Kunle Afolayan, a highly acclaimed filmmaker, recently shared a remarkable story about directing a movie that pushed him out of his comfort zone.
Despite being a narrative director, Afolayan was tasked with helming an installation project, a genre he was unfamiliar with.
The film’s producer offered him $40,000, a sum that convinced him to take on the challenge despite his initial reservations. Afolayan attempted to clarify the script with the producer and sought input from colleagues, including the late Biodun Aleja, but still struggled to grasp the plot.
During a meeting with the producer in London, Afolayan realized the project’s abstract nature and questioned his ability to deliver. However, the promise of traveling to Miami and Chicago for filming, and the significant payment, kept him committed.
Afolayan decided to focus on other aspects of the film, leveraging his expertise in utilizing natural light in the museum setting where they filmed. Despite completing the project, he admits to still not fully understanding the film’s meaning.
The movie premiered in five countries in 2007, with Afolayan traveling business class. This experience taught him the importance of adaptability and exploring unconventional creative avenues.
Afolayan shared this story at the third edition of Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Film & Television Academy’s Reel Circle, an initiative providing film enthusiasts with valuable insights from industry experts. The academy has also partnered with the United States embassy in Nigeria to train aspiring filmmakers.
