Seasoned Nollywood star, Ejike Okoye has always loved acting since childhood. For the US-based actor going into the film industry was as result of passion. Little wonder, he is doing what he knows how to do best and has never looked back. In this interview with GERALDINE AKUTU, he talks about his love for acting, the Nigerian film industry and challenges.
What propelled you to go into acting?

It really came naturally. Storytelling and making a positive impact on society are the driving factors for my desire to become an actor. When I was younger, I admired legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Jean-Claude Van Damme, and Dolph Lundgren. I always thought about being like them someday. My physical appearance and style of dressing made me stand out among my peers at auditions, helping me secure roles involving action and stunts. Acting in small hitman roles captivated my peers and audience alike. My love for storytelling turned into a passion for acting. I’ve taken a few turns since then, but the core of what I do and what fuels me every day is showcasing true life stories. A lot of my inspiration came from watching action movies as a kid in the early 1990s.

How has it been so far?
It’s tough. It’s a long haul with many defeats and setbacks. Truthfully, it has been challenging, but once I decide to do something, I give it my all without looking back. Initially, the pay was not as good as I expected, often referred to as peanuts, but that did not discourage me because I had a goal. The passion for making movies and the desire to tell stories drove me to persevere. I focused on doing my best, sharpening my skills, building relationships, and positively impacting the industry and fans. By adding value with extraordinary stunts, I was able to negotiate better opportunities. I was driven by impact, not money – fame before money. I have had some success, but if what you did yesterday still looks big to you, then you haven’t done much today.

What were your initial challenges on set?
It was quite challenging in the beginning. As I mentioned, I was driven by impact, not money. I focused on becoming famous by doing my best, sharpening my skills, networking, and building relationships. Success doesn’t come overnight, and it certainly isn’t easy. Like Walt Disney, who sold his first cartoon company because he went broke, or Spielberg, who was rejected by the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, or John Lasseter, who was fired by Disney before directing Toy Story in 1995, I faced my own hurdles but kept pushing forward.

What do you like most about acting?
Acting is like therapy to me. I love the adventurous part of movie-making, where I get to learn about different cultures and interact with people from various backgrounds. Being an artist in Nollywood means a lot to me. Acting reshaped my life in many ways, bringing out the professionalism in me. Working in a fast-paced environment as an actor has been an added advantage. It sometimes feels like being in a boot camp. There are certain things I may want to do in public, but I step back when I remember my profession. Filmmaking is a make-believe business. Playing different roles, such as a CEO, criminal, or native doctor, gives you insights into various lifestyles. Just like basketball and soccer players, doing what you love and making money from it is one of the best things life can offer.

What attracts you to a movie script?
I like scripts that educate viewers, are based on true life stories, and portray our culture. As a man of action, I also enjoy scripts with a lot of action, twists, suspense, and stunts because I love doing stunts. Most importantly, I am drawn to scripts that can make a positive impact on society.

Who are your role models in the film industry?
Pete Edochie, the late Amaechi Muonagor, and Alex Usifo.

What was the turning point in your career?
A turning point is a critical time when we make big decisions that could change our lives. For me, it was just before I got admission into the university. I was invited to an audition, which I initially didn’t want to attend due to nervousness. Eventually, I was convinced to go, and I secured a role in the movie “School Outlaws.” After that, I decided to give it all I had. That was my turning point.

Looking back at when you started and now, what has changed?
Nollywood progresses every day. Back then, we were like families working together towards a common goal. There was decency, humility, respect, and love. We had great stories that brought families together, resolved differences, and were based on true life events. Nowadays, there’s too much disrespect, hate, and disconnection among artists and crew members. However, Nollywood has improved tremendously in production quality, with advanced equipment and global reach through platforms like Netflix, Amazon, and Xfinity cable. Despite these advancements, the sense of unity and free training workshops we had then are missing. Modern-day filmmakers have more opportunities but also face greater risks. Let the risk inspire you, not stop you. Remember, we embark on this journey because we are storytellers with stories worth telling if told with passion.

What advice do you have for anyone who wants to go into the sector?
Focus on what you can control, like preparing for auditions, handling rejection, developing your character, and learning your lines. Don’t worry about what the casting director is thinking. Many people contact me wanting to be like me, but when I ask if they’ve attended any auditions, the answer is often no. Movie roles aren’t handed out on a silver platter; you have to work for them. Look at yourself in the mirror and ask if this is really what you want to do. If yes, go for it. Attend auditions, step out of your comfort zone, make friends in the industry, and seek advice from veteran actors. Ask questions. Stay focused, set goals, and strive hard to achieve them. If you don’t have a mountain, build one and then climb it, and after you climb it, build another one. Throw that ego away.