Veteran Nollywood actress Uche Jombo has opened up about her acting journey, the changes in the Nigerian film industry, and the influence of motherhood on her career in a candid interview with The Will Downtown.
Nollywood’s Evolution
With over two decades in the industry, Jombo highlighted the significant progress Nollywood has made, particularly in technical quality and storytelling.
"We are not where we used to be, but then again, we are not where we are supposed to be," she remarked.
She emphasized the industry's growing global appeal, crediting this to locally inspired stories made accessible to international audiences.
"What brought us to the table was our unique way of telling local stories. Now, with the vast technology we have, filmmakers are telling these stories for a global audience," she noted, adding that Nollywood films are increasingly resonating with viewers beyond Nigeria.
Staying Inspired
Jombo shared that her environment and real-life events inspire her storytelling.
"I like making films based on true life stories because they teach a lot. Even if a story is fictional, the human angle is important to me. I want you to have a glimpse of who I am through the movies I make," she explained.
Her projects, such as Onye Egwu, a story inspired by societal perceptions, and her upcoming film A Better Man, reflect her dedication to relatable narratives with emotional depth.
Career-Defining Roles
Jombo pointed to Onye Egwu as a project that significantly shaped her career.
"Everybody thought a man should produce it because they believed men know football better. It was a different challenge for me, and it became defining," she said.
Motherhood’s Influence
Discussing how motherhood has reshaped her career, Jombo acknowledged that it has deeply influenced her choice of roles.
"There are roles you give me, and I can tell you a mother won’t do this or that. I’m also telling stories that I want my child to watch and be proud of," she shared.
She added that motherhood has enhanced her ability to portray certain characters, making her performances more authentic.
"Sometimes, being in a particular situation in life makes it better for you to step into a certain role, but first and foremost, you are an actor," she concluded.
Through her reflections, Uche Jombo demonstrates her unwavering passion for storytelling and her commitment to using her platform to inspire and connect with audiences globally.