Owobo, one of many sons of a Nigerian theatre pioneer, Hubert Ogunde, performed the position of ‘Bashorun’ within the film sequence, ‘Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre’. He tells FAITH AJAYI about his expertise engaged on that film, different facets of his profession, and relationship along with his dad
Kunle Afolayan claimed that he heard your late father telling him to function you within the film. How did that make you’re feeling?
Subsequent to the ‘ask’ sinking in, the realisation surfaced in my thoughts that it was time to reply the decision of future. For most individuals, the response would have been euphoric. However, owing to my deep understanding of the inventive course of; my response was a full dedication to preparation. Repetition is vital to creativity.
Although you haven’t been lively within the film business, you performed one of many main roles within the film sequence. What was your method to taking up that position?
I began performing arts at a really younger age. I used the phrases, ‘performing arts’, as a result of appearing is just one of 1’s capabilities as an artist. The way in which I transfer, communicate and dance have been formed throughout my childhood. I had been performing all my life, even once I was not on stage. When one has the chance to undergo correct coaching at a younger age, these abilities don’t ever go away one. They’re saved without end.
On the day Kunle Afolayan met me, he said that every one he might see from the way in which I spoke was ‘Basorun’ (a chief). I didn’t even know he was observing me that method.
What are among the challenges you encountered engaged on the undertaking?
Oh boy, I used to be not ready for the afternoon warmth. Additionally, the Oyo dialect was tough to study too.
How have been you in a position to deal with these challenges?
Everybody on the set was very supportive, so I shortly forgot concerning the warmth. For the language hole, I had a language coach who helped out when essential.
What have been the highlights of your time engaged on that undertaking?
Kunle’s unending events to cheer everybody up and preserve nice vibes all through the capturing interval. Additionally, the meals offered on the location was superior. The catering staff did an awesome job. Simply being again the place I belong and appearing once more among the many individuals whom I take into account to be the perfect actors on the planet was in itself priceless.
Because you appeared on that undertaking, you’ll doubtless have gotten different gives to function in films. Has it ever crossed your thoughts to relocate again to Nigeria to face appearing full time?
Sure, I can be that includes in additional productions. However, they must be high quality ones, as a result of I don’t need my father chasing me round in my desires for collaborating in substandard tasks (laughs). Just a few individuals have additionally reached out to me by way of social media, saying they’d chase me round if I let Baba (Ogunde) down. So, I’m on my toes.
Your father was a legend within the Nigerian film business. Have you ever at any level felt like when you have been to come back again to the film business, the stress to take care of a sure commonplace can be a lot?
No. I’ve by no means felt any such stress, and that’s as a result of I do know precisely what I have to do. There’s all the time stress that comes with appearing. As a matter of truth, if an actor will not be underneath stress, then they’re enjoying roles they’re comfy with. I all the time use stress to energise my preparation and performances.
Equally, have you ever ever felt that the expectation of some individuals of you being Ogunde’s son has blinded them from seeing your innate expertise?
No, I’ve by no means skilled such. If it exists, then it’s but to floor.
For the reason that film was launched, a number of individuals have proven their curiosity in working with you. Subsequently, will you be appearing in Yoruba films, or films made in each Yoruba and English languages?
I’ll take into account indigenous (Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo), and English films.
You as soon as talked about that you just fell out of affection for appearing after the dying of your father. How have been you in a position to revive that like to tackle an appearing position once more after such a very long time?
That was really 32 years in the past, and so much has occurred since then. I’ve grown, and my views have modified.
Because you left the theatre scene, the Nigerian film business has continued to evolve. What are the facets of the business that make you most proud?
The business is way greater with new individuals and departments doing nice issues. Areas similar to make-up, costume, images and notably social media, have grown immensely. Expertise (my specialty and favorite topic after appearing) has contributed majorly to the expansion we get pleasure from right this moment within the business.
Some persons are of the opinion that indigenous films (similar to these executed in Yoruba), appear to be shedding their originality in relation to utilizing in-depth Yoruba language to speak, with out mixing it with English phrases, and that’s as a result of most of the new actors becoming a member of the business don’t have a deep data of the tradition and its language. How do you’re feeling this may be improved upon?
It’s as much as the director to forged correctly and supply essential help for actors the place required. In London, United Kingdom, the place I’m based mostly, it’s simple to rent 121 trainers with among the finest minds in appearing or different inventive areas to develop one’s self. Maybe, that can also be an space we might develop right here.
What do you miss probably the most about your father and your childhood in Nigeria?
I missed the chance to study from him, and in addition watch him carry out reside.
As regards my time in Nigeria, I missed the enjoyment that got here from easy issues, similar to going to a buka (native restaurant), and having some scrumptious meals.
Except for appearing, what are your different areas of curiosity?
I’ve an curiosity in supercars, soccer and health (largely operating).
Who’re the those who encourage you within the business?
My dad evokes me. Aside from him, nature additionally evokes me.
What have been you as much as whenever you have been domiciled outdoors the nation?
All the pieces I’ve been as much as could possibly be summed up in two phrases— private progress. And, that’s an entire subject by itself.
Who’re your greatest cheerleaders?
They embody my relations, buddies and my pricey social media followers, notably on Instagram. They preserve me busy and entertained.
How do you want to decorate?
I like to decorate in refined, sensible, or informal outfits.
What’s your favorite meal?
It’s both garri Ijebu or a full English breakfast.
How do you unwind?
I meditate, watch movies, and take walks in open areas with the breeze blowing round my face.