Nollywood, a sleeping behemoth -Tope Adebayo
The renowned actor Adebayo Salami, sometimes known as Wede, is the father of Tope Adebayo Salami. Adebayo is a well-known actor, producer, and director who starred in Jenifa’s Diary, directed by Funke Akindele. He talked about the difficulties facing Nollywood and how his job nearly cost him his wife in this interview with Saturday Sun.
How has the trip been thus far after twenty years in the industry?
It’s been an amazing adventure. I’ve had the good fortune to cooperate with some of the most creative people in the industry and work on a ton of incredible projects. Naturally, there have been highs and lows, but all in all, I’m appreciative of the experiences and knowledge I’ve gained. The movie from Nigeria industry has come a long way since I started, and I’m excited to see where the future takes us.
Do you think your life and craft were influenced by your father’s work as a filmmaker?
My life and career have been significantly impacted by my father’s work as a filmmaker. I was exposed to the backstage workings of filmmaking as a child, and I learnt a great deal from him. He instilled in me the value of diligence, commitment, and focus on details. He also gave me a love for the trade and a passion for telling stories. I’ve had the chance to collaborate with him on a number of projects as a director, and I’ve gained a great deal of knowledge from his experience and skill.
What difficulties arise when you and your brother, Femi Adebayo, work on the same set?
Although it can be difficult, working with family members can also be advantageous. As a child, I had the chance to learn from my father, a seasoned professional. I have to keep our personal and professional relationships apart when we are working together. Even though it can get intense, we always manage to make it work. We’ve worked together on a number of projects, and my brother Femi is a gifted actor and director as well. Despite our differences, we are family, and that connection cannot be severed.
How would you characterize a director’s work and interactions with different artists?
Bringing the story to life and directing the actors to give their finest performances are my two main responsibilities as a director. A skilled director, in my opinion, can work with artists to produce something truly unique. Having had the good fortune to collaborate with several extraordinarily gifted artists, I’ve discovered that the secret to a fruitful partnership is to establish a secure and encouraging atmosphere where everyone is treated with respect and worth.
How well have you managed work and the home front? You once claimed that leading Jagun-Jagun nearly cost you your house.
Yes, it was difficult to direct Jagun-Jagun, but it was also a worthwhile learning experience. I disregarded my family and personal life at the time since I was so preoccupied with the project. I nearly lost my marriage because of it, but fortunately, my wife was understanding and encouraging. I have now made a concerted effort to balance my personal and professional lives. I prioritize my family time and make sure to communicate effectively with my loved ones. It’s not always easy, but it’s essential for my well-being and my relationships.
What other endeavors would you have pursued if you weren’t creative?
I believe I would have loved to be an engineer if I hadn’t chosen to become a filmmaker; I studied electrical and electronic engineering, and I enjoy coming up with technological fixes for problems. This has also aided in decision-making when making movies.
Do you agree with the idea that people who work on the back end of filmmaking, such as the gaffer, sound engineer, makeup artist, etc., should receive just as much credit as the actors?
Of course! The foundation of any film production is the backend crew. The actors wouldn’t have a stage on which to perform without them. To produce the magic we see on film, the director of photography, sound recordist, gaffer, makeup artist, editor, art director, and other team members put in many hours behind the scenes. They are equally deserving of praise and honor as the actors. I think more has to be done by the Nigerian film industry to honor and recognize the contributions of its rear personnel.
Given how cutthroat the market is, how have you managed to remain relevant?
I think that continuing to be inquisitive and learn new things is essential to remaining relevant in our field. I make it a point to read books and articles, go to seminars and workshops, and keep up with the newest developments in technology and trends. I also think it’s important to seek out new challenges and chances and work with other creatives. Last but not least, I believe it’s critical to maintain humility and groundedness while remaining receptive to criticism.
I think that continuing to be inquisitive and learn new things is essential to remaining relevant in our field. I make it a point to read books and articles, go to seminars and workshops, and keep up with the newest developments in technology and trends. I also think it’s important to seek out new challenges and chances and work with other creatives. Last but not least, I believe it’s critical to maintain humility and groundedness while remaining receptive to criticism.
What is the industry’s future, then, in spite of the numerous obstacles it faces?
Despite the difficulties Nollywood is now facing, I am nevertheless hopeful about the industry’s future. We’ve advanced significantly, and Nollywood has come a long way. But we must confront our obstacles, especially those related to finance, marketing, and distribution.
In order to overcome the obstacles that Nollywood faces, stakeholders must work together. To overcome these obstacles, we as stakeholders—producers, directors, actors, and investors—must collaborate. To get money and assistance for the sector, we must also interact with the government and private investors.
Nollywood has many obstacles that prevent it from expanding. Nevertheless, the industry may overcome these obstacles and realize its full potential with the correct financing, marketing, and distribution plans. In my opinion, Nollywood is a giant that is just waiting to be awakened. We can turn Nollywood into a worldwide brand with the correct funding and assistance.
