silva (The Visitor)
   • Uche Jombo-Rodriguez (False)
   • Damilola Adegbite (Flower Girl)
4. Best Actor (Supporting Role)
   • Ikponmwosa Gold (Confusion Na Wa)
   • Keppy Ekpeyong-Bassey (Itoro)
   • Wale Adebayo (Make A Move)
   • Lucky Ejim (Render To Caesar)
   • Okey Uzoeshi (Lonely Heart)
   • Wale Macaulay (The Accident)
5. Best Actress (Supporting Role)
   • Emem Udonquak (Itoro)
   • Abiola Segun-Williams (Finding Mercy)
   • Clarion Chukwura Abiola (Hustlers)
   • Ebele Okaro Onyiuke (Leave My Tears)
   • Bikiya Graham-Douglas (Flower Girl)
   • Daniella Okeke (Lagos Cougars)
6. Best Actor Indigenous
   • Okey Bakassi (Onye Ozi)
   • Bayo Alawiye (Atanda)
   • Odunlade Adekola (Mufu Olosha)
   • Afeez Eniola (Alakada)
7. Best Actress Indigenous
   • Queen Nwokoye (Ada Mbano)
   • Ngozi Igwebike (Onye Ozi)
   • Dayo Amusa (Unforgivable)
   • Toyin Aimakhu Johnson (Alakada)
   • Rita Edward (Misfit)
8. Best Indigenous Movie
   • Alakada 2
   • Onye Ozi
   • Misfit
   • Ada Mbano
   • Unforgivable
   • Atanda
9. Best Director
   • A Mile From Home (Eric Aghimien)
   • Itoro (Moses Inwang)
   • False (Ike Nnaebue)
   • Confusion Na Wa (Kenneth Gyang)
   • Flower Girl (Michelle Bello)
   • Torn (Moses Inwang)
   • Render To Caesar (Desmond Ovbiagele)
   • Unforgivable (Desmond Elliot)
10. Best Editing
    • Render To Caesar (Steve Sodiya)
    • False (Ike Nnaebue)
    • Itoro (Moses Inwang)
    • Brother’s Keeper (Okey Benson And Okey Oku)
    • Flower Girl (Kunle Laguda)
    • The Accident (Not Specified)
11. Best Sound Design
    • Secret Room (Maurice Kings)
    • Flower Girl (Kayode Nero Ilelaboye)
    • Kidnap (Not Specified)
    • Render To Caesar (Michael Ogunlade)
    • Lagos Cougars (Owolabi Gbade)
12. Best Cinematography
    • Render To Caesar (Johnny Askwith)
    • A Mile From Home (Eric Aghimien)
    • False (Joseph Oladunjoye)
    • Misplaced (Tom Robson/ Dickson Godwin)
    • Confusion Na Wa (Yinka Edward)
    • Flower Girl (James Costello)
13. Best Original Screenplay
    • A Mile From Home (Not Specified)
    • False (Ike Nnaebue / Foluke Amanfo)
    • Render To Caesar (Michael Odogwu)
    • Finding Mercy (Kehinde Olorunyomi-Odukoya)
    • Accident (Not Specified)
    • Unforgivable (Jovi Babs & Olamilekan Daniels)
14. Best Costume Design
    • False (Ngozi Jombo – Divas And Divos)
    • After The Proposal (Ngozi Jombo)
    • The Village Boy I Love (Ogoo Okechi And Doris Kalu)
    • A Mile From Home (Godwin Aghimien)
    • Lagos Cougars (Angel Nwakibie)
15. Best Makeup
    • A Mile From Home (Not Specified)
    • Brother’s Keeper (Mathew Alechenu)
    • False (Chichi Okafor – Faceville)
    • Honeymoon Hotel (Madeline Viijeon / Geordi Binstend / Kirsty Williams / Israel Moses)
    • Unforgivable (Abiolah Makeup World)
16. Best Set Design
    • A Mile From Home (Eric Aghimien And Biodun Olagbaju)
    • Lonely Heart (Not Specified)
    • Dream Walker (Not Specified)
    • False (Ujay Studio)
    • Itoro (Not Specified)
    • Flower Girl (Derick Nwa-Jesus)
17. Best Soundtrack
    • Flower Girl (Efya – Best In Me)
    • A Mile From Home (Vincent Umukoro)
    • False (Don L37)
    • Render To Caesar (Michael Ogunlade and Seun Owoaje)
    • Atanda (Pius Fatoke)
    • Unforgivable – Izuchukwu Anozie Vincent
18. Best Diaspora Movie
    • Onye Ozi
    • Labo
    • Shameful Deceit
19. Best Short Movie
    • Brave
    • Date Gone Bad
    • Desolation
    • Not Right
    • New Horizon
    • Kabu Kabu
20. Best Rising Star Male
    • Tope Tedela (A Mile From Home)
    • Blossom Chuks Chukwujekwu (Finding Mercy)
    • Okey Uzoeshi (Lonely Hearts)
    • Alexx Ekubo (Lagos Cougars)
    • Lucky Ejim (Render To Caesar)
    • Shawn Faqua (Lagos Cougars)
21. Best Rising Star Female
    • Lilian Esoro (Secret Room)
    • Lala Akindoju (Alan Poza)
    • Daniella Okeke (Lagos Cougars)
    • Tamara Eteimo (Finding Mercy)
    • Dabota Lawson (Finding Mercy)
    • Emem Udonquak (Itoro)
    • Ivie Okujaye (Make A Move)
22. Best Child Actor
    • Oyindamola Lapejo – Finding Mercy
    • Helger Sosthenes – Make A Move
    • Tobe Oboli – Brother’s Keeper
    • Titilayo Shobo – Unforgivable
23. NMA Lifetime Achievement Award 2014
    • Tunde Kelani

Nominees for awards at the ongoing 11th Abuja International Film Festival, have been released. The festival opened on  Tuesday (September 24, 2014) and will run through Friday (September 26, 2014). Following is a full list of the award nominees:

1. Best Feature Film (Nigeria)
   • Invasion 1897 (Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen)
   • Blood and Romance (Danjuma ‘Deejay’ Sa’id)
   • Dream Walker (Neville Ossai)
   • Twist Of Fate (Gbenga Bello)
   • Where Talent Lies (Ikenna Oguike)
   • Black Silhouette (Charles Uwagbai)
   • Irugbin (Seed) (Adebayo Tijani)
2. Best Feature Film (Foreign)
   • Chinese Zodiac (China)
   • The Grandmaster (China)
   • The Grandmaster (China)
   • Walking To School (China)
   • The Major (Russia)
   • The Superstition (Uganda)
3. Best Short Film (Nigeria)
   • Frost Bite (Seun Ajayi)
   • New Horizons (Tope Oshin Ogun)
   • Not Right (Uduak Obong Patrick)
   • Yawa: Nemesis (Damijo Efe Young)
   • Love And War (Tope Oshin Ogun)
4. Best Short Film (Foreign)
   • Just A Friend (Egypt-Luxor)
   • Awaiting Lazarus (United Kingdom)
   • La Queue (France)
   • The Son of the Sea (Spain)
   • The Journey (UAE)
5. Best Documentary
   • Unbroken: The Story of John Sumonu (Toyin Fajj, Nigeria)
   • Paradox of Life (Katman Dayil, Nigeria)
   • Omonong (Katman Dayil, Nigeria)
   • The Rise Of The Eagles (Biola Kazeem , Nigeria)
   • Sound Of Torture (Karen Shayo, Israel)
6. Best Experimental Film
   • The Throne (Jubril Malafia, Nigeria)
   • When Is Tommorow (Ayo Donadove, Nigeria)
   • Souls Under Soles (Oluwaseun Afolabi, Nigeria)
7. The Most Outstanding Comic Film
   • Trouble Some Landlord (Larry Zuka, Nigeria)
   • I Come Lagos (Elvis Chucks, Nigeria)
   • I Come Lagos (Elvis Chucks, Nigeria)
   • Yawa: Nemesis (Damijo Efe Young, Nigeria)
8. Outstanding Male Actor
   • Khing Bassey (Blood And Romance, Nigeria)
   • Frank Artus (Twist Of Fate, Nigeria)
   • Alex Ayalogu (Where Talent Lies, Nigeria)
   • Jackie Chan (Chinese Zodiac, China)
   • Mike Omoregbe (Invasion 1897 , Nigeria)
9. Outstanding Female Actress
   • Mary Uche (Twist Of Fate, Nigeria)
   • Abimbola Ademoye (Where Talent Lies, Nigeria)
   • Abimbola Ademoye (Where Talent Lies, Nigeria)
   • Jackie Appiah (Dream Walker, Nigeria)
   • Ivie Okujaye (Black Silhouette, Nigeria)
10. Best Directing
    • Jackie Chan (Chinese Zodiac, China)
    • Jiahuang Peng & Chen Peng (Walking To School, China)
    • Lanceelot Imasuen (Invasion 1897, Nigeria)
    • Danjuma “Deejay” Sa’id (Blood and Romance, Nigeria)
    • Kar Wai Wong (The Grandmaster, China)
11. Best Student Film
    • Souls Under Soles (National Film Institute)
    • When Is Tommorow (Ahmadu Bello University)
    • Tales By Sunset (Ahmadu Bello University)
    • Forlorn (National Film Institute)
    • Betrayed (Iyua Alah, National Film Institute)
12. Outstanding Music
    • Blood and Romance (Nigeria)
    • Chinese Zodiac (China)
    • Invasion 1897 (Nigeria)
    • Irugbin – (Nigeria)
    • The Wings (Russia)