By Damilola Fatunmise
Oyindamola Sanni is a versatile and dynamic actress in the Nigerian film industry. She gained significant acclaim for her compelling portrayal of ‘Latorera’ in Kunle Afolayan’s acclaimed movie ‘Rise of The Spectre.’
Her performance in the film showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters, earning her recognition and a growing fan base.
In this interview with The Entertainer, she opens up on life as an actress and a movie producer, dealing with the opposite sex, her ideal man amongst other issues.
Would you say you chose movie making or it chose you?
Mine is a blend of both. I was discovered by a Nollywood director while doing comedy skits with a girl group called Black Citizen.
Which is better between the English and Yoruba movie industry?
I don’t have a preference. I do both English and Yoruba movies. It is more about the script actually, and not about it being a Yoruba or English movie set. There are a lot of English movies that have been done but don’t make any sense, so it’s not about the language but the movie quality. Some just shoot because they want to shoot. It is not that there is any moral in the story, and there are some Yoruba movies that are very meaningful. I hope you understand my point. So, basically for me, it depends on the storyline. Most times, when people call me for a movie, I am always interested in the storyline. I ask for the script, I go through it; I don’t just jump on movies.
Would you say you have gotten to that level in your career where the storyline supersedes the pay?
Yes, a very big yes at that.
How do you deal with some of the misconceptions people have about you?
For me, I believe life is beyond fame; it’s a privilege to be famous and as such, I see such a platform as an opportunity to positively influence my society. As for criticism, I believe in constructive criticism as a means of development and growth. However, other forms of criticism don’t get to me at all. Misconceptions are inevitable because people are entitled to their personal opinions which are beyond my control. However, I don’t like the fact that everyone has a negative perception of actors. While I understand some have spoilt our reputation in the past, the truth is we all aren’t the same.
Who are the producers that have impressed you?
There are indeed producers who you don’t ask questions from because you know that they are going to do a good job. I am talking of people like Kunle Afolayan. He is a good producer who knows his onion; I have been privileged to work with him. Honestly, the industry is blessed with a whole lot of brilliant filmmakers.
Talking about Kunle Afolayan, you acted in Anikulapo series, were there moments you felt the project was too big for you to handle?
No. There were times I had anxiety, I was nervous because I didn’t want to mess up. I wanted to get everything right. I felt that for them to cast me for this kind of movie, it’s huge and I didn’t want anyone to say anything. I wanted to give my best and that’s it. I didn’t regret anything.
What’s it like acting alongside veteran actor, Kayode Olaiya (Aderupoko) and what did you learn from him?
His acting is natural. At some point I was shaking. I had Goosebumps. I’ve always been a fan from my childhood days. I grew up watching him, so it was a golden opportunity for me. At some point, I was having issue with a particular line and he kept telling me and encouraging me. He’s a very lovely man, he kept complimenting me and he was also happy that I was casted. We have the same tribal mark and he said they shouldn’t take it out.
How easy is it to produce a movie in the Yoruba industry?
It is not like it is easy. It is about your determination and your passion. If you have the money, you can do it. It is not like I have all the money in the world, but I know that I have to sell myself. When you produce a movie, you wait for the profit and use it to produce another movie. If you want a more quality one, you invest a little more into what you got from the last effort.
Why do Nollywood actresses tend to be more prosperous than their male counterparts?
Personally, I think that it is all about the issue of endorsement. Most times, it is easier for women to get endorsements. For instance, skincare, it is easier to use a woman for the endorsement compared to using a man. A female celebrity also tends to have more followers than their male counterparts, so brands will prefer to work with the ladies in the industry. Of course, they want people to buy their products more, so they will look out for those who have more followers. That is why females have an edge over their men counterparts.
How do you manage the attention that comes from producers, directors, marketers, and actors?
You just have to be careful and apply diplomacy especially when it involves those who are your senior colleagues, those who are producers and directors, except you want to be stuck in one place. You have to apply diplomacy, you just can’t reject everything. I am not saying that you have to be wayward, but you have to apply diplomacy. That is what keeps me going. You laugh with people when it is necessary and you know when to cut it.
What kind of man do you like?
As you grow, your taste changes. Before, it used to be the physical man; it used to be the usual tall, dark, and handsome man. But at the moment, it is somebody that is understanding, especially because of the kind of job I do. He has to be very understanding, he has to be caring. The physical aspect also matters too because I can’t be walking with one person and be admiring another person. He has to have potentials too, I don’t like lazy people, and he has to be hardworking.