The Story ⚡
Obi Emelonye’s New Film Forges Nigeria-Kenya Connection
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Safari movie directed and produced by has finally completed principal photography.
The project title revolves around the wife of a Nigerian senator, who, amidst her husband’s presidential campaign and their marital issues, seeks solace on a safari in Kenya. However, she soon learns that some fears follow you no matter where you go.
This project has been in development for over eight years and benefited from the Providus Bank loan for Nollywood that was announced recently. It’s a collaborative effort between Nollywood and the Kenya Tourism Board, highlighting the stunning landscapes of Kenya’s safari.
Osas Ighodaro, Ali Nuhu, Anthony Monjaro, Jidekene Achufusi, Kenneth Ambani, and Helen Keli are all confirmed to star.
Directed by Emelonye, with cinematography by Temitope Ajenifuja (TimingFilms) and a script penned by Tunde Babalola, the film was shot in Kenya and Nigeria, celebrating the beauty of Africa through its visuals.
Key Background
Obi Emelonye is a prominent Nigerian film director renowned for his award-winning films such as Last Flight to Abuja (2012), The Mirror Boy (2011), and Onye Ozi (2013). Emelonye has made significant contributions to the film industry, earning a reputation for his innovative storytelling and impactful cinema.
In 2020, amidst the global shutdown caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Emelonye broke new ground by directing Heart 2 Heart via Zoom, working remotely with actors in London and Lagos.
This pioneering effort garnered widespread acclaim from major media outlets worldwide. In recognition of his over two decades of exceptional contributions to cinema, Emelonye was honoured with the British Urban Film Festival’s honorary award in December 2022, presented by producer/director Don Omope at a ceremony in London.
Tangent
In a groundbreaking move for Nigerian cinema, Providus Bank has introduced a significant ₦5 billion film fund aimed at bolstering the country’s creative industry. This initiative addresses the traditional financial barriers faced by filmmakers, offering more accessible and favourable funding options. The first phase has already allocated ₦1.5 billion to four filmmakers, with future funds to be distributed later.
This financial boost is expected to support projects like Obi Emelonye’s Safari, enabling filmmakers to bring their visions to life without the usual financial constraints.
In Summary
Notably, ‘Safari’ is the first public beneficiary of the N5 Billion Nollywood Dedicated Fund, a groundbreaking initiative facilitated by Providus Bank and the Federal Government.
This non-collateral fund offers a unique profit-sharing model, where filmmakers receive 70% of profits after the loan has been refunded, with the remaining 30% going to the fund. This innovative approach aims to empower Nigerian filmmakers to produce world-class content while minimizing financial risk.
All eyes will be on Safari as it begins its journey to commercialization.
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