American psychologist Umar Johnson has expressed his desire to step into the world of Nollywood and try his hand at acting.
He urged Nollywood producers to get in touch with him about appearing in their productions.
Umar Johnson believes that he can bring a fresh perspective to the screen and showcase the diverse talents of both African and African-Americans.
He, however, pointed out that the movie has to be conscious, not portraying him as a criminal or pimp on screen.
In a now-viral video, Dr. Johnson stated:
“Nigeria, I’m waiting for an invitation. I’m trying to get into Nollywood. I want to star in some of the Nigerian movies. Somebody put me in touch with Black Nollywood in Nigeria.
“I want to be in a Nollywood movie. Anybody making a movie out there has got to be conscious though. I’m not doing any blaxploitation. My role has to be egocentric. My role has to be who I am. I can have a different name and personality but it must be progressive and pan-Africanist.
“I will not play a con on television. I’m not playing no pimp, no drug dealer, no criminal. It must be consistent. egocentricity is a necessity.”
With Nollywood gaining global recognition for its unique storytelling and cultural influence, Johnson’s interest in joining the industry reflects the growing international appeal of African cinema. His call to Nollywood filmmakers to collaborate with him emphasizes his eagerness to explore new avenues of creativity and cultural exchange.
At the forefront of Johnson’s request is his insistence on being part of conscious filmmaking. He has made it clear that any role he takes on must align with his values and principles. This stipulation underscores his commitment to positive representation and shunning stereotypes, particularly concerning African American characters in cinema.
For Johnson, participating in a Nollywood production offers an opportunity to engage with African narratives on a deeper level. By actively seeking roles that showcase the diverse experiences and complexities of African culture, he hopes to contribute to a more nuanced portrayal of African identity on screen.
Furthermore, Johnson’s desire to avoid stereotypical roles, particularly those associated with crime or negative stereotypes, highlights the importance of responsible storytelling in cinema. His stance echoes broader conversations within the entertainment industry about the need for authentic representation and the avoidance of harmful tropes.
Nollywood filmmakers are taking note of Johnson’s interest, recognizing the potential for collaboration that transcends borders and cultural boundaries. His background as a psychologist brings a unique perspective to the table, offering insights that could enrich storytelling and character development in Nigerian cinema.
Johnson’s foray into Nollywood represents more than just a career pivot; it embodies a spirit of cultural exchange and mutual respect between African and African American communities. As he seeks to bridge gaps and foster understanding through his involvement in Nollywood, he opens doors for greater collaboration and solidarity across the diaspora.
The prospect of seeing Umar Johnson grace the screens of Nollywood is undoubtedly intriguing. It signals a new chapter in the evolution of African cinema and the continued globalization of Nollywood as a cultural force. As filmmakers and audiences eagerly await his debut, one thing is certain: Umar Johnson’s journey into Nollywood is poised to make waves and ignite conversations that transcend borders.
