Afropolitan

David Oyelowo: We’re Not Asking to Be Seen, We’re Taking the Camera

Nov 12, 2025
Guest
David Oyelowo
David Oyelowo, an acclaimed British actor and producer, discusses his groundbreaking streaming platform, Mansa, dedicated to amplifying Black narratives. He highlights the unique moment for African filmmakers, driven by technological advancements and audience demand for diverse stories. David shares insights on overcoming Hollywood’s biases, the significance of adapting Chinua Achebe’s 'Things Fall Apart' in Nigeria, and the importance of cultural authenticity. He inspires creators to build their own platforms and reclaim ownership in storytelling.
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INSIGHT

Tech Solved Distribution, Not Funding

  • Streaming and social tech removed piracy and distribution barriers that limited African cinema's global reach.
  • Production value and resources remain the main constraint preventing Nollywood from being fully global.
INSIGHT

Audience Leads, Gatekeepers Follow

  • Gatekeepers' tastes lag behind audience appetites, and hits from other markets force change.
  • The audience proves demand; the industry must follow or lose relevance.
ANECDOTE

A Father's Shift After Henry VI

  • Playing Henry VI at the Royal Shakespeare Company shifted his father's perception and expanded family dreams.
  • That moment proved representation changed what was imaginable to loved ones.
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