Oluyinka Davids is a US-based Nigerian filmmaker who has carved a niche for himself as a thoroughbred professional in film production, cinematography, and making of quality music videos.
Recently, Davids was bestowed with the Joe R. Biden President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to the community through advocacy and philanthropic work. In this interview with TONY OKUYEME, he shares his thoughts on the film industry, challenges, and other issues
Growing up, what movies inspired your creative passion?
I don’t have a specific movie that inspired my creative passion growing up. However, I have always loved watching movies from various genres and regions, including Hollywood, Nollywood, and Bollywood films.
I was particularly fascinated by the behind the-scenes processes, whenever they were available. This curiosity and appreciation for the art of filmmaking deeply influenced my creative journey.
What were your initial challenges and how were you able to overcome them?
Starting out, one of my biggest challenges was navigating the complexities of the industry, particularly understanding the business side of creative work. I faced issues such as finding the right resources, building a network, and dealing with financial constraints.
However, I overcame some of these challenges through persistence, continuous learning, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals. I also leveraged every opportunity to collaborate and gain hands-on experience, which gradually built my confidence and expertise in the field.
How long have you been making films?
Officially, I’ve been making films since 2008. Even though my journey began earlier with some unofficial film activities, such as acting while I was on campus and joining various theatre and drama groups. My passion for filmmaking truly solidified when I went to South Africa to learn and train, which provided me with the foundational skills and knowledge to pursue a professional career in the industry.
As a Nigerian filmmaker creating impact in the US, how has the journey been so far?
The journey has been both challenging and rewarding. Navigating a new cultural and professional landscape required adaptability and perseverance.
There were initial hurdles in understanding the market dynamics and establishing a network. However, my unique perspective and storytelling approach, rooted in my Nigerian heritage, have resonated with diverse audiences.
Collaborating with talented individuals and being part of a vibrant creative community have been instrumental in my growth. The support and recognition I’ve received have been incredibly encouraging, fueling my passion to continue creating impactful films that bridge cultural gaps and tell compelling stories.
Recently, you were received President Joe Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award. How does that make you feel?
Receiving President Joe Biden’s Lifetime Achievement Award is an incredible honour and a deeply humbling experience. It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion that I have poured into my craft over the years.
This recognition not only validates my efforts but also serves as an inspiration to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and storytelling.
This award is a reminder of the impact that our work can have, not just within our communities but on a larger, global scale. It reinforces the importance of telling authentic stories that resonate with people from all walks of life. I am immensely grateful for the support and encouragement I have received from my family, colleagues, and mentors throughout my journey.
Ultimately, this award motivates me to strive for even greater heights, to mentor emerging talents, and to contribute positively to the film industry and beyond.
It is a milestone that I will cherish forever, fueling my commitment to create meaningful and impactful content.
What do you like most about filmmaking and cinematography?
What I love most is the power to tell stories that resonate with people on a deep emotional level. Filmmaking is a unique medium that combines various art forms—writing, acting, music, visual arts—into a cohesive narrative that can inspire, educate, and entertain.
In cinematography, I am particularly drawn to the ability to visually capture and convey emotions, moods, and themes.
The way light, shadow, composition, and camera movement can all work together to create a powerful image is endlessly fascinating to me.
It’s about creating a visual language that speaks to the audience, drawing them into the story and making them feel a part of it. The collaborative nature of filmmaking, working with talented teams to bring a vision to life, is also something I deeply cherish.
How do you react to criticisms?
I view criticism as an essential part of the creative process and an opportunity for growth. Constructive criticism, in particular, helps me see my work from different perspectives and identify areas for improvement.
When I receive feedback, I take the time to reflect on it objectively, separating personal feelings from the professional insights being offered.
Criticism can be challenging, but I’ve learned to embrace it as a tool for honing my craft. By actively seeking out and listening to the opinions of others, I can refine my skills and elevate the quality of my work.
I also believe in maintaining a positive attitude and an open mind, using criticism to fuel my motivation and drive for excellence. Ultimately, every piece of feedback, whether positive or negative, contributes to my journey as a filmmaker.
How important is copyright to you as a filmmaker?
Copyright is extremely important to me as a filmmaker. It protects the creative works that I and others in the industry produce, ensuring that our intellectual property rights are respected and that we retain control over how our content is used and distributed.
Copyright laws provide the legal framework that allows us to safeguard our work from unauthorized use, which is crucial in an industry where originality and creativity are our most valuable assets.
Moreover, copyright encourages innovation by granting creators the exclusive right to benefit financially from their works. This incentive is vital for sustaining a thriving creative industry, where filmmakers can invest time, resources, and effort into their projects, knowing that their rights are protected.
Respecting copyright also fosters a culture of ethical use and sharing of content, which is Important for maintaining professional integrity and mutual respect among creators. As a filmmaker, I am committed to adhering to copyright laws and ensuring that my work and the work of others are used appropriately and with proper authorisation.
Are you working on any new projects?
Yes, I am currently working on a couple of exciting new projects. One of them is a documentary series titled “Perception: The Nigerian Narrative,” which explores how the world sees Nigerians, examining both the positive and negative aspects of the country’s reputation.
Additionally, I am working on a feature film. While I can’t share many details about it just yet, I look forward to disclosing more information soon.
Aside making films and music videos, what else do you do?
In addition to making films and music videos, I am also an author. I have a passion for writing and will be releasing four books in August to celebrate my 40th birthday on the 5th.
Furthermore, I run a digital media company, aimed at being a beacon of creativity and digital innovation.
We offer a wide range of services designed to empower businesses and individuals, including business system creation and management, book publishing, and music artist management.
How do you balance these roles effectively?
Balancing multiple roles requires organization, time management, and a strong support system. I prioritize tasks and use tools like calendars and project management software to stay on track.
Delegation and collaboration with a talented team allow me to focus on creative and strategic aspects while ensuring smooth execution of projects. Additionally, I prioritize self-care to maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial for sustained productivity and creativity.
Who are your role models in the film industry?
Tyler Perry is my primary role model, with his remarkable journey and innovative approach to filmmaking serving as a significant inspiration.
In Nigeria, Clarence Peters inspires me with his exceptional work in music videos, and Kunle Afolayan motivates me with his outstanding contributions to movie production. There are also many other amazing filmmakers whose work continually inspires me to push the boundaries of creativity.
What is your view on Nollywood?
Nollywood is a vibrant and rapidly growing film industry that has made significant strides over the years. It is a testament to the creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerian filmmakers.
Nollywood’s unique storytelling and cultural authenticity have garnered international recognition, contributing to the global appreciation of African cinema.
The industry has its challenges, such as funding and distribution, but it continues to evolve, with increasing quality in production, diverse genres, and innovative approaches to filmmaking.
Nollywood plays a crucial role in shaping and sharing Nigerian narratives, and I am excited to see how it will continue to grow and impact the world stage.
What’s your advice for the younger ones who would like to go into film making…
For young aspiring filmmakers, my advice is to stay passionate and dedicated to your craft. Start by learning as much as you can about every aspect of filmmaking, from writing and directing to editing and production.
Embrace every opportunity to gain hands-on experience, whether through internships, volunteering, or creating your own projects. Networking is crucial, so connect with other filmmakers, join film communities, and seek mentorship from experienced professionals.
Don’t be afraid to take risks and experiment with different styles and techniques. Remember, every project is a learning experience. Most importantly, believe in your unique voice and vision. Your perspective is what sets you apart, so stay true to your storytelling. With persistence, hard work, and a willingness to continuously learn and adapt.