Award-winning Nollywood actor Femi Adebayo defended his colleague and friend, Odunlade Adekola, after a social media user criticised Adekola’s latest film, Warlord.
Adebayo called for respect, understanding, and fairness as the debate over the movie gained momentum online.
The criticism started when a viewer posted a harsh comment on X (formerly Twitter), attacking Adekola’s involvement in multiple aspects of the film’s production.
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The user argued that the actor took on too many roles at once, producer, lead actor, singer, and director, and claimed that this was the reason the film “did not make sense.”
The post read, “Na you go be producer, main character, singer, director. Na why your movies no dey make sense. Do better.”
The comment quickly spread, drawing mixed reactions from the public. While some supported the criticism, others described it as disrespectful, especially given Adekola’s long career and contributions to Yoruba cinema.
In response, Femi Adebayo stepped in to defend Adekola. He shared a detailed message addressing the critic directly and reminding the public that filmmaking required teamwork and respect.
Adebayo said the negative comments, although common on social media, could undermine the hard work of many people involved in creating a movie.
Adebayo wrote, “I’ve noticed one or two tweets from this account about my brother’s movie.
Understandably, you’re entitled to your opinion, but posting comments from behind a keyboard doesn’t automatically make those opinions accurate.”
He went on to emphasise the importance of recognising the effort behind every movie.
He explained that films were not produced by one person alone, even when an actor took up multiple responsibilities.
Directors, writers, crew members, and technical teams all contributed to what the audience eventually saw on screen.
He described filmmaking as a collective process that required long hours, intense planning, and sacrifices from dozens of professionals.
According to Adebayo, critics often overlook these efforts when sharing negative remarks online.
He urged viewers to approach Warlord with an open mind and judge the film based on its full value, not through quick assumptions or emotional reactions.
He added, “Let’s keep it respectful; that is someone’s craft. Filmmaking is teamwork, with directors, writers, crew, and actors all putting in their best.
This project is my brother’s. Watch it at a cinema near you… and judge it with open eyes, not quick fingers. That’s the fair way!”
Adebayo’s message encouraged a broader conversation about the challenges artists faced in an era where social media made criticism instant and sometimes harsh.
They pointed out that taking on multiple roles could help maintain creative control or reduce production costs, especially within the Nigerian film industry, where budgets were often limited.
Despite the criticism, Warlord continued to attract attention and generate discussions among movie lovers.
Adebayo’s intervention highlighted the growing need for balanced conversations around Nollywood films, especially as the industry expanded and more works reached international audiences.
His message also underscored the importance of encouraging artists rather than tearing down their efforts.
With Warlord still showing in cinemas, Adebayo encouraged movie lovers to judge the film with fairness and to celebrate the hard work behind every Nollywood production.
