Why I prefer shooting movies in Nigeria —Oyin Emmanuel

You seem to have dumped acting for banking. How easy was that decision?

 

Growing up, I had a father that gave my brother and me all we ever needed. But when he passed on in 2002, everything changed. I was on my Higher National Diploma (HND) then at Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. As soon as I finished, I participated in the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 2004/2005 and everything changed after that. I had to take a banking job because the struggling was much then and I had to do anything just to survive. My passion for acting had been since I was young but circumstances changed and my life took a different turn. Thank God for everything that happened, however.

 

So your acting career is a thing of the past now?

No. This happened years back. I have returned to acting fully now and God-willing, I will get there, to the peak. I have featured in some movies and late last year, a colleague and I produced a movie together entitled ‘Deceit’. It’s not yet out though, fans should expect it soonest.

 

Let’s talk about life abroad and how it has shaped your life since you relocated?

Life has been good. Of course, things are not all rosy. There were some struggles but I thank God for how far I have come now.

 

How easy has it been combining work with acting. Don’t you think dropping one for another will make it easier for you?

I got to the United States in 2007, as a student. The implication of this is that I entered a no-man’s land as a young lady, with struggles, pain and a lot of insecurities. It is not easy to combine both and here, you have to work in order to pay your bills. Bills must be paid and I am passionate about my career as well. I just had to find a balance for both and keep moving.

 

What do you think about shooting movies in the U.S. and Nigeria?

Nigeria is preferable because most people don’t really know actors overseas except those that have already made names for themselves before relocating. I am willing to shoot movies both in Nigeria and in the United States but Nigeria is preferable.

 

Who were the people that introduced you into acting and what was it like when you started?

One of the first persons who introduce me to acting is my brother. He’s an actor, a respectable professional. I call him uncle Seyi Crown. And I Joined Vision 8 media studio operated by Bayo Alawiye. He is an actor, director, filmmaker and my boss who provided a lot of tutoring and guidance for me during my early days.

 

How did you convince him that you could act and how was the experience when you first appeared on TV?

I told him but I was already in America when I first appeared in movies. Kenny Odugbemi’s soap opera was actually my first apart from the acting I did at Winners’ Chapel, Maryland and during my NYSC days. It has been God all the way: the ups and downs. Everything about my career is going on well by His grace. I know the beginning may be tough but determination, perseverance will make the future brighter.

 

Staying abroad and making movies are not easy tasks.  But many Nigerians come there to shoot movies, what’s the secret?

I don’t sell any big deals in making movies abroad. The only thing I see is the fact that we Nigerians like to expand, make use of new technology and do exploits. It’s preferably to shoot movies in Nigeria because most people here don’t really know new faces but I trust my Nigerian people. They know virtually all the actors, not just their favourites.

 

Does it cost much to shoot a movie over there compared to Nigeria?

Yes, it costs more especially when converted to naira. But from what I’ve seen, people here don’t really care about the costs. Most people who want to be known at all costs can shoot movies here but if you are up-and-coming, Nigeria should be the best option to shoot a movie.

 

Have you ever considered returning to Nigeria and face acting for real?

Yes, I am working on it already and the plans should come to fruition soon.

ALSO READ: I’d not have forgiven myself if I didn’t have my baby in the US —Actress Aishat Lawal

What took you abroad in the first place and do you think you are really ready for the big challenge ahead of you as an actor?

I came here to study. I never knew how abroad was initially. It’s not rosy here. It takes courage and hard work to be able to stand on your feet. I’m ready for the big challenge so far it’s decent. I’m a disciplined and principled person who doesn’t act outside God’s plans. I surely believe the Lord will direct my path.

 

You seem quite religious maybe you might end up as pastor one day?

I’m not a pastor I’m only a member of Winners’ Chapel and I know what I carry. I believe solidly in God’s plans for my life. I don’t get carried away so easily because I believe the Lord always has my back. That’s the only secret.