Sept.20, 2023

Nigerian movie makers have announced the resumption of their groundbreaking first features project as the crew returns to set for the film shoot “Kill Boro”.

Steve Gukas, Visionary Director, Native Filmworks and Michelangelo Productions said in a statement on Wednesday that the “First Features” project was part of an effort to elevate Nigerian cinema.

“Kill Boro is currently filming in Port Harcourt,” he said.

Gukas, who is a seasoned filmmaker renowned for works like “93 Days” and “A Place in The Stars”, said that the elevation of the cinema would come in form of nurturing emerging talents with top-tier industry expertise.

“Kill Boro”, a highly anticipated addition to our 12-film slate, is being directed by Courage Obayuwana, a protégé of the project.

“The First Features project is focused on nurturing and empowering a new generation of visionary film directors.

“It provides training and funds the production of the first feature films by these exciting new voices in the Nigerian film industry.

“As “Kill Boro” begins filming, it marks not only the continuation of our mission to empower emerging filmmakers but also a testament to the vibrancy and innovation driving Nollywood into the future,” Gukas added.

He said that the First Features project’s mentorship program had renowned industry professionals like: John Demps, Antonio Ribeiro, Tolu Ajayi, Cristina Aragon, and George Kallis.

Gukas said that the renowned filmmakers would provide insights into the intricacies of film and television production, equipping emerging directors with the skills necessary to direct feature-length films.

Dotun Olakunri, co-founder of the initiative and an influential figure in Nollywood, emphasised the importance of the project, saying that it was also to bolster the talent pool in Nollywood.

“We firmly believe investing in the next wave of filmmakers is essential for the industry’s continued growth.

“With the evolving landscape of Nollywood, including the entry of streaming giants like Prime Video, initiatives like First Features play a crucial role in upskilling local talent and ensuring that Nigerian cinema continues to captivate global audiences.”

“First Features achieved its first milestone last year with the release of “Cake,” a feature film directed by Prosper Edesiri.

“The film which showcased the potential of the human capacity development project featured stars like: Tope Tedela, Sophie Alakija, Patience Ozokwor, and other Nollywood stars,” Olakunri said.

According to Olakunri, the success of “Cake,” First Features has led to the conclusion of production on “Love & Life,” a gripping drama directed by Reuben Reng that stars Rita Dominic, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Chidi Mokeme and Michelle Dede.

He also said that production had been concluded on another feature film, “It Blooms In June”, directed by Korede Azeez, starring Femi Jacobs, Kiki Omeili, Susan Pwajok, and Kem Ajieh.

Olakunri said “Love & Life” would be released in October this year, bringing another captivating contribution to Nigerian cinemas. (NAN)