Nollywood actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo has spoken out in support of the rising use of unconventional methods like skits and dance for movie promotion.
Her comments came after actress Jaiye Kuti expressed frustration over the lengths producers now go to attract audiences to the cinema.
According to Iyabo, these creative strategies are not new they have only evolved with time.
While reacting in a passionate video on Instagram, she defended the use of social media trends to boost movie reach and visibility, especially by fellow actress Funke Akindele.
“This is something that has been happening as far back as when I joined the Yoruba film industry. The only thing different is just the method in which we do it,” she said.
She went on to explain that the need to actively promote movies has always existed, even during the early years of Nollywood.
According to her, producers used to stand outside the National Theatre in Lagos with drums and dancers to call attention to their films.
“We were literally begging people to come in and watch,” she recalled.
The movie promotion in Nollywood conversation has been ongoing online, with some critics questioning the authenticity of the methods being used.
However, Iyabo insisted that visibility remains essential in the entertainment industry.
“You can’t bring out a movie and just put it in cinema and expect people to watch it,” she emphasized.
She compared the marketing effort to Coca-Cola’s consistency in advertising.
“If Coca-Cola is still running adverts back to back on their products, I wonder why I or anyone else can’t use any method to run an advert and create awareness.”
This statement aligns with her broader point that a film’s success lies not just in the story but in how well it is pushed to the public.
Therefore, using dance trends or comedy skits, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, should be seen as an innovation rather than desperation.
In addition, she encouraged filmmakers not to be embarrassed by the approach they take to market their work.
Instead, they should focus on the goal of reaching as many viewers as possible.
“Don’t be shy. Don’t be ashamed. You must constantly advertise,” Iyabo declared, urging industry players to embrace flexibility and creativity.
Meanwhile, Iyabo’s statement highlights the belief that if filmmakers want to stay at the top, they must be willing to stay ahead.
It is no longer enough to release a good movie the real challenge lies in getting people to talk about it.
This modern-day movie marketing approach is not just a passing trend.
It has become a necessary tool for staying relevant in the ever-evolving film industry.
In a space where attention is short-lived, pushing your content through entertaining means could be the best way to stay visible and competitive.
Therefore, Nigerian filmmakers are being encouraged to view skits, dances, and trend-driven content not as a departure from professionalism, but as an effective way to expand their audience reach.
