Nollywood goes global: AGN intl festival makes waves in Los Angeles

Stanley Ihedigbo

2nd edition of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) International Festival, themed “Nollywood Meets Hollywood,” took Los Angeles by storm on November 2, 2024.

The glamorous event, held at Dream Magic Studio, brought together representatives from SAG-AFTRA, casting directors, entertainment moguls, and the Nigerian community in Hollywood.

AGN President, Dr. Emeka Rollas, led a delegation to SAG-AFTRA’s headquarters for a groundbreaking meeting, fostering collaboration and twinning arrangements between the two guilds.

Discussions centered on integrating Nollywood into SAG-AFTRA’s casting and production networks, paving the way for increased global representation and diversity.

The key areas of focus are, securing international roles for Nigerian actors, collaborating on joint projects showcasing Nigerian culture and talent, exchanging knowledge and expertise to enhance industry standards and facilitating Nollywood content dissemination worldwide.

The partnership will, enriching both industries with diverse perspectives, creating opportunities for actors, producers, and filmmakers and showcasing African talent and narratives globally.

Rollas described the meeting as a “breakthrough for Nollywood,” eager to explore growth, cultural exchange, and mutual benefit.

SAG-AFTRA’s Chief Administrative Officer, Will Bensussen, pledged support for AGN members, recognizing Nollywood’s acting talents.

The festival’s gala night featured show reels of Nollywood actors, witnessed by notable stars, including Walta Anga, Lurchy Donald, and Georgina Ibe.

“This festival aims to ensure unique access to business opportunities in the film industry, improving broader collaboration between filmmakers and actors to benefit from global creative opportunities.” – Amb. Cornell Udofia, Spokesman for AGN National President.