Acting Film Training
Why do you say that putting your film on DVD is not on your mind?
The film was primarily shot for cinemas. I intend reviving the cinema-going culture in Nigeria with the film and that’s why we will do all we can to make sure it gets the right distribution framework which will help explore the theatrical exhibition before it finally goes on DVD.
Before you made your debut film—IRAPADA—had you worked on any other film project?
I only did a short film titled LIFE IS SHORT which was a school project and then Irapada (Redemption).
Are you trained in filmmaking? How did you get into the field of filmmaking?
Well…I started as an actor before I decided to turn filmmaker which was what drove me to NYFA to study Digital Filmmaking in 2005.
It is said that you are personally handling your film from scripting to distribution; how are you handling all this without compromising any aspect of creativity and marketing?
An average Nigerian is born versatile. You have to always work out a way, especially in an environment where there seems to be few structures. I don’t write scriptsbut I create ideas and contribute to bringing it alive. A good filmmaker must learn the creativity and the trade and that’s why I am involved in all these.
Co-production among African filmmakers is viewed as a lee-way for African filmmakers to put forward African stories; do you agree with this observation?
I think collaboration among African filmmakers will help take the African cinema to the next level.
Does turning to filmmaking signal the end of your acting career?
I am still an actor but have not been doing much in that regard due to my very busy schedule; how I wish I don’t have to bother my head about distribution. Though I am still very relevant in the acting circle, a lot of people now see me more as a filmmaker.
You say that Africans have good stories but they do not have the technical know-how. What is the way forward for aspiring filmmakers and Africa as a continent?
An aspiring filmmaker from Africa should be well trained through film school, workshops, conferences and other formal and informal training channels. Every opportunity to get exposure is key and that way, ideas flow through your mind and brain.
In your opinion piracy is not the problem but a lack of proper distribution network is; how can filmmakers like you and others in Africa overcome this challenge?
The only way is to jointly come up with a proper distribution framework for the entire Africa which will help get any good film from Africa to different region and countries. African filmmakers should start making films that can cross their national borders, films that a sales agent or distributor from other continents and regions would like to be part of.
Tell us about yourself.
Kunle Afolayan is an actor and filmmaker. My aim and objective is to take the African cinema to the next level in the world cinema.
How do you become an actor to work in film, theatre or television? There is no one golden rule on how to do this, but in most cases you need training to get you started.
- Training and workshops
Acting is a craft that is difficult to master when starting out. Depending on what you want to do in your career, you need at least a foundation to understand what it takes to become a professional actor.
Getting lessons or practicing with your local theatre company is a good start to help you build rapport with other actors, to train you on how to react to situations and to improvise.
There are various schools of thought, techniques and philosophies behind acting but to have a natural ability to do so is rare. Yes there are thousands of actors in major cities competing for roles and to stand out you really need dedication and talent
So where does one find training, acting courses that would apply to become an actor? Ask yourself what is it that you would like to do? There are different kinds of courses that you can apply for, from doing a 3 year drama course as a degree to acting for camera.
If you are a undergraduate and you want to pursue acting, there are universities around the world that have drama programs. Alternatively you can go to a professional drama school or theatre company that will train you for a number of years.
Perhaps you are in education or have finished university and are wondering how to get started. It is never too late. You can try evening courses, acting workshops or even a summer school.
Have a look at our other useful articles to help you:
Where to find auditions
10 ways to Make money as an actor
Working as an extra
How to become an actor: Getting roles in student movies (part 2)
