Nollywood superstar, Funke Akindele, widely regarded as the reigning queen of the Nigerian box office, is poised to shatter existing records with her highly anticipated film, ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’.
This eagerly awaited movie is set to grace cinemas nationwide on December 13, 2024, and Akindele has her sights firmly fixed on achieving a remarkable N5 billion in ticket sales.
Known for her exceptional flair in marketing, Akindele is leaving no stone unturned in her quest to ensure the film’s resounding success.
With months of pre-launch promotions tailored to generate buzz and excitement among audiences, she aims to tap into the potent power of her fan base and loyal viewers.
At a recent Exhibitor Soirée, Akindele took the opportunity to address a gathering of cinema operators, stakeholders, and entertainment enthusiasts, sharing her unwavering belief in the film’s potential.
“We can beat N5 billion; I have faith,” she declared confidently, igniting excitement and anticipation in the room.
This audacious target underlines not only her ambition but also her commitment to elevating Nollywood to new heights in the film industry.
However, amid the excitement lies a pressing concern that Akindele addressed passionately during her address of piracy.
Citing the detrimental impact this illegal practice had on her previous film, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, she emphasized the urgent need to combat this issue collectively.
“I plead with you guys, I know things are hard now, but I want to beg you to be security conscious. People use their phones to film. Remember what happened to us last year with ‘A Tribe Called Judah’? Please let’s be very careful, let’s be vigilant. It’s our movie. We want to make money from it,” she stated earnestly, calling for unity and vigilance among audiences and stakeholders alike.
Akindele highlighted the potential revenue losses that piracy can inflict. “Imagine what we would have made if ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ wasn’t pirated. But we thank God. This is another opportunity; please protect this film for me. I beg you in the name of God, no phones. We had to record a video to tell people, no recordings,” she urged, emphasizing the pivotal role of the audience in safeguarding the film’s financial success.”
While piracy poses significant challenges, Akindele’s determination to protect her intellectual property and ensure the movie’s profitability demonstrates her commitment to not only her career but also to the broader Nollywood industry.
The actress-turned-director is poised to set a new standard for the industry through her proactive strategies and relentless passion.
‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’ promises to deliver a compelling storyline, enriched by a talented ensemble cast that includes Akindele reprising her iconic role as Jenifa, alongside Nigerian music and acting sensation Folarin ‘Falz’ Falana as Sege.
The film also features the remarkable talents of Jackie Appiah, Nancy Isime, and the beloved Patience Ozokwo, all of whom bring their unique charisma and depth to the project.
As the release date approaches, the anticipation continues to build among fans and the Nollywood community alike.
The film aims to capture the hearts of audiences both locally and internationally, addressing themes that resonate deeply with the everyday Nigerian experience while delivering the humour and wit Akindele is synonymous with.
With her indomitable spirit and strategic planning, Funke Akindele is on the brink of making history once more in the Nollywood landscape.
As she aims to set new revenue records with ‘Everybody Loves Jenifa’, the challenges posed by piracy and market conditions will require a collaborative effort from all involved.
With enthusiasm buzzing, the countdown to the film’s release promises to bring exciting developments for both the actress and the broader cinematic community.
As Nollywood continues to evolve and grow, Akindele’s efforts serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future filmmakers and artists in the industry.
