Bolanle Austen-Peters: “Films Can Inspire Audiences to Advocate for Equality and Justice.”

Amidst a film industry filled with comedies, dramas, and thrillers, Nollywood’s new movie, “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,” shines as a courageous tribute to a significant Nigerian historical figure. Under the guidance of Bolanle Austen Peters, a visionary director, this biopic goes beyond being just a film; it serves as a strong homage to a prominent feminist and activist in Nigeria. Following its successful limited screening in 2023, the film continues to enthrall viewers after its nationwide debut on May 17, 2024.

“Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” chronicles the life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the mother of legendary musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. From her groundbreaking role as the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School to her leadership role in the Abeokuta Women’s Union, the film paints a vivid portrait of her contributions to Nigeria’s political and social landscape. Starring veteran actress Joke Silva, along with Kehinde Bankole and Adunni Ade, the film has already garnered praise and awards, including Best Overall Feature Film and Best Screenplay at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

In an exclusive interview with The Nollywood Reporter, Bolanle Austen Peters shares insights into the inspiration, challenges, and creative process behind this monumental project.

TNR: What inspired you to bring the life story of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti to the big screen, and why did you feel it was an important narrative to tell?

Bolanle Austen-Peters: The life of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is a great story in the power of strength, activism, and female empowerment. Her contributions to Nigeria’s political and social landscape are monumental yet often underrepresented in mainstream narratives. I was inspired to bring her story to the big screen because it’s a story that needs to be told and heard, especially in today’s context where the fight for gender equality and social justice remains crucial. Her legacy as a pioneer in women’s rights in Nigeria is not only inspirational but also deeply relevant for contemporary audiences.

Can you walk us through your research process in accurately portraying the life and times of such an influential figure?

Accurately portraying Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti required extensive research. We dove into historical archives, read biographies, and consulted with historians and her family members. The lead cast and I travelled on several occasions to Abeokuta to get more information about her from the locals and also visited her house, which has now been converted into a museum, to get as much archival material as we could. We also examined period photographs, newspapers, and other documents to ensure we captured the essence of the time. This meticulous process was crucial to not only honor her memory but also to educate viewers about her significant impact.

What were some of the unique challenges you faced in directing a biopic, balancing historical accuracy with creative storytelling?

One of the main challenges was ensuring historical accuracy while still engaging audiences with a compelling narrative. Balancing fact with the need for a captivating story sometimes meant condensing events or creating composite characters. However, we remained faithful to the core truths of Funmilayo’s life and work. Ensuring authenticity while maintaining dramatic momentum required a delicate touch and constant consultation with experts and advisors.

How did you navigate the responsibility of portraying a real-life person and ensuring authenticity in your portrayal of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti?

Portraying a real-life person, particularly one as iconic as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, is a tremendous responsibility. To ensure authenticity, we worked closely with her descendants who provided invaluable insights. We paid attention to her mannerisms, speech, and personality traits as documented by those who knew her. We also paid attention to costuming. It was important for us to show how she also looked so people could have a real sense of her personality. Close collaboration helped us create a portrayal that was both respectful and accurate.

The film boasts an impressive cast, including Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, and Adunni Ade. Can you discuss the casting process and what drew you to these talented actresses?

Casting was a critical aspect of bringing Funmilayo’s story to life. Joke Silva, with her vast experience and commanding presence, was a natural choice for her wisdom and gravitas. Kehinde Bankole brought a youthful vigor, power, and depth necessary for portraying Funmilayo in her younger years. Each actress was chosen for their unique ability to embody the spirit and strength of the characters they portrayed.

As the director, how did you guide and collaborate with the actors to ensure authentic and compelling portrayals of their characters?

Collaborating with the actors involved deep discussions about their characters’ backgrounds, motivations, and the historical context. We conducted rehearsals that allowed the actors to explore and internalize their roles. Having the cast come along on recces with the core production team was also very important so they could immerse themselves into her world before principal photography began. It was also important for them to bring their interpretations while staying true to the essence of the characters. This collaborative process was key to ensuring that each performance was both authentic and compelling.

Can you share your creative vision and the technical and artistic choices you made in terms of cinematography, set design, and overall aesthetic to capture the historical period and tone of the film?

Capturing the historical period authentically was paramount. We used a color palette that reflected the era, with muted tones and natural lighting to give a sense of realism. Our set design meticulously recreated the environments Funmilayo would have inhabited, including filming at her actual house and using vehicles that would have been similar to what she would have driven. Cinematographically, we chose a style that was both intimate and grand, using sweeping shots to capture public moments and close-ups to convey personal struggles. These choices aimed to immerse the audience fully in the period and the emotional landscape of the story.

Representation and empowerment are crucial themes in the film. How do you hope “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” will inspire and resonate with contemporary audiences, particularly young women?

I hope that “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” will serve as a form of inspiration, especially for young women. Funmilayo’s courage, determination, and tireless advocacy for women’s rights demonstrate that one person can indeed make a difference. By showcasing her life, I aim to empower viewers to stand up for their beliefs, challenge the status quo, and pursue their goals with conviction. Her story is a reminder of the power of perseverance and activism in effecting social change.

What were some of the most significant challenges you faced during the production process, and how did you overcome them?

There were a host of challenges we faced. Most notably financing—funding a production of this magnitude and cultural significance is never an easy task, and we ended up having to self-fund. Logistically, there were also challenges, such as acquiring locations like the palace where we had to film key scenes, as well as acquiring aerial shots, since all the buildings are modern. But we managed to pull it off!

The film received recognition at the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and the recently concluded AMVCA. Can you share your thoughts on this achievement and what it means for the film’s impact?

Receiving recognition at AFRIFF and AMVCA is a tremendous honor and a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the project. It underscores the importance and relevance of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s story. Such accolades help to amplify the film’s reach and impact, bringing her legacy to a wider audience. It’s gratifying to see the film resonating with viewers and sparking conversations about our history.

As a director, how do you approach storytelling through a feminist lens, and what role do you believe film can play in promoting women’s empowerment?

I approach storytelling by focusing on real-life experiences, struggles, and triumphs. I aim to portray characters as complex, multidimensional individuals whose stories deserve to be told with depth and authenticity. Film has the power to shape perceptions and inspire change, making it an important tool for promoting women’s empowerment. By showcasing strong female role models and challenging traditional gender norms, films can inspire audiences to advocate for equality and justice.

Looking ahead, what are your future aspirations and the types of stories or themes you hope to explore in your upcoming projects?

Looking ahead, I aspire to continue telling stories that highlight significant historical figures, social issues, women, and underrepresented communities. I am interested in exploring themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. My goal is to create compelling narratives that not only entertain but also educate and inspire, encouraging a greater understanding and appreciation of diverse experiences.

What is your vision for the Nigerian film industry, and how do you hope to contribute to shaping its narrative landscape?

My vision for the Nigerian film industry is one where diverse stories are told with authenticity and excellence, and where Nigerian films are recognized globally for their quality and cultural significance. I hope to contribute by continuing to create impactful films that challenge, teach, and inspire. By nurturing emerging talent and pushing the boundaries of storytelling, I aim to help elevate the industry and ensure that our history is remembered, our stories told, and our voices are heard and celebrated within and worldwide.