Mediocrity and Funding Still Major Hindrances For Film – Theo

Theo Ukpaa is a multi talented and versatile young film director whose greatest achievement is his documentary on the Obudu Cattle Ranch, Tinapa, sponsored by the Rivers State government. According to him, it was a good and fulfilling shoot and production because it was well funded and organized. Speaking to M2 recently, he said his major challenge with the Nigerian film industry is mediocrity. In his words, “A lot of under qualified film directors are running the show in the film industry which shouldn’t be since it undermines opportunities for more qualified directors and also results in poor quality films.” “Another major hindrance for qualified film directors is funding. They usually don’t have enough funding to produce films make a mark,” he says. Theo believes that one way of solving this problem of a lack of funds in the film industry would be to follow the tried and tested example of great film making nations like the US and get big brands to invest in the film industry – the likes of Sony, Virgin and others. “This is the reason the US film industry is so successful. The financial burden is shouldered by financial giants,” he remarks, adding that most film directors in Nigeria are not financially buoyant and need encouragement and support. Theo has also directed videos at shows, both at home and abroad, for the likes of P-Square and other musical artistes. He has directed several successful Nigerian music videos such as Bigiano’s ‘Shayo’. For advertising, he has directed a Lipton commercial. A respected entertainment critic, he is currently engaged at Soundcity and writes the entertainment column for Hugo magazine.