Muyiwa Adesokun, the talented filmmaker behind *Shina*, didn’t anticipate the massive success of his debut film on Netflix. Released on June 14, 2024, the film quickly became a sensation, staying on Netflix’s Top 10 chart for seven weeks and becoming the second most-watched film in Nigeria in 2024.
Adesokun’s journey into filmmaking began as a poet, where he discovered a deep connection between poetry and storytelling. Despite initially seeing poetry and filmmaking as separate worlds, he found that both mediums revolve around telling compelling stories. This realization made the transition from literary writing to filmmaking feel natural for him.
In an exclusive interview, Adesokun discussed his creative process for *Shina*, which involved consuming numerous scripts from films he admired, particularly those written by screenwriter Aaron Sorkin. He also drew inspiration from directors like Jordan Peele and Quentin Tarantino. The result was a film that exceeded his expectations and garnered widespread acclaim.
Adesokun emphasized that while the art of filmmaking is important, it also needs to be marketable. The rising cost of filmmaking makes it difficult to create projects solely for artistic purposes. However, he believes that a strong story has the power to attract both creative talent and investors, striking a balance between art and profitability.
Reflecting on the challenges in Nollywood, Adesokun noted the increasing costs of production and the need for more collaboration within the industry. He sees the strength of Nollywood in its people—writers, directors, actors, and crew members—but believes that working together more closely can elevate the industry even further.
As for aspiring filmmakers, Adesokun’s advice is simple: learn how to write for film and television, and take the leap to make your first film. His success with *Shina* serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved with dedication and a passion for storytelling.
