*The Nigerian movie industry shines as it records another major success at the recent 2nd Edition of the Actors Guild of Nigeria’s International Festival tagged, ‘Nollywood Meets Hollywood’, held amid glitz and glamour in the Dream Magic Studio, in Los Angeles, United States

Alexander Davis | 绿帽献妻

The Nigerian movie industry November 2, 2024, made another significant success at the 2nd Edition of the Actors Guild of Nigeria’s International Festival tagged, “Nollywood Meets Hollywood”, held amid glitz and glamour in the Dream Magic Studio, in Los Angeles, United States (US).

The event was attended by representatives of SAG-AFTRA, casting directors, top entertainment impressario and the Nigerian community in Hollywood.

In a significant move to bridge cultural and cinematic divides, Dr. (Chief) Emeka Rollas Ejezie, President of the Actors Guild of Nigeriahad led a delegation of Guild members to Los Angeles Headquarters of the SAG-AFTRA for a groundbreaking meeting with the top Management of the (Screen Actors Guild-American & Federation of Television and Radio Artists).

Dr. Ejezie and team in a meeting with SAG-AFTRA’s officials in Los Angeles

Cornell Udofia, Spokeman of Dr. Ejezie, MON, National President of Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), stated the strategic visit was aimed to foster collaboration and twinning arrangements between the Actors Guild of Nigeria and SAG-AFTRA.

During the meeting, discussions centered on integrating Nollywood into SAG-AFTRA鈥檚 casting and production networks, paving way for increased global representation and diversity.

Some of the key areas of focus included casting opportunities for exploring avenues for Nigerian actors to secure roles in international productions, as well as co-productions, including collaborating on joint projects that showcase the richness of Nigerian culture and talent.

During the gala night Show Reels of Nollywood actors were displayed for Hollywood casting agencies.

Other areas of focus include capacity building, which involves exchanging knowledge and expertise to enhance industry standards and professionalism; and understudy royalties, residual and standard contracts Frameworks

Global distribution that facilitates the dissemination of Nollywood content to broader audiences worldwide.

This potential partnership promises mutual benefits for the industry.

These include Cultural Exchange: Enriching both industries with diverse perspectives and storytelling; and Economic Growth involving creation of new opportunities for actors, producers and filmmakers.

Another is increased diversity, which embraces showcasing African talent and narratives to global audiences.

Birthing a new era of collaboration

The statement also noted the AGN’s recent visit to SAG-AFTRA, in the US, marked a significant step towards forging a robust alliance between Nollywood and the American entertainment industry.

As discussions progress, the stage is set for a new era of creative collaboration, paving the way for increased global recognition and celebration of Nigerian talent.

Speaking on the outing, Dr. Rollas, MON, described the historic meeting with SAG-AFTRA as聽a major breakthrough for Nollywood.

The AGN Chief stated: 鈥淲e鈥檙e eager to explore opportunities for growth, cultural exchange and mutual benefit, solidifying our industry鈥檚 position on the global stage.鈥�

SAG-AFTRA pledges further support for AGN, says Will Benssusen

In his remarks, Will Benssusen, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel of that the organisation would continue to support the Actors Guild of Nigeria, and ensure that members gain access into Hollywood, given the level of acting talents that abound in Nollywood.

At the partnership unfolds, the AGN said the world could expect more exciting collaborations, fresh perspectives, and captivating storytelling from the vibrant fusion of Nollywood and American cinema.

Some Nollywood stars from Nigeria, including Walta Anga, Lurchy Donald, the Aneke twins, Georgina Ibe, Ifeoma Okeke, Kemi Adekomi, Brown Eneh, and host of others attended the Gala nite in Los Angeles.

This festival is aimed at ensuring that all stakeholders are empowered to access business opportunities in the film industry.

Udofia added: “We intend to improve a broader collaboration between filmmakers and actors to directly and indirectly benefit from global creative opportunities available within the space.”

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