James Gardiner
Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the National Film Authority, James Gardiner, has called for patience and optimism among stakeholders as efforts continue to revitalise the country’s film industry.
Speaking at a press screening of the movie, ‘Virgin of the Throne’, Mr. Gardiner acknowledged concerns about the slow pace of growth in the sector but insisted that significant work is ongoing behind the scenes.
“We want to see the industry fluid. We want to see our actors working and having busy schedules, and all of us making money for it to become a very profitable venture,” he said.
He admitted that the transformation of the industry would not happen overnight, stressing the persistence required to achieve meaningful change.
“We are doing everything it takes; trust me, we’re working. It may not be very easy. We may have to knock on doors once, twice, thrice, maybe more. But eventually, that door is going to open,” he added.
“So let us all keep our fingers crossed,” he concluded before congratulating Frank Rajah on his new production.
Mr. Gardiner’s remarks come amid growing calls from industry players for stronger institutional backing, improved distribution systems, and increased investment to boost local film production.
‘Virgin of the Throne’, directed by Frank Rajah Arase, is set to premiere at Silverbird Cinemas on April 3 as part of the Easter festivities.
The press event drew several prominent figures from the industry, including Abdul Salam Mumuni, Yvonne Nelson, Martha Ankomah, Roselyn Ngissah, and Luckie Lawson, as well as producers Peter Sedufia and Socrate Safo.
The government recently announced an allocation of GH¢20 million to support the film industry, a move many hope will help address longstanding structural challenges and unlock new opportunities for growth.