You’ve heard of Hollywood and Bollywood; now get ready for Nollywood Babylon! Ben Addelman and Samir Mallal’s 2008 feature-length documentary profiles Nigeria’s successful Lagos-based movie industry. Actress Uche Jumbo says, “Nollywood is a child of circumstance, because Nigeria [crosses the bridge between the] Western World and [African] tradition. It’s basically Africans telling African stories.” In response to the domination of Western films from the US and Europe in Africa, Nigerian filmmakers bring powerful messages and African culture to the big screen. This documentary is a must-see. PN1997 A35 2009 DVD
In the Music and Media Collections, you’ll find Africa First, a collection of short films from independent and international up-and-coming voices from Africa. These four tales range from a young girl’s search for her father through 1980s Zimbabwe to a scientist’s quest to germinate seeds in post-apocalyptic Nairobi. Be sure to stop by the Music and Media Collections located on the first floor of the O’Shaughnessy-Frey Library to check out this title and many more!
By Sarah Pavey
