Ghanaian Filmmaker M. Sayibu unveils private screening Climate Change Themed Movie

 

Acclaimed Ghanaian writer and director, Majid, popularly known as M. Sayibu, has premiered his latest film, "Adam the First," a thought-provoking movie that tackles the pressing issue of climate change.

"I grew up liking science fiction films, but I also grew up really loving the Ghanaian films that I was watching when I was growing up. So I wanted to do something that married both passions of mine," M. Sayibu explained.

M.Sayibu

The film's central theme revolves around the devastating effects of climate change. "Most of it is, right now we're dealing with a lot of climate change. If you look at California, which is where I live most of the time, that place is burning down right now, and that's because of climate change," M. Sayibu emphasized.

He hopes that the film will inspire viewers to take action. "The biggest message we are pushing is to let people understand that our actions can have a very massive effect on the planet that we live in. And if we want peace and we want to live here longer, we should probably make a few changes to the way we live."

The movie features stunning visuals, showcasing Ghana in a unique and captivating light. "We tried to present Ghana in the best light possible. So we made it a point to make sure that almost every shot is like a painting, that you can, you know, if you take a screenshot of it, of almost every frame of the film, you can hang it somewhere in your house and you will love it," M. Sayibu proudly stated.

The film boasts an impressive cast, including legendary Ghanaian actress Akofa Edjeani. "It's amazing to work with her, it's amazing to get her advice and counsel, and she has really helped the movie become better," M. Sayibu praised.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including timing and Covid, M. Sayibu remained committed to his vision. "We had a lot of love from our people. So when you don't have too much money and you have a lot of love, you still get things done."

M. Sayibu believes that the Ghanaian film industry has become stagnant, with a lack of innovative ideas. "Generally, we're doing the same things over and over, so the audience is just bored. The audience loves movies, but they love different types of things."

The film is set to premiere in Ghana in March, following its festival run. M. Sayibu hopes to bring home an award, making the premiere an even bigger celebration.

BEX MORTTY

Also Ghanaian producer and actor Bex Mortty also expressed his relief and pride in completing his latest film project, "Adam the First," a science fiction film that has been a labor of love.

"I'm really, really pleased with how things have gone. This film has been very, very challenging to make, but finally we've got a finished product and that is really, really appreciated," Bex said, reflecting on the film's journey.

Bex dual role as producer and actor gave him a unique perspective on the character's challenges. "That showed me that Adam himself and what he had to achieve in the role and his mission would have been even more challenging. So I think I understood it from that perspective."

With the film set to compete in Miami next weekend, Bex is hopeful that it will bring recognition to Ghana. "We are sort of embarking on what would be the Olympics of science fiction films in Miami next weekend, so let's hope we can bring the gold back for Ghana."

Bex believes that the Ghanaian film industry needs innovation and fresh ideas. "We've got to make changes and we've got to bring new things to the Ghanaian film industry."

Akofa Edjeani 

Furthermore Renowned Ghanaian film actress Akofa Edjeani  also shared her thoughts on the current state of the Ghanaian film industry and its potential for growth.

"I don't think that we are where we are supposed to be. We are so crawling, I think. But it can get better. It can get better," Akofa said, emphasizing the need for improvement.

Despite the challenges, Akofa is optimistic about the new generation of directors and writers emerging in the industry. "There's a new group of directors and writers who are actually doing good stuff. And I'm super happy about that. I think that we should encourage them to do more."

Akofa also stressed the importance of increasing female participation in the industry. "I'm also calling out to my fellow females to get themselves involved more. We need more female writers, more female directors, more female producers."

She believes that women bring a unique perspective to storytelling. "When we write about women, it's always better. Because we know how women are. The men always make us, they don't write like we do."

Akofa expressed her hopes for government support, particularly in fulfilling promises made to the creative industry. "We are hoping, or I am hoping and praying that His Excellency John Mahama will fulfill his promises to the creative industry."

She emphasized the need for a functional film fund, tax rebates for corporate sponsors, and increased support from philanthropists and individuals.

Akofa also highlighted the benefits of product placement in films, encouraging corporate Ghana to explore this marketing strategy. "Product placement is one of the best ways that the brands can thrive."

The actress is excited about the upcoming screening of "Adam the First" in Miami, where she played the role of chairlady of the council. "I think that Ghana should be proud because it's not just nominated, it's nominated for the top award."

Reported By Azaglo Michael.