Africans will often complain that the westerners have no culture and tradition. But they leave the African tradition behind in their own movies. African movies do not have to be epic to show traditional elements. If it’s not an epic movie, almost all Nigerian movies use western fashion and other wester influences, rather than focusing on African traditions and culture. We cannot forget that traditional Nigerian clothes can also be used for these movies. Let’s check what’s African about some recent Nigerian movies.
‘Tango With Me’
This is a 2011 Nigerian movie that featured Genevieve Nnaji as an ardent dance lover. If the makers of this movie are truly conscious of the African tradition and really want to tell stories from the continent, this was a good spot to insert something African. It could have been possible to use one of the beautiful local Nigerian dances.
We have beautiful traditional dances and even the actress who played this role did not grow up dancing ballet. Why choose that over the local dances?
‘The Set Up’ – Upcoming Nigerian Movie
We recently sorted photos from an upcoming Nigerian movie titled ‘The Set Up’ on social media. The actors were all dressed up in costumes that represent very little of Africa and they had cards in their hands. Playing cards is not and African traditional game. We have the Mancala games that are known all through Africa and some countries even host championships with it. In the North of Africa, there is also the Zamma game. Why did the makers of this movie choose card games over any African game?
Are these western traditions being borrowed or are we now owning them too? Why are the games and dances from Africa not good enough in movies? Watch it, Africa, you may be trading tradition for trends. It feels like selling your birthright. Don’t forget to include African tradition in movies.
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