Watching him on screen is a marvel and even critics agree he is good at what he does. Femi Jacobs, a fast rising nollywood actor who captured hearts on Tinsel and recently as the lead character in the movie ‘The meeting’ spoke to IGE ROTIMI about his passion for the arts, fashion and hopes for the industry.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I'm an actor, formerly a banker, a mass communications graduate, an entrepreneur and most importantly, a Nigerian who's passionate about his faith.
How was life growing up?
It was far from privileged. I was born into a polygamous but Christian family. I'm the fifth of my mum's seven. I was raised by my uncle, a quiet but hardworking man. He taught me the values of hard work and endurance. He was a strict disciplinarian and he didn't suffer fools gladly. But I had an introverted childhood mostly, and I think that's still with me till date.
When and how did you discover your talent for acting?
Although I did a bit of acting while in primary school, I didn't really think it was something I was gifted for. But I had a dream of being on TV. You could call it vain. In 2006, I'd just returned from South Africa where I'd lived for three years, I was asked by my church drama group to play the lead in their first feature film. I accepted. Everyone seemed impressed. We then went on to shoot a drama series in 2008. The director asked me to audition for Tinsel. I reluctantly agreed. And in 2009, I was offered a role. That was when I actually started feeling like an actor. Everything just sort of grew from there.
When did you decide to take up acting as a profession?
It was while on Tinsel. And that was in 2010 actually. I saw how people seemed to warm up to my character and then decided to take acting very seriously.
How did you get your first break?
It was also while on Tinsel that the director of my first Silver screen break, Mildred Okwo spotted me. She invited me for an audition and I attended. That was how I got the lead role in the nollywood blockbuster, ‘THE MEETING’.
From then onwards, how were you able to work your way up the ladder to become as successful as you are?
After deciding to give acting seriousness, I knew 'The Meeting' was my test. I knew I had to prove to myself that this was it. So I gave it everything. That kind of became a habit with me on all the sets I've been privileged to work on. I think that resonates with people. They can tell when you're faking commitment.
What inspires you?
The human story. Its winding turns, its unpredictability and contradictions. The joys, the sorrows, the pain and passion, the successes and failures. Its in the cities and the villages, its in the high rises and the huts, the hills and wastelands. It is broad and relentless, it's powerful and inexhaustible. I'm also inspired by the privilege to be one of those to shape a new African consciousness.
Tell us about some of the movies and sitcoms you have been a part of?
CHOICES, Tango With Me, TINSEL, THE MEETING, DREAMWALKER, TUNNEL, OSUNFUNKE, King NEBU (a stage play), Render To Caesar, Heaven's Hell, The Days After (a short film)...
Which were most memorable?
Tinsel and The Meeting, undoubtedly. You never forget your first time.
You were lead character in the movie 'the meeting'. How challenging was it?
As I said, I came into that production with a point to prove to myself, that I was supposed to be in the industry. So there was already pressure. Add to that the fact that I was to play a character more than ten years older than me, that that was my very first Silver screen feature, and that I was acting alongside the best known names in Nollywood; and you can understand the enormous strain. But the director was keenly aware, and she helped guide the transition wisely and expertly. I'm grateful to God.
Given that you take up different roles every time, would you say Femi Jacobs is still the same person that was before acting?
Yes. See, the roles impact you no doubt. In fact, there are times you play a strong positive character that even you would admire. You sort of keep some of the positive traits with you, not willing to let go. But I think it eventually wears off. I don't think a character can change you permanently.
What has entertainment given you?
A platform to build even bigger dreams. A chance to contribute to the betterment of the world. A voice to speak about the issues I care about, and an opportunity to earn an honest living.
Tinsel is achieving great local and international recognition now. What would you say is the success secret especially where others have failed?
I think it's the dedication of the cast and crew. The producers are striving to maintain the standards they started with and they've succeeded at that. I think the main cast are also like a family, they have a good bond. That has helped to keep things tight and seamless.
How is it like working on the cast?
Very smooth and pleasant. They're organised relatively. The multicam studio setting is also an actor's dream. A couple of takes and you're done. It's not all easy but it's a fantastic place to work at.
How would the rate the Nollywood industry now?
Growing very fast. We're trying new things. New producers are coming in and younger filmamakers are emerging. Things are looking up.
Would you say Nollywood actors get enough credit/appreciation for their work?
To be honest I don't think anyone is getting their dues for that matter. I'm hoping producers will get their money back, that crews would be better trained and better remunerated, that directors would legally own their works and earn better royalties. So I don't only think about the actors. Everyone deserves a better deal if you ask me.
How lucrative is your profession?
It pays some bills.
What challenges do you face in your craft?
The ones I've described above. Add to those the ones everyone in the country is facing. I wish they'd just get the power thing right and that the country would have cheaper broadband. It would make life easier for everyone.
How have you been able to overcome them?
We shall overcome.
Critics say actresses have to sleep around in order to be sucessful in the industry. Is this true?
That's not true in that broad sense. I have female colleagues who have been professional and are getting work and recognition. Of course there are bad eggs, but so are there in Banking, Media, Advertising, Telecoms, Oil and Gas and even in Law and Politics.
What other projects are you involved in?
You will hear about them when the producers are ready to talk to the media.
What is next for Femi Jacobs?
Work, work and more work.
Do you also intend to produce your own movies?
Yes. I want to explore all aspects of film and entertainment. I'd like to create opportunities for others as some people have created for me.
What would you have been if not an actor?
I'd have been in the media in some way or a lawyer. Perhaps I'd have been a pilot.
Fashion sense?
Simplicity because the occasion dictates. I hate to dress up but I can't help it sometime because the job demands it. But I like it simple and anonymous.
What wouldn't you be caught wearing any day?
I could never colour-block. I'm sorry.
Advice for aspiring actors?
Love the craft. Don't do it for fame. Be business minded. Yes, be passionate but be business minded. It's a craft and a good job is your best PR. They say "there are no small roles, only small players."
Given an opportunity, what would you change in the industry right now?
I'd organise a thousand seminars for us actors and crew. I'd love to see our knowledge base grow. We have come this far on sheer will and raw talents and that's admirable and highly commendable. It's no mean feat at all. But it's time to rev things up.
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