Nigerian Filmmaker Discusses Her Journey, Creative Vision, and the Future of Nollywood
Dolly Nwaduba, a name that resonates with innovation and creativity in Nollywood, has firmly established herself as one of the industry’s leading voices. With more than 30 feature films to her credit, the writer, actor, and producer continues to push the boundaries of African cinema. In an exclusive interview, Nwaduba reflects on her path to success, the essence of her work, and the challenges she has overcome in a rapidly evolving industry.
The Journey of a Storyteller
Nwaduba’s passion for storytelling is deeply rooted in her desire to bring authentic African narratives to the global stage. From her early days at the University of Benin to her time at the New York Film Academy, she has always been driven by the need to showcase Africa’s rich history and culture. “My major inspiration for writing and producing is the need to tell original African stories,” Nwaduba shares. “Our stories are unique and incomparable. It’s time the world sees us in the right light.”
This commitment to authenticity has been a hallmark of her career, shaping the stories she tells and the characters she brings to life on screen.
A Unique Approach to Filmmaking
Having independently produced over 30 feature films, Nwaduba’s work stands out in Nollywood for its originality and depth. Her meticulous approach to casting is one of the key factors behind her success. “As a writer, I’m always attached to the characters I create, and I love to get the right people to play these characters,” she explains. “I make sure the process of creating them is enjoyable for everyone, cast and crew alike. When you enjoy the process of creating, the product is always impressive.”
A New Film with a Powerful Message
Nwaduba’s latest project, currently generating buzz on her YouTube channel, is set to be another milestone in her illustrious career. The film, which stars Nollywood legends like Pete Edochie and Gideon Okeke, addresses pressing social issues through an engaging African narrative. Directed by the vice president of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), this film holds special significance for Nwaduba. “It was the very first script I ever completed as a young writer,” she reveals, making it a deeply personal project for the filmmaker.
The Business of Filmmaking
Balancing creativity with the business aspects of filmmaking is no easy task, but Nwaduba has managed to master this delicate art. “The business side of things is where it gets a bit tricky,” she admits. “But when you’re trained professionally and have practical knowledge from experience, balancing becomes seamless. Especially when you’ve lost money a couple of times like most of us have, you just have to figure out how to make it work by employing the best hands possible to collaborate with.”
Learning from Industry Giants
Nwaduba’s career has been enriched by collaborations with some of Nollywood’s most respected figures, including Pete Edochie and Monalisa Chinda. These experiences have taught her invaluable lessons, particularly about humility and respect. “The best of them all are the most humble,” she notes. “If you sit down with daddy (Pete Edochie), you will find he’s the most humble and kind person you’ll ever meet. He treats everyone with respect and dignity, no matter who they are.”
Navigating Challenges as a Female Filmmaker
In an industry where female filmmakers often face unique challenges, Nwaduba has had her share of obstacles. However, she has learned to navigate these challenges with grace. “Sometimes people challenge your authority just to get a reaction or to see how you respond to insubordination, especially from females,” she says. “I find it quite amusing because we are supposed to be lifting each other up, but you rarely see that happening.”
A Multi-Faceted Talent
Beyond filmmaking, Nwaduba is also a skilled screenwriter and voice-over artist. These additional talents enhance her storytelling, allowing her to bring a multidimensional approach to her work. “A creative is multi-dimensional,” she asserts. “This means every single one of us can not only write, or act, or sing, or dance but can do all of these things together. It’s a gift from God, and they all fuse well together.”
Nollywood’s Rapid Evolution
With over seven years of experience in Nollywood, Nwaduba has witnessed the industry’s significant transformation. She is optimistic about its future, citing improvements in film quality, acting standards, and the originality of stories being told. “In the next couple of years, we’ll experience exponential growth in Nollywood,” she predicts. “It’s a great time to be a filmmaker.”
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Filmmakers
For those looking to break into Nollywood, Nwaduba offers this advice: “If you’re coming into the industry in whatever capacity—actor or crew—just make sure you love the job. Because it’s that love and passion that’ll keep you going when things get tough.”
Looking Ahead
As she continues to shape the future of Nollywood, Nwaduba remains focused on her next projects. “More jobs, definitely bigger projects, and a lot more collaborations,” she says. “It’s not a norm here, but we can actually achieve more and grow faster if we collaborate.”
Dolly Nwaduba’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and a deep love for storytelling. As she continues to break new ground, her work serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers and a beacon for the future of Nollywood.