Starring the likes of Dr. Ahmed Yerima, Babara Soky, Joke Silva, Alex Osifo, and of course, Genevieve Nnaji, Mahmood Ali-Balogun’s “Tango with Me”, which is due to hit the shelves in the second quarter of next year, has indeed signalled the return of old actors in Nollywood.
Coming at a time when most popular faces are disappearing on screen, the decision of the producer cum director of the movie, Ali-Balogun, to give the old faces a chance to excel again, remains a clear indication of his strong desire, not only to raise the bar, but importantly, his utmost belief in encouraging the return of the once popular faces in Nollywood
“I try to encourage real professionals to be involved in anything I do. That’s why I’m parading the experienced actors and actresses as well as the upcoming ones. For one thing, I have used this production to serve as a learning tool for all of us in the movie industry.
I’m starring the old hands because they are still relevant and has a lot to offer to the industry. I got three students from the Nigerian Film Institute, Jos to come and learn the rope, he said.
Ali-Balogun was one time vice president of the Independent Television Producer Association of Nigeria (ITPAN) and founding member of the Conference for Motion Picture Practitioners of Nigeria (CMPPN). He spoke while he was on location with the cast and crew of the production.
Reputed for his documentaries, and insistence on professionalism, particularly advocating a virile film culture in Nigeria and indeed, Africa at large, Ali_Balogun stops at nothing to practise what he preaches.
The big budget feature film maker confirms the veteran producer’s readiness to raise the bar, while beckoning on other film makers to toe his path.
Shot in 35 MM, ‘Tango with Me”is a film of substance, and one that tends to champion the momentous return of the old faces on screen.
The film, according to him, is a serious feature film, which mirrors a big family setting. It’s also a psychological drama blended with dance.