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Makemation has stood out for its focus on marketing the artificial intelligence concept of the film. This is a move that has generated a lot of buzz on social media, sparking conversations on how it would be infused into a Nollywood film. In the newly released official trailer, we have caught further glimpses into the story of Makemation which follows a young girl from a low-income community in Lagos who learns to harness AI to address challenges in her environment.
The released trailer offers more details about the project that’s already drawn international attention at screenings at Kenya Innovation Week and the Global AI Summit in Saudi Arabia. Running well within three minutes, the trailer, starting off with an inspiring theme song, introduces Zara, a 17-year-old girl (Tomi Ojo) from rural Lagos who gains access to a prestigious tech institute — setting the stage for what appears to be a story about teeming youth, inequality, familial experiences and the promises (and risks) of artificial intelligence.
The film is expected to touch on real-life issues like access to education, healthcare, and digital tools. It also raises questions about inequality in the tech space, especially among underrepresented communities. This, like many others, will portray growing up in underprivileged communities and making it out of such circumstances against all odds.
For and against her ambition are both community and family members, from street boys to relations, who do their utmost best to frustrate her efforts. “Woman place is kitchen,” an angered father (Ibrahim Chatta) screams at Zara and her sister (Sapphire Ekeng). Another key face teased in the trailer is Chimezie Imo, who plays the role of a supporting friend to Zara (possibly a love interest subplot brewing).
But for all of 180 seconds, the trailer briefly shows flashes of the AI element, hinting that the filmmakers may be saving those moments for the main film. Instead, the focus here is largely on the human relationships that propel the lead character to greatness or have a hand in orchestrating her downfall.
Produced by a young team led by Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, founder of Rise Interactive Studios and directed by Michael “AMA PSALMIST” Akinrogunde, Makemation makers have positioned the film as more than just entertainment. Through its themes, it draws attention to Africa’s role in emerging technologies and the potential of youth-led innovation. Starring Richard Mofe-Damijo, Shaffy Bello, Tomi Ojo, Chioma Chukwuka, Ibrahim Chatta, Chuks Joseph, Chimezie Imo, Makemation opens in cinemas on April 18.
WKMUp is a media partner of Makemation.
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