LilWin Opens Up on Emotional Challenges During Production of Journey to Africa (Nzulezu)

Ghanaian actor and filmmaker Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as LilWin, became emotional while recounting the difficulties he encountered during the production of his upcoming movie, “Journey to Africa (Nzulezu).” The actor and producer shared his experience in a recent interview, revealing that the challenges went beyond the usual demands of filmmaking.

According to LilWin, the Nigerian actors he had invited to Ghana for the project declined to travel by boat to Nzulezu for filming. The actors reportedly expressed serious concerns about the safety of the journey across the water, which is the primary means of accessing the community. Nzulezu is a unique stilt village built over Lake Tadane in Ghana’s Western Region, and reaching it requires a boat ride of approximately 40 minutes.

LilWin explained that after three days of shooting on location, the Nigerian actors informed him they would not return to the set or travel on the water again. They suggested that the production be moved to a different location. The filmmaker noted that he understood their fears, especially in light of a tragic incident involving a colleague of the Nigerian actors who had drowned while shooting a water scene for a movie. That loss, LilWin acknowledged, may have contributed significantly to their apprehension.

The cast of “Journey to Africa (Nzulezu)” includes some of Nollywood’s most recognizable names, such as Kanayo O. Kanayo, Patience Ozokwor, Mike Ezuruonye, Zubby Michael, and Destiny Etiko. Their involvement highlights the growing collaboration between Ghanaian and Nigerian film industries, even as productions like this one navigate logistical and safety challenges.

The film is a follow-up to LilWin’s 2024 release, “A Country Called Ghana,” which also featured Nigerian actors and was well received by audiences. With “Journey to Africa (Nzulezu),” LilWin appears determined to continue telling stories that showcase Ghana’s cultural and natural heritage, despite the hurdles encountered along the way.

The emotional toll of the production was evident as LilWin recounted the experience, underscoring the dedication required to bring ambitious film projects to life. While the safety concerns raised by the Nigerian actors were understandable, the situation also highlights the need for robust safety protocols when filming in remote or water-based locations.

As anticipation builds for the release of “Journey to Africa (Nzulezu),” the story behind its production adds a layer of poignancy to the project. It serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices that often accompany the creation of compelling cinema, particularly when it seeks to capture the beauty and uniqueness of places like Nzulezu.