For those of you who are conversant with Angel Emeka Ujunwa, you will agree with me that she is an actress with a different kind of vibe. The talented actress is also a producer and has made quite an impression in the film industry especially with the debut of some of her films that have garnered quite a lot of viewership. News Echo had a very brief chit chat with the delectable actress on the set of one of her movies, and she engaged us with quite an interesting conversation.
She talks about career, business, and also gave an exposition about her failed marriage. Below are excerpts of the interview for your reading pleasure.
What is the most interesting aspect of your career as an actress and a producer?
ANS: I’d like to say that the most interesting aspect of my career isn’t far-fetched from my last productions. You know this feeling that comes with the excitement of being able to do three consecutive films over a short period. Village Jagaban, Love from Panya, and Highlander gave me the best experiences of my life in this career. I was able to manage all the artistes and everything turned out very well. I’d also like to add that one of the perks of being an actress is the fact that you have a lot of people rooting for you.
For instance, my last birthday party was like a carnival because of the presence of mostly superstars from the entertainment industries that turned out to celebrate with me. It is really amazing and I want to return all thanks to God.
Tell us a little more about yourself that is not public knowledge, and do you have other interests apart from acting? Tell us about them and your passion.
ANS: As much as I don’t like to say much about my privacy, I am a single Mum of two wonderful boys, Goodluck & bright Eso-yanya. I officially divorced my ex husband sometime in 2015 because of domestic violence. My ex husband comes back home late at night drunk, he brutalizes me and uses me to improve his punching skills. At some point, I got fed up and decided to divorce him. I then informed my parents and the dowry was returned by my family.
Another thing that interests me is business. I’m basically a business tycoon, I also have a distinction in hotel management. I’m a partner of WiseChoice Table waters, a product of Angel Treasure store LTD, and the CEO of Munaluckangels boutique.
Have there been any dark moments in your career, that you almost felt like giving up? Tell us a little about it and what kept you going?
ANS: I’ve never had dark moments in my career because I’m a business woman who’s left with the responsibilities of taking care of my two sons & businesses. So, it’s either I’m on a movie set or I’m on my other jobs. Although, there was a time I found myself doing more of business than my acting career, when I see other of my colleagues doing my dream & career job, I would feel dejected & I was almost giving up, but then, I took a bold step to change most of my producers and production managers opinion of me as always giving more time to my business, I’m glad it worked for me, soon again I saw myself waxing stronger again.
Are you selective of roles you accept And why?
ANS: I am not really selective of roles I accept because I believe I’m a versatile artiste and that makes me good at what I do. I feel that being able to interpret many roles that are very different and demand expertise is what makes me an actress.
Where do you see yourself in a few years from now in your acting career? And is it a full time job for you?
ANS: I see myself doing better in a few years from now. Not only in my career, but in my business as well because you already know I am business inclined. I also want to go into politics! Yes you heard that right. I believe I have the potential and quality to lead with a free spirit, I believe in humanity and I’m also doing some philanthropic work on a low key. I know that when the time is right I will surely emerge and follow that path until I succeed in it.
If you were to be in charge of Nollywood for at least one month, what would you do differently?
ANS: (Smiles) One month wouldn’t be enough to actualize my dream, but if I’m to be in charge of Nollywood for one month, I’ll engage more of my time in talent development. I’d organize how to build a talent school, I’ll also try to empower & project young talent more because they are the future of nollywood.
How would you rate the present day movies’ storylines in comparison to what we had some 10 years ago. What has changed? And how is the change affecting actors and actresses in particular?
ANS: Well, looking back ten years ago today, a lot has changed and with lots of improvement as well. It used to be more of virgin stories and stuff like that, and back then there was no advanced equipment. These days, we have better equipment to give better interpretations of stories. I’d always prefer the present day because the storylines are so dynamic, you could also do more with less stress, but you should always remember that movie making is all about stress, thank you.
Are you a controversial person? What is your opinion about being controversial?
ANS: I’m not a controversial person, thank you. And I really do not think anyone would intentionally want to be a controversial person.
In your Opinion, is there good collaboration among actors in nollywood? What is the way forward if no?
ANS: Yes. I think there is good collaboration among actors and actresses, and it is really heart-warming to know that we can have each others’ backs despite our personal differences, and the distances between us.
What is your take on the issue of social media policing of celebrities?
ANS: You and I know that social media is a platform where you can either be made or destroyed. Social media policing is necessary if handled in a way to positively help checkmate excesses. Personally, I’m often very mindful of my activities on social media knowing fully well that things on the media travel very far within a short period of time, and news quickly spreads like wildfire.
