The Nollywood animation category is getting a new addition. The film adaptation of the popular classic book by Cyprian Ekwensi, “The Passport of Mallam Ilia”, is currently ongoing. Many would remember the novel as one of the secondary school literature books of the late 90s. Magic Carpet Studios in Nigeria is currently handling the film project.
About the Book
The first publication of “The Passport of Mallam Ilia” was in 1960. The book is themed around war and contest, love and revenge. The fight to get a bride in the ancient city of Kano was a real deal. This book tells that in details. Mallam Ilia seeks revenge on Usman for the death of his wife Zara. He gets his revenge but at a greater cost.
The Passport of Mallam Ilia is a typical African story and written by a true African writer. It is one of the books that always deserved a film adaptation. Now it is finally going to be on our screens soon. We imagine what a contrast the film will be when considering the kinds of contemporary stories made in Nollywood today.
Film Adaptation of “The Passport of Mallam Ilia”
Magic Carpet Studios recently released the official teaser for the film. Set in Kano, Northern Nigeria and voiced in the Hausa language. Mallam Ilia appears to be taking training from the spirits to embark on his revenge mission in the teaser.
Ferdinand Adimefe, CEO of Magic Carpet Studios expressed the importance of the project in a statement. He emphasized that the aim of the project is to connect the younger generation with the older ones.
If we really want to tell African stories, then we have to make more film adaptations like this. Cyprian Ekwensi and other writers alike told it all. However, putting them on the screen will be the job of the new generation. You can support this ongoing project by making your contribution on the project website. We can all bring their effort to fruition. The release date of the film is still unknown.