The Nigerian film industry has been faced with questions about how one is to measure talent and success, as the movie star Tayo Faniran has wondered how he would have gotten where he is if it were talent alone.
In an interview on the TVC eSplash, Tayo Faniran spoke about his journey in the Nollywood industry and what he believes are the key factors needed to become successful in the film industry.
Some of the film producers, who are considered the biggest names in Nollywood, are not necessarily the best, the actor said.
“In Nollywood, the film producers you guys see and know as the biggies aren’t the best film producers,” Faniran said.
He proceeded to say that his career could have been a different one if opportunities were given according to talent in the industry.
He added that if Nollywood was about talent, he should be miles ahead of where he is right now.
Tayo Faniran said other factors also shape who gets opportunities and moves in the Nigerian film industry.
“There’s a lot of rigging in the industry, he said.
His comments lend to a larger discussion on how a career is formed in Nollywood, and how opportunities, professional connections, visibility and commercial considerations play a role in shaping the career along with talent.
But it’s personal for Faniran. The actor doesn’t feel he’s being fairly rewarded by his current career path in Hollywood, according to his own view of his talent and potential under a more merit-based system.
The remarks are coming in as Nollywood is growing and actors, filmmakers, and producers talk about the opportunities and challenges of being a part of the industry.
