Ukpaa, others to headline masterclass at Coal City film festival

Ahead of this year’s Coal City Film Festival, organisers have unveiled filmmaker, Izu Ojukwu, Chichi Nwoko and Theo Ukpaa as facilitators for the Masterclasses billed to open from April 11-15, 2023.

There has been a lot of expectation from the masterclasses, especially the Businness Of Film Masterclass facilitated by AFRIFF Chief Operations Officer, Theo Ukpaa. There is no surprise regarding the high expectations for his session following the success of his Masterclasses all around the globe, incorporating his many film lectures at various international universities.

The Business of Film Masterclass integrates a filmmaker’s technical and conceptual understanding of filmmaking with the practical dimensions of a managing career in the film industry. Students will examine current industry business models and develop plans to advance their careers in filmmaking.

According to Ukpaa, “Often times, people focus merely on the show and glamour as well as the razzmatazz that comes with filmmaking, and end up dying broke. A strong national economy depends on a strong creative economy—and it all starts with a story. The film and television industry supports 2.4 million jobs, pays out $186 billion in total wages, and comprises over 122,000 businesses. As a filmmaker, one of the best moments is directing real stories of real individuals, getting them to the big screens and smiling to the Bank,” he said.

Coal City Film Festival celebrates the originality of African and world cinematic expressions in Enugu, the city that arguably gave birth to the Nigeria film industry, otherwise known as Nollywood.