Pereware: How the Benson Idahosa University L300 Film Festival Shaped My Filmmaking Journey
The Benson Idahosa University Leadership 300-hour Film Festival in Collaboration with the Mass Communication Department, Faculty of Social and Management Science, held between March 12 to 23, 2025 at the Heritage Campus of the university, has left an indelible mark on its participants, transforming lives through the art of storytelling. Among those profoundly impacted is Igbadiwei Pereware, a 200-level Mass Communication student. The BIU Film Festival celebrates the creative talents of BIU students while honoring the legacy of Archbishop Benson Andrew Idahosa, a pioneer of Pentecostalism in Africa. During the event, students faced a thrilling 300-hour film production challenge, crafting original stories that resonate with Archbishop Idahosa's values. In this interview with EMEKE PRECIOUS NWAOBOLI, Pereware shares her remarkable journey as the director of "Man in Chains," the film that clinched the Best Film award from over fourteen screened films, offering a glimpse into the passion and dedication that fueled her success. Excerpts:
What inspired you to participate in the Benson Idahosa University’s 300-hour Film Festival?
Initially, my participation in the Benson Idahosa University’s 300-hour Film Festival was a requirement for students in my sequence as a Mass Communication student.
However, as I engaged with the project, I discovered a profound passion for filmmaking that I had not fully realized before. The opportunity to immerse myself in a creative environment, collaborate with peers, and express meaningful stories made the experience truly invaluable.
Can you tell us a little about your team and their background in filmmaking?
I had the honour of collaborating with an exceptionally talented team of individuals, each bringing unique skills to the table. Our group included skilled editors and gifted storytellers who had already made a name for themselves in the filmmaking community. Their expertise not only facilitated a smoother production process but also fostered an atmosphere of creativity and innovation. Working alongside such passionate individuals made the experience enriching and significantly enhanced the quality of our film.
Your film, “Man in Chains” was awarded Best Film at the Benson Idahosa University Film Festival. Can you elaborate on the concept behind your winning film?
The film, titled "Man in Chains," delves into the intricate emotions surrounding guilt, particularly the guilt experienced by a murderer. However, it goes beyond this singular narrative to capture the universal feelings of guilt that we all endure as humans. The film conveys a powerful message of redemption, emphasizing that no matter how imperfect we may be, there is always hope for forgiveness and healing. Through this narrative, we plan to inspire viewers to recognize that they can seek redemption regardless of their past actions.
What message or theme did you intend to convey through your film?
Our primary goal was to communicate to the audience that they are not alone in their struggles. Many individuals carry the weight of shame from their past actions, and we wanted to assure them that there is always a path to redemption. The film underscores the idea that God is ever-present, ready to support and uplift those who seek forgiveness. We hope this message resonates deeply with everyone who watches the film.
What challenges did you encounter during production and how did you overcome them?
One of the significant challenges I faced was adapting to work with team members I had never collaborated with before. Each person brought different traits and working styles, which required patience and flexibility on my part. Additionally, coordinating schedules proved challenging as finding a convenient time for everyone involved was sometimes difficult. However, we overcame these obstacles through open communication and a shared commitment to our project, which ultimately strengthened our teamwork.
Can you describe the editing process your team undertook for the film?
I played a role as part of the sound engineering team, and I must commend my editor and team leader, Mr. Dominion, for his exceptional work during the editing process. His expertise and vision were instrumental in shaping the final product. The collaboration during editing allowed us to refine our film and ensure that every element contributed effectively to the story we wanted to tell.
How did you select the cast and what specific qualities were you looking for in your actors?
Our casting process was quite collaborative. Rather than seeking specific physical traits, we focused on the overall suitability of actors for their roles. The entire team contributed suggestions based on their perceptions of who would best fit the characters we had envisioned. This collective approach not only diversified our casting choices but also fostered a sense of community within our team.
Is this your first time ever participating in a film festival?
Yes, this was my first experience participating in a film festival, and it was nothing short of amazing. The excitement of showcasing our work and receiving recognition was exhilarating. I look forward to participating in more festivals in the future, as I believe they offer invaluable opportunities for growth and networking within the industry.
How has participating in this festival influenced your career or future projects?
Participating in the festival has significantly impacted my personal and professional growth. I discovered latent directing skills that I had not recognized before, which has opened new avenues for my future projects. The experience has instilled in me a deeper understanding of the filmmaking process and a desire to explore it further.
What moment during the festival filled you with the most pride?
The most prideful moment for me was when our film was announced as the winner. It was an emotional experience and I found myself overwhelmed with joy and pride for my team. The tears I shed that day were a testament to the hard work and dedication we all put into the project.
How did the audience respond to your film during the festival and what was your reaction to their feedback?
While I can not speak directly to the audience's reactions, the overwhelming sense of joy felt among my team was a clear indicator of our success. We were thrilled to see our hard work appreciated and the positive energy in the room was truly uplifting.
Did your lecturers play a significant role in the success of your film?
Absolutely, my lecturer, Miss Francess Nwabufoe, played a pivotal role in our success. Her guidance and teachings equipped me with essential skills that I was able to impart to my team. Her support throughout the project was invaluable, and I credit much of our success to her mentorship.
What legacy do you aspire to create through your films?
I aspire to create a legacy where people will remember the name “Pereware”. I want to be recognized for my contributions to the film industry and to inspire others to follow their creative passions. If it takes extensive effort, I am committed to working hard to achieve this goal.
Now that your team has won 500,000 naira, what is the future of the team?
The future of the team is bright, but I will leave the decision-making to our team leader. We are committed to continuing our collaboration and exploring new projects together. The spirit of Team Success remains strong, and we look forward to what lies ahead.
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience at the festival or your film?
At this point, I do not have any additional remarks, but I just want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to participate in such a remarkable festival. The experience has been transformative, and I am excited to see where this journey takes me next.
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