“How trading scripts led her to directing” – Actress Omoni Oboli

By Oluwapelumi Oluwayemi

Nollywood filmmaker Omoni Oboli has opened up about the early challenges she faced in her career, including trading her scripts for acting roles and her eventual decision to step behind the camera.

In an interview with Radionow 95.3 FM, Oboli recounted her unconventional start in the film industry and her journey to becoming a director.

At the beginning of her career, Oboli revealed that she often gave away her screenplays for free in exchange for roles in films.

“I was trading my scripts, I’d say you know what, just take it, don’t pay me. Just give me a role in the film,” she explained. However, this approach led to a realization that the films made from her scripts often diverged from her original vision.

“I write in pictures. I see what I’m writing, so when I’m watching the movie it’s so different. Not to say that it wasn’t good because no two directors will direct the same script in the same way,” she added.

This experience prompted Oboli to take control of her creative output by directing her own films.

Despite her initial fear and lack of confidence, she drew inspiration from her background and the encouragement of her hometown.

“And it was a scary thought, really who do you think you are to come and direct a film? Like who are you again? You know it was so scary, but then I said to myself, Warri no dey carry lass na. Wwetin dem get wey I no get? I was like, I’ll do this thing,” she said with determination.

To enhance her skills and build her confidence, Oboli began studying other directors closely while acting on set and later pursued formal education at the New York Film Academy through a short course.

“I started understudying directors, like I’m acting on set but I’m watching the director closely. And I said you know what? Maybe I need some formal education on this,” she concluded.