Nollywood actor, movie producer and motivational speaker of Jomi Daily Talk, Felix Omolola Egbowon in this interview by ADERONKE ADESANYA speaks about his career, his upcoming movie and the major challenges in the industry. Excerpts:
What do you think is a major challenge in the industry?
Funding of course.. Funding is one of the key areas that filmmakers struggle with. It can’t be argued that funding is always one of the major problems in the industry, whether you’re making tiny independent pieces or full-fledged cinematic work. Funding is important.
Do you see yourself as a mentor to others?
Yes I do, despite the fact that I am still a work in progress. I am getting positive feedbacks from fans, friends and family. That gives me joy.
You are a man of many talents. Which of your talents do you enjoy doing the most?
To be sincere I really enjoy all part of my crafts and talent.
Do you think Nollywood actors are well appreciated in Nigeria?
Yes, they are appreciated and the industry is really growing World Wide.
What has been your most challenging role since you entered the industry?
Playing the role of a warrior. We had to walk in a thick forest at night for over five hours in Oyo state.
Who’s the person that has had the most significant influence in your life?
My boss ( Ibrahim Yekini Bakare aka King Kesari)
How do you handle stress from work?
During stressful situations, I try to focus on the positive things going on in my life. It’s a reminder of how blessed I am and that can lower my stress levels drastically. Trying not to over think everything also really helps. All too often, we convince ourselves that there’s something drastically wrong when in fact, the problem isn’t all that serious.
How long has it been since you started your talk show ‘Jomi talk Show’?
I started Jomi daily talk show two years ago and it has been amazing. The positive feedback always gives me joy.
Can you explain more about what your shows are about?
Jomi daily talk show is a motivational show that motivates people on how to correct some common life mistake and focus on being a better person.
Do you consider moral, ethical, spiritual or environmental factors before accepting a role?
Yes I do. Before I accept a role, I make sure I consider some factors such as moral, ethical and spiritual considerations. They are necessary for me to consider.
What’s it like to work on set? Is it as glamorous as it seems from the outside?
It depends on the role you’re playing but whatever it is make sure you interpret your role perfectly. You might take the role of a governor and you’ll actually deliver it as a governor but don’t forget that all the cars and the big houses are not yours. It’s all for the shoot.
How well do you take direction from directors and producers?
I take directive very well because the director wants you to deliver according to the script. The director is the master of all actors. No matter how young a director is you must take direction from him and follow his instructions. For every good movie out there the credit belongs to the director. Producers oversee how the production will be a success. I have extensive experience taking direction from directors and producers. I understand that it is my job to bring their vision to life, so I always strive to be a team player and take any feedback they give me seriously. I am confident in my ability to interpret the director’s instructions accurately and make adjustments quickly if needed. I also recognise the importance of collaboration when working with other actors and crew members on set, and I’m comfortable discussing ideas and making changes as needed. Like I said earlier, the producer’s duty is to oversee the production. The producer also supervises the pre-production, principal photography and post-production stages of filmmaking. A producer is also responsible for hiring a director for the film, as well as other key crew members.
What do you think is the most important aspect of a good performance?
I believe the most important aspect of a good performance is preparation. A well-prepared actor will be able to bring their characters to life in an authentic and believable way. This means doing research on the character, understanding their motivations and goals, and being familiar with the script. Preparation also includes rehearsing lines and blocking so that the performance can flow naturally. Another key element of a good performance is having strong emotional range and control. As an actor, I strive to create characters that are multi-dimensional and have depth. To do this, I need to be able to access different emotions quickly and accurately while staying in control of my body language and facial expressions. Lastly, it’s essential for actors to stay present and engaged during a performance. It’s easy to get lost in your own head or become distracted by other things, but staying focused and connected to the scene is crucial for delivering a powerful and meaningful performance.
What kind of research do you usually do before taking on a new role?
Before taking on a new role, I always make sure to do thorough research. First and foremost, I read the script multiple times to get an understanding of the character’s motivations and objectives. Then, I look into the director’s vision for the project and try to understand how they want me to portray the character. Finally, I like to watch films or performances that are similar in tone or genre so I can draw inspiration from them. This helps me to create a unique interpretation of the role while still staying true to the director’s wishes. Ultimately, this kind of research allows me to bring my best performance to the table and ensure that I’m delivering what the director wants.
What steps do you take to ensure that your performance is believable and consistent?
To ensure that my performance is believable and consistent, I make sure to thoroughly research the character I am playing in order to understand their motivations, background, and any other information that can help me bring them to life on screen. I also work closely with directors and fellow actors to ensure that everyone’s vision for the project is aligned. And then I practice my lines multiple times to ensure that I have them memorised and can deliver them naturally. This helps me stay focused and consistent throughout the entire production process. When you interpret your role perfectly, the audience will believe that your performance is real.
What do you believe is the most challenging aspect of being an actor?
Travelling from one location to another is one challenge, staying away from your family and love ones is another. Acting is not really a job you can do as a part time. It requires full concentration.
Besides yourself, which actors in this production is going to blow people away?
Ibrahim Yekini Bakare (Kesari), Ibrahim Chatta, Femi Adebayo Salami, Kemi Afolabi and Funke Akindele.
What do you do when you’re not doing theatre?
I own a boutique. I’ve been into the fashion business long before I started acting professionally. So when I am not on set, I am at my boutique.
What would you say is your greatest accomplishment as an actor so far?
My greatest accomplishment as an actor so far is my ability to bring characters to life. I have a passion for creating believable and dynamic performances that capture the essence of each character. My experience in theatre, film, and television has helped me to hone this skill, as I’ve had the opportunity to work with some amazing directors, writers, and actors. I live more while acting, it gives me opportunity to have a double life. I love the fact I’m able to make movies that people will learn from.
What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learnt about the industry?
Just be yourself. I mean be real. I am always ready to learn and still learning because things change day by day.
How do you maintain your personal and professional life separately from each other?
I work when it’s time to work and I don’t joke with my personal life. That’s why it’s personal.
Do you have any upcoming project you want your fans to anticipate?
Oba Meji is a movie to watch out for. They should watch out for love, emotions and action. It’s an amazing story about two powerful kings who happen to be mother and son. Let me stop there for now. You’re all going to see me in a new dimension.
What advice would you give to new or aspiring actors/actresses?
Be humble, stay focused, don’t give up on your dreams, don’t compare your time with others. Follow the normal procedures. Join a good school of performing arts. If you have ego as an upcoming actor then, your journey won’t be as fast as you think.
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