Area Boys Diary

Another Day

2008-03-17T09:45:00.000Z

"Another day, no Dollar, but Niara" as Eddie Kaddi the lead actor in area boys put it during the making of Area Boys. But this blog is not on the "making off" but rather an event that has gripped the nation year in year out known as BOBTV. For the second year running bobtv was held at the Ladi Kwali Hall center in Sheraton Abuja.

For those that are wondering "what is bobtv"? Well to simply put it bobtv is BEST OF THE BEST TV, BROADCASTING & FILM in Nigeria. The event organizers, Mrs Amaka Igwe and her Husband come partner Charles Igwe must be commended for the hard work and efforts in putting together a program directed at improving the current state of the Nigerian film and broadcasting industry.

As usual bobtv had its usual expo stands for companies to showcase their latest offerings in terms of camera equipments, lighting, sounds, grips and hardware. There were a host of producers and directors selling and acquiring films and seeking distribution deals within and outside of Nigeria from media and broadcasting companies milling around the event, from the likes of SABC, DSTV, HITV just to mention a few.

I was quite impressed this year to see a stand by the BBC WORLD SERVICE and their array of high quality films on HIV AIDS and other social issues. This year was the year that we at Inspire Film & Media which is also known as Inspire Film Productions Nig Ltd previewed our long and waited film AREA BOYS. To know what happened when our film was screened read on………..

I can tell you the first day AREA BOYS was screened I was really nervous because I didn’t know how the general public would take the film, especially the university undergrads. As I walked into the large hall 7 and sat down and noticed only five people in the room. I quickly got into a position usually military soldiers would in a bunker to shield away from enemy fire. My mind was thinking well this is bad…and within a few seconds as the film started the situation got worse as only two people were left in the room. I thought oh no, we really suck, maybe I should start to retreat to the exit door!! Just as I was about to tell the operator to stop the film, I noticed the people that left the room came back in full force with more people.

Now I wasn’t crouching anymore and my head was slowly rising above my chair. To my surprise this happened a few more times and before long the room had practically packed out and the audience was quiet to which I thought “that’s a good sign”. As the film ended the room was still silent and the audience left the room. I wasn’t quite sure how to take it but I was later informed by the festival directors Area Boys was well received.

On to the second and last screening things were different as the room was practically full before I got there and people were eagerly waiting to see the film. This time I sat down with my head up high and as the film was played I looked at peoples faces and could see they were really into it. At the end of the screening there was a massive applaud with some people whistling and others stood up. I felt good and proud from all the hard work that had gone into the film by the cast and crew. I’d like to give you all a pat on the back for your hard work and commitment.

Bello

WHERE HAVE WE BEEN?

2007-11-12T19:11:00.000Z

Oh my gosh! I can't believe that it's been almost a year since I last posted a blog. I remember back then we were about to set off on a wonderful albeit unknown journey. Where did all the time go? Time flies whether you're having fun or not I guess. I know a lot of people have been wondering what happened to the project: did we do it or not? was it a success or a complete dog's dinner. Well, the past 11 months are a testimony to the fact that if you believe in something and pursue your dreams no matter the cost, you will get your just rewards. For those who might have thought they were waiting in vain, I'd like to give my sincere apologies- we've have a lot of blogging to do! In the next few weeks and months I'll be recounting some of the experiences we had trying to fulfill the vision of AREA BOYS. I'll also share some of pics and clips and keep you updated on some very exciting news about the upcoming release of the film- AREABOYS. The journey has been a long one, but only now has it truly begun!

Keep dreaming

AREA BOYS SLIDE SHOW!

2006-12-28T11:24:00.000Z

WE DID IT!

2006-12-05T22:17:00.000Z

After 30 exciting and adventure filled days, we did it and have the postcard to show for it- so to speak! The past month has been a truly amazing experience for everyone involved in the AREA BOYS PROJECT. I think I speak for the whole crew when I say that every single member of the team has been touched, changed even by our experiences in making this dream a reality- whether it be spiritually or in the form of a reality check on the plight of Africa. We've all come back with personal stories to tell- funny stories, scary stories and downright absurd stories. But most importantly we have in a possession over 10 hours of what we hope will be the beginning of the transformation of Nigeria and the African continent not just as a continent with potential but one of importance, with something valuable to give the rest of the world...

Thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, emails of kind wishes and encouragement. You don't know how they helped us get through the eye of numerous storms!!!!

My apologies go out to everyone who I haven't replied back to or gotten in touch with. I'll try my best to reach to you all this week.

Look out for updates on the progress of the project through post production and/or screening s in the new year...

HELLO FROM HUMID CITY

2006-12-05T22:14:00.000Z

Hey All,
Sorry for the late post! But as the saying goes, better late than never!

Just a quick note to say that I got to Lagos safely. But I've had to land on the ground running! I've been having millions of meetings every day so far and it's soooo hot! Even at 6.30am in the morning! What's that about? I'm glad for the places that have a/c but when there isn't... God help me..

The preperations are going well and we have a successful meeting with the Lagos state local council who have agreed to do everything in their power to ensure we have a successful shoot as they believe in what we're trying to do for the future of Nigerian filmmaking and also the Area Boys Project as an educational tool for young kids who might think the corruption route is easier and more profitable.

The rest of the week is jam packed with meetings for sponsorships and scheduling. On the saturday the cast and crew arrive and it's rehearsals, camera tests and location recces next week before the 7 day shoot beginning on the 18th November.

GOD IS GOOD!

How long now?

2006-10-17T19:58:00.000Z

Following a fabulous run last sunday, I am very proud to say that the south won!!!!I keep telling Mel that if he wants to go far in life he needs to stick with me.Evidently (as he said) may the best team win.Well,what can I say?It was so much fun and I'm looking forward to doing it next year.We had our first rehearsal last weekend, it was really good and basically I have a LOT of work to do.I've been instructed to watch lots of Nollywood films and work on my Nigerian accent.I had all my injections the other day and I tell you I'm ready. I'm really desperate to go now.Joeseph (our lead actor) and I walked the streets of London last weekend till 2 in the morning, handing out flyers everywhere, Nigerian restaurants, bars, clubs, stuck them on cars,just everywhere.I had a bit of a panic attack, afraid no one would come to Agbero Nights on friday,I'm ok now, but I'm sure to start stressing soon.Everytime DJ Gabe (who I must say has been a God send..............THANK YOU!!!!!!) calls me, I anticipate bad news.However, there has been none so far.Thank the Lord.

I went to Artisan( a prayer meeting for Christians working in the Media) last night and I tell you I was so blessed, I asked for prayer for our film, and it was so lovely.

I'm feeling abit impatient and really want to be on the plane now.Like yesterday!

We went on Ben TV on sunday, and did our thing. Thank you Black Knights for allowing us to go on on your show!

I hope to see all of you guys, friday night, Manjaro Bar,148 Holloway Rd,London!!!!!

until friday..........

A blessing at every turn

2006-10-14T11:18:00.000Z

What a week we've had! I was thinking to myself the other day that right now, there are not enough hours in a day, not enough days in a week for us to be ready for the beginning of production in mid-november. I know people will say it's the pressure getting to me, or the fact that I'm so excited about the project, or anxiety or etc etc. But I got to thinking about my week- between trying to move house, editing numerous corporate projects and trying to produce a film, I've had an average of about 3 hours sleep a day! And when I'm supposed to be asleep, I'm thinking about all the things I have to do so I don't forget and mess it all up!!! I know I'm going to need a holiday when all this is over. Hellooo Espana...

Back to the updates. We had our first rehearsals today which was kinda cool as it was actually the first time I'd looked at the script in any sort of depth (Sorry Dipster but things were pretty hectic!). We also spent a chunck of the week distributing flyers to the whole of London for the club event at Manjaro Bar, Holloway Road on the 20th of October. If you're in the area please come down and support us. It promises to be a great evening of short films, peotry readings, acapella singing and great music...

On a more serious note, we still need to find another male lead character and are desperate for a sound engineer!! Please, if anyone is interested, do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

A big thank you to everyone who has 'bumped' into the web/blog site and has been touched by what we are trying to achieve. It's a real blessing to us to know that there is a forum and a need for this type of project. I just hope and pray that the finished film will be just as inspiring if not more so...

Peace, love and Blessings all...

North vs South, Mel vs Janette?

2006-10-08T09:11:00.000Z

Hey All,
Sorry we haven't been in touch with updates but as you can imagine things have been getting more hectic as the shoot date looms ever closer! We have exactly one month before I fly to Lagos to begin the 2 week prep before shooting. But before that we have the small matter of some major fundraising to reach our budget. Today Janette and I will be converging with thousands other runners for the annual Nike 10km race in a North vs South challenge. I run for the north whilst Janette is for the south. May the best team (ahem North) win!

We're pleased to announce that we've lined up a couple of key interviews to help promote the AREA BOYS PROJECT:
On monday 9th October we are on the radio show VOICE OF AFRICA (Sky digital 0192)from 11am-2pm and next sunday evening (15th) we will be on BEN TV.

Please do tune in to support us and be part of our vision!

Thank you all for your, thoughts, prayers and support.

Till next time.

AFTER THE HIGH...

2006-09-25T21:52:00.000Z

The past couple of weeks have been pretty good going. The website was up in record time, we found a venue for the club night and saw the first draft of the script! Our first script meeting was very special indeed as we were all bristling with ideas about the visual nature of the Area Boys project. Personally, I was quietly going about my campaign to absolutely destroy my record 10k time because at the rate training was going, I was going to do it in sub 45 mins which isn't bad at all. But it's funny (and very sad in my case) how life decides to throw you a couple of curve balls just when you think you have it all figured out...

Mine came in the shape of a muscle pain I felt during my last run a week ago. 'Just a tight strain in my back' I thought, 'probably from playing too much volleyball and tennis and football and ping pong when I was in Spain.' But lo and behold the pain got worse and more pronounced and by the end of the week it felt someone was sticking a dagger into my left shoulder blade and twisting it for good measure. 'oh oh' I thought, 'I've only gone and trapped a nerve'. The pain was so much that I've been on a full dose of pain killers for the past few days.

Today I went to an osteopathic (?) surgery for the first time in my life and after much popping of my spine and neck (which made me feel very light headed!) I was told it wasn't a trapped nerve but something big and unpronounceable about how my shoulder back muscles were starved of blood and the cells died!!!! All I wanted to know was when I could run again (the Nike 10k is on October 8th!) but it doesn't seem that I'll be doing much of that this week as I'm still on pain killers until at least next tuesday. The battle might be lost but the war is not over by any means! I'll do this run if it means I have to pushed on a wheel chair (thanks Caroline!). I just might have to rethink that sub 45 minute target....

Enduring until the end

2006-09-19T15:38:00.000Z

Had some good news yesterday Virgin Nigeria are on board and are sponsoring us, so it's definitely on!!!!!!I'm about to book flights, just waiting to confirm crew.I checked my emails today and although I haven't received any from potential sponsors, I did get some from people who've responded to the site and our project.I was really touched and I feel like all our hard work is paying off.

We now have a venue,Mangaro Bar and Restaurant and a date 20th October, we just need people for our fund raising event, and some bouncers.I read the first draft of the script on Sunday.Do you know how long I've waited to have a script in my hand?I was ecstatic, when Dipo told me he had sent me the script I screamed and then there was a deathly silence on the phone, I had to compose myself.I said "Sorry about that":-).Everything's ok now we have a script.

I went running with my brother on Saturday, who shot off without me, leaving me behind. He then said, I need to work harder as I'm not pushing myself.And its true I was running at the back of the pack at a safe pace and would finish without a bead of sweat,but fairly confident that I could run 3 miles without stopping.So I turned up the heat last night.And I ran in the middle of the pack I ran so hard and I pushed myself.I nearly died, managed to shave 5mins off my best time!!!!I learnt something.You can achieve more than you think you can if you push yourself and it's better for you to run this race called life with people who are fitter and faster as it inspires and pushes you to do more.To achieve more.It just takes focus and sheer determination. Determination is what we have to lift this thing off the ground, with £1 or £10000, we've made a decision to endure until the end.

Funding

2006-09-14T17:12:00.000Z

Greetings all. I'm working with Mel on Area Boys and am absolutely drained because it's taken me about 5 hrs to figure out how to use this website!!!!!!!!!

Had a fairly good day today, Virgin Nigeria came back with some very positive feedback (we're in the process of negotiating discounts for flights and sponsorship). Contacted a few ambient media and advertising companies hopefully they'll give us some money.Waiting to hear back from Haringey Film Council (I'm not sure if they'll consider our project as we're not shooting in Haringey).Contacted BEN TV and OBE TV, hopefully they'll give us some exposure (free, i hope.....).I wrote to Guinness as well...

This running business is not getting any easier.Its sooooo hard.I went training last night and it was really tough, I really wanted to stop but I had to will myself to continue.And that's half the Nike run!!!

Have to make sure I tell the crew to get all appropriate vaccinations, need to get the flyer design from Mel for our club night.And to sort out the venue.

A million and one things to do................

Until the next time

Janette

GOOD BYE SPAIN/ GIBRALTAR

2006-09-13T09:59:00.000Z

Today is my last day in Spain/ Gibraltar. I've been here the past week slugging away on the website with my best friends who run a 'legendary' web and graphic design company called Piranha Designs Gibraltar (just a thought, does the term 'best friend' exist in the world today, or have we all become close acquaintances?). Juls, Yewy and the gang at Piranha have been a real blessing and I truly do not know what I would have done without them- I've found recently there are a few people who will be a blessing to you when you need them most (you know who you are!). I guess like the film we're trying to make, I'm beginning to learn the true value of friendship.

Working on the site has been a mission with ridiculous long hours (we worked till 2.30am last night!) and Yewy's finally showing signs that his eternally youthful features might not be so eternal after-all.

So now it's back to London, where a whole host of different challenges lie in wait, not least finding a suitable venue for a club night we're hosting in mid-October to raise cash. If anyone knows any cool but cheap venues in town who would be willing to help out on this great cause, please, please drop us a line.

Of course it wasn't all work, work. I had to find some time to re-charge the batteries, so here are some pictures I took of our stay in Alcadesa, south of Spain.

Until next time...

Julian and Orkun

Yewhung

Me Chilling

Nike 10k run

2006-09-12T10:46:00.000Z

So, the first challenge for me in trying to raise attention (and some money) to realise the Area Boys film project was when I signed up to do the 10k run which begins on the 8th of October. The reason I say it's a challenge is because only a few weeks ago, I can faithfully say I hated running with a passion! Even the thought of it made me feel a bit queasy!

The human mind and body is a phenomenum! In the early days of my training, it was a battle to make myself go out to jog 15 mins (and I'm a very active person!). I would make a million and one excuses about why I should put the the run off for another day. The mind is very good at convincing you to do what it wants, and if I didn't have a vision/ reason for running I would have given up on day one.

Now I can run for one hour and feel I still have some more in the tank! Go figure! And it almost feels natural (I say almost because it can be a lonely sport and it's very easy to quit when the going gets tough and there's no-one to push you).

So now I'm running for the 'North London massive' against the coffee swilling south Londoners at the Nike 10k in Regents park. And I'm hoping to do the run in 45 mins (another miracle!)

I'll load some pics of my training as soon as I can.

God bless

The very first Area Boys blog

2006-09-07T12:34:00.000Z

Hi everyone,
Warm welcome to our blog/ diary of events as we lead up to the dawn of the realisation of a dream. Janette-Nicole Nzekwe and I will be giving you periodic updates of the highs and lows we go through as we strive to raise funds to make our ground-breaking short film project in Lagos, Nigeria...