Independent filmmaking in Africa has long thrived on creativity and resilience, but many projects fall short of reaching global audiences due to limited resources and infrastructure. A new entrant, The Backlot, is stepping in to bridge this gap, offering studio-level production support tailored for independent and African filmmakers.
Founded by entertainment executive Nky Ofeimun, The Backlot provides a range of services, including trailer editing, film marketing and promotion, business affairs advisory, and project management for film investors. The company’s mission is to help filmmakers focus on storytelling while ensuring their projects are positioned to compete on the international stage.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the venture, Ofeimun explained that many independent filmmakers are forced to take on multiple roles during production, often at the expense of critical areas such as marketing and distribution. “The Backlot was founded to support the hard work of independent filmmakers who often have to wear multiple hats to bring their stories to life,” she said.
The company’s strategy is rooted in intentionality and innovation. Beyond producing trailers or executing campaigns, The Backlot employs tools such as A/B testing, campaign reporting, and advanced sound design to measure audience engagement and optimise project outcomes. This approach, Ofeimun says, ensures that films are not only completed but also shown to the local audiences and can thrive internationally.
The Backlot is also focused on industry sustainability. Through project management, it offers investors confidence in backing emerging talent while internally investing in training and development for its team. Ofeimun emphasised that the company does not rely on a “one-size-fits-all” model, noting that each film receives a tailored strategy that aligns with international best practices.
The timing of the launch comes as Africa’s film industry is experiencing increased visibility through streaming platforms, global festivals, and international co-productions. However, the same opportunities bring challenges such as tougher competition and higher audience expectations. The Backlot aims to give filmmakers the structural and professional backing to meet these demands without compromising their creative vision.
Ofeimun, who brings over eight years of experience in both the creative and business sides of filmmaking, has previously worked with organisations including EbonyLife, Papaya, and Circuits. Backed by a team of professionals across its service lines, she is confident that The Backlot will provide a new level of reliability for filmmakers seeking to elevate their projects.
Speaking on The Backlot’s role in supporting emerging voices and storytellers, Ofeimun reiterates that one of The Backlot’s aims is developing the next generation of filmmakers. They believe with their project management skills, they will be able to convince investors to back these emerging voices. In Ofeimun’s words, “By doing so, we’re not just delivering services today but we’re building a stronger ecosystem for tomorrow’s storytellers.”
Stakeholders note that African filmmakers have never lacked compelling stories; what has often been missing is the support system to amplify them on a global scale. By offering world-class support services and aligning with international standards, with debut projects already underway, the company says it is ready to make its mark.
The Backlot aims to not only tell but also celebrate African and independent stories globally. With its launch, a new chapter begins for African and independent filmmaking, one defined by ambition, professionalism, and the confidence that local stories can truly find a home with global audiences.
The post The Backlot Launches to Empower Independent Filmmakers appeared first on Nollywire.
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