The vibrant world of Nollywood is abuzz with excitement as Dr. Princess Ezinne Agwu, a new but dynamic entrant, nears the completion of her debut film, “The Mandate,” in the picturesque city of Paris. Dr. Ezinne, a distinguished international lawyer and jurisprudence expert, is making a bold leap into the film industry with a project that promises to set new standards in Nigerian cinema.
Dr. Ezinne’s foray into filmmaking is significantly bolstered by her collaboration with the renowned Nigerian filmmaker Ike Nnaebue. Known for his critically acclaimed documentary “No U-Turn,” Nnaebue’s return to fiction is highly anticipated. His documentary received numerous accolades, including a Berlinale Jury Special Mention and multiple awards from the African Movie Academy and the Durban International Film Festival. Reflecting on “The Mandate” and his partnership with Dr. Ezinne, Nnaebue commented, “Working with a visionary producer like Dr. Ezinne is a dream come true. ‘The Mandate’ is a story of courage in a world dominated by fear.”
Royalty Life Studios, where Dr. Ezinne is the CEO, is producing “The Mandate” at an estimated cost of over 700 million Naira. While Dr. Ezinne has not confirmed the exact budget, she assured, “The film is still in production. We will disclose the financial details once it’s complete.”
“The Mandate” tells the gripping story of Dr. Ezinne Egbuna, the resolute Director-General of the Financial Crimes Bureau. Driven by a passion to eradicate corruption and foster development, she resigns from her esteemed role to enter the turbulent waters of Nigerian politics. Running for governor under the banner of the DPC Party, led by Hon. Lucas Amadi, she faces staunch opposition from the rival DPA Party and internal conspiracies. The narrative explores whether Dr. Egbuna can triumph over these challenges and achieve her goals.
The film boasts an impressive cast, featuring Femi Adebayo, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ali Nuhu, Kalu Ikeagwu, Okey Bakasi and Chioma Nwoha. It also introduces Peter Ngene.
In choosing Paris for post-production, Dr. Ezinne highlights her commitment to delivering stories that resonate globally. “Our aim is to craft local stories with universal appeal,” she explained during a press briefing in Abuja. She also mentioned that the release schedule and dates for “The Mandate” would be announced soon.
The Journey of “The Mandate”
Dr. Ezinne Agwu’s transition from law to filmmaking is a testament to her multifaceted talent and relentless drive. With a legal career that has spanned continents and influenced international jurisprudence, her entry into Nollywood signals a new chapter not only for her but for the industry as a whole. Her legal expertise brings a unique perspective to her storytelling, imbuing her narratives with authenticity and depth.
Ike Nnaebue’s involvement in “The Mandate” adds a layer of credibility and anticipation. His previous work, “No U-Turn,” was a poignant exploration of African migration, earning him accolades for its artistic bravery and compelling storytelling. Nnaebue’s ability to capture human experiences with nuance and sensitivity makes him the perfect collaborator for Dr. Ezinne’s ambitious project.
A Story of Bravery and Integrity
At the heart of “The Mandate” is Dr. Ezinne Egbuna, a character whose journey mirrors the complexities of real-world politics and governance. Her character’s fight against corruption and her struggle to implement developmental policies reflect the broader societal issues faced by many nations today. The film’s narrative is expected to resonate with audiences both in Nigeria and internationally, offering a powerful commentary on the nature of power and integrity.
Star-Studded Ensemble
The cast of “The Mandate” includes some of Nollywood’s brightest stars. Femi Adebayo brings his seasoned acting prowess to the film, while Deyemi Okanlawon’s versatile talent promises to add depth to the story. Ali Nuhu, a stalwart of the industry, and Kalu Ikeagwu, known for his dynamic roles, further elevate the film’s prestige. The inclusion of Chioma Nwoha, alongside newcomer Peter Ngene, highlights the film’s blend of established and emerging talents.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Ezinne Agwu and Ike Nnaebue put the finishing touches on “The Mandate” in Paris, anticipation for the film continues to build. The choice of Paris for post-production underscores the global aspirations of the project, aiming to position Nollywood on the international stage.
Dr. Ezinne’s statement, “We are committed to telling local stories for the global audience,” encapsulates the vision behind “The Mandate.” This film is not just a political drama; it is a bold statement of Nollywood’s potential to produce world-class cinema that speaks to universal themes of courage, integrity, and resilience.
With the film’s release on the horizon, the audience awaits a compelling narrative that promises to challenge perceptions and inspire change. “The Mandate” is poised to be a landmark in Nigerian cinema, showcasing the talents of its cast and crew and setting a new benchmark for the industry.