Micro-budget filmmaking is a permanent concept in Nollywood. Since there are no film studios, independent filmmakers and production companies are in charge of making movies in Nigeria. So, it is reasonable to classify films made in Nollywood as independent films. Fundraising is often difficult for independent filmmakers. However, they have proven beyond doubt that it is possible without any major support. They have written, produced, and directed movies that have been able to attract large audiences. Nollywood movies success can be attributed to the passion and creativity of independent filmmakers.
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The Simple Reasons Behind the Independent Nollywood Movies Success
Nigeria is a country where independent films are watched by everyone. What are the reasons behind the success of independent Nollywood movies?
They are Artistic
Most Nigerian independent filmmakers have little or no formal training. They just learned their craft from experimenting with cameras. However, their movies are still artistic because new ways of making films are born from these experiments. If Nollywood had big film studios, these low-budget movies would not have had the chance to explore these artistic territories.
Film Rating
Independent films are usually subject to more lenient film ratings, compared to their big studio counterparts. Even though this might not be the best thing for parents trying to control what their kids are watching, it could be part of the explanation for why indie Nollywood movies are doing so well. They offer what large parts of the audience wants, including violent and nude scenes. There are no legal obstacles to releasing unrated movies.
However, if a movie does not have a national rating, it is often difficult getting it across to media outlets such as African Magic. They usually place their own restrictions on movies to avoid presenting inappropriate content to young viewers.
They Own Everything
It feels good to always know that the end product is your own after solely financing a film project. Whatever money they realize from selling their films will be theirs. They don’t have to share it with a studio, and if they lose any money, they will risk bankruptcy and will not be able to make more movies. This unforgiving capitalism can be both a blessing and a curse, but will always push them to do their very best.
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