Nigerian Film 'Agemo' Garners Acclaim at Film Festivals Moshood Abiola Obatula's latest film, 'Agemo,' is receiving significant recognition on both the local and international film festival circuits. The film has been selected and nominated at several prestigious events, including the African International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), marking another potential masterpiece from the director known as Director Mosh.

Rise of Indigenous Storytelling The success of 'Agemo' comes at a time when the African film industry is experiencing a shift towards more indigenous narratives. Over the past decade, there has been a growing emphasis on African stories being told by African writers and filmmakers, moving away from the historical trend of outsider perspectives dominating the scene. 'Agemo' exemplifies this "for us, by us" approach to filmmaking.

'Agemo': Themes and Production Crafted over four months, 'Agemo' delves into complex themes surrounding womanhood, resilience, the supernatural, hidden truths, and the dynamics of control and influence. These elements combine to create a layered and reflective story that transcends typical supernatural narratives, reinforcing Director Mosh's reputation as a "Dark Visionary" due to his skillful use of magic and the supernatural in his films.

Festival Recognition To date, 'Agemo' boasts several festival accolades. These include an official selection and nomination at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF). Prior to TINFF, the film received two nominations at the 11th African Magic Viewers Choice Awards in March. The film's recognition began last year with a selection at the Red Movie Awards, an honorable mention in the 2024 Amsterdam International Awards, and a nomination at the 13th African International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

The Making of a Successful Film According to film critic, Nkechi Okoro, the success of 'Agemo' can be attributed to the meticulous attention to detail in its production. This includes Director Mosh's ability to elicit exceptional performances from his actors, the strength of his production team, and the quality of the equipment used.

Director's Approach to Actors The strength of any film often lies in the quality of its performances, which are largely influenced by the director's ability to draw out powerful portrayals from the cast. Director Mosh emphasizes open and honest communication as the foundation for achieving this. By creating a supportive environment where actors feel heard, he enables them to unlock their full potential and deliver compelling performances.

Collaboration and Character Development Director Mosh underscores the importance of open collaboration, stating that providing actors with a space to voice their interpretations, concerns, and questions about the script is essential for establishing mutual trust and clarity. These discussions help align everyone's understanding of the story. He also places a strong emphasis on character work, guiding actors to explore their roles in depth by unpacking emotional layers, personal histories, and inner motivations. This thorough exploration results in more grounded and emotionally resonant performances. Dr. Adebayo, a professor of film studies at the University of Lagos, notes that "Director Mosh's collaborative approach is a refreshing departure from more autocratic directing styles. It empowers actors and allows them to bring their own creativity and insights to the roles, resulting in richer and more nuanced performances."

Future Projects With 'Agemo' continuing to achieve success, anticipation is high for Director Mosh's next project. Regardless of what it may be, the filmmaker remains committed to prioritizing excellence in his work and telling compelling African stories.

Context within Nollywood The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has experienced rapid growth and evolution since its emergence in the early 1990s. Initially known for its low-budget, direct-to-video productions, Nollywood has gradually increased its production values and storytelling sophistication. The industry now produces a diverse range of films, from comedies and dramas to thrillers and historical epics, reflecting the diverse cultures and experiences of Nigeria and the African diaspora. The success of films like 'Agemo' on the international stage underscores Nollywood's growing influence and its potential to shape global cinematic narratives.