“I used to trade my scripts for film roles” – Actress Omoni Oboli asserts

• Nollywood filmmaker Omoni Oboli revealed that she initially switched scripts for film roles, leading her to pursue a career as a director.

Omoni Oboli, a prominent filmmaker in Nollywood, has disclosed that early in her career, she exchanged her scripts for acting roles, which ultimately influenced her decision to pursue directing.

In a recent interview with Radionow 95.3 FM, Oboli recounted the challenges she faced at the outset of her filmmaking career, including providing her screenplays without any financial compensation in exchange for roles in films.

“I was essentially trading my scripts; I would say, ‘Just take it, no payment required. Just give me a part in the film.’ I began this practice, but upon viewing the final product, I realized it did not align with my original vision. I visualize my writing in a cinematic manner, and the end result often differed significantly. This is not to imply that the films were lacking; rather, each director brings their unique interpretation to a script. I concluded that if my narratives were to reflect my personal touch, I needed to direct them myself,” she explained.

Oboli emphasized her initial trepidation regarding directing. Although she lacked confidence, she gradually found the resolve to chase her aspirations.

“It was indeed a daunting prospect—who did I think I was to direct a film? It felt intimidating, but I reassured myself, ‘What do they have that I do not?’ I resolved to take on this challenge. Consequently, I began to observe directors closely while acting on set. I realized that I might benefit from formal training, so I enrolled in a short course at the New York Film Academy,” she added.

Omoni Oboli has an impressive portfolio, including films such as Moms at War, Last Year Single, which is currently available on Netflix, and The Uprising: Wives on Strike 3, the latest installment in the Wives On Strike franchise, set to premiere in cinemas this October.

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