Native Filmworks and Michelangelo Productions, influential figures in the Nigerian film industry, have announced the resumption of their groundbreaking First Features project.
According to an APO Group statement, as the crew returns to set to shoot “Kill Boro,” this initiative continues its mission of nurturing and empowering emerging talents in Nollywood.
The First Features project, spearheaded by renowned Nollywood producers Steve Gukas and Dotun Olakunri, has been making waves by providing training and funding for the production of debut feature films by exciting new voices in the Nigerian film industry. The initiative aims to bolster the talent pool in Nollywood and elevate Nigerian cinema to global prominence.
“Kill Boro,” directed by Courage Obayuwana, a protégé of the First Features project, is a highly anticipated addition to the initiative’s 12-film slate.
Gukas, known for his works like 93 Days and A Place in The Stars, emphasised the project’s significance, stating, “The First Features project reflects our unwavering commitment to elevating Nigerian cinema by nurturing emerging talents with top-tier industry expertise.”
The project’s mentorship programme enlisted renowned industry professionals, including John Demps, Antonio Ribeiro, Tolu Ajayi, Cristina Aragon, George Kallis, and Steve Gukas. These experts provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of film and television production, equipping emerging directors with the skills necessary to direct feature-length films.
Dotun Olakunri, co-founder of the First Features project and an influential figure in Nollywood, emphasised its importance: “Our objective with ‘First Features’ is to bolster the talent pool in Nollywood. We firmly believe investing in the next wave of filmmakers is essential for the industry’s continued growth.”
The project achieved its first milestone last year with the release of Cake, a feature film directed by Prosper Edesiri. Following its success, the initiative has concluded production on “Love & Life,” a gripping drama directed by Reuben Reng, and “It Blooms In June,” directed by Korede Azeez. “Love & Life” is set to captivate audiences when it’s released in October 2023.
As “Kill Boro” begins filming in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, it marks not only the continuation of the mission to empower emerging filmmakers but also a testament to the vibrancy and innovation driving Nollywood into the future.
