Nollywood Films and Bastardization of African Image

Abstract

The study examined the emergence of Nollywood Film in Nigeria and the bastardization of African image and culture, especially in the eyes of foreign viewers. The study X-rayed the concepts of films and its origination. Its also mentioned different kinds of films ranging from documentary films, feature or fiction films, experimental, robotic, musical and animated or cartoon films which are depicted through drawings of animals and human forms. Cultural implications attracted focus as it is demonstrated in the acted Nollywood Films. The study is anchored on cultural Norms theory which expresses that the Mass Media often selectively presents and emphasizes certain contemporary ideas or values. That the media influences norms by reinforcing or changing them. The methodology adopted for the study is the survey method of research and the data collection method was the product of secondary data. The study, however, concluded that the Nollywood Film industry has not fully reflected a true picture of African image. Based on the above, the study recommends that the film industry and the regulatory film board should ensure effective scrutiny in production of films to reduce high level of fictitious presentation and guide against extreme exaggeration in the acted films since the film's audience extends to non-Nigerians and non-Africans. The film producers should understand the Nigerian cultural norms and values and thus project an appropriate image for audience consumption.