Coronavirus is already causing some real situations in many countries. From business to trade, entertainment and festivals, the global threats of the coronavirus have since multiplied, and winning the fight is a long shot.
Though it seems like Nigeria has taken some time to prepare for the fight before the first coronavirus case, there are still some concerns. Coronavirus is going to be a problem to theatre attendance and Nollywood is not going to like that.
With the knowledge that people have now, they are going to make new choices and change their lifestyles soon. This will see many people avoiding gatherings which include being in cinemas. Nollywood must be prepared for the crises they will experience with coronavirus as this is a reality, not a movie.
Nollywood fight with coronavirus will begin in Cinemas
China is shutting down theatres, but hopefully, Nigeria will not get to that point. The theatre is big business for Nollywood. In 2019 Nollywood generated $16 million (Six billion Naira) gross total from the cinemas according to CEAN. Certainly, the road ahead is bumpy for Nollywood as they risk seeing a massive drop.
Film production delays
The virus might alter film production agendas especially for those taking place in Lagos. This might also lead to cancellation of important Nollywood meetings, auditions and film classes.
Postponement of movie release dates
Nobody wants to release a film and lose money from low theatre attendance. Films that are waiting to be released including ‘Our Jesus Story‘ is now susceptive to a postponement.
Nollywood events
Attending film festivals and movie premiers now is tricky for Nollywood actors. Postponing events like the AMVCA might not be a bad idea. Moreso, it is not certain if upcoming oversea events like the Frankfurt Film Festival will reschedule. Health professionals in the US and UK are warning that it is best to stay away from big events now.
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