Filmmakers have always relied on funding, and if you are not a driving force in the industry, you are doomed to release a product, not a film.
Even the David Lynchs of this world still have to negotiate with Netflix as well as other studios and backers regarding what to add or not.
In our interview with Taiwo Egunjobi, we discussed how he balances creative ambitions with the commercial realities of filmmaking, especially when financing, distribution or audience expectations may influence creative decisions. “The more I’ve grown as a filmmaker, it has taken me a while to articulate the things I wanted to do,” said Taiwo Egunjobi, reflecting on past projects and how he now appreciates what he does.
Taiwo Egunjobi admits that when starting your filmmaking career, you need to raise funds, and this may affect your creative freedom as a young filmmaker. As a compromise, Taiwo Egunjobi reveals that “as long as the ability is there to tell, to do the things that I enjoy, partnership doesn’t take me away from that. And I’m willing to at least discuss and collaborate with people.
Admitting he is yet to make a cinema film, Taiwo Egunjobi says, “You need to make a film that is very, very accessible to people who go to the cinemas while still being artistically relevant.”
“I think the balance can be found. I think I am seeking that balance, and I know it’s very possible. So that’s where I wanna be, where I’m able to do probably the things I want to do, uh, and still be able to make money for my financiers and for myself as well, you know. So, I think this conflict or tension is a part and parcel of artistic endeavour. You must always be able to balance things out.” – Taiwo Egunjobi.