Popular actor, producer and production manager, Kehinde Adeyemi has come a long way in the movie industry with over 18 movies to his credit. As one of the most sought after production managers, Adeyemi has over the years proved his relevance in the industry and earned the respect of his colleagues. In this interview with SEGUN ADEBAYO, the award-winning movie-maker shares the story of his career.
How did your journey into movie start?
My journey into acting started precisely in 1990, if my memory still serves. Everything started with the Odunfa caucus back in those days with veteran actors such as Yinka Quadri, Ogogo and Abbey Lanre as a student under their tutelage. They were a big influence on my career and they remain my bosses in the game even till today.
Why did you choose Odunfa; there must have been other platforms where your talent could be nurtured back then?
I would say my passion for acting pushed me to Odunfa, and of course Yinka Quadri, who is one of the leaders of the caucus is not just a senior colleague, but an elder brother because we are from the same town, Oro in Kwara State. I became a full time actor through him and I am grateful to him for the support he has given me over the years.
From that time till now, how would you describe the transformation your career has gone through?
One can only be grateful to God. The transformation has been mind- blowing, especially when I look back at the days of little beginning. I actually wanted to be an actor but God seemed to have had another plan for me as I would later find myself as a core production person. I have been a production manager for over a decade and the success stories are there for people to see. I would not have come this far without the support of certain individuals, who never stopped believing in me. The journey continues as things can only get better. Having said that, being a production manager has not restricted my growth. I act, produce movies and manage productions.
Do you feel bad that you are not popular as an actor?
Feel bad? If you have been paying attention to happenings in the Yoruba speaking movies, you would know that my name rings loud as producer of note and an award winning production manager. As I said, I feel proud of how far God has brought me. I am willing to work harder so that the jobs will keep coming.
How hard is your job compared to acting?
As far as I am aware, there is no easy job anywhere since money is involved. Each job comes with its challenges and glory. But many people don’t see the challenges but the glory. Thank God I don’t look like what I have been through.
Why is that Yoruba producers don’t pay their cast and crew well?
Who told you that?
I am a journalist. I cover this beat regularly, so I know.
Well, I don’t know about what you are talking about. Maybe now that you have told me, I may find out. Some of these things you hear people say may not be entirely true.
Well, some of your colleagues have alluded to this. In fact they said they can’t survive on acting alone, especially the female folks. Is it true?
Everybody is entitled to their opinion. I can only speak for myself. I don’t do anything apart from what I am doing. I have a daughter that is currently observing her National Youth Service corps (NYSC). I have another one that is currently a 300 level student. I have been able to successfully raise my children with the proceeds of movie making. So, if anybody says or tells you there is no money in this industry, the person is not being truthful.
What’s your relationship with actresses, as some people claim you like women?
Yes, I like women because my mother is woman. And, as a producer and production manager of note, I can’t do without them because we need them in all what we are doing. This is not for anything but for our work. Any relationship that exceeds work does not exist.
What’s your take on sexual harassment between producers and actresses in the industry?
I am married. I don’t need to do anything funny outside.
What is your definition of anything funny?
I mean I am okay with what God has given me.
Tell us about some of your works and the challenges you face?
You can’t run away from challenges as a production manager. In fact, you live everyday with one challenge or the other. You can imagine when it rains or you expect an actor to show up but fail because of one reason or the other. That alone can affect your schedule and spoil your day entirely.
What’s the project you are working?
I am working on two movies now: Kogbagidi and Ayonimofe.
For you, how much do you think the shooting of a good movie should cost?
It depends on story and cast.
So a movie shoot can cost just N500, 000?
That’s why I said it depends on the budget.
What’s the biggest budget you have spent on a movie?
Four million Naira is my biggest amount.
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