For filmmaker Ademola Adebisi, directing Dear Ella was more than bringing another screenplay to life. It meant revisiting his own journey through Nigeria’s education system and the sacrifices that made it possible.
“I see a lot of myself in Ella,” he says.
In an exclusive interview with The Nollywood Reporter (TNR), Adebisi recalls how his parents made education a priority throughout his childhood despite financial challenges.
After gaining admission into university, Adebisi supported himself through part-time teaching and technical assistant jobs while completing his studies. He says the experience taught him resilience and made Ella’s story deeply personal.
“So when I read Ella’s story, it hit home. A heart that keeps believing despite the odds reminded me of my own journey. Directing this film felt like telling a piece of my story, and the story of so many kids in Nigeria who just need one chance.”
That personal connection shaped his approach from the very first script draft. Working closely with writer-producer Oluwanifemi Abodunrin, Adebisi refined parts of the screenplay to make the story feel even more grounded.
“I read it over again and then worked with the writer-producer to do a bit of editing so the script felt more grounded.”
Production also came with its share of obstacles. Time constraints, unstable power supply, and unpredictable weather demanded quick decisions and constant flexibility, but Adebisi says those challenges ultimately strengthened the film.
“It reminded me that filmmaking is 50% planning and 50% adapting. That pressure actually made the final film feel more honest.”
Adebisi singles out child actor Marcela Aipoh, who plays Ella, for delivering a performance he believes anchored the film. He also praises Morenike’s portrayal of Ella’s mother and Chielota’s performance as Tutor Jane.
“Marcela carried the film with truth and innocence. I don’t think anyone else could have played Ella better. Morenike as Ella’s mother also gave me chills; she went beyond what I expected. And Chielota as Tutor Jane brought such warmth and freshness.”
Asked what sets Dear Ella apart from other Nollywood stories about the girl child, Adebisi says the film’s greatest strength lies in its emotional honesty.
“If the emotions of this film move you, make you think, and make you care, then we’ve done our job.”
While he believes the film’s production quality is important, Adebisi says its heart is what audiences will remember most.
Above all, he hopes viewers leave with empathy and renewed hope.
“I want people to leave with hope. To keep believing in their dreams, no matter their background. And to remember that in God’s sight, no one is less than the other. We all deserve dignity, opportunity, and a chance to learn.”
Produced by Oluwanifemi Abodunrin, Dear Ella is currently streaming on KingsviewTV. The film follows a young girl whose dream of getting an education is threatened by socio-economic hardship, highlighting the resilience required to pursue opportunity against the odds.
