Reexamining Nollywood: Quality, Effort, and Improvement

Any discussion about the quality of Nollywood films often brings out passionate debates and varying opinions. However, it is essential to consider the diverse facets of the Nigerian film industry and Nollywood's evolution over the years. This article aims to provide a balanced viewpoint, highlighting the factors that contribute to the perception of Nollywood films as subpar, while also examining the positive developments that are slowly bringing improvements.

The Challenges Faced by Nollywood

One of the main criticisms of Nollywood is its perceived lack of quality in storytelling, production, and technical aspects. The industry has often been described as a quick turn-around production house, where movies are rushed to completion without sufficient effort or time for refinement. Key points of criticism include:

Poor editing Inadequate screenplay and plot Low-quality special effects (SFX and VFX) Lack of trained makeup artists and crew Lazy filmmaking with movies often completed in just a week

While Nigerian filmmakers acknowledge these shortcomings, it is important to note that not all Nollywood films are of poor quality. Many movies produced with care and attention to detail do exist and have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. These films showcase the industry's potential and demonstrate that with proper effort and resources, the quality can indeed improve.

Modern Developments in Nollywood

The landscape of Nollywood has been evolving, with a new wave of filmmakers embracing better practices and serving up quality content. These changes can be attributed to the increasing importance of the cinema industry in major Nigerian cities, as well as the rise of digital platforms such as YouTube, which allow for greater scrutiny and acceptance of various quality levels.

To understand the current state of Nollywood, we must consider:

The distinction between traditional and modern Nollywood The impact of cinema-run films versus direct-to-DVD productions The role of streaming platforms in shaping content

Cinema-Worthy Films and Box-Office Success

The Nigerian cinema market operates with a business mentality, prioritizing box-office success over artistic merit. This can lead to the deprioritization of certain storylines or genres that are less likely to yield profits. Comedies, for instance, often dominate the box office, while dramas are less favored. This market-driven approach sometimes results in the exclusion of quality films that do not resonate with the commercial metrics.

Modern Streaming Platforms

YouTube and other streaming platforms have provided an alternative platform for filmmakers to showcase their work. While some content on these platforms may be of lower quality, they also offer opportunities for independent filmmakers to gain recognition and reach wider audiences. This shift has encouraged more attention to detail and quality control in Nollywood productions.

Conclusion

While it is true that some Nollywood films may not meet the standards of international cinema, it is unfair to dismiss the entire industry based on a handful of poorly made movies. The Nigerian film industry is evolving, and with concerted effort, significant improvements can be achieved. Moving forward, it is crucial to:

Identify and support high-quality directors Pay attention to the genre preferences to cater to diverse audiences Look for films screened at international festivals Reliance on film trailers to gauge film quality

By promoting and supporting filmmakers who consistently produce quality content, Nollywood can continue to grow and become a respected player in global cinema. Let's not forget the potential for Nollywood to tell unique, compelling stories that resonate with a global audience. The films suggested above such as Ije, 76, Ojukokoro, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free, The Figurine, and Phone Swap are a great starting point for those interested in exploring the better side of Nollywood.