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If history was the grand symphony of human existence that echoes through the ages, those who meticulously document its notes and its verses are heroes preserving the past and composing a harmonious future.
In Steve Ayorinde’s case of documenting films and cineastes for posterity in “30: Three Decades Of The New Nigerian Cinema — A Bystander’s Verdict”, a “bystander” is a modest accolade, an abstraction of the term heroism. But that self-christening is less important than the impact of the work itself — an authoritative masterpiece that serves as a comprehensive documentation of Nollywood’s evolution over the past 30 years.
Ayorinde’s authority as a prominent figure in Nigerian cinema is well-established. With a background as a journalist, media critic, and former Minister of Information and Strategy, and later the Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture in Lagos State, He has earned the respect and admiration of both industry insiders and international audiences. His insightful commentary as a long-time observer reflects his deep understanding of Nollywood’s emergence and growth, making his observations invaluable.
While ushering the book to life in his foreword, respected scholar and one of the first international academics to spread the gospel of Nollywood globally, Prof. Jonathan Haynes, emphasised the importance of such endeavours.
“The vitality of the link between the past and the future is as crucial for a film culture as for any other branch of culture and society. Nollywood, as a major branch of contemporary Nigerian culture, is nearly as vast and various as the country is, and doing justice to its complexities must necessarily be a collective task”, wrote Prof. Haynes.
However, Ayorinde’s document is not the all-too-known analysis of the soaring numbers and statistics of Nollywood — its place as the second largest cinema in the world; its over 2.3% contribution to the country’s GDP or its financial value of over $6.4 billion. It isn’t, as the author himself reiterated in the preface, a “story of how the new Nigerian cinema, or Nollywood, for ease of reference, developed as a multi-billion dollar entity that is contributing significantly to Nigeria’s image and its GDP.”
On the other hand, Steve Ayorinde’s book is a loosely yet historically informed chronology of the films and faces what have a continuing cultural vitality and commercial potential into the future. Divided into six sub-parts, each section explores a different facet of Nollywood. Ayorinde begins by analysing 30 era-defining films, providing a chronological journey through the industry’s development. From the early cinema days to the rise of VHS cassette players, VCDs, and the advent of new cinema and streaming platforms, Ayorinde’s selection showcases the diverse range of films that have shaped Nollywood’s trajectory.
From the 1992 dramatic thriller Asewo To Re Mecca to the chilling Living in Bondage and the epic Sango, the expository commentaries on these films give readers a profound understanding of the themes and preoccupations that mirror Nigerian society. From issues such as kidnapping, ritualism, culture and migration to education and livelihood, these films serve as cultural reflections and testaments to the power of storytelling.
The author’s exploration of directors is equally enlightening. Ayorinde profiles 30 iconic filmmakers, both contemporary and pioneers of Nollywood. By delving into their filmography, education, and awards, Ayorinde highlights the immense contributions these directors have made to Nigeria’s film industry. From Tunde Kelani and Kunle Afolayan to Mildred Okwo and Izu Ojukwu, their influence has helped place Nigerian cinema on the global map.
Ayorinde’s selection of 30 actors and 30 actresses is another testament to his comprehensive approach. By featuring actors from both indigenous-language and English films, as well as spanning different generations, the book ensures inclusivity and diversity. Through their filmography, industry experience, and accolades, the author showcases how these actors have shaped and strengthened Nollywood’s relevance.
One of the standout chapters in the book is Ayorinde’s tribute to the “Unforgettable Thirty.” By recognising departed legends such as Hubert Ogunde, Moses Olaiya Adejumo, and Felicia Mayford, Ayorinde pays homage to those who laid the foundation for Nollywood’s growth. Their immense contributions to the industry deserve acknowledgement, and Ayorinde’s inclusion of these influential figures is both bold and commendable.
In the final chapter, “Landmark Events,” Steve Ayorinde’s book maps out significant moments that have propelled the growth of Nigerian cinema. From film festivals and collaborations to the exposure of Nollywood to global audiences and the establishment of prestigious awards like the African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, these events showcase the industry’s progress and influence.
Steve Ayorinde’s “30: Three Decades Of The New Nigerian Cinema — A Bystander’s Verdict” is not merely a book; it is a priceless treasure that captures the essence of Nollywood. By retracing the steps from the past, the work is a valuable resource for future generations of researchers, scholars, and critics. As a comprehensive documentation of Nigerian cinema, it will continue to shape our understanding and appreciation of the industry for years to come.
The late President of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) and founder of the African Movies Academy Awards (AMAA). Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, captures the book’s invaluable framing of the future and bringing the past to purpose in her encore.
“The Nollywood Industry needs to find its way back to its purest beginning, where collaboration drove the energy in the room. As the industry grew, unfortunately so did its extreme need to be an Industry filled with envy and competitive spirit.”
“I believe that in the next 30 years, Nollywood would have built proper film studios which would help our quality control. For us to remain relevant as the content kings, I would love to see Nollywood look deeper inside, celebrating quality, listening and responding to criticism and pushing towards quality,” she wrote.
The book is now available in leading bookstores such as Roving Heights, Terra Kulture, Alliance Francaise, The Book Sellers, and the University of Ibadan bookshop. And is also available on Amazon, Okada Books, Smashwords and Lulu.
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