Obinna Onyeri
Obinna is a professional filmmaker with several years’ experience. He has to his credit a production portfolio of 11 films and still counting. He is passionate about earnest and unapologetic storytelling, photography and volunteering schemes that make an impact in peoples’ lives and the way they view and interact with others of different backgrounds. The filmmaker sees films as a very powerful tool for social change and as a voice of empowerment and valour. He talks to Tosin Clegg about discovering his passion, his works, elements of a good film, Nollywood and much more
Discovering my passion for filmmaking
The significant moment for me happened in college. I was in class, called structural and engineering mechanics, and I was envisioning a live action movie of an original fiction manuscript I was writing at the time. What the scenes will look like: the actors, the blocking, set and decor and most importantly, the cinematography. I left class that day knowing my destiny was setting sail for a new course. Also, from a very young age, I have had a passion for movies, books, and other mediums of storytelling.
What inspires my choice of film stories
As a director with a strong knack for drama and comedy, I’m here to create and collaborate on complex and inclusive stories that are told through compelling, strong, yet flawed characters, the kind of stories that resonate today more than ever. Also at large, I’m a multitasker and that’s a skill I have honed from a very young age. Presently, I wear the hat of director, writer, producer and entrepreneur. And I always give my 100 per cent in everything I do.
At the beginning it was challenging
My mind was at crossroads, but I bounced back quickly by getting my priorities right. The reason I was in college was for my engineering degree hence that came first, but the free time I had in between, I gave to film. Also, it was just three years of my life I gave to gaining my engineering degree.
How I was able to juggle around the engineering profession and filmmaking profession effectively
I would say my mother, who is also my role model. She was able to build an illustrious career in the oil and gas sector, while raising a family and finding time for her charitable passion projects. That’s the kind of person that raised me. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. My talent is unmatched; it’s not a joke, just a fact. The enrolling process was rigorous. 18 directors were selected for the programme out of an applicant pool of 400 plus. The UCLA TFT admissions board must have seen something truly special in me. It was also amazing, to be surrounded by, learn from and collaborate with other talented cinephiles like myself. I’ve truly grown so much as a filmmaker. It’s metamorphosis in every sense of the word.
A good film begins with a good script
Having a fantastic story idea isn’t enough, you have to be able to transform that into an excellent script. For me, that is always the first place to start. The crew is also crucial, their passion, skill and commitment to the project can make or break any work.
I’m privileged to continue to work on projects with teams that are committed to making it work. Then we have the cast that will deliver on what the vision for the project is. The vision for every film can be unique and different but you are truly lucky if you meet with professionals who can deliver what the mind has conceived.
Streaming is the future without doubt
As it serves a clear market; one, for people who would like the convenience of watching what they like at their own convenience. It has also broken so many barriers to entry and many more filmmakers are able to show their work and grow an audience with these platforms.
I started in Nollywood and remain proud of all the achievements of Nollywood
Every year, you can see a definite improvement in the quality of work being presented. There is also an exciting plethora of different genres at play. Practitioners are paying attention to their art and the improvements are obvious. The world is paying attention. It was important for me to get a global perspective and skill set that’s why I set out to learn more outside Nigeria. I have a unique point of view that blends both the sophistication of Hollywood and the fresh perspective that comes out of Nollywood. In this industry you have to wear multiple hats. Being a director, writer and producer is what makes a filmmaker.
My goal is to use my production company to generate films that will promote the right conversation on issues that relate with minorities. The journey to the top doesn’t get easier, but you become more equipped and prepared for what awaits you.and the disenfranchised, stories that evaluate and express divergent aspects of the human condition – affliction, love, persistence, hope, empowerment etc. Each film will leave a significant impact on the emotions of its audience, for emotions are the language by which all individuals across cultures can communicate.
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