‘Why I make films, still practice medicine’
Dr. Imam Malik Muhammed aka Mielly Mee is a movie producer, filmmaker, and practising medical doctor. In this interview, he talks about being all these and more. Excerpts:
I intend to introduce to the industry a state-of-the-art innovation that will promote and project not only Kannywood but movies produced in Nigeria.
Weekend Magazine: What drew you to filmmaking? Dr. Imam Malik
Muhammed: My interest in music began in secondary school. In Ukraine I was into the Basically, I was into Techno music but realised on my return to Nigeria that such brand of music isn’t recognised. Since I am not just doing it for myself, I decided to switch. I have, however, always loved movies and thought there are many interesting stories that could be told in a way that will earn it international recognition. That was why I trained as a filmmaker.
WM: So, are you totally cut off from the music industry now?
Muhammed: No, it’s only that I have moved into the movie production side of the entertainment world. I have spent good time trying to come up with new innovations that will make our movies more acceptable and also upgrade our content to enable us get to the peak, not only in Nigeria but globally.
WM: You seem to have an interest in science fiction. How many of such films have you produced so far?
Muhammed: I did a mini science fiction film titled ‘Dawowar Gobirawa Katsina.’ I produced it for those in the movie industry to watch and appreciate, that was why I uploaded it for free on YouTube.
WM: Why did you decide to start making movies in Kannywood and not Nollywood?
Muhammed: In anything one does, it depends on the opportunity that comes your way first. I’m closer to the movie industry in the north and have been part of it. However, this doesn’t mean that I won’t expand to Nollywood. This is just the beginning. I’m sure when things begin to roll, Nollywood will also want to subscribe to the special service we offer.
I intend to introduce to the industry a state-of-the-art innovation that will promote and project not only Kannywood but movies produced in Nigeria. It will be a kind of movement that will re-direct the producers’ focus from love stories to more creative stories that will showcase us to the world.
Science fiction movies make the impossible possible, just like the Spiderman or Superman films made by Hollywood. However, for us, we will be introducing a blend of science fiction and our traditions and culture. It will be made to suit our own way of life, being mindful of our norms and values.
WM: Are you still going to practice medicine while doing all these?
Muhammed: I still have people I look after as a medical doctor. But I also have to do what I love doing most and that is being in the entertainment sector. I believe
I deserve to be happy.
WM: What are you currently working on?
Muhammed: I did some short videos that project my work. Currently we have sealed a deal with one of Kannywood’s best actors, Adam A. Zango, to begin a project that will produce the super hero kind of movies more suitable for kids to watch. This is only the beginning. I’m optimistic that when we start producing such movies, the world will come to understand that there are talents in Nigeria and I am sure we will make the needed difference.