Nigerian filmmaker Damilola Orimogunje has expressed concern over inadequate Q&A sessions held during Nollywood events.
Over two tweets on his X account, Orimogunje emphasised the crucial role of Q&A sessions in film culture, noting that they are essential because they offer filmmakers a chance to express their motives and processes that might not be found anywhere else.
“For the audience,” he said, “it’s great to align their curiosity & learn.” It is, he added, “a show of respect to the filmmakers that invited you to watch their film. It’s barbaric to be averse to be Q&As as an industry.”
Orimogunje is a screenwriter, film director, and producer. His first feature film as a director, For Maria Ebun Pataki, is currently showing on Netflix. In 2023, he produced All the Colours of the World are Between Black and White, which premiered at the 73rd Berlin International Film Festival and won the Teddy Award for Best Feature Film.
In the last and somewhat lengthy note posted on X, he said, “I can’t remember ever seeing a well put together Q&A at any mainstream Nolly screening, especially at festivals that’s primarily for film engagement. Why are red carpets & after parties two hours each but Q&A reduced to 5-10 mins & filmmakers hurried to talk while the audience is leaving or busy chitchatting unconcerned? Why?”
The director also criticised those chosen to officiate these events. “Why employ moderators who lack knowledge in film & would ask shallow questions? Why call a supporting actor before calling the director to the podium? Q&As aren’t for best jokes or an opportunity to thank your mother that gave you breasts to suck. We need to learn, evolve & stop embarrassing ourselves.”
The solution to the problem he identified is outside of his country. “Go on YouTube & watch the Q&As of your fave foreign films’ screenings and let’s do better,” he said.
