Acclaimed Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has revealed an unusual chapter in his career, narrating how he once directed a movie without grasping its storyline.
Speaking at the third edition of KAP Film & Television Academy’s Reel Circle, Afolayan shared the challenges he faced while working on the project, which he described as an “installation film.”
“I was asked to direct something I know nothing about,” Afolayan recounted. “I tried to bail out, but I was convinced that I could do it. But I knew I didn’t know what I was going to do. I didn’t understand the storyline. It is an installation film; even at the time, I did not know what that was.”
Afolayan explained that despite reading the script, he struggled to make sense of it. Seeking clarity, he consulted the late Biodun Aleja, a Performing Arts scholar.
“He read it and said, ‘This is crazy,’” Afolayan said. He also met with the producer in London to understand her vision but found the showreel equally abstract. “It didn’t make sense. It was a complete abstract installation; people just doing weird things. And I am a narrative director.”
Despite his reservations, Afolayan agreed to proceed with the project, persuaded by the offer of $40,000 and the opportunity to film in the United States. “We filmed in the oldest museum, and I was the director with five trucks of equipment. It’s like someone throwing you into the ocean and asking you to start swimming.”
Afolayan admitted that even years later, he still does not understand the film. “Up till now, I did not understand the story. There was no story. If I watch it again, I am like, ‘What was the story?’” he said.
However, the experience came with perks. Afolayan noted that he was flown in business class to premiere the film in five countries in 2007. “They flew me in business class to five countries to premiere the film,” he added.
