By Milcah Tanimu
Nollywood filmmaker Omoni Oboli has shared intriguing insights into her early career, revealing that she initially traded her scripts for film roles. Known for her work on the ‘Wives on Strike’ franchise, Oboli discussed her transition from actor to director in an interview with Radionow 95.3 FM.
In the early stages of her filmmaking career, Oboli would give away her screenplays without payment, simply to secure a role in the films. “I was trading my scripts, saying, ‘Just take it, don’t pay me. Just give me a role in the film,’” she explained. However, she soon realized that the final film often differed from her original vision. This led her to conclude that if she wanted her stories to reflect her unique creative vision, she would need to direct them herself.
Oboli admitted feeling apprehensive about directing initially. Despite her doubts, she took bold steps to pursue her dream. “It was a scary thought; I questioned, ‘Who do you think you are to direct a film?’ But I decided to take the plunge,” she said. Her journey included learning from experienced directors on set and pursuing formal education at the New York Film Academy.
Oboli’s directorial efforts include films like *Moms at War*, *Last Year Single* (currently streaming on Netflix), and *The Uprising: Wives on Strike 3*, the latest installment of the popular franchise, set to premiere in cinemas this October. Her evolution from scriptwriter to director showcases her commitment to bringing her unique stories to life on screen.
