Nollywood producers discuss challenges of partnering with Netflix

Rumors suggesting Netflix’s possible withdrawal from the Nigerian market have caused a stir among Nollywood producers, who rely heavily on the platform to showcase their work.

However, Netflix quickly debunked these claims, reaffirming its commitment to investing in Nigerian stories and fostering the local film industry.

Despite Netflix’s reassurances, Nollywood producers have highlighted challenges in their partnership with the streaming giant.

Renowned director and producer Lancelot Imasuen criticized Netflix’s approach of engaging through third parties instead of working directly with content creators.

Imasuen urged Netflix to establish direct relationships with filmmakers to strengthen collaborations and ensure that local creatives have greater control and access in bringing their stories to a global audience.

This development underscores the complex dynamics between streaming platforms and the African film industry, as stakeholders navigate the path to mutual growth and sustainable partnerships.

Imasuen’s historical film, “Invasion 1897,” was one of the first 10 films acquired by Netflix in Nigeria, but he feels that the platform’s format is limiting.

“Though Netflix is a blessing to the industry, I have , however, queried the firm’s format of acquisition and working with Nigerians. I feel strongly that they concentrated on one end of the film industry. They should open their doors for content creators to deal with them directly. As for commissioning of works, I feel that they should continue to commission works but democratize the process so that other filmmakers can showcase their talents,” Lancelot stated.

Alex Eyengho, former president of the Association of Core Nollywood Producers (ANCOP), echoed Imasuen’s sentiments, urging Netflix to democratize its process and remove the current system of middlemen, or “aggregators.”

“Netflix should open its doors to content creators/owners, albeit without lowering their standards. The system of aggregators who are akin to umpires also participating in the game, is not working. The system is not only retrogressive but evil,” Eyengho echoed

Also, Fidelis Duker, founder of the Abuja International Film Festival, believes that the potential exit of Netflix may not have significant implications for the movie industry, as many practitioners are already operating on the YouTube platform.