Ahead of the release of his first film as director, Ola Cardoso, an AMVCA-winner filmmaker has said that Roger Deakins is one of his inspirations. He was speaking to Nigerian publication ThisDay.
Cardoso, who’s forthcoming film is titled My Pikin Dey Lagos is known for his work on several Nollywood films, including God Calling, Banana Island Ghost, and 2024 AMVCA Best Movie winner Breath of Life.
In the interview, Cardoso says Shane Hulburt and Roger Deakins have inspired his work.
“Hulburt’s innovative approaches to visual storytelling and Deakins’ mastery of light and composition have profoundly shaped my perspective and style,” he said. “Their work inspires me to push the boundaries of what’s possible in film and strive for excellence in every project.”
Hulburt was behind the camera in the 2002 teen comedy Drumline, which starred a young Nick Cannon. Deakins has been nominated 16 times at the Oscars for Best Cinematography. He has won the award twice, his last win coming for Sam Mendes’s 1917, which was released in 2019.
Cardoso’s directorial debut is produced by Paul Umana and features Levi Chikere as lead. It is the story of a 28-year-old man who leaves his ailing mother in their village to chase stardom in Lagos, only to face the harsh realities of the city.
Gideon Okeke, Tina Mba, Chidi Mokeme, and Gbubemi Ejeye will also feature in the film, which is yet to receive a release date.
“My Pikin Dey Lagos holds a special place in my heart, both personally and professionally,” Cardoso said. “The story deeply resonates with me because it reflects a real-life experience I’ve had. I was drawn to this film because it allows me to explore and convey the challenges and successes of pursuing dreams in the face of harsh urban realities.”
He continued, “It captures the essence of the struggles many dreamers encounter. As the director, my goal was to authentically depict the protagonist’s emotional and physical journey…By blending intimate, character-focused scenes with the broader, sometimes harsh urban environment, I sought to create a narrative that is both deeply personal and widely relatable.”
In 2020, Cardoso was nominated for Best Cinematographer and Best Light Designer at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards. He won in the latter category. At the same ceremony this year, he once again was nominated in the Best Cinematographer category for his work on eventual Best Film winner Breathe Of Life.
