ONYE OZI (The Messenger) Preview Series: Eleanor Agala

Here’s another interview with beautiful Eleanor, from the ONYE OZI (The Messenger) Preview Series…

Name: Eleanor Agala

State of Origin: I am from Imo State, Mbaise or should I say Mba 5

Is this your first film role?

This is my 5th film so far this year but this is the one that really helps me to embrace my culture. What character do you play? Tell us a bit about the her.

I played Madam Hemehe, who is a very interesting character. She owns a restaurant and is very beautiful, rich, and sophisticated. She likes to please the customers because she knows they will be spending their money but unfortunately for her, something terrible happens and she knew that it was going to be the start of a bad business. All she thinks about is how to line her pocket.

What made you want to audition for ONYE OZI (The Messenger)?

When I heard that ‘The Obi Emelonye’ was auditioning for a movie and it was in Igbo, I knew that I had to be part of the project as a cast and the bonus was that I can speak my language. I had seen and heard of his previous work, and I admired him.

What was the initial reaction from family and friends when you told them that you will be involved in the first ever Igbo language film in London?

My family are my biggest supporters but when I told them I was shooting an Igbo movie, my sister was like ‘you and your fake Igbo’. I couldn’t stop laughing at the jokes because they think I am too western. The script was a bit challenging because it was a different Igbo compared to Mbaise that I am used to speaking. Friends all called me fake Igbo girl but overall they were all excited for me because they just couldn’t wait to see me embarrass my self with accent.How different did it feel for you to act in an Igbo language film in comparison to English? Was it easier or harder, considering you had to learn the script in Igbo, etc?

At first, it was a bit challenging because I write Igbo how I speak it and it’s difficult sometimes. During the rehearsals, I kept getting it mixed with my dialect and all I could hear was ‘Say what’s on the script.’ But once I got the hang of it, I just couldn’t stop myself from singing my lines every where I went.

This film will definitely bring something new to Nollywood, being one of the few Igbo films being made. Considering the large number of Igbo actors/actresses, directors in the Industry, why do you think there are very few Igbo films being made, in comparison with other groups?

I just feel that sometimes society affects the way we reason and so people forget to embrace their culture. I know ONYE OZI will be an eye opener to the Igbo brothers and sisters living in the diaspora that no matter where you are, you can still create a movie in your language. Igbo is very sweet, so who wouldn’t want to speak it.

What do you wish for the outcome of ONYE OZI (The Messenger)?

I wish that ONYE OZI will make people like me and producers to embark on a journey of makings films in Igbo, be it a TV series or even cartoons so that our children will benefit form it. Any final comments?

Watch the making of the movie to see all the work involved, it is the most exciting and interesting set that I am blessed to be part of. I say hard work always pay.

The amount of camera that was used to shoot one particular scene was something out of a Hollywood movie.

I have projects coming up so you just have to wait and see because its in the early stage.

I would also appreciate it if you could all vote for me in the upcoming BEFFTA Awards 2013, I have been nominated for Best Actress, Click HERE to vote’

How can people find out more about you?