Nollywood Veterans That Continue To Impact The Industry
We grew up watching many of them with their peers. They inspired us. Some of their colleagues retired silently but these stars continue to impact us. They are featured in new films and they command respect so effortlessly.
- Joke Silva: From theatre to film, Joke has been in the industry since the 80’s and has remained consistent. She challenges herself with every new role, with graciousness. She transition from the film to theatre, is effortless. She is not just an actor, she is a writer, producer and director. Her filmography is flawless and we are inspired by Joke.
- Tina Mba: Does not joke with her craft. She does it to the best of her ability and we feel it every time we watch her. Even when Tina is playing a supporting role, she stands out. From Half of a Yellow Sun to Desperate Housewives Africa, Gidi Blues and Before 30, she plays supporting roles in these productions but she is just the talent that lives on screen.
- Richard Mofe-Damijo: He was the popular playboy in the 90’s. Consistently featuring in films with Stella Damascus and Omotola, he went into politics and now he is back on the big screen. He has a lot of films slated for release this year from Dinner to the upcoming Olobiri and The Wedding party. His 2014 return earned him an AMVCA nomination for his role in 30 Days in Atlanta and we absolutely adore him in Hush on Africa Magic.
- Sola Sobowale: Remember Toyin Tomato from Super Story. One of our favourite actresses that made us smile when we watched the trailer of The Wedding Party. She has made numerous appearances on TV, Yoruba productions and we absolutely love Sola and can’t wait to see her in the Wedding Party.
- Clarion Chukwurah: Clarion knows how to turn heads. Remember ‘Abuja Connection’? Clarion was the star of the film along with Eucharia and while many of her colleagues have turned evangelists, Clarion insists on enjoying the industry. She is over fifty and continues to get film roles like she just started. She was amazing in Delilah. Apaye was another film that proved that Clarion is here to stay for many more years.
- Olu Jacobs: A veteran that continues to prove his worth in the industry. He is back in Oloibiri, the trailer made me appreciate him more. From playing a king in the early 2000’s to becoming a formidable authority in the industry. He commands the type of respect, we can only wish for.
- Bimbo Akintola: Bimbo is so inspiring. The thespian picks her roles carefully; she is so professional, so good that we would watch any film that features Bimbo. She is another actor that has struck a balance between stage and screen. You will hardly spot her on the red carpet but when she is on the screen you cannot do anything else but appreciate a talented actress that continues to evolve.
- Kenneth Okonkwo: Can you believe that he featured in the very first Nollywood film, ‘Living in Bondage’? More than twenty years later, Kenneth is still relevant in the industry. He gives an interesting performance in Omoni Oboli’s Wives on Strike and we think, he will continue to be relevant in our industry.
- Taiwo Ajai-Lycett: Taiwo Lycett is our favourite mother from Tinsel. Another actress that balances stage and film so effortlessly. Taiwo lives on screen, she knows how to move from herself to the character she is playing and we cannot wait to see her in Oloibiri.
- Jide Kosoko: Jide was a regular on Super Story. Something about that stern look that has kept him in the industry for so long. He is another actor that proves that if we discipline ourselves, we will have a career that impacts others.
So what do you think guys? Who do you think is missing from this list?
All images culled from Google.com
Rejoice a movie enthusiast, who feels Art is inspiring, it makes her think and she believes it is the way forward. You can check her out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/joicesamuelabutsa
