Branch explained that every step of making a movie is extremely difficult. According to him, getting the money needed to make a film is not easy, shooting the actual movie is also challenging, and getting the finished film to reach audiences is like fighting a war.
“To get money is not easy, to shoot a movie is not easy and now, to distribute the film is war,” he wrote on his Instagram account.
The experienced actor admitted that he never expected things to become as difficult as they are now in the Nigerian film industry. He particularly emphasized how hard it has become to distribute movies and get them to the people who want to watch them. This distribution challenge means that even after spending money and time to make a good movie, filmmakers still struggle to get their work seen by audiences.
Because of these difficulties, Branch decided to use his platform to ask people to show more appreciation for film producers. He pointed out that any producer who calls an actor or actress to work on a project is essentially putting food on their table and helping them earn a living.
Branch stressed that regardless of whatever personal relationships might exist between actors and producers, the business relationship should be appreciated. When a producer offers work to an actor, they are providing an opportunity for that person to make money and continue their career.
“It’s a day to appreciate the producers and filmmakers that fund movies because any producer that calls an actor or actress for a project is putting food on their table, irrespective of the relationship that exist between them,” he explained.
The veteran actor made a special appeal to his fellow actors to be more humble and grateful toward producers. He suggested that actors should send thank you messages to producers who have given them work opportunities.
Branch mentioned that he had just woken up when he felt inspired to share these thoughts with his followers on Instagram. He wanted to remind everyone in the industry about the importance of showing gratitude.
While acknowledging that actors also bring valuable skills and talent to movie projects, Branch emphasized that producers have many choices when selecting actors for their films. When a producer chooses a particular actor, it means they specifically thought of that person and believed they were right for the role.
“Actors, bring your shoulders down small and forward this to those producers that put food on your table. I know you also bring value to the table but they thought of you! They had options but chose to call you. A little thank you wouldn’t hurt,” he concluded.
