Veteran Nollywood filmmaker Ruth Kadiri believes that storytelling remains the heart of filmmaking—but in today’s digital era, the journey of a story extends far beyond the script or the set. Speaking at the YouTube TV/Film Day in Lagos, Kadiri emphasized that creators must now consider how their narratives engage audiences across multiple screens, from smartphones to laptops and smart TVs.
“For audiences today, the screen isn’t just a cinema or television—it could be the phone in someone’s hand or the laptop they use at night,” she said. Kadiri highlighted that content must connect emotionally, no matter the device, and that authenticity is key. Stories rooted in Nigerian culture, humor, and languages such as Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, or Pidgin resonate globally when paired with translations or subtitles.
Kadiri also stressed the unprecedented creative freedom that digital platforms offer. Filmmakers no longer depend on traditional gatekeepers to decide which stories reach the public. Platforms like YouTube allow creators to release content directly, engage with audiences in real time, and build communities around their work.
“The digital age has returned power to the storyteller,” Kadiri noted. “With consistency, strategy, and resilience, filmmakers can now connect with global audiences while staying true to our cultural roots.”
Her reflections serve as a guide for emerging filmmakers, highlighting the importance of strong narratives, cultural authenticity, and adaptability to a rapidly evolving media landscape.
