Lionheart was disqualified today after it, unfortunately, failed to satisfy a requirement stating that nominees for the International Feature Film Category have to be predominantly in a language other than English.
Responding to this recent development, the NOSC Chairperson, Chineze Anyaene said:
“The budding Nigerian film industry is often faced with producing films with wide reach which often makes the recording dialogue predominantly English with non-English infusions in some cases.
“Going forward, the committee intends to submit films which are predominantly foreign language – non-English recording dialogue. We are therefore urging filmmakers to shoot with intention of non-English recording dialogue as a key qualifying parameter to represent the country in the most prestigious award.
“The committee is working tirelessly in organizing workshops, seminars and using other available media to create robust awareness on the guidelines and requirements for an International Feature Film Entry.
“Lionheart passed on other technical requirements from story, to sound and picture except for language as adjudged by the Academy screening matrix, which was a challenge for the committee at a time. This is an eye opener and step forward into growing a better industry.”
Several Nigerian celebrities have also responded to the news with differing views on the development. See some reactions below.
The fact that “Lionheart” is even a conversation, on that level. Mehn, I am proud of @GenevieveNnaji1
This is the beginning of something big. Now, they will pay more attention to us here
Nigerian creatives matter on all levels
— Do2dtun Energy gAD (@iamDo2dtun) November 5, 2019
An interesting take… https://t.co/zqMoVCondI
— Ebuka Obi-Uchendu (@Ebuka) November 5, 2019
