Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has offered a glimpse into the demands of working with filmmaker Funke Akindele, describing her work ethic as so intense that even experienced actors must be prepared for repeated takes.
Kosoko shared his experience during an interview on the African A-List podcast, where he portrayed Akindele as a perfectionist who pays close attention to details and remains committed to getting scenes right.
According to the actor, filming with Akindele can involve shooting the same scene as many as 15 times, a process he said requires considerable patience and stamina from cast members.
He praised her dedication, arguing that her energy and commitment to work are difficult to match, including for male colleagues.
“Funke is very hardworking, even if you are a man you can’t match her energy,” Kosoko said during the interview.
He added that her approach to filmmaking can extend beyond the original shooting schedule, as she may decide to revisit previously filmed scenes after reviewing production elements.
Kosoko recalled an instance in which Akindele wanted scenes reshot because of concerns about the plates brought for the production, illustrating her attention to detail and willingness to return to completed work.
“She may come the following day thinking of shooting another scene, but then she will say, ‘We have to shoot those scenes again because of the plates they brought,’” he said.
The actor also disclosed that Akindele is left-handed while sharing his observations about the filmmaker.
His account offers an insight into the level of commitment Akindele expects on set, where repeated takes and additional shooting can be part of her effort to achieve the result she wants.
Akindele is one of Nollywood’s prominent actors and filmmakers, while Kosoko is a veteran of the Nigerian film industry with decades of experience in film, television and theatre.
