It was at a movie premiere packed full of superstars, starlets and upcoming thespians that the simmering fireworks finally exploded. There had been mumblings and rumblings throughout Detty December period. Various ring lights had been set up by various entertainers for public flagellation of the perceived bias and distortions in the entertainment industry.
Although names were not mentioned back then, it could easily be deduced that they pointed in one direction. There were claims of organised conspiracy by cinema houses to constantly crown someone and starve others of paid for services during the coveted Detty December film market.
Well, it’s surprising that the public snub and fallout now took place in March with the attendant ‘shalayes’ on different Instagram accounts. Women’s Hub just concluded a 4 part International Women’s Day Series on Influential and successful women in Service, Governance, International Trade and Entertainment. All the women profiled in the report are middle aged or senior citizens. They are the embodiment of dignity, resilience and professionalism.
In the aftermath of International Women’s Month that ended in March, it leaves a sour taste in the mouth for the top highest grossing women film producers to be bickering and pouting like petulant teenagers in public.
Last time I checked they reportedly both banked billions of Naira, thousands of dollars and pounds and more in their last movie runs.
Such that they were both celebrated, received awards and plaques from the Film and Censors Board for their illustrious feats.
My take on this ugly incident is not the usual ‘chochocho’ that the bloggers take delight in to drive traffic. My job is to present a free and public Masterclass for both thespians and other aspiring ladies heading for the Billionaires Club. Here we go:
Take a cue from male/female billionaires in the entertainment industry in Hollywood and Bollywood. They may have deep animosity against each other but they rarely display such openly. They are aware of the power of their brands and the attendant negative flashbacks.
The last time an A list actor misbehaved at Oscars, he was placed on 5 year ban.
Take a cue also from billionaires in banking and manufacturing in the country. They may not be bossom pals, but they won’t snub each other at public events. They would rather decline to attend such events if their nemesis was attending. That’s great emotional intelligence at play.
I recall the time that two top comedians had issues for decades. I learnt that both of them ensured they were not at same events during their long beef. Neither also mounted ring lights to deny or confirm the rift. When the elders in their industry settled them, it was even turned to content.
Two big heavyweight female producers are better together bringing development to Nollywood and establishing Africanwood by now. Our movies, music, food, fashion and comedy skits are rapidly consumed all over Africa and beyond.
Entertainment is the new oil well that can be developed and harnessed by everyone. America colonised minds of people all over the world through John Wayne swashbuckling films, romcom movies and series. Millions trooped to California because of this make believe.
Will Smith and Martin Lawrence have collaborated on several Bad Boys movies. Same with Diane Keaton of blessed memory alongside Candice Bergen, Jane Fonda and Mary Steenberg in Book Club. Just As Meryl Streep appeared together in a movie with Candice Bergen, Gemma Chan and Diane West.
So why can’t these obviously talented duo sheath their swords, stay on business. For one, the creative economy has been shown to be an industry like oil and gas, real estate, banking and others. They can collaborate and raise multi billion or trillion budgets.
Hey ladies, this is not about you, there are film villages, cinema houses, community centres, film colleges to be built to boost national development and empower the teeming youths.
Recently Tony Elumelu and his team visited Abdul Samad Rabiu (BUA) in his office. Same BUA founder broke his fast during the last Ramadan in Femi Otedola’s home in Dubai.
That’s how to play the game ladies.
Please join the conversation with your comments and feedbacks on the topic and other issues to mooborscounsellingroom@gmail.com.
By Mubo Okosun
Women’s Editor.
