THERE have been times when some actors have complained about not getting roles because they do not belong to certain producers camps; and for some critics, that is a contributory factor to the movie industry’s problems.

However, female producer Hassana Sampah says that claim is a misconception, explaining that producers rather prefer to work with actors they are comfortable with.

“Well it is wrong for anyone to think that producers have specific people they want to deal with, so they keep giving movie roles to them. From my point of view, I don’t think producers have favourites.

“The only thing people out there should know is that, these producers work with actors they are comfortable with; the ones who are good at their jobs and will make the work smooth.

“I believe this is what doesn’t sit well with some people. Producers also work hand in hand with co-producers, production managers and coordinators; they all help in making the producers’ work much easier on both sides,” she told Showbiz recently.

Commenting on the current state of the movie industry, Hassana mentioned marketing as a big challenge for producers.

“Ghana seems to be lagging behind because of many challenges, especially with marketing, thereby making it difficult to produce. Most producers in Ghana don’t know where to market their movies; getting airtime on our local TV stations is extremely difficult.

“If the Broadcasting Bill can be passed where TV stations will be mandated to show 70 per cent of local content, I believe it will go a long way in improving the production of films in Ghana,” she said.

Another perception that is held about the movie industry is that movie production is for the rich, but according to Hassana, that is not true.

“You don’t have to be rich to produce a movie. The movie business is like every other venture; you need capital. Once you decide you want to produce a movie, you come up with a proposal, then you look for investors and sponsors.

“You can speak to people (family and friends), companies etc. so you do not need to necessarily have some huge sums of money stashed in your account,” she said.

Despite its challenges, Hassana said she was happy that the industry was gradually taking shape again.
 
“The Ghanaian movie industry is taking shape gradually; the trend has changed, now it’s online streaming, cinemas and cable television that are in vogue. Gone are the CD and DVD days.

“The cinema business in Ghana is greatly improving, we are headed the right direction. With the right policies and effort, we will stand out as one of the best,” she said with optimism.

Hassana revealed that movie production was very lucrative but urged producers to rather consider the impact of the movie over the money they would make.

“Movie production is very a lucrative venture but the objective, which is to put Ghana on the map, is the most important. Even though money will enhance our ability to be competitive with other nations, bringing pride to Ghana and Africa as a whole is vital,” she stressed.

Hassana Sampah will premiere her second movie, Shuki, on August 3, 2019 at the Silverbird Cinemas at the Accra Mall and it stars Kofi Adjorlolo, Frank Artus, James Gardiner, Peter Ritchie and Matilda Asare.