Sultry Nollywood actress, Rukky Sanda is not new to the Nigerian movie industry. Since her 2004 debut , she has appeared in several highly rated movies and, till date, is still waxing strong. The actress cum producer who recently premiered her new movie, Dark, speaks to ADENIYI ADEWOYIN about her career as a movie producer, how she landed her first movie role among other issues.
WHAT was growing up like for you, considering the fact that you were raised in Lagos?
It was amazing. Growing up is one of the best memories ever. I’m so used to the hustle and bustle of Lagos that it is almost natural. I am a one hundred percent Lagos Girl, especially considering the fact that I grew up in Surulere.
When you decided to go into movies, how did your parents react to your ambition?
I wasn’t really doing anything at the time because school was on strike and it looked like it was something I could do. My parents were highly supportive.
Looking back at when you started acting, how would you say the journey has been?
It’s been a very amazing journey so far, I have learnt a lot and I am still learning, I only want to get better so I’m focused, and dedicated to it.
Can you still remember your first movie?
That was about eleven years back. I can’t remember the name, but it was with Sunny Mcdon. It was shot in 2004.
It was your first time on set, what were some of the challenges you faced?
I think the only thing I consider a challenge was the fact that we filmed overnight, and I didn’t do another movie for like two years. I was like ‘No, I’m not cut out for this kind of stress’. But now, the stress is almost natural.
How did you land the role?
I auditioned for it. My sister’s friend was working at Grand Touch at the time and Sunny Mcdon had a movie he wanted to produce, so I went for the audition, and I got the role.
Along the line, you started producing movies. How has the experience been since you now do two things at a time?
Yes, I went into movie production in 2006 and it has been a very pleasant journey. It has also been a huge learning experience for me.
How has your acting experience influenced you as a movie producer?
I learn things every day, so it’s something that works hand-in-hand. It’s not a one-person job, and I have an amazing crew, and people around me. So, as I said, it’s been a huge learning experience for me. I have my own production label called Rukky Sanda Studio.
What are your plans for the rest of the year? Are you working on any project?
So far, I have three movies I’m about to premiere. I premiered Dark on the 28 of August starring myself, Van Vicker, Monalisa Chinda, Ik Ogbonna, Adunni Ade, Bolanle Ninolowo. I also have Changing Ties with Liz Benson, Ayo Adesanya, Ik Ogbonna, again, and lots of other people. It’s going to be out in September and it’s going to be on IRoko tv, Dstv, and all of that. We will also be having Meet the Bride in cinemas in December.
You seem to have lot of projects this year; you must have spent a lot…
Well, it’s a process. Some of these movies were shot last year, but getting the date in the cinemas takes a lot of procedure. You can’t just film and put it out like that.
Will you be acting in a Yoruba movie anytime soon?
I’ve done a Yoruba film; I was in Funke Akindele’s Return of Jennifa.
Do you think Nollywood is in its best form now?
It’s not, but we are going to get better.
What advice do you have for upcoming actors?
Stay true to yourself, work hard and do not do anything you will regret. Don’t sell your soul for fame; it’s not worth it.
How do you keep fit?
I don’t know. I just try to be myself, and try to be healthy. I think that’s the most important thing. Usually, I’m not a foodie, but I am glad my house help ran away two weeks ago. He actually stole my money, and ran away, so now I am used to doing stuff by myself.
How did your house help find his way to where you keep your money?
He cleaned my room a day before, and I didn’t see him again in the morning. He ran away. He told me he wanted to go, that his father told him to come home five days before he ran away. I’m glad he left because I don’t eat as much anymore. The boy knew how to do everything and it was annoying because before I finish one, he is bringing another and I don’t even go out. I was eating like a glutton, so I’m glad he left.
But can you cook?
Of course I can cook; I like to cook for people. I don’t like cooking for myself.
How were you able to hide your piercings from your parents when you first had them?
It’s in my mouth now (laughs). I was in the university at the time; they didn’t know what was going on in my mouth. Though my mom is not like that; she didn’t see it like it’s bad. She was like “Ku ise, otun ti da etilu” (well-done, you have done piercing again). My mom is just pleasant, and very supportive; she wants all her children to be great.
