5 MINUTES WITH ABIOLA MATESUN

Starting off as a photographer, Abiola Matesun decided to try his hands on film making as a way to properly document real life experiences. Two Emmy awards later, he has proved that a great deal of hard work and passion would take you anywhere. In this interview, he speaks to KONYE CHELSEA NWABOGOR on the projects he is currently working on and lets us in on what he loves about the business of film making . As a Nigerian living in the US, what did winning two Emmy awards mean to you ?

Winning an Emmy award is priceless. Winning two Emmy awards is indescribable. We were nominated in three categories with several other strong contenders and we won in two categories. I have seen a few great films not clinching a win, so winning two Emmy awards affirmed that our hard work paid off and our film was appreciated. It showed we were doing something right. As a Nigerian this gave me so much joy as it showcased not only the Emmy award win but also provided an opportunity for Nigeria to be portrayed in good light. Of course the positive validation of the win reinforced within us the desire to strive for even greater success.

What effect has being a recipient of this prestigious award had on your brand so far?

Malekfotofilms has over the years worked tirelessly to build a powerful brand in the film industry. Prior to us winning the Emmy award, we had won two Telly Awards for “Fire and Ice”Winning the Emmy’s has broaden our horizons, differentiated our brand, positioned us stronger and also provided us a more credible voice. Everyone wants to work with who they can trust. Since winning the awards, we have found out that conversations are easier and quicker because people immediately feel more reassured and unguarded towards what to expect.

You started off as a photographer, at what point did you begin to see film and film making as a way of expression?

It all begun when I photographed a series on “HIV, Poverty and Children”. I had met a 13 year old girl who had become an orphan as a result of HIV / AIDS. She resorted to prostitution to feed herself and her three younger siblings. There was also a lady that had lost her husband to HIV/AIDS who bluntly refused to stay at home and chose instead to sleep on the hospital floor for fear of dying alone. I was irked when photographs were unable to capture the true essence of these stories effectively. I felt a deep sense of frustration .That became my turning point. Experiences needed to be documented. I realized that storytelling was the most powerful medium and most effective means of expression.

At first, it was all about weddings , how did your career unfold?

Weddings will most likely always remain a part of Malekfotos. We enjoy documenting the love experiences shared by couples. Videos always provide them the opportunity to relive their special and unforgettable day. We are however mindful of the number of weddings we handle in a year and usually only accept a limited number. This is to enable us provide them with the best experience ever . Now with regards our growth, there is so much around you that as a filmmaker you want documented. You want to use your skills to make a difference in the world you live in. There are stories that are yet untold and information that have been buried. You want to give a voice to the voiceless. You want to make great impact in the lives of others .You want to make a difference .You want to celebrate heroes and their achievements. You want to document the social sufferings and pain that others experience .You want to showcase to the world the hidden gems of cultures and traditions that haven’t been recognized. Being able to document any of such social projects is fulfilling, rewarding and highly satisfying for us. We just can’t stop. We are fully immersed with the unending passion to create such stories for the world to see and hear..

Were there any particular films or film makers that you admired?

I admire a number of filmmakers and the achievements they have made in the film industry. Internationally, we have such great inspiring filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan, James Cameron, Steven Spielberg and a list of others.. In Nigeria I admire the contributions that Kunle Afolayan , Mo Abudu , Genevieve Nnaji and KEMI Adetiba have made towards changing the narrative of the Nigerian film industry globally. Their action and the action of many other talented film makers has helped shape the positive perspective of the film industry in Nigeria and Africa.

When did you first conceive the idea of Inner Conflict?

Inner conflict started simply as an idea in 2014. We all at some point in our life’s struggle with inner conflicts. Decisions we have to make when confronted with key life issues or circumstances. “Inner conflict” is a short film about a professional boxer who experienced a series of life changing events within a short period of time. His mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer, he also had booked his biggest priced fight and then his wife was expecting their first baby. These roller coaster ride of emotions posed to be his inner conflict that he had to deal with and overcome. A truly captivating story.

How do you manage to find the perfect balance in making a film both entertaining and profound at the same time?

There is no formula for creating a perfect balance. Making a good film requires a good concept and a whole lot of time and dedication. Your perception on how your audience will receive it also plays an important and determinant factor in ensuring you provide them with a story that is entertaining and profound at the same time.

What has been your personal key to success?

Hard work and dedication towards the end goal. There is an innate desire to keep setting very high goals hence I always create vision boards which self propels me each day to attain these goals. Once achieved, then new goals are set all over again. Success is a journey and not a destination. You have to keep aiming high, breaking boundaries and shedding off any limitations. The moment you stop daring to actualize your dream then you become irrelevant . In addition what I focus on and allow within my immediate space is highly crucial to my personal success. I surround myself with great minds, family and friends. I enjoy quiet times of fellowship and gaining great wisdom from God.

What are some common myths about your profession?

I will just highlight three myths here. 1. You need to go to film school to be a great filmmaker. 2. You need expensive paraphernalia to make a good story. 3. You can succeed alone.

What do you enjoy most about your job, your career?

The ability to conceptualize an idea, translate it into a film and then give it a life of it’s own is indeed the most rewarding aspect of what we do.

Any projects you’d like to let us in on?

We are currently working on a few documentaries and short films which unfortunately we cannot disclose to the public at the moment. We are excited about the projects and can’t wait to share this when it is all completed. Aiming even higher as always. Keep watching this space!

What would you like to say to young, independent filmmakers who are just starting out?

Be deliberate, focused and determined. If you say you are going to do something then do it. Don’t let anything stop you, not even your failures.. Dare to dream big.. take all Limits off..nothing is impossible to accomplish in life once you set your mind on it.. Look for opportunities everywhere and when you see it, seize it and maximize it. Lastly to create powerful experiences as a filmmaker; teamwork and collaboration is needed to succeed.