Akorede Alli is a Nigerian American Filmmaker. He is a descendant of the Distinguished Akinsemoyin Royal Family of Lagos State, Nigeria. He began his filmmaking journey at Pefti Film Institute back in Nigeria. Then, he also kick-off his first film production company also in Lagos, Modern-Eko Household Entertainment.
Later, Akorede studied Filmmaking and Cinematography (advanced) at School of Visual Art in NYC. He relocated to LA, to open a Hollywood film production company, Modern-Eko Studio, Inc.. He returned to his home country, where he filmed his first independent movie tilted Ran Mi Lowo (Help Me).
indieactivity: How would you describe your work as a director?
Akorede Alli (AA): As a director, my work rests on the control of the film‘s artistic, and dramatic content. I visualize the Screenplay, and guide my actors, and crew to fulfill my vision.
The Official Trailer for Ram Mi Lowo (Help Me) directed by Akorede Alli
how did you get into directing?
Akorede Alli (AA): At age 10, I started picturing images in my head, so I got a little camera to start taking photos and putting them together to make a story. That’s when I knew I wanted to be a director.
How do you choose a project to direct?
Akorede Alli (AA): When choosing a project to direct, first it has to contain a fantastic thriller storyline, the story has to speak to me, like really call me and if I don’t stop thinking about it, It’s a Green light. I consider a lot of things, strong thriller storyline, characters, plots, dialogues and social relevance.
What uniqueness can female directors bring to film/tv/cinema?
Akorede Alli (AA): Female directors have birds eyes, they see everything, and have unique touches of detail in their work.
Do you often take courses to increase your craft?
Akorede Alli (AA): No. I haven’t taken courses after school but I’m open to and likely will in the near future.
What books do you read?
Akorede Alli (AA): Filming directing, shot by shot, visualizing from concept to screen by Steven d. Katz.
Why would you choose an actor, writer, or producer? What do you look for?
AA: One word. A professional, an actor who knows how to deliver a role, a writer who thinks deeply without restrictions, a producer who knows what they are doing.
When you are offered a project, what things do you put in place to deliver a good job?
AA: Firstly, I put my mind in place, take the project in, study the script, interact with the entire department to listen and discuss their plans. Speak to the actors to see where their minds are and the processes they need to get into character.
Briefly explain your latest work?
AA: My latest is Ran Mi Lowo (Help Me) and it’s storyline that happens in our everyday life, it is very dear to me because I put in everything I have and I love what I made.
Explain key challenges on your last film?
AA: My challenges were mainly lack of communication between major departments, logistics. The fact that I had to wear different hats on the project was challenging along with equipment problems, time problems, set problems. As the director I faced each challenge as they appeared and figured out the solution with the efforts and commitment of my team.
What ‘thing/situation’ helps you during production?
AA: Communication, team work, accountability, focus, patience and thinking fast.
Explain a creative choice you took on the set of a recent production?
AA: I created my shot list and finished it days before day of production, I also created all the characters and doll head.
How do you advise directors to find projects?
AA: Go for what you believe in and what you really like, you would feel better when making the project if it’s something you’re passionate about.
How can filmmakers finance their projects?
AA: Firstly is for a filmmaker to believe in themselves, save up for what they believe in, go out to work to save up towards their dreams because 90% of the time nobody will believe in you like you, let alone finance your projects.
What do you want from an actor during a production?
AA: I want an actor to bring their A game and go really deep into their character, block any distractions and be ready to get the job done and above all listen to the Director’s directions.
How do you prefer to work with a producer during a production?
AA: I prefer to work with a producer who is on top of and committed to the entire production.
What do you think a female director can do to get into the film industry?
AA: Nothing different from what the male director does. Go to school, learn the craft, make a film because there’s nothing a male director can do that a female director cannot do. There is no gender relevance to being a film director.
Who is your favorite director?
AA: Quentin Tarantino.
Why?
AA: His movies are different, the story, the entire production is topnotch and his style of shooting is amazing.
What advice would you give male/female directors around the world?
AA: Always believe in yourself and your ideas, be patient, be focused, be detailed, always listen to advice and above all be ready.
Tell us what you think of the interview with Akorede Alli. What do you think of it? What ideas did you get? Do you have any suggestions? Or did it help you? Let’s have your comments below and/or on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
Socials
Website
IMDb
Facebook
Instagram
FILMMAKER INTERVIEWS
