Djimon Hounsou warns African filmmakers against relying on Western markets
By Damilola Akinwale –
Beninese-American actor Djimon Hounsou has urged African filmmakers to tell their own stories without relying heavily on Western markets, calling on them to expand the reach of African films and reshape global narratives about the continent through independent distribution platforms.
Hounsou spoke during an interview with the media on Monday at an event in Lagos celebrating US creativity and commercial partnerships in Nigeria. The event was held in honour of the 15th anniversary of the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).
Expressing delight at participating in the event, the actor said it was personal to him because it brought him home. He disclosed that it was the first film festival he had attended, despite missing out on several others.
Speaking about his career plans, Hounsou said he was currently focused on inspiring the next generation of filmmakers to advance and expand the industry. He stressed the need for African filmmakers to tell their own stories and establish platforms capable of distributing their content without heavy reliance on Western markets.
The Hollywood actor warned that depending on Western interests to tell African stories could distort their narratives and undermine their originality. “I am hoping that we also be able to create the platform that can permeate the number of our content that we have,” he said.
On the economic benefits of developing independent distribution platforms, Hounsou said they could generate billions of dollars for Africa and the diaspora while reaching millions of Africans across the world.
He further argued that the industry must achieve self-sufficiency in both production and distribution, warning that excessive reliance on Western partnerships could allow external interests to dictate the stories Africans produce and portray.
Hounsou is a Beninese-American actor who has featured in several Hollywood productions. He portrayed Korath the Pursuer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, including ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ (2014) and ‘Captain Marvel’ (2019).
