Nollywood star Wale Ojo has premiered a new comedy film titled This is not a Nollywood Movie at iMax Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos. The event drew movie lovers and industry stakeholders, many of whom appeared in eye catching outfits for the red carpet.
The film, produced by Boma Akpore, was shot in Nnewi, Anambra State, and Lagos, and features a strong ensemble cast. Cast members include Samuel Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggi, Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Hanks Anuku and several rising stars.
This is not a Nollywood Movie showcases a lighter, more comedic side of Wale Ojo, who is better known for serious roles in films such as Breath of Life and The Man Died. In this project, he leans fully into humour, with fast paced scenes designed to keep audiences laughing throughout.
The story follows a struggling actor who leaves his village in Nnewi with his close friend to chase a dream in Lagos. Armed only with faith and a vision of winning an international award, he hopes to make an award winning film, but his life changes so quickly in Lagos that he can barely recognise himself.
Although often described as a British Nigerian actor, Ojo uses this film to underline his deep connection to Nigerian culture and pidgin English. He describes the movie as funny, fast, furious and breath taking, promising audiences plenty of surprises and a fresh experience compared to typical Nigerian films.
Speaking before the premiere, Ojo said he designed the project to raise the scale and ambition of Nigerian cinema. He described the film as packed with laughter and action and urged viewers to come ready to enjoy themselves, react honestly and even criticise the work.
Ojo admitted that the production faced several challenges because the team attempted techniques and ideas rarely tried in local film making. He noted that the cast and crew put in intense work to achieve their vision but still found the process exciting and rewarding.
On the message behind the film, Ojo said it encourages Nigerians to value and project their own identity, especially in difficult times. He described artists as cultural leaders and “conscious warriors” tasked with lifting the national spirit and suggested that Nigeria should see itself as a true powerhouse of entertainment.
He also hinted that the project had a very high budget, though he declined to reveal specific figures. According to him, both the production and promotion required significant investment to match the ambition of the film.