American Actors Understudying Nollywood Processes – Kanayo O. Kanayo

Veteran Nollywood actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has revealed that American actors are currently studying the processes of Nollywood, intrigued by the industry’s ability to produce films in a remarkably short period. Speaking on the Honest Bunch podcast on Monday, Kanayo shared insights into the growing interest from Hollywood in Nollywood’s efficient production methods.

Key Points:

• Interest from Hollywood: American actors have been visiting Nigeria to understand how Nollywood filmmakers complete projects in weeks that would typically take months in Hollywood.
• Effort and Zeal: Kanayo highlighted the dedication and zeal of Nollywood actors and filmmakers. He emphasized that the industry’s rapid production cycle is a subject of study for Hollywood professionals.
• Challenges of Nollywood: Navigating the Nigerian acting profession demands significant work, perseverance, energy, patience, and dedication. Kanayo shared personal experiences of working under challenging conditions, such as intense heat from 2k lights used in productions.

Kanayo’s Perspective:

• Perceptions of Nollywood: Kanayo mentioned that Nollywood used to be undervalued, but this perception is changing as international actors recognize the industry’s capabilities and the hard work involved.
• Personal Work Ethic: The veteran actor compared his work ethic to that of Hollywood star Denzel Washington, stating that the hours and effort he puts into production under harsh conditions are unparalleled.
• Unity in Nollywood: Kanayo discouraged the fragmentation of the Nigerian film industry into different sectors like Kannywood, Yorubahood, and Asabawood. He emphasized the importance of recognizing a unified Nollywood, akin to Hollywood.

Quotes from Kanayo O. Kanayo:

• “They have come to understudy us. Americans from New York came to study us, and they said, ‘We see some efforts here and there; these things take us about one month to sort; how come you achieve it in one week?’”
• “Gone are those days they used to see our work as nothing. In fact, the word ‘Nollywood’ drew out of the seemingly ‘Nothingwood.’”
• “2k light is projected on us during production, and it is so hot and could burn when you go close to it, or it falls on you. I also used longer hours producing in this light and under some uncomfortable conditions.”
• “If Denzel Washington puts in the number of hours I put in a production here, his color will change to charcoal the next day.”

Conclusion:

Kanayo O. Kanayo’s revelations highlight the evolving global perception of Nollywood and its increasing influence in the international film industry. The dedication and efficiency of Nollywood filmmakers are gaining recognition, marking a significant milestone for the Nigerian film industry. Kanayo’s call for unity within Nollywood underscores the importance of a cohesive identity to further strengthen its global standing.