Set between the buzzing streets of Lagos and the culturally rich landscape of Nnewi in southeastern Nigeria, the film pairs Ojo with an ensemble that includes Samuel Animashaun Perry (popularly known as Broda Shaggi), Bimbo Akintola, Chidi Mokeme, Hanks Anuku, and a mix of emerging talents. The cast delivers a tapestry of performances that support Ojo as he embraces a genre many did not expect from him. Known for his gripping roles in Breath of Life, The Man Died, and other major titles, Ojo ventures confidently into unrestrained comedy—an artistic pivot that surprised many and delighted most.
Though often described as a British-Nigerian actor, Ojo leans fully into Nigerian humour, sensibilities, and pidgin-English wit in this new film. His performance underscores how deeply he understands the rhythms and nuances of local culture, despite his global exposure.
A Story of Dreamers, Hustle, and Unexpected Turns
At its core, This Is Not a Nollywood Movie follows the journey of a struggling actor who leaves Nnewi with his closest friend, armed with nothing but faith and the audacity of big dreams. Convinced that destiny has an international award waiting for him, he relocates to Lagos to shoot a film he believes will transform his life. But the city’s pace quickly sweeps him into a whirlwind of experiences—some chaotic, some hilarious, all transformative.
The story blends humour with heartfelt commentary about ambition, the Nigerian hustle, and the unpredictable nature of the creative journey.
Ojo: “A Landmark in Nigerian Filmmaking”
Speaking before the premiere, Wale Ojo described the project with pride and anticipation:
“Today’s event is going to be a landmark in the scale of Nigerian movies. This Is Not a Nollywood Movie is something I have devised and I hope the audience are going to love it. It is full of laughter and action and I want people to come into the theatre and have a good time.”
He hinted that the film breaks new ground in approach and execution:
“There is going to be a lot of the unexpected in the film—things you’ve never seen in any other Nigerian film—and I just hope it builds up the level of what we have right now.”
Challenges, Creativity, and Culture
Every ambitious film comes with hurdles, and Ojo acknowledged the difficulties of attempting something unconventional.
“There were a few challenges, but we got over them. We were trying to do a lot of things that had not been done before. So it’s a lot of hard work. Overall, it was fun producing the film. I gathered a very good cast, so I’m excited. I want people to enjoy and criticise it, and see if they love it.”
He further explained that the film carries a cultural message:
“We should hold on to our own very strongly, very positively. We’re in difficult times, and we as artists are the cultural leaders and conscious warriors of a nation. We have to build the spirit of our nation, and I think the movie does that in a great way. Right now, we should be a Country of Particular Entertainment.”
On the question of budget, Ojo offered a playful but telling response:
“Very expensive. I can’t give you a figure, but it is very expensive. Even the promotion!”
A Vibrant Addition to Nollywood’s Evolving Landscape
With its humour, cultural energy, bold stylistic choices, and charismatic performances, This Is Not a Nollywood Movie positions itself as a vibrant contribution to Nollywood’s expanding creative horizons. For audiences familiar with Wale Ojo’s dramatic depth, this surprising comedic performance offers yet another reason to watch closely as he continues to stretch the boundaries of his craft.