TarilaThompson
Tarila Thompson is unarguably one of the pioneer filmmakers in Nollywood. Since his bold entry into the industry with the monster hit movie, Love Without Language, in 1993, the pioneer director has not looked back. In this interview, cerebral Thompson spoke on a wide range of issues, especially those militating against the growth of the industry and its many suffering practitioners. The leading filmmaker, whose latest big budget film, In The Creek, is almost ready for global release, also argued that they should be paid royalties for their creative works.
Enjoy the interaction!
As one of the pioneers and leading directors in Nollywood, we would like to know more about you, family and academic background?
My name is Tarila Thompson. I am a Nigerian actor, director, filmmaker, writer, and musician. I am happily married to my lovely wife Funto Thompson and blessed with lovely children. I was born on February 14, 1968. I read financial accounting at Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt.
When and how did you join Nollywood?
I produced my first movie, Love Without Language, in 1993. I am among the first set of producers of English speaking home movies in Nollywood. I also produced the first action drama in Nollywood.
As a top director, which was your first film?
Backstab, starring Charles Oputa, Ndidi Obi, Eucharia Anunuobi, Alex Usifo, among others.
And like how many movies do you have in your kitty as a top director currently?
I have 43 titles under my kitty as a leading filmmaker in Nollywood.
Among the numerous films you have directed, which is very dear to you and why?
In The Creek, which is my latest film. The theme of the movie and what it represents to an entire region and its people makes it very unique and dear to my heart.
What would you say is the biggest challenge facing Nollywood currently?
Distribution and financing are our biggest challenges in the industry. The so called interventionist programmes are lip-service.
What makes a good director?
Technical details, purpose and ability to communicate with the audience.
Have you ever been harassed sexually by desperate actresses on set?
I never really take notice of such things.
Do you think the government has done enough to support Nollywood?
Not at all, that’s why our actors are dying in abject poverty.
As a director what is your biggest achievement in Nollywood?
Creating wealth and mentoring stars.
What would say is the biggest challenge facing directors in Nollywood today and the possible way forward?
It has to be poor funding and technological facilitation. Visible lack of corporate and government support.
In your opinion, are Nigerian directors well remunerated?
No.
Any regret(s) as a top director in Nollywood?
We are not being paid royalties, I am sure that can be achieved gradually.
What are the three major things a good director must look out for in any given script on location?
Theme, set design, and origin.
Can you direct a pornographic film?
Yes I can, but I won’t.
As a pioneer, do you feel threatened by the emergence of new directors in Nollywood?
There are no new directors. You are either established or an up and coming. The up and coming ones still have a lot to prove. They will always come to us for professional consultation or swim in the puree of mediocrity
And what stands you out as a pioneer director in Nollywood?
Nollywood’s pioneer action drama director, that is what stands me out.
And lastly, what is delaying the release of your big budget movie, In The Creek?
Methodical planning from production to distribution…
First published, September 2021.
