Film can be a powerful tool for shaping a people. As Studio Museum director, Thelma Golden has noted, “art gives shape to cultural change”. The arts—especially film and television—influence the way we think, speak, behave; what we do with our time, what we value. Motion pictures play a major role—albeit underrated—in the development of any modern nation.
Join us as we re-define Nollywood, celebrating and re-shaping her influence on the African Diaspora; while enjoying the best of Nigerian cinema, cuisine and networking.
There will be three (3) film screenings, a panel discussion and Nigerian cuisine and wine & networking.
4:00PM – Screening of True Story Nollywood by Ihuoma Atanga
4:15PM – Screening of Brooklyn Shakara by Femi Agbayewa
5:00PM – Screening of Phone Swap film by Kunle Afolayan
7:00PM – Panel discussion & networking & food served
9PM – Afterparty at Les Ambassades Harlem
Panelists include: Gbenga Akinnagbe (Hollywood actor), Stella Damasus (Nollywood Veteran), Awam Amkpa (NYU, Nollywood), Oluchi Enuha (Iroko TV), Tambay Obenson (Shadow and Act.com), Mojisola Sonoiki (Women of Color Arts & Film Festival and Indigo Tongues)
Background
In April of 2013, Nigeria’s president, Goodluck Jonathan hosted a celebration of the 20th anniversary of Nollywood, the world’s third largest film industry. As more and more members of the African Diaspora become consumers of Nollywood films, it is imperative that the boom of Nollywood be taken seriously by Nigerians everywhere, especially those positioned towield tremendous strategic influence over the industry.
The Nollywood New York Film Series is an initiative born out of the desire to see more authentic, world-class storytelling coming from Nigerian filmmakers to the African Diaspora. This platform includes the screening of films of high-quality cinematography, high production quality, intelligent storytelling, cultural awareness and sensitivity and first-rate acting. NNYFS works with landmark New York institutions to provide the Diaspora with increased access to these films, making them available for viewing in theatres and through DVD purchases with strict copyright protection.
Hosted by: Yoruba Cultural Institute & MediAfritiQ
Supported by: Studio Museum, Applause Africa, IROKOtv, Black Star Media, BUKA