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“Expect different film genres from me”- Akorede Alli

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3 years ago

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American trained filmmaker, Akorede Alli has said that his debut film ‘Ran Mi Lowo’ has the capacity to initiate global conversations among filmmakers. According to him, he is sure of this based on the energy and commitment put into the production. 

Born to the Akinsemoyin royal family, Akorede Alli is one of Nigeria’s new actors, directors and filmmakers with international affiliations whose production outfit is set to release its debut Yoruba Language film, Ran Mi Lowo.
Read his thoughts on this exclusive interview with him.

Please introduce yourself to us and what you do for a living

Answer: I am Akorede Alli, I’m a film director, an Actor, a Producer, An Executive Producer and a business man.

How did acting start for you?

Acting started for me when I was a boy growing up in Chevron Estate Satellite Town, where they used to hold children acting programs and I was always chosen as the one to play lead.

How challenging has it been sustaining your interest in acting abroad?

It’s never a challenge because I love what I do, I learn a lot and get to meet new people on every set that I have been blessed to work on

Akorede Alli Setting Camera Angle at a Movie location

Where did you grow up and Which schools did you attend?

I was born and raised in Lagos State Nigeria
I grew up in Chevron Estate Satellite Town.
I attended Kings High School Satellite Town
Pefti Film Institute Nigeria The School of Visual Art in New York City.

 Do you have plans for a cinema project any time soon?

Absolutely. I have a couple of scripts I’m reading and am excited about them and when I feel that way about a script, that’s a good sign.

 

 Nollywood has become the second-largest film industry in the world in terms of the number of movies produced. Do you think our industry can someday compete in terms of the quality of films produced?

 

Nollywood has already started making quality films, to be the largest film industry in the world.
Rome wasn’t built in a day, the people making those films you’re talking about worked their way up there, so for me, nothing is impossible.

 

 Most film industries of the world have built infrastructure to an enviable level, yet Nigeria cannot even boast of a film village. Whose responsibility do you think this is, the government, the practitioners or independent investors?

That’s a good question. I think it’s everyone’s responsibility because at some point those bodies you mentioned benefit from the industry. If the notion of
“I am the only one doing great things” can be replaced with “Let’s come together to do great things” in people’s minds then those infrastructures can come to play.

Akorede Alli directing a movie

 Nollywood thrives on drama and many times we don’t explore too many diverse genres, can we expect some of these previously ignored genres from you, like fantasy, adventure, action…?

My new movie is a Thriller. So it’s safe to say. You can expect different genres from Akorede Alli.

 

 

 Movies like Black Widow, No Time To Die suffered COVID-19 related delays and many other films like it took more than a year or two to make, yet we see some Nigerian movies shot, edited and released in the space of weeks. As a producer who has trained outside the shores of Nigeria and now operates in Nigeria, how long do you think it should take for a good movie to be produced?

There are stages to producing a quality film and all stages are very important and have their own time frame. Respect the craft. I’ve found that producers and investors often focus on profit over product and lose both in the process. A few years back, I walked away from investors because of their insistence on a quick turnaround and I patiently waited until I was able to executive produce my own film and could take the time necessary to produce a quality film

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5th Bodex Social Media Hangout: Exploring the power influence and impact of digital platforms

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3 days ago

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December 13, 2024

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The 5th edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) unfolded in grand style, spotlighting the transformative power of social media in shaping narratives, fostering collaboration, and addressing societal challenges. With the theme “Social Media: The Influence, Power, and Impact,” the event attracted dignitaries, influencers, and stakeholders from across various sectors.

 

Panellist discussing at the 5th Edition of the Bodex Social media hangout

The event was moderated by the visionary Bodex Florence Hungbo, who guided the discussions with her signature poise and depth. Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Dr. OreOluwa Finnih, S.A. on SDG who delivered a keynote address on behalf of the governor, who was on an official trip.

The presence of Dr. OreOluwa Finnih highlighted the Lagos State Government’s commitment to leveraging social media as a tool for growth and societal well-being.

The Bodex Social Media Hangout is a distinguished media talk-shop fostering collaboration among social media users, professionals, and stakeholders. Focused on promoting responsible digital citizenship, BSMH aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3) to enhance the well-being of users and encourage cultural and societal advancements through social media.

The event emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to address challenges such as fake news, cyberbullying, and online harassment.

A recent survey by The Guardian Nigeria revealed that 86% of Nigerians have encountered fake news, reflecting the pervasive influence of misinformation on social stability. Additionally, issues like mental health threats, cybercrime, and privacy concerns were discussed as critical challenges requiring immediate attention.

Through its sessions, the event showcased how social media has become a powerful tool for fostering awareness, driving economic growth, and promoting cultural exchange. Speakers and panelists also examined the darker side of digital platforms, including the rise of cyberbullying, mental health issues, and the spread of divisive content.

The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers and panelists who provided unique perspectives on the influence, power, and impact of social media:
Dotun Babatunde – The Impact of AI on Social Media

Dotun Babatunde explored the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in the social media landscape, emphasizing its impact on the “attention economy.” He remarked, “We live in an attention economy, where human attention is a scarce commodity.” Babatunde explained how AI-driven algorithms prioritize engagement, often amplifying sensational content, but also creating opportunities for personalized and meaningful interactions. He encouraged users and creators to approach AI with a balanced perspective, recognizing both its potential and pitfalls.

A/Prof Tayo Popoola Ph.D. – Social Media: The Influence, Power, and Impact

Associate Professor Tayo Popoola from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, provided a thought-provoking analysis of social media’s role in society. He stated, “Social media is a double-edged sword: it empowers the voiceless but also creates spaces for misinformation and toxicity. The challenge lies in managing its influence responsibly.” Prof. Popoola underscored the importance of digital literacy in enabling users to harness the benefits of social media while mitigating its negative impacts.

Akin Olaniyan – Navigating the Social Media Age: Clout, Influence, and the Ethics of the Attention Economy

Akin Olaniyan delivered a compelling critique of clout-chasing in the social media era. He commented, “Give any moron a smartphone, and anything and everything becomes content. To such a fellow, clout-chasing is an end in itself, and the smartphone just makes it super-easy.” Reflecting on the quality of content creation, he added, “I am tempted to believe that their choice of subjects reflects their intellect, with the more empty-headed being the most daring.” Olaniyan called for ethical standards in digital content creation and urged society to value substance over virality.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi – The Digital Detective: Solving Crimes in the Social Media Age

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, showcased how social media has revolutionized law enforcement. He stated, “Social media is not just a platform for entertainment; it’s a valuable tool for law enforcement. By leveraging the power in the mass number of social media active users, we can solve more crimes and make our communities safer.” Adejobi shared examples of cases solved through digital platforms and emphasized the need for digital-savvy officers to maximize this potential.

In addition to the keynote speakers, the panelists brought fresh insights and diverse expertise to the event. Notable contributors included:
Olufemi Oguntamu, CEO of Penzaarville Africa.
Tomiwa Talabi, Founder/CEO of Lagos Life Influencer.
Dayo Oketola, Author, PR Consultant, and Former Editor at The Punch.
Iyabo Ojo, Actress, Filmmaker, and Influencer.

Hosted by celebrated media personality Frank Edoho, the event featured workshops, live sessions, and networking opportunities, creating an interactive atmosphere for attendees. Discussions covered a range of topics, from personal branding and content creation to the role of digital platforms in fostering community and enhancing security.

The panelists emphasized the power of social media in amplifying voices, holding leaders accountable, and fostering a sense of global connection. However, they also called attention to the darker aspects of the digital world, advocating for measures to combat negativity and promote a safer online environment.

Dr. OreOluwa Finnih reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s vision of creating a digital ecosystem that promotes economic growth, cultural exchange, and societal well-being. The event’s mission remains clear: to foster collaboration, combat negativity, and shape Nigeria’s digital landscape for the better.

The Bodex Social Media Hangout remains a leading force in shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape.

In the words of Bodex Florence Hungbo: “Social media is the new oil well, Let us go fetch it.”

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Exclusive: Why Funke Akindele Left Femi Adebayo’s Seven Door Movie Premiere in Anger

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December 12, 2024

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Funke Akindele, a prominent actor and producer celebrated for her recent film release, “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” was once again the center of attention during the premiere of her former lover, collaborator, and fellow actor Femi Adebayo’s much-anticipated movie, “Seven Doors.” This event took place at the Imax Cinema in Lekki Phase 1 on December 11, 2024. Many guests, including cast and crew members, gathered to get a glimpse of the new film, which is slated for release on Netflix tomorrow.
Eyewitness accounts reveal to CITYSPY that; Funke Akindele arrived at the venue accompanied by a group of about five individuals, consisting mainly of her assistants. However, Funke was the only member of her entourage to possess an access tag, as mandated by the event organizers, who had instructed security personnel to prioritize those with tags for crowd control purposes. While Funke and one other individual were allowed entry, the remaining three members of her party were denied access due to the security team not recognizing their association with her.
Instead of engaging with the security staff to clarify the situation—similar to how veteran actor Prince Jide Kosoko managed to gain entry for himself and his daughters, who also lacked tags—Funke reportedly became agitated. She expressed her frustration and abruptly left the event before the premiere started, making her way toward her car. Witnesses noted that many attendees expected her to handle the situation with more composure; after all, the security personnel were simply performing their duties.
As the incident unfolded, several senior actors present at the premiere attempted to intervene, calling Funke in hopes of calming her down and facilitating a resolution. However, she dismissed their concerns, got into her vehicle, and instructed her driver to leave the premises. This display of impatience and disregard for the assistance offered by her peers left a sour taste in the mouths of many attendees, who questioned why Funke Akindele, known to have a cordial relationship with Femi Adebayo, would react in such a manner—especially considering that Femi had supported her at her own movie premiere just days prior.
However, several eyewitnesses countered his perspective, explaining that it was Funke who had escalated a minor issue into something significant, when all that was required was a bit of patience and understanding to resolve the misunderstanding.
The reactions from veteran colleagues within the industry were overwhelmingly negative, as many felt that Funke’s behavior was not only insulting but also unbecoming of someone of her stature. They expressed their disappointment, noting how they had tried to reason with her as she departed the event without acknowledgment. Such responses have sparked discussions among industry peers about the importance of humility and professionalism, especially in public settings.

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Desperados Teams Up with Ladipoe and Cruise Gang for an Unusual New Streetwear Collection

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3 months ago

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September 16, 2024

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Desperados, the renowned beer brand known for its bold and adventurous spirit, has announced an exciting new collaboration with Nigerian music sensation Ladipoe, alongside the innovative streetwear label Cruise Gang. This partnership marks the launch of a unique collection designed for the unusual.
Ladipoe, known for his distinctive sound and lyrical prowess, has consistently pushed the boundaries of being an artist in the Nigerian music scene. From his breakout hits to his continued success as a leading figure in Rap and Afrobeats, Ladipoe has always embraced his uniqueness, making him the perfect face for this collaboration.
The Desperados x Cruise Gang collection is part of the brand’s ongoing ‘Go for the Unusual’ campaign, encouraging fans to embrace unorthodox experiences and express themselves freely. This limited-edition merchandise line is designed to resonate with those who, like Ladipoe, are unafraid to stand out and make bold statements.
Each piece is characterized by vibrant, playful designs that embody the adventurous ethos of Desperados and the avant-garde approach of Cruise Gang. The combination of edgy graphics and imaginative patterns offers a fresh take on contemporary fashion, perfect for those looking to add a touch of originality to their wardrobe.
“Ladipoe is a true representation of what it means to go for the unusual,” said Aboyowa Ikpobe, Brand Manager of Desperados. “His creativity and willingness to break the mold align perfectly with Desperados’ commitment to playful experimentation. We’re thrilled to collaborate with him and Cruise Gang on this one-of-a-kind collection.”
Ladipoe also expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration is all about embracing your individuality and making a statement. The designs reflect the same energy and boldness I bring to my music, and I’m excited to see how fans will rock these pieces.”
The Desperados x Cruise Gang collection is available for a limited time and is expected to sell quickly. Fans of Ladipoe, Desperados, and Cruise Gang are encouraged to explore the collection and secure their favourite pieces before they’re gone. Follow @desperadosng on Instagram to discover the new collections and how to grab yours!

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