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When Omo Ghetto: The Saga smashed records to become Nollywood’s highest-grossing film of 2020, much of the spotlight rightly fell on its star and director, Funke Akindele-Bello.
Yet behind the lens, one of the film’s most striking technical achievements came from Jeremiah Irabor Anthony, the drone operator whose aerial cinematography helped bring Lagos to life in bold, cinematic fashion.
From the moment the film opens, Anthony’s sweeping drone shots establish the sprawling urban setting that frames Lefty’s (played by Akindele) chaotic world. His use of drones offered viewers an immersive perspective, capturing the scale of the bustling city, the vibrant neighborhoods, and the pulse of Lagos in a way rarely seen in Nollywood comedies.
“Omo Ghetto was more than just a comedy,” Anthony explained. “We wanted it to feel big, dynamic, and alive. The drone allowed us to frame Lagos as a character in its own right, giving the story depth and visual energy.”
The film’s fast-paced sequences, including gang confrontations and neighborhood showdowns, were enhanced by Anthony’s aerial shots, adding tension and scope without detracting from the humor. His work elevated the film’s production value, contributing to its status as not just a box office triumph but also a technical benchmark for Nigerian cinema.
Industry experts have credited Anthony’s drone cinematography with helping Omo Ghetto: The Saga achieve a level of visual polish rarely seen in Nollywood comedies. “His work blended seamlessly into the storytelling,” said one film critic. “Those aerial perspectives gave the movie a larger-than-life feel that matched its record-breaking success.”
As Nollywood continues to embrace advanced filmmaking techniques, Jeremiah Irabor Anthony’s contribution to its biggest film of 2020 highlights the growing importance of skilled crew members in elevating African cinema to global standards.
With Omo Ghetto: The Saga, Anthony didn’t just capture the action, he redefined what was visually possible for mainstream Nollywood blockbusters.
