The pandemic hasn’t been very good for Nollywood. Its effect on Nollywood is complex and isn’t easily comprehensible revealed by a simplified, referential analysis of winners and losers.
In the analysis, Nollywood theatre releases are placed parallel to straight to DVD films. There is also a load of Nollywood film running on streaming services including Netflix and IROKOTV that were a part of the analysis.
Who are the Winners in Nollywood now?
Admittedly, there is a small percentage of the industry that seems to be almost uninterrupted, booming and making gains during the pandemic.
In that sense, it is the small percentage versus the other percentage who are struggling to keep up now.
IROKOTV
IROKOTV appears to be the invincible champion. Its autonomous nature where it produces content through ROK Studios and distributes is paying off.
The streamer has its platform running with more films released since the lockdown in Nigeria began in March. A large group in Nollywood isn’t having it the same way as they do not have films running on streaming services.
More so, there are many waiting for the theatres to reopen before they release their films.
Straight to DVD in Nollywood
The pandemic affected the majority of straight to DVD independent filmmakers in Nollywood. They have little interest in theatre releases and they are still able to release films on DVDs.
A number of Nollywood personalities assured us that they are working indoors to get these films on DVD and some on YouTube during the lockdown.
Netflix Naija Films
Aside from film releases, filmmakers dependent on streaming services to make money do not feel the weight of the lockdown. Netflix pays a great deal to get licence for the Nigerian films it provides. Hense, Nollywood filmmakers are able to make money from Netflix deals.
Please Like, Share and Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
