The Digest:
Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has addressed criticism surrounding his new series 'Anikulapo: The Ghoul Awakens', asserting that his storytelling targets an intellectual audience. The five-part mini-series, which premiered on Netflix on January 30, is the sequel to his 2022 award-winning film. In an Instagram video, Afolayan stated that his work is designed for viewers who appreciate nuanced, layered narratives and thought-provoking cinema, citing his earlier acclaimed films 'Irapada' and 'The Figurine' as examples that weathered initial scepticism before gaining recognition. He urged critics to allow the full series to unfold before forming conclusions, drawing parallels to global series like Game of Thrones. Afolayan added that those who do not understand the narrative should consult those who do.
Key Points:
- The response frames the debate around artistic intent versus audience expectation in Nollywood.
- It highlights the tension between commercial appeal and intellectual cinema in Nigeria's film industry.
- Afolayan positions himself as a filmmaker for discerning audiences, while critics remain unconvinced by the current instalment.
- The reaction signals the high expectations attached to major Nollywood franchises with international platforms.
- The timing, mid-series release, adds complexity to the critical assessment of the unfinished narrative arc.
Sources: The Cable, Kunle Afolayan/Instagram
