British actor Idris Elba has urged African filmmakers to prioritise high-quality production in order to thrive on the global stage. Elba spoke at the Africa Cinema Summit in Accra, Ghana, urging filmmakers to prioritise satisfying local audiences first. He stressed the importance of filmmakers focusing on the continent before aiming for international markets. Filmmakers should establish strong local appeal to successfully expand their global reach. He pointed out that by doing so, they would gain credibility both at home and abroad.
The Importance of Quality in African Cinema
Elba emphasised the increasing accessibility of professional-grade filmmaking equipment, stating that it leaves no room for excuses in production quality. He noted that the democratisation of tools like high-quality cameras and microphones equips African filmmakers to meet global standards. “We must focus on quality; we can’t make films that don’t meet global standards,” he stressed.
Embracing Global Standards in African Filmmaking
Elba emphasised that African filmmakers can rival international cinema if they follow global standards. He reminded them that equipment accessibility removes excuses for low-quality productions. Elba urged filmmakers to improve by developing skills and striving for excellence in every project.
Elba’s Passion for African Storytelling
Idris Elba, set to play the iconic character Okonkwo in the upcoming series adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s *Things Fall Apart*, expressed his passion for African storytelling. He celebrated Africa’s rich history in communication and storytelling, which he believes the global stage has long overlooked. “Africa has led in communication and storytelling for centuries,” he said, adding that the continent’s dynamic and youthful energy must be harnessed to elevate African cinema to new heights.
Africa Cinema Summit: A Platform for Growth
The Africa Cinema Summit, which took place from October 7 to 10, 2024, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra, brought together industry leaders and filmmakers from across the continent. Organised by Ghana’s National Film Authority, the summit aimed to promote collaboration and sustainable growth in African cinema. The event highlighted the need for increased investment in the film industry and the importance of nurturing local talent to achieve global recognition.
Future of African Cinema
As the African film industry continues to evolve, there is a growing consensus that quality and professionalism will play a key role in its success. Idris Elba’s call to action serves as a reminder to filmmakers that maintaining global standards is essential for competing in the international market. Initiatives like the Africa Cinema Summit support African cinema, positioning it to make a lasting impact worldwide.
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