Dolly Nwaduba is a name synonymous with creativity and resilience in Nollywood, Nigeria’s booming film industry. With a career spanning over seven years and more than 30 feature films to her name, Nwaduba is redefining what it means to be a filmmaker in Africa. In an exclusive interview, she opens up about her journey, the inspirations behind her work, and the challenges she has faced in a male-dominated industry.
A Vision Rooted in African Stories
Nwaduba’s journey into filmmaking was driven by a desire to tell authentic African stories. From her early days studying Diplomacy and International Studies at the University of Benin to her advanced training at the New York Film Academy, Nwaduba has always been passionate about showcasing the richness of African culture. “My major inspiration for writing and producing is the need to tell original African stories,” she explains. “Our stories are unique and incomparable, and it’s time the world sees us in the right light.”
This vision has guided her career, influencing the themes and narratives that make her films stand out in Nollywood’s competitive landscape.
Crafting Films with a Personal Touch
Over the years, Nwaduba has established herself as a filmmaker who is deeply invested in every aspect of her projects. Her attention to detail, especially in casting, sets her films apart. “As a writer, I’m always attached to the characters I create, and I love to get the right people to play these characters,” she says. “I think my movies are also very unique because I make sure the process of creating them is enjoyable for everyone, cast and crew alike. When you enjoy the process of creating, the product is always impressive.”
A New Project on the Horizon
Nwaduba’s latest film, which is currently creating a buzz on her YouTube channel, is a reflection of her commitment to powerful storytelling. The film, featuring Nollywood icons Pete Edochie and Gideon Okeke, delves into pressing societal issues through a compelling African narrative. Directed by the vice president of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), the film holds a special place in Nwaduba’s heart as it was the first script she completed as a young writer.
Balancing Creativity with Business Savvy
Navigating the business side of filmmaking is often challenging, but Nwaduba has honed the skills necessary to succeed. “The business side of things is where it gets a bit tricky,” she admits. “But when you’re trained professionally and also acquire practical knowledge from experience, balancing becomes seamless. Especially when you’ve lost money a couple of times like most of us have,” she adds with a laugh.
Her experience and professional training have equipped her to manage the delicate balance between creativity and business, ensuring that her films are both artistically fulfilling and commercially viable.
Learning from the Best
Throughout her career, Nwaduba has had the privilege of working with some of the most respected figures in Nollywood, including Pete Edochie and Monalisa Chinda. These collaborations have taught her valuable lessons, particularly about humility and respect. “The best of them all are the most humble,” she observes. “If you sit down with daddy (Pete Edochie), you will find he’s the most humble and kind person you’ll ever meet. He treats everyone with respect and dignity, no matter who they are.”
Challenges as a Female Filmmaker
Being a female filmmaker in Nollywood comes with its own set of challenges. Nwaduba has faced situations where her authority was questioned, often by other women in the industry. “Sometimes people challenge your authority just to get a reaction or to see how you respond to insubordination, especially from females,” she reflects. “I find it quite amusing because we are supposed to be lifting each other up, but you rarely see that happening.”
Despite these challenges, Nwaduba remains focused on her goals, using her experiences to grow stronger and more determined.
A Multi-Talented Creative
In addition to her filmmaking career, Nwaduba is also a trained screenwriter and voice-over artist. These additional skills enhance her storytelling abilities, allowing her to approach each project from multiple angles. “A creative is multi-dimensional,” she says. “This means every single one of us can not only write, or act, or sing, or dance but can do all of these things together. It’s a gift from God, and they all fuse well together.”
Nollywood’s Bright Future
Having spent over seven years in the industry, Nwaduba has witnessed Nollywood’s rapid evolution. She is optimistic about its future, noting significant improvements in film quality, acting standards, and the originality of stories being told. “In the next couple of years, we’ll experience exponential growth in Nollywood,” she predicts. “It’s a great time to be a filmmaker.”
Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
For those aspiring to join Nollywood, Nwaduba offers words of wisdom: “If you’re coming into the industry in whatever capacity—actor or crew—just make sure you love the job. It’s that love and passion that’ll keep you going when things get tough.”
What’s Next for Dolly Nwaduba?
Looking ahead, Nwaduba is excited about the future. “More jobs, definitely bigger projects, and a lot more collaborations,” she reveals. “It’s not a norm here, but we can actually achieve more and grow faster if we collaborate.”
With her unwavering passion, creativity, and business acumen, Dolly Nwaduba is not only shaping the future of Nollywood but also paving the way for the next generation of filmmakers. As she continues to break new ground, her journey serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to make their mark in the world of film.
