Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ruth Kadiri has faulted movie producers who set unrealistic standards for success on YouTube. She firmly stated that any producer demanding one million views on a movie’s first day of upload has already failed.
Kadiri, known for her outspoken nature, urged actors to reject this unnecessary pressure. She emphasized that achieving such high view counts is not the only measure of a movie’s success.
According to her, a film’s quality depends on much more than the lead actor’s popularity or face.
Kadiri reminded her colleagues that a well-produced movie requires more than just a famous face to sell. The Nollywood star highlighted how some producers ignore the deeper aspects of filmmaking, focusing instead on shallow metrics like views. She advised actors to prioritize the joy of their craft over meeting these unrealistic expectations.
“There’s so much people don’t understand about YouTube,” Kadiri said, encouraging actors to remain confident in their abilities. She added that ignorance often leads to unnecessary criticism, but it should not overshadow the hard work and creativity put into a project.
Kadiri didn’t hold back in addressing her peers, particularly those who have never supported or invested in anyone else’s career. She argued that such individuals are often the loudest critics, spreading negativity in the industry. Her bold stance resonated with fans and colleagues, sparking a debate online.
Kadiri’s comments struck a chord with many, prompting reactions from fans and industry insiders alike. Social media users shared their frustrations with the state of Nollywood filmmaking.
One commenter, @rochelle_97_, criticized low-quality productions, saying:
“Dear Nollywood actors, not everyone is meant to be a producer, and that’s okay! Please stop giving us movies where the entire plot is set in one house… very boring.”
Another user, @sika_gh_, highlighted the lack of originality, stating:
“Too much pressure and unnecessary competition. Some are just recreating the same stories. One story gets retold by five different actors turned producers.”
Kadiri’s remarks reflect broader concerns about Nollywood’s evolving standards. With YouTube becoming a key platform for movie releases, some producers focus more on quick metrics than long-term storytelling quality. This shift has sparked debates on balancing creativity with commercial success.
By addressing this issue, Kadiri not only defended her fellow actors but also called for a cultural shift in Nollywood. Her message was clear: success is not defined by numbers but by meaningful storytelling and genuine effort.
The debate also sheds light on the growing divide within Nollywood. While some filmmakers prioritize artistic integrity, others chase viral moments and trends. Kadiri’s bold stance encourages stakeholders to rethink their approach, putting quality above fleeting fame.
Ruth Kadiri’s statements are a wake-up call for Nollywood. Her words urge the industry to focus on growth, collaboration, and respect for the craft. By rejecting superficial metrics, she advocates for a future where actors and filmmakers can thrive without undue pressure.
In the end, Kadiri’s message serves as a reminder: filmmaking is about creating art, not just chasing numbers.
