Lagos, Nigeria
According to the makers, Makemation, Africa’s first featured film on artificial intelligence (AI), will be released in Nigerian cinemas on April 18.
The film, written by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji and Nengi Diri, showcases how young Africans can dare to dream beyond poverty to create possibilities and solve local problems by leveraging AI and other technologies to build tangible products.
According to the executive producer, Akerele-Ogunsuji, the film is a compelling message and hope being delivered through innovation to the Nigerian youth.
“MAKEMATION is not the first feature film on Artificial Intelligence and the technologies of the fourth Industrial Revolution, out of Africa for Nothing.
“We worked our hearts out to make this Movie. Film is so powerful, and that’s why I chose it as the channel to deliver the compelling message of hope through innovation to the youth of Nigeria and Africa.
“I’d like to see more girls in tech and young people solving our problems, leveraging local innovation, and this Film will enable that dream in every way,” she said.
Endorsements
Makemation has been endorsed by different stakeholders, especially in the government and multilateral cycles, because of its impact on youth development and technology development in the country.
On March 9, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos, unveiled the film in Lagos as the future of Nollywood in Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu said, “This production exemplifies the potential of collaborative effort, and we need to see more partnerships of this nature. As a government, our mission is to provide platforms that enable creative individuals to thrive.
“We have consistently prioritised the growth of our creative industry and believe that fostering creativity and innovation is crucial for our state’s development.
“By supporting initiatives like this, we aim to promote our talented filmmakers and artists while showcasing technology’s immense potential in storytelling. Together, we are building a vibrant creative ecosystem that entertains, drives economic growth and positions Lagos as a leading hub for the arts in Africa.”
The governor added that “viewers will see young people designing bras that detect breast cancer. We must move beyond consuming innovation and start building our own. Nigerian films should showcase our indigenous innovations. This film is for the future. Success isn’t reserved for a select few.”
The US Consulate in Lagos has also hosted the screening of Makemation because of how it embodies the spirit of youth-driven innovation.
According to the organisers, the event at the Consulate highlighted the significance of international partnerships involved in amplifying Africa’s creative and technological voices.
The Logline Presentation
- When enrolled in the most prestigious Tech School in the country, a poor, courageous teenage girl must prove her genius and save her family, despite the myriad challenges she faces.
- 17-year-old Zara Sodangi isn’t having the best of times. Her welder father is a thorn in her flesh, and her Akaraseller mother is barely bearing the burden of providing for the family. Zara’s friend in the Hood challenges her to apply for a scholarship to Makemation.
- To be continued when you book a ticket to watch Makemation this weekend.
The film is dramatic, inspirational, and with a mix of comedy.
