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Tag: Judith Audu

  • JUDITH AUDU excited over Not Right nominations

    JUDITH AUDU excited over Not Right nominations

    NOLLYWOOD actress and model, Judith Audu, is in a state of excitement as her advocacy flick, Not Right, has been nominated in the forthcoming Abuja International Film Festival, AIFF.

    The actress, who is presently in Denmark on a working visit, said she was stunned when she was informed that the short film made the nomination list of the 11th AIFF under the Best Short Film category. This is coming on the heels of a recent nomination at the Best of Nollywood (BON) Awards under the same category.

    “I called the director of my film, Uduak Obong Patrick, to ask if he had seen the list, just to be sure I am not seeing it alone or dreaming. When we got nominated for the BON, we were extremely excited. When the one for AIFF was added, it just proved we did something right and it gives me motivation to do even more,” she said.

    The actress said that though the categories for both awards are very tough, she is keeping her hopes high.

    She is currently on a trip to Denmark, where she had the opportunity to co-host a radio show. “I have been blessed with two wonderful friends here in Denmark. They are OAPs and filmmakers. I had the opportunity to host one of their shows with them on Juju Radio, an online station, and the feeling is just priceless. We are working together to see what we can do. However, I’m just planning for my next project now.

    Not Right is nominated under AIFF’s Best Short Film (Nigeria) category alongside other movies like Frost Bite, New Horizons, Yawa (Nemesis) as well as Love and War.

  • Ovation for Judith Audu’s Not Right

    Ovation for Judith Audu’s Not Right

    IT was a day of glory for Nollywood actress, Judith Audu, as her advocacy flick, Not Right, was screened at the recently held movie festival organised by the Nigerian film Society at the Old Film Unit of the Nigerian Film Corporation.

    The third film and the only Nigerian movie screened at the event generated a round of applause by the audience.

    Didi Cheeka, curator of the film screening, commended the actress for the courage to screen the flick and embark on an advocacy drive against domestic violence.

    Producer of the 10-minute short film was given the floor as the movie generated a heated debate among the audience, even as kudos was given to the technical handling of the movie.

    “A lot of people don’t know that men are not supposed to hit their wives. But some women believe that a man who loves them is supposed to hit them. And I think domestic violence thrives because people make excuses for their spouses. I think it is time we became brave and talked about this topic, while proffering ways of stemming the scourge. The world needs to know that it is ‘not right’ for one to hit his or her spouse. Presently, we are in talks with the government and some NGOs to see how the flick can be adapted as a campaign theme,” Audu stated.

  • No man can turn me into a punching bag

    No man can turn me into a punching bag

    Judith Audu, a Nollywood star, joined the movie industry a couple of years ago. She has featured in a number of home movies and TV soaps. She recently cut her teeth as a producer with the short film, Not Right. In this interview with OVWE MEDEME, the actress, who holds a Master’s degree in Public and International Affairs, talks on her experience as a first-time producer as well as the issue of domestic violence, which her movie seeks to address, among other issues.

    THE first quarter of the year has just ended. So, how did you fare within the period?

    It has been great so far and I am really thankful to God. This year has been filled with opportunities. I have done some good productions. The year started for me on a bright note and I would say it has been a very fruitful and successful one. I’ve got a lot of projects piled up and I am just so grateful to God for all the opportunities so far.

    What are you working on presently?

    I just wrapped up my very first production. It is a short movie entitled Not Right. I thought I should stamp my name out there as a producer, so I decided to do something on domestic violence.

    How will you describe your first experience as a producer?

    As a first-time producer, I must say I worked with the most amazing cast and crew. They made it so much fun and smooth. It was well panned. Everyone did his or her part to the best of their abilities, which made the work easy for everybody.

    Why did you choose to talk about domestic violence? Is it something you have experienced?

    I chose the topic because it is beginning to eat deep into our society, which can be seen from the news we read every day. These days, we hear stories of husbands beating wives to death and so on. It is provoking when I hear stories like that because I don’t believe anybody should do that to a fellow human being they claim to love.

    Such things should not be tolerated or accepted. Communication should be the only medium to resolve issues and not violence. I have never experienced it. But I have met and spoken to people who have suffered such a fate. I hope the movie will throw more light and make them see reasons to stop battering their wives. There have been movies on this same topic, but I believe a topic like this can never be over-emphasised.

    How long did it take you to shoot the flick?

    It is not a complicated script. There was not much movement to be done, in terms of location; so, we were able to shoot in two days.

    Who were the cast and crew in the movie?

    The cast was made up of outstanding actors like Omowunmi Dada, Ani Iyoho, Philip Festus and I. The crew was just so on point and awesome. I couldn’t have worked with a better team. The movie was directed by Uduak-Obong Patrick, the D.O.P was Fayo Favour Festus, while the make-up/special effect was done by Dorothea Kwofie.

     

    How long is the flick?

    It is a 15-minute short film.

    When do you intend to release it and on what platform?

    We are planning on doing a screening for the film soon and then it will be available online.

    If you find yourself in a domestic violence situation, how would you react?

    I wouldn’t accept it. My reaction will depend on a lot of things. But I am 100 percent sure I will never put up with it and sit quiet to become anybody’s punching bag.

    With this production, have you fully delved into the production world?

    Not exactly! I am still learning. Although I have other projects I am working on, I am taking my time because it’s a new terrain. I can’t just jump in without knowing how things work.

    So, is it goodbye to acting?

    Never! Acting is my first love. I will never stop acting. Every other job is secondary.

    After this, what other production will you be involved in?

    Currently, I am working on a TV show. You will get more information about it as it unfolds.

    What other productions have you been a part of this year?

    So far, I have shot two movies with Mnet original movies. I have also featured in Stopping Kloe, Out of Fire, Alpha Mum and Antique. Also, I am back on the set of Emerald, in addition to Not Right, my production.

    It is said that movie and fashion go together? In your view, what is the proper fashion statement?

    It is showbusiness and when you are involved in it, you automatically become a role model and people want to see what you are wearing. But I personally believe fashion should define a person and not wear something because it is trendy. My style is comfortable, effortlessly classy, presentable and chic.

    Aside acting and movie-making, what else are you into?

    I am also a voice-over artiste. I have done several radio dramas and voice-over jobs. I do presenting too. I am a blogger. I profile up and coming entertainers, share food recipes and write a bit, here and there, in entertainment on my blog. But I don’t do gossips.

    Could you recall one negative experience that almost marred your dream of being an actress?

    There is a lack of professionalism that runs deep in the industry. Sometimes, there is also lack of respect for actors when we go for auditions. Sometimes, people address us like we come because we are desperate and jobless. They offer almost nothing that can’t cover even transportation and expect us to be excited. If not for the love I have for acting, I have been tempted several times to get a regular job. But then, I always find myself coming back to the industry.

  • Judith Audu set to release Not Right

    Judith Audu set to release Not Right

    NOLLYWOOD actress, Judith Audu, has wrapped up work on her debut production, Not Right, which is set to tackle the rising wave of domestic violence.

    Not Right, a short film, revolves around a woman who is always battered by her husband. She is, however, caught between reporting to the police, as advised by her neighbour, and leaving before it’s too late.

    “I decided to do a story on domestic violence because, from the stories we read every day, it seems to have become a terrible menace that is gradually eating deep into our society. We can’t stress it enough that it is not acceptable and should not be tolerated at all because women are not punching bags. Any man who claims to love a woman will not hit her, let alone beat her till she becomes unconscious.

    “We need to educate people that women are not punching bags. In fact, love is not expressed by beating up women, no matter how annoying she becomes. People should learn to communicate and try to understand one another.”

    The flick, which was directed by Uduak-Obong Patrick, stars Omowunmi Dada, Ani Iyoho and Philip Ogedegbe.

    On her plans to produce more films, she said, “I am first an actor and I am still busy with a lot of projects at the moment. I am also working on my TV show by the side.”

  • ‘Our plans for the New Year’

    ‘Our plans for the New Year’

    JUDITH Audu, Actress I am hoping for a year full of uncommon opportunities, endorsement deals, nominations and awards. I also hope to shoot a lot of movies and work with great producers, directors and actors.

    Toyin Alausa, Actress

    I pray for God’s blessings, more jobs and, hopefully, endorsements. I hope to get married to the best man in the universe, a man that will worship and appreciate me.

    Apart from this, I also hope the industry will boom bigger and better and I pray the fight against piracy will yield positive results.

    Biola Onimo, Producer

    Of course, I want to reach a greater height in my career. I also want to produce quality movies that will attain international standards.

    BJ Sam, Artiste

    I want to get a nomination for the Grammy Awards. I also want to own my own companies and, lastly, I want to go on a world tour.

    Liza C, Gospel artiste

    Don’t set your goals too low. I’ve come to realise that when you don’t expect much, you don’t become much and you don’t achieve much either.

    What makes expectations or dreams powerful is that we have also been given the ability to not only dream, but also pursue those dreams; and it is not just to pursue them, but the cognitive ability to actually lay out a plan and strategise (setting goals) to achieve those dreams.

    Get inspired by your goals, believe in them and act upon them with passion, dedication, discipline, courage and patience.

    There’s no telling the amazing and mind-blowing results you can achieve in 2014.

    For me, it is greater height and greater impact by the power of the Holy Ghost in the New Year. For my family and me, it’s forward and upward movements all the way in our financial, emotional, physical and spiritual lives.

    One of my most powerful goals in 2014 is to help others with their lives – that is, by changing lives through my music, globally. I want to affect more lives positively through my concerts/missions and win souls for the kingdom of God like never before.

    My hit worship single, I Surrender, won the Best Worship Song of the Year at the Nigeria Gospel Music Awards (NGMA 2013); so, I intend to outdo my past accomplishments.

    In 2014, I look forward to winning more awards and massive recognition in my music career.

    The major reason for setting a goal is for what it makes of you to accomplish it. In the end, what it makes of you will always be a far greater value than what you get.

    Gloria Uba, Actress

    I expect better things in the New Year. I pray to achieve success in all my goals.

    Vivian Anani, Actress

    I wish for God’s grace to serve Him more; I pray for uplift in my job; and I pray for a better Nollywood.

    Also, I pray for the ability to put smiles on the faces of friends, fans and loved ones. I also pray for the grace to be a good role model.

    Sotayo, Actress

    My expectation for the New Year is to have a fulfilled year that is much better that 2013 in my work and business.

    Edique Omokaro, Actress

    May this year be better than last year. I thank God for everything. My expectation is to excel in all areas.

  • My FRUSTRATIONS as an actress—Nollywood actress Judith Audu

    My FRUSTRATIONS as an actress—Nollywood actress Judith Audu

    Sultry actress, Judith Audu is a woman of many parts. An actress, model, voice-over artiste and a foodie as she likes to call herself, she has been around for quite sometime. Though armed with a B.A in French and Masters Degree in Public and International Affairs, the thespian says her heart is with the arts. In this interview with OVWE MEDEME, she talks about her new-found love for food and profiling artistes, the challenges of the profession, among other issues.

    SIX months into 2013, how would you say your career has fared this year?

    The year started on a very good note and I would say it has been a very fruitful and successful one for me. I’ve got a lot of projects piled up and I am just so grateful to God for all the opportunities so far.

    Is there a reason we are yet to see you on the big screen?

    Like I said, I have got a lot of things coming up, so just watch out for me. Very soon it will happen, unless it is not the will of God.

    What are the titles of some of the productions you have been in?

    Seekers, Burning spears, Tinsel, Huzzel, 4 Walls, Comfort Zone, Rush, Funtime, Life is Beautiful, Case File, House Apart, Queens Drive, just to mention but a few

    You have done more of sitcoms than feature films. Is that a deliberate thing?

    I wouldn’t say it is deliberate; I just always end up with a TV script. I am a sucker for good story and most feature film scripts I get don’t cut it for me. I probably haven’t been at the right place at the right time for a good feature film script.

    You were once into modelling; how is that working out?

    I have been very busy with acting so that has been affecting my career as a model. Most of the time when I have a modelling job to shoot, I may be on an acting job location that I can’t leave and I hate disappointing people. I will find a ways to balance them soon hopefully.

    Aside acting and modelling what else are you into?

    I am also a voice over artist, have done several radio dramas and voice over jobs, I do presenting too. I am a blogger. I profile up and coming entertainers, share food recipes and write a bit here and there in entertainment on my blog. I don’t do gossips though (laughs).

    Why do you spend energy publicising other emerging artistes?

    They are my colleagues and I sincerely don’t see us in a competition. We all have different traits that make us tic. If a casting director is in search of a character for a role, they look out for some specific traits connecting the actor to the character being cast for.

    So whenever I see an actor that is really good I ask them for permission to profile them. That way, their online profile will get a boost and more producers and Directors would see them and probably call them up for a job which is actually the intention. I hope it will eventually serve as a place where casting directors, producers and directors get the main cast for their productions.

    So far, how has it been in terms of appreciation?

    They are always very happy and grateful and whenever they love the write-ups, it makes me happy.

    You also blog about recipes, why the interest in food?

    I would call myself a foodie. I love cooking but don’t really eat much so I stuff whoever is close to me with food. I grew up in a house where everyone cooks. My dad was a chef; my mum is also a chef.

    My elder brother is an excellent cook. We bake for the fun of it at home and play with new recipes. I grew up in a house where food was always everywhere and had neighbours that were caterers. They taught us how to make and make pastry from a very young age.

    Are you looking at opening your own eatery someday?

    You never know. It’s not easy to run an eatery but then you never can tell.

    Which is more important to you?

    I am first and foremost and actress. Every other thing is secondary and comes after.

    What is that one negative experience which almost marred your dream of being an actress?

    A lack of professionalism runs deep in the industry. There is also the lack of respect for actors sometimes when we go for auditions.

    Sometimes people address us like we came because we are desperate and jobless, offer almost nothing that can’t cover even transportation and expect us to be excited. If not for the love I have for acting, I have been tempted several times to get a regular job but then I always find myself coming back to the industry.

    Some of your colleagues act alongside having regular jobs. Have you given that a thought?

    Sometimes I do but then again unless you own the company you will run out of excuses each time you need to go on location. That will work perfectly if you are in control of business so that when you have to go on location, you wouldn’t owe anyone an explanation for not showing up at work for weeks.

    At what point in your life did you decide it was going to be the arts?

    I have always admired broadcasters, admired actors and have always known that is where I want to be.

    What form of opposition did you meet when you made your decision public?

    Actually none; I am very fortunate to be born into a family that supports their children in achieving whatever they believe will make them happy and never kick against it as long as it is legitimate, my family members are my number 1 fans.

    Like some of your other colleagues, do you intend venturing into movie production or the more technical part of movies?

    Actually, I am presently working on my own production, and I would love to learn more on directing too.

    How challenging would you say the profession has been?

    If one doesn’t have something else doing and the jobs don’t come rolling in it can become boring. The challenge I had earlier was the non-availability of opportunity and platforms to really show what I can do but that has improved now. I would say everything that comes now as a challenge I see as a test to just prove myself and improve on my skills.

    How true is it that to break into the industry you need to have slept with someone?

    That maybe true in those days but not anymore because we have serious independent producers coming in with intentions of making good international standard productions so they search for talented and good actors and that has made it possible to get to the top by merit not by sleeping with anyone.

    Given that scenario, what would be your reaction?

    I would never sleep with anyone because I want to act in a film; it’s a matter of yes or no. In a scenario like that I will walk away without wasting anytime; there are a lot of opportunities in the industry.

    The competition in the industry is rife. How do you intend to hold sway?

    I am unique and different. Like I said earlier, I don’t see myself in a competition with anyone. It is either I fit the role been auditioned for or not.

    Even if at casting sometimes we may be more than 20 reading for a role, I still don’t see it as competing with my colleagues because it will boil down to who fits the role better, not necessarily who acts better in some situation. I will keep training myself to be the best at what I do and to become a better actor.

    Is Judith married?

    Yes Judith is married.

    What is your fondest memory growing up?

    Hanging out with my father and being referred to as his girlfriend by people that don’t know me, always found it funny.

    How fair was growing up to you?

    My family was very comfortable, we were contented with what we had and I didn’t feel like I lacked anything although I wasn’t a demanding child, I had a lovely childhood, grew up in the Naval barracks unlike the Army barracks it is quiet and most people keep to themselves and mind their business so I spent a lot of time indoors in front of the television.

    What defines your sense of style?

    I love to look effortlessly beautiful and I admire people that are like that. I am not crazily into brands or trends; I wear whatever I am comfortable in. I like to dress simple but attractive.

    What percentage of your income do you spend on your looks?

    Not much really, I spend moderately and only when it is necessary.

    What did you study in school?

    My first degree was in French and I have a Masters degree in Public and International affairs both from the University of Lagos.

    Do you see yourself becoming a career diplomat in the future?

    Yes I do and I am working towards that.

    Do you have any tattoo on your body?

    No I don’t.

    What do you have against tattoos?

    I just don’t like it and can’t imagine drawing anything on my body. I cannot deface my body.