Ghana can learn from Nollywood’s pool of behind-the-scenes talent to revive the movie industry – Jackie Appiah

Ghanaian actress Jackie Appiah has suggested that the country's ailing movie industry could learn from Nollywood's approach to utilizing behind-the-scenes talent. She believes Nigeria's film industry has managed to sustain a larger production ecosystem by carving out spaces for not just actors, but also scriptwriters, camera crews, costume designers and other creative professionals.

Appiah, who has worked on several Nigerian productions, pointed out that the opportunities available to these professionals in Nollywood provide valuable lessons for Ghana to adopt as it seeks to revive its movie industry. She made this observation at the Pete Edochie Legacy Project, where she discussed the current state of Ghana's movie industry and what could help it grow.

Appiah noted that while the industry has lost its former volume of production, it is gradually picking up and hopes to see more producers and investors come on board to boost its growth. She emphasized that the industry is not just about front-of-camera roles, but also behind-the-scenes jobs. "If you're there and you're talented; you know how to write scripts, you are a creative camera person, costumier, don't hide.

Look for a producer and share your ideas. I think it will help the industry grow," she advised. Her remarks come as discussions about Ghana's movie industry are heating up, with concerns over reduced production and the urgent need for greater investment and opportunities for creatives. Despite her optimism about the industry's gradual recovery, Appiah is pushing for more producers, investors, and behind-the-scenes professionals to play their part in propelling the sector forward.