Ekemini and Toll-Free, two films funded by the British Council Film Lab Africa, a pioneering accelerator programme for emerging filmmakers and television producers in Nigeria, have premiered.
The films, produced by Winifred Allen and Mel Rouge, showcase the diverse talent and rich storytelling of Nigeria’s emerging filmmakers.
Winifred Allen
Allen and Rouge produced the films as recipients of the British Council’s prestigious Film Lab Africa grant, a British Council initiative that aims to support and empower emerging filmmakers across Africa, enabling them to bring their unique visions to life.
The Toll-Free Plot
Directed and produced by Rouge and James Amuta, Toll-Free delves into the intricate complexities of the human mind and the struggles to overcome limitations imposed by environment, culture and inner turmoil.
In the film, Michelle Dede plays Dr. Sade Williams, a successful therapist who is faced with a disturbing case involving a couple's heartbreak. This prompts her to embark on a journey that exposes uncomfortable truths about herself and her profession.
As Dr. Williams fights for the freedom of others, she discovers that her own freedom is at stake, setting in motion a series of irreversible events. Marked with compassion and reflection, the film challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and explore themes of trauma, domestic violence and societal expectations.
Toll-Free offers a deep exploration of community, tradition, and personal responsibility.
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Michelle Dede plays Dr Sade Williams, Ibrahim Suleiman plays Toby Daniels, Uzoamaka Onuoha plays Rita Daniels, Laveena Verma plays Dr Martins and Enyinna Nwigwe plays Dr Williams' ex-husband.
The production team includes Joseph Oladunjoye as director of photography, Yemi Jolaoso as editor and Miriam Nwosah as production designer.
The plot of Ekemini
Allen directed and produced Ekemini, an inspirational short film that highlights resilience and creativity in the face of adversity.
Ekemini tells the story of a 12-year-old boy from a poor background who transforms discarded cardboard into architectural wonders, inspiring those around him.
On the bustling streets of Uyo, Ekemini, a young artist, uses his talent to create stunning structures from discarded cardboard. Despite the challenges of poverty and personal loss, Ekemini’s creativity and perseverance offer hope and inspiration to his community.
The film celebrates the power of imagination and determination, reflecting the spirit of those who overcome adversity to make a difference.
Producers speak out
Speaking about Toll-Free, Rouge described it as a journey through the emotional and social challenges people face, with the aim of evoking empathy and understanding.
Allen reflected on the inspiration for the film and emphasized its tribute to those who persist in the face of adversity.
Allen and Rouge highlighted the rich cultural heritage, untold stories and remarkable narratives of the African community through the grant.
The films showcase the creativity and resilience of African storytelling, shedding light on the struggles and beauty of the continent.
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Africa Film Lab
Funding for the films was part of a comprehensive Film Lab Africa initiative that offered robust support, including skills development, knowledge enrichment and networking opportunities.
Through this initiative, Film Lab Africa focused on areas such as mobile phone cinematography, short film production, industrial entrepreneurship and script development, equipping participants with the essential tools to succeed in the dynamic world of film and television.
The three-year programme has produced impressive results, with the recent release of ten exceptional short films showcasing the vibrant talent and diverse narratives of emerging Nigerian filmmakers.
Through rigorous training, funding and mentorship, Film Lab Africa is shaping the future of Nigerian cinema and positioning the country as a global leader in creativity.
Meanwhile, the British Council is the UK's international educational opportunities and cultural relations organisation.
The British Council supports peace and prosperity by fostering connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries around the world.
This is achieved through their work in the areas of arts and culture, education and the English language. They also work with people in over 200 countries and territories and have a presence in over 100 countries.