African All-Stars Series: Chidi Mokeme

Meet Chidi Mokeme: Where cultural diversity meets magnetic charisma, a tech-savvy actor and reality show maestro from Nigeria's heart.

What is your favourite TikTok you have made to date and why?

Among my TikTok videos, the one I hold most dear is my very first. What makes it so unique is that it features a clip from one of my favourite scenes in the movie 'Shanty Town.' This scene demanded a broad spectrum of emotions, and the smooth transitions between these various feelings did justice to the character's development. This scene effectively sets the tone for the rest of the film. Furthermore, this video holds a special place in my heart because it marked my debut on TikTok, serving as my announcement to the TikTok community.

How has being a part of the TikTok community specifically helped you share your talent with global audiences?

I love that TikTok has a global reach and presents a platform to showcase my talent to a global audience. TikTok democratizes the entertainment, creative, and knowledge-based industries, making it accessible for individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their creativity and ideas with the world, free from unnecessary bureaucracy and bottlenecks. I can connect and interact with my fans and followers on a more personal level, making it a true game-changer.

Are there any Nollywood films or actors who have had a significant influence on your content or style? If so, who and how?

The Nollywood film that has had the most profound influence and impact on not only my content and style but also my career, in general, is 'SHANTY TOWN.' After a prolonged hiatus from the industry, compounded by the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, 'SHANTY TOWN' became the movie that catapulted me back into the global spotlight. Preparing for and embodying the character of SCAR was a profoundly personal one. The reception to the film, particularly my character portrayal, marked a significant turning point in my career. It solidified my determination to approach every role with the same commitment and dedication.

What challenges have you encountered as a Nollywood actor, and how have you overcome them?

I've had the privilege of being part of the Nollywood industry since its inception, allowing me to witness its evolution from its early stages to the present day. As an actor, one of my primary challenges initially revolved around convincing my immediate family to support my career choice. In those times, society often viewed entertainers with skepticism, and announcing a desire to become an actor was met with a perception that one lacked a plan. Overcoming the battle for family and societal acceptance was my initial obstacle. Still, with unwavering dedication and a burning passion, I managed to prove that pursuing this path was indeed the right choice.

Professionally, as an actor, one of the ongoing challenges I face is finding enough time between projects to give each character the attention and depth it deserves. At times, due to the pressures of meeting production schedules and limited opportunities, there's a rush to complete one project and move on to the next. This haste can lead to actors arriving on set unprepared, memorizing lines just before shooting, which results in shallow and unconvincing performances. To counter this, I make it a personal rule to receive scripts well in advance, allowing me the time to become intimately familiar with my characters and deliver more authentic and compelling portrayals.

What advice would you offer aspiring producers and actors/actresses just starting their careers in acting and content producing?

For aspiring actors, this is a serious business, not child's play. The entertainment industry demands unwavering commitment and dedication. Genuine talent and passion are your allies in a field far from a bed of roses. With millions of aspiring actors vying for limited opportunities, it's crucial to do your homework, seek professional training if possible, or utilize available online resources. Join relevant guilds and associations in your area of interest to stay updated on industry developments and trends.

As for aspiring producers, I suggest visualizing the end from the beginning. There are various platforms, such as Straight to Video, YouTube, Cinema, and Streaming, each with unique processes. Aspiring producers should thoroughly research and understand the content they wish to create and the platforms they want to engage with. This clear vision increases your chances of success and makes you a more attractive partner for potential investors.

To all aspiring actors, producers, content creators, and more, I raise a toast to your future success.