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The Actors Making A Difference In ShowMax

By Modupeoluwa Adekanye
24 October 2021   |   2:00 pm
Collaborations in the Nigerian and Ghanian Film scenery are not new. However, with the comedy series ‘Ghana Jollof’, the fusion is one leaves a memorable impression. This comedy includes actors from both Nigeria and Ghana film industry with some scenes shot in Ghana. The Guardian Life team discussed with James Gardiner who played the role…

Collaborations in the Nigerian and Ghanian Film scenery are not new. However, with the comedy series ‘Ghana Jollof’, the fusion is one leaves a memorable impression.

This comedy includes actors from both Nigeria and Ghana film industry with some scenes shot in Ghana. The Guardian Life team discussed with James Gardiner who played the role of Kweku, Akah Nnani as Romanus and Funnybone as Jasper.

James Gardiner- Kweku 

This won’t be your first Nollywood feature. How do you feel about collaborating with Nigerian actors?

It’s an enjoyable experience. Meeting new people and making friends. It’s also an extension of my work to a larger crowd.

Why did you take the role and choose to feature in the comedy series?

It’s the story hands down! I fell in love with it the first time I read it. And I heard about some of my colleagues who were going to be on the project too so I asked for the next available flight to Lagos (laughs). 

How do you see ‘Ghana Jollof’ and what makes it special to you?

I think it’s an amazing story because it’s an embodiment of comedy and a relatable story that the audience can connect with. Being part of telling such a story is what makes it special to me. 

What difficulties were you faced with interpreting your role as Kweku?

This project is unique and special because mostly, we are given the chance as actors to not stick to scripted dialogues but sometimes apply directed improvisations to naturally bring the character we are playing to life. So I had to be conscious of when I use certain jargon and expressions from Nigeria since that’s where Kweku attended university. So getting the balance right was key, so I didn’t overuse them. 

Featuring in the first ShowMax’s comedy series, how does this make you feel?

It’s a great experience to be part of making history. I think ShowMax is an amazing platform for classic African content.

Akah Nnani- Romanus

How did you get your role as Romanus?

I was at IK Osiakoduwa’s house party, and we were all having a good time. Friends of his family were invited so Basket was there. You must know that this was the first time I had ever had a moment with Basket. He was just watching me and me in my usual crazy behaviour just making a fool of myself. And being the life of the party, I might have made him laugh once or twice.

By the end of the party, he looked at me and said, “Guy, I will work with you. I will create a show for you” and he walked off. 

I actually forgot this ever happened but look, 5 years later, I get a random call and it’s Basket and he says, “It’s time!!. I’m like, “time for what???” He then reminded me of that brief conversation (which was the first and last we ever had) and I was dumbfounded. When he told me the concept of the show, I was sold. Practically itching. 

 Considering your acting journey so far, how is this different?

So this was a huge learning, stretching and sharpening moment for me. Working on this project was an amazing journey for two major reasons I will highlight.

  1. Working with comedians. Comedians are some of the most intelligent people in our communities. But then working with greats such as Basket, Buchi and Funnybone, kept me on my toes. I was scared; I talked with Basket and he assured me. He said if he didn’t think I could do it, he wouldn’t have got me on the project. When I heard this.. eeeehh!!!! I said, “okay!! We move!!”.  
  2. The amazing people and team that I worked with. Basket has successfully been able to build such a good team of people who know their job but also are such good and real people. I felt comfortable with the team and I could trust them on so many levels that I formed good relationships with crew members and actors alike. That doesn’t happen everywhere or every time.

I’m very particular about my space and the people I allow in it. So big shout out to Mr Solomon, the producer, for being that guy! He was in charge of managing the operations. The production was under control! The team pulled off something that literally should have been impossible. I respect the entire team and I wouldn’t forget my experience with them in a hurry. 

Jasper Played by Funny Bone

How did you bring your personality as Funnybone into playing Jasper?

Understanding Jasper as a character was very easy. Being Funnybone also helped me digest the character faster. Jasper is an exciting character. Jasper is exciting and full of life. Relating with other characters was smooth.

What were the defining moments for you as an actor?

Winning “AMVCA Best Actor in a Comedy (Movie or TV Series)” did the magic. At the time, I discovered I was doing something right.

 What are your thoughts about the film’s collaboration with Ghanian actors?

Super cool. Working with Ghanaians opened my eyes and brand to a larger market and fan base. Shout again to Basketmouth for a job well done.

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