Kunle Afolayan: How Curiosity Powers Nigeria’s Iconic Filmmaker
As Kunle Afolayan approaches 50, the visionary director behind Nollywood classics like Anikulapo and The Figurine reveals how relentless curiosity fuels his creative journey and keeps him at the forefront of Nigerian cinema.
Dreaming Wide Awake
Months before his 50th birthday, Kunle Afolayan remains as driven as ever. When contacted for this interview, his responses came swiftly – thoughtful, intentional, and brimming with enthusiasm even through digital communication.
“I stay curious,” Afolayan reveals. “Every experience – whether traveling, conversing with fellow creatives, or simply observing daily life – feeds my imagination.”
This insatiable curiosity has defined his remarkable career. From the supernatural thrills of The Figurine that revolutionized Nollywood’s visual storytelling to the culturally rich, globally acclaimed Anikulapo, Afolayan’s films consistently push boundaries.
Breaking Through and Staying Relevant
Afolayan first captured hearts as an actor in Tunde Kelani’s Saworoide (1999), but his directorial vision truly cemented his legacy. His 2009 thriller The Figurine challenged Nollywood’s complacency at a time when the industry hesitated to experiment.
“The Figurine was my most challenging film,” Afolayan confesses. “I made it when nothing was working, when everyone was comfortable with low standards. That upgrade nearly cost me my life.”
The gamble paid off spectacularly, not just elevating his career but transforming industry expectations of what Nigerian cinema could achieve.
The Art of Consistency
Two decades later, Afolayan’s films continue making waves. His recent masterpiece Anikulapo captivated audiences with its rich Yoruba mythology and meticulous execution.
“I believe in storytelling’s power,” Afolayan explains. “My consistency comes from loving the craft and wanting to showcase our culture through compelling stories.”
This focus has earned him a revered place in Nigerian cinema. “Google my name,” he says, “and you’ll see someone who changed an entire industry. That’s fulfilling.”
Building a Lasting Legacy
Afolayan’s vision extends beyond filmmaking. The KAP Film Village and Resort emerged from limitations he faced while filming Anikulapo.
“What if we had a permanent storytelling environment?” he wondered. The result is an ambitious creative hub that continues facing challenges, including three years of operating solely on generators.
His Afefeyeye Restaurant and Bar further demonstrates this holistic approach, blending food, culture and community. “It’s about building connections through art and shared stories,” he says.
Educating the Next Generation
Through the KAP Film Television and Academy, Afolayan has trained over 10,000 aspiring filmmakers in three years.
“We’re bridging technical gaps,” he states passionately. “Filmmakers should be ready for the field without waiting for experienced crews.”
His vision? An industry thriving with confident, capable storytellers maintaining Nigeria’s creative vibrancy.
Homegrown Solutions for Global Impact
As streaming giants dominate content distribution, Afolayan advocates for Nigerian-owned platforms.
“We need our own credible distribution system,” he insists. “It starts with valuing intellectual property and educating audiences about paying for content.”
Staying Curious at 50
Approaching his half-century mark, Afolayan has no retirement plans. “Filmmaking is how I breathe, think, and dream,” he declares.
Rather than lavish celebrations, he’ll commemorate his birthday by officially opening the KAP Film Village & Resort – “a gift to the industry and everyone who’s walked this journey with me.”
His advice to aspiring filmmakers? “Stay curious, stay active, and let your dreams drive your actions.” For Afolayan, curiosity remains the fuel powering decades of innovation – with endless possibilities still ahead.
Credit: The Guardian Nigeria