Actor Uzee Usman has provided insights into the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) nominations, shedding light on the intricacies of the selection process and addressing the perceived oversight of deserving actors. In an exclusive interview with Legit, Usman delved into the nuances of the industry and shared his admiration for acclaimed actress Funke Akindele, particularly lauding her directorial prowess in the success of the 2023 film ‘A Tribe Called Judah’.
Reflecting on his experience portraying the character ‘Adamu’ in the movie, Usman described it as one of his most demanding roles to date. Despite the challenges, he credited Funke Akindele’s adept direction for facilitating a seamless and enjoyable filming experience for the cast. “It is one of the most challenging characters I have played, although Funke as a director made it easier for us because we were working and having fun. She helped us to interpret our roles,” Usman remarked.
Usman also shared insights into his relationship with Funke Akindele, highlighting her genuine appreciation for her colleagues and her respectful demeanor on set. “I knew her before the production of A Tribe Called Judah but we were not close. She is someone who appreciates people and speaks to them with respect. After the movie, we became very close and I love her very much because of the way she loves people around her,” Usman expressed fondly.
Addressing the concerns raised by fans regarding the AMVCA nominations, Usman offered a nuanced perspective on the selection process, acknowledging the challenges inherent in balancing viewer preferences with industry standards. He attributed some of the discrepancies to the subjective nature of judging and emphasized the importance of recognizing audience favorites. “I think the reason some people are complaining is because the award is focused on the viewers’ choice. It is the movie the people love the most that the fans expect to be there,” Usman observed.
Despite the complexities of the nomination process, Usman remained optimistic about the potential success of ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ at the AMVCA. He expressed hope that the film would garner recognition and accolades, underscoring its impact on audiences and the industry at large. “I am hopeful that A Tribe Called Judah will win some awards,” Usman concluded, expressing confidence in the film’s merits and its ability to resonate with viewers.