In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria’s creative industry witnessed a surge in innovative filmmaking approaches. Young independent filmmakers embraced alternative and individualistic styles to express their creativity. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok became instrumental in showcasing their creativity and capturing a global audience.
Several filmmakers have gained recognition and popularity through their unique approach to filmmaking.
Korty EO
Eniola Olanrewaju, widely known as Korty EO, has become an icon of Nigerian urban culture. Her captivating YouTube videos have garnered a devoted following, making her one of the most popular faces in Lagos’ creative scene. With multiple talents as a filmmaker, graphic designer, writer, model, and artist, Korty EO has captivated audiences with her ability to tell stories about anything. She was one of the Youtube Black Voices Class of 2023 honoraries. Furthermore, she stood out as the exclusive Nigerian filmmaker entrusted with capturing the Victoria’s Secret 2023 world tour.
Tayo Aina
Temitayo Aina, a renowned travel vlogger, has established himself as one of Nigeria’s prominent YouTubers. Through his engaging videos, Aina showcases a different perspective of Nigeria and Africa, challenging the stereotypes perpetuated by Western media. With over 643,000 subscribers, Aina’s channel has become a platform to narrate compelling stories in lifestyle, travel, business, and real estate. In less than a week, the latest video release from Aina, titled “24 hours with Davido,” amassed nearly one million views.
Manuchim Praize (Odogwu)
Manuchim Praize, known as Odogwu, is a Port Harcourt-born filmmaker, writer, and actor, reshaping the Nigerian film industry. He is the creative mind responsible for the well-received action web series ‘Selina Tested’. Additionally, he is the founder of Lightweight Entertainment, a YouTube platform with 659,000 subscribers and over 109.9 million total views. In addition to ‘Selina Tested,’ Praize has successfully produced numerous short films and series.
Brain Jotter
Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie, popularly known as Brain Jotter, has made a mark in Nigerian comedy with his unconventional style. Filmmaker, actor, comedian, screenwriter, and online content producer, was initially met with criticism. His unique comedic approach has resonated with millions of viewers. With over a million subscribers and 127 million channel views, Brain Jotter’s influence in the online comedy space continues to grow. His web series “Five Days In Prison” has captured significant attention.
These talented filmmakers represent the Alté movement, which has provided a platform for young creatives to express their individuality and redefine the Nigerian film industry. They have captured the hearts of audiences both in Nigeria and beyond. As Nigeria’s creative industry continues to evolve, these rising stars serve as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers and a testament to the power of embracing alternative and independent approaches to filmmaking. With their continued success, the Alté movement is set to shape the future of Nigerian cinema.
