By Oladapo Udom
Lagos – A Mexican filmmaker, José Antonio Elo, says that he is working on a movie that will promote the cultural similarities between Nigeria and Mexico.
Elo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that he was currently collaborating with Nollywood to get suitable casts and locations for the production of the movie.
Elo who said the movie would be premiered in the first quarter of 2019, however, kept its title to his chest
According to him, the movie is going to be a comedy which will display profound reflections and topics that tend to strengthen cultural relations between both countries.
“Nigeria and Mexico have several cultural similarities and differences too; however, our similarities are evident in our politics, economies and even sports; as well as our undying love for football.
“These similarities in our various socioeconomic perspectives will form part of the values which will be projected in the movie,” he said.
Elo said that Nollywood influenced his decision to choose Nigeria as the choice-location for the production of the movie.
“Nollywood has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry worthy of respect and it has also become popular within the international community.
“So, through the power of Nollywood, I will like to project positive images about both countries to the entire world,” he said.
The filmmaker also said that there were several things to learn from Nollywood.
He said that he would include such innovations to improve the movie industry in his country on his return.
“Through Nollywood, Nigerians in the Diaspora can enjoy Nigerian films and this is what the Mexican movie industry is lacking.
“Ninety per cent of the movies shown in Mexican cinemas are from Hollywood, so we have a lot to learn from the Nigeria movie industry,” he said.
Elo said that the Federal Government should develop the great potential in Nollywood so that it could boost the country’s economy.