Back in the days of the infancy of the Nigerian film industry called Nollywood, more than half the actors dreamt of roles in Hollywood. There are those who would argue that that may not be good, but that does not change the fact that Hollywood is still number one in the world and people naturally want to associate themselves with the best. In any case, it will seem that the time when the said dream comes true is inching even closer as the two film industries do a lot more collaborations.
Only last month, the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) held the nomination event for this year’s edition in Hollywood with its parent organisation, the Africa Film Academy (AFA), whose advisory board is co-chaired by Danny Glover, developing 10 films to be co-produced between black filmmakers across the world.
That same month of June on the 15th and 16th, an audition took place at Terra Kulture in Lagos to pick Nigerian male and female actors for various roles in the upcoming feature film titled ‘93 Days’. The American actor, Danny Glover, and Nigerian actress, Bimbo Akintola, will be starring in the film to be directed by Steve Gukas (Keeping Faith, A Place in the Stars). The movie is a biopic about Dr. Amayo Adadevoh, whose selfless effort helped in curbing the spread of the deadly Ebola virus in Nigeria leading to her death.
Shooting for ‘93 Days’ is expected to begin in August 2015. It is a production of Steve Gukas’ Natives Film Works in partnership with Dotun Olakunri’s Michealangelo Productions, and Bolanle Austen-Peters’ BAP Productions.
Other Nigerian films that have had collaborations whether with Nigerian and/or American cast or crew include: Ije, Anchor Baby, Doctor Bello, Through the Glass, 30 Days in Atlanta and a host of others.