Nollywood actress Chizzy Alichi based in Asaba has addressed the mainstream media’s lack of respect for Asaba filmmakers, citing a lack of funding for excellent production.
In a recent interview with Hiptv, Alichi discussed Asaba performers’ lack of recognition in mainstream Nollywood and verified that Asaba filmmakers spend less on film production than their Lagos colleagues.
She noted how different regions of Nigeria approach filmmaking, with Lagos prioritizing quality and Asaba focusing on quick output.
“The only difference I see here is maybe in the making of the movie. Lagos tends to take their time especially the use of props. There in Asaba, we believe in mass production as e dey hot. Nollywood is everywhere,” she said.
She asserted that Asaba actors are more well-known, while also pointing out that these low-budget films are accessible to those who cannot afford streaming sites or cinemas.
“Most of the Asaba actors are more popular because they make the movie with a low budget. It goes to even the village women. Not everybody has time or money to come to the cinema but those epic movies; even the market women, the hawkers, the mechanics, can watch,” she added.
She concluded by advocating for progress and higher standards in filmmaking to meet modern audience expectations.
“The world has gone past that kind of movie; they need to step it up a bit,” she said.
Meanwhile, The New Daily Prime recalls that Chizzy Alichi and her Yoruba colleague Laide Bakare made it to the trending list after competing in a celebrity boxing battle, few months back.
The fight was reminiscent of the one between Charles Okocha and Portable, who turned to boxing to settle their differences.
Chizzy wore a red boxing gear with gloves, while Laide wore a blue outfit with gloves as they exchanged a series of playful punches.
Chizzy Alichi won the fight, defeating Laide Bakare decisively.
Also, the Asaba star was distraught last year December after losing her father.
The actress confirmed her father’s passing in a touching Instagram message, explaining how much his loss has affected her.
She referred to her late father as her first love and expressed acceptance of God’s decision to take him now.
Despite the tragedy, she said she takes comfort in the fact that he completed all of his dreams during his lifetime.
Chizzy Alichi wrote: “My father is gone. Words fail me. My father, my first love. I’m broken, my whole life is turned upside down. This was not our plan. Father how can you die without carrying my children. This is too much for me but I cannot question God. I’m glad I gave you almost everything you have ever wished for when you were alive. Rest in peace father. Please come back to me as soon as possible. I don’t understand what’s going on anymore, first call in the morning and it’s the news of your death, can I ever pick any call in the morning again. Please say a prayer for me.”
By Chinasa
