Curious about the magic behind Nigeria’s entertainment scene? Meet Chisom Nwobu, a visionary creative blending storytelling, event planning, and filmmaking into a symphony of success. In this exclusive interview, he unveils the secrets of his journey, from navigating industry intricacies to his mission of leaving an indelible mark through iconic projects and unforgettable experiences.
Can you tell us about your journey into the world of film production and event planning? What inspired you to pursue these careers?
Honestly, I can’t pinpoint exactly how I stumbled into film production. It all started when my brother and partner Ebuka pitched the idea of interviewing musicians. This was back in 2015/2016. We interviewed Yemi Alade, Falz, Solid Star, and others. That was our first foray into film production. In 2018, Ebuka was approached to produce a video for Riton and KahLo. Demola, who hadn’t done much work in Lagos at the time, was directing, so he needed help with the logistics, and this is where we came in. That marked our official entry into music video production, although our very first music video was for an artist back in 2017. After the success of that project, we felt confident in our abilities and began producing videos for alté artists like Santi, Odunsi, and even Tems. I’d say our official start in film production was in 2018; everything before that was essentially a test run.
As for event production, it began with our inaugural event, We Go Again 2020. Instead of the usual year-end gifts, we decided to throw a party to express gratitude to everyone we collaborated with throughout the year. The response was overwhelming, and many asked for a sequel. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we couldn’t host another in January 2021. However, during Easter, with things beginning to open up, we organized the first Easter Cookout in 2021. Interestingly, we didn’t even start planning until Easter Sunday, and the event was slated for Easter Monday. Yet, despite the short notice, people turned up in droves, clamoring for more. Thus, our annual event tradition was born: We Go Again in January and Easter Cookout in Easter. Now, we’re looking to expand to other cities and even other countries, God willing.
As for what inspired me to pursue these careers, I have to credit Ebuka for dragging me into it initially. From our very first endeavor, I discovered how much I enjoyed it. The joy on people’s faces at our events and the satisfaction of creating content is what kept me going.
How do you balance your roles as a film producer, a scriptwriter and a connoisseur of cool parties?
Balancing my roles is quite challenging, to be honest. There are times when I feel like I’m only keeping it together by the grace of God. For example, I recently had a two-week story workshop for Tinsel, a TV show I write on. As soon as it ended, I dove straight into three different shoots, consuming most of my time for the next five days. During such intense periods, one aspect of my work inevitably takes precedence over the others. For instance, during the workshop, film production took a backseat, although I still managed to handle event planning to some extent. When I’m on set, I have to decline script writing opportunities because I can’t juggle being on set and writing simultaneously. It’s impossible to give all three roles my undivided attention at the same time. So, I approach it by focusing intensely on one aspect at a time, allocating my energy accordingly.
What sets Vogue Boys & apart from other events, and what types of events do you specialize in?
Our events are known for their unique energy and inclusivity, which sets us apart. People often mention the infectious atmosphere we create—attending a Vogueboys event guarantees a good time for everyone, unless you’re just determined not to enjoy yourself, you’re a bad belle or they’re following you from your village.
In terms of the events we specialize in, we offer a variety of experiences. The first in the year is always ‘We Go Again’ in January, an exclusive invite-only event aimed at celebrating industry creatives and trailblazers. Then there’s our signature Easter Cookout, a water-park festival held every Easter Monday, featuring water slides, pools, and other fun activities reminiscent of a music festival. We host Summer Cookout events throughout the summer season. This year, we’re expanding to other cities, with plans for events in Ibadan, Enugu, Port Harcourt, and Abuja. Another event we organize is the Dirty Sexy Rave, a provocative warehouse party where guests are encouraged to dress in their sexiest attire. This year, we’re planning a series of monthly events leading up to a big finale to close out the year. These events showcase the diversity and creativity that define our brand.
As a scriptwriter for one of Africa’s leading media organizations, what are some of the challenges you face?
Despite Multichoice’s size, Nigeria’s religious conservatism imposes significant constraints on storytelling. For instance, depicting gay characters is illegal, limiting creative freedom. While I’ve been writing for these shows since 2017, I’ve noticed these restrictions stifle creativity. However, I’m now challenging myself to push boundaries and generate daring ideas, even if they’re likely to be rejected.
Moreover, I have a strong aversion to rules and structures. As a free-spirited individual, I find excessive regulations stifling. Additionally, the pay is not commensurate with the effort. Compared to Hollywood and other countries, the compensation is lacking. Considering my extensive script writing experience, one would expect a more luxurious lifestyle, but it’s a gradual process. Unfortunately, Nigeria’s entertainment industry may not be financially capable of matching international standards, but we’re making progress and it’s only a matter of time until we get there.
Can you share your most memorable experiences or projects you’ve worked on in your career so far?
I’ve had the privilege of working on some incredible projects. One standout is Santi’s “Raw Dinner” video; Santi’s immense talent truly shines through in that piece. Another milestone was Rema’s “Dumebi,” which marked his breakthrough hit. Then there’s Tems’ “Try Me,” another impactful debut. We’ve also contributed to several other Tems videos like “Damages,” and most recently “love me jeje” among others.
Another unforgettable moment was the Summer Cookout last year. I had envisioned creating an event with a massive crowd, and it materialized with 4000 people enjoying music, water guns, and good vibes. It was absolute madness, but in the best possible way. These experiences hold a special place in my career.
How do you approach the creative process when developing scripts or planning events? Do you feel like your jobs tend to flow into each other sometimes? And how has that helped you?
When crafting scripts, I start by defining the story’s essence: who it revolves around and its unfolding events. I follow the FREYTAG story structure, which aids in story development and progression.
Film production and writing often intertwine seamlessly. While production may seem more administrative, our creative background as writers allows us to infuse innovative ideas and shape briefs. This fusion ensures that my writing compliments my film production work.
In event planning, we infuse creativity into every aspect, reflecting the synergy among all my roles. This cross-pollination of skills has greatly enriched my work across the board, demonstrating how being a creative influences excellence in every endeavor.
What advice do you have for aspiring filmmakers, event planners, and script writers looking to break into the industry?
My advice to writers is read extensively. It’s the most effective way to broaden your creative horizons. Remember, there’s no entirely new story; every narrative is rooted in something familiar. As a film writer, immersing yourself in binge-watching sessions isn’t just entertainment—it’s research.
For filmmakers, my advice remains the same: seek inspiration from those excelling in your field. Learn from them, emulate them—there’s an art in “stealing like an artist.” And if you feel your muse is elusive in Nigeria, look beyond its borders; there’s a wealth of talent worldwide to draw inspiration from.
As for event planners, think outside the box. Unconventional ideas can make your events stand out in a crowded market. Alternatively, securing a high-profile artiste like Burna Boy or Wizkid can guarantee a turnout. But the climate is changing. People don’t want to just come to watch an artiste perform for an hour and go back home; they want an experience. You need to give them an unforgettable experience and that’s what’s going to keep them coming back for more. With creativity and strategic thinking, the possibilities are endless.
In your opinion, what trends do you see shaping the future of the film and event industries?
It’s refreshing to see events relying less on big-name artists to draw crowds, shifting the focus to the overall experience. This trend opens doors for talented DJs to shine, and I hope it continues. I’ve witnessed a surge in skilled DJs who, just a couple of years ago, were relatively unknown. Events like Group Therapy, Sweat It Out, Element House, Mainland House, and others offer diverse experiences, each with its own dedicated following.
In the film industry, which I believe is still emerging, there’s an abundance of creative talent. I’m optimistic about its future, especially with the increasing creativity and access to better equipment. Platforms like Netflix provide opportunities for filmmakers to showcase their work, making it an opportune time to pursue a career in filmmaking.
How do you stay inspired and motivated in such a dynamic and competitive field?
I’ll be honest, money is a big motivator for me. I enjoy having the means to afford nice things. Additionally, receiving feedback from people on our projects or events drives us to push the boundaries further. In a competitive industry where many are doing similar work, continuous improvement is crucial to staying relevant. There’s no room for complacency; if you don’t hone your craft, you risk fading into obscurity.
Seeing video clips of the memorable experiences people have at our events fuels our drive to excel. It’s a reminder that we’re here to make a positive impact, and it reinforces our sense of purpose.
Lastly, what are your future goals and aspirations for your career in the entertainment industry?
My ultimate goal is to achieve remarkable success by creating timeless projects and iconic works that leave a lasting impact on the industry. I aspire to produce exceptional films that resonate with audiences and contribute to the thriving Nollywood landscape. Alongside this, I aim to generate substantial wealth and organize the most extravagant parties and festivals. That’s the vision for Vogueboys, and I’m determined to see it through.
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