While Nollywood continues to grow as a powerhouse in the global entertainment industry, many filmmakers are sharing their frustrations over persistent challenges in dealing with Nigerian cinemas. These hurdles, they say, threaten the sustainability of their craft and hinder the growth of the industry as a whole.
From revenue-sharing models to high operational costs and limited screening slots, filmmakers are voicing concerns that paint a stark picture of the behind-the-scenes struggles in bringing movies to audiences. For many, the excitement of releasing a new film is often tempered by the complexities of navigating a cinema ecosystem fraught with bottlenecks.
One of the most significant issues highlighted is the revenue-sharing structure between cinemas and filmmakers. Many filmmakers lament the disproportionate split, which often sees cinemas taking as much as 60% of ticket sales. By the time we account for marketing expenses, production costs, and the cinema cut, there’s very little left for the filmmaker, said Kunle Peters, a Nollywood producer. This imbalance, according to stakeholders, discourages smaller filmmakers and independent producers from entering the cinema space, as the financial risks often outweigh potential rewards.
Another frequent complaint is the limited availability of screening slots for Nollywood films. International blockbusters often dominate cinema schedules, leaving little room for local productions. This lack of exposure significantly impacts box office performance, as audiences may not even be aware of a film’s release. Sometimes, your movie is given odd time slots when most people are at work or unavailable. It’s like being set up to fail, said filmmaker Ada Okafor, whose recent movie struggled to attract significant viewership due to poor scheduling.
Filmmakers also pointed to the high costs associated with cinema releases, including technical requirements, promotional campaigns, and regulatory fees. These costs, combined with the uneven revenue share, make it challenging for many to break even, let alone turn a profit.
Even after overcoming these challenges, filmmakers face the looming threat of piracy, which significantly cuts into their potential earnings. Some have resorted to parallel distribution through streaming platforms, but this comes with its own set of challenges, including limited audience reach and revenue potential.
In response, cinema operators argue that the current structure reflects the operational realities of running cinemas, including high overhead costs, infrastructure investments, and competition. They insist that collaboration is key to finding a middle ground that benefits both parties.We are open to dialogue with filmmakers to address their concerns. However, it’s important to understand that cinemas also operate under tight margins, said a representative from a leading cinema chain.
Industry stakeholders are calling for reforms, including more equitable revenue-sharing models, better scheduling practices, and support for local productions through subsidies or tax incentives. Many also believe that strengthening the relationship between cinemas and filmmakers will be crucial for the industry’s long-term growth. Despite these challenges, Nigerian filmmakers remain resilient, continuing to tell compelling stories that captivate audiences. While the road ahead is fraught with difficulties, many are optimistic that open dialogue and innovative solutions will help overcome these hurdles and foster a thriving cinema culture in Nigeria.
