The private screening of the feature film On Different Grounds has held at the Civic Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event was organised by HB&Q Impressions Studios and attracted entertainment stakeholders, dignitaries and invited guests.
Among dignitaries present was the Ogiame Atuwatse III.
Organisers say the exclusive screening was aimed at introducing the movie to selected audiences ahead of wider public engagement.
Chairman of the Board of HBQ Productions and former Minister for Information and Communication, Frank Nweke Junior, described the film as a strong platform for cultural diplomacy.
Frank Nweke noted that the movie promotes “cultural partnership, cultural diplomacy and understanding fostered through cultural exchange.”
The former minister also stressed the importance of positive storytelling in changing global perceptions about Nigeria.
According to him, “We struggled with people telling our story and we were not having an opportunity to tell that story ourselves.”
Nweke Junior praised a new generation of filmmakers for creating stories that can “compete globally” while projecting Nigeria positively.
He added that the production should inspire other Nigerian filmmakers to embrace impactful storytelling beyond profit motives.
Veteran Nollywood actor, producer and director, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, also spoke during the event.
Bob-Manuel described himself as “a pioneer in Nollywood” and revealed that he played the overall lead role in the movie.
Speaking about his character, Imofe, the actor said the role reflected “many aspects of a man’s life who is influential in both family and society.”
He explained that the character was disciplined, strong-willed and determined in the pursuit of justice and family values.
Bob-Manuel further stated that every production offers actors an opportunity for self-discovery and growth.
Veteran actress Ebele Okaro said the film celebrates cultural diversity and unity.
Ebele Okaro explained that the movie featured a mix of Nigerian, Ghanaian and Indian cultural elements.
She said, “The diversity in culture was wonderful,” adding that interactions with cast members from different backgrounds enriched the production experience.
The actress noted that while she played a typical Igbo woman, the character reflected strength, class and cultural pride.
Group Executive Director of Megalectrics Limited, Chris Ubosi, described the movie as “groundbreaking.”
Ubosi said he believed in the vision of the producers after seeing the quality of the cast and overall production.
According to him, the collaboration between Nollywood and Bollywood was “always going to happen.”
He added that the partnership would bring positive opportunities to both industries through cultural and creative exchange.
Actor and filmmaker IfeanyI Kalu, who also served as a producer on the project, described the film as “a beautiful blend of cultures.”
Ifeanyi Kalu said the movie combines Itsekiri, Igbo and Bollywood influences in a story centred on love, resilience and unity.
He noted that international collaborations help filmmakers grow creatively and professionally through the exchange of ideas and experiences.
The producer also admitted that funding such productions remains challenging because of economic realities and investment concerns in the film industry.
However, he maintained that passion continues to drive filmmakers despite the difficulties.
Kalu further revealed that the inspiration behind the story came largely from his wife’s love for romance and classic Bollywood films.
Co-writer of the film, Temitope Akimbode, said the story evolved from discussions with the producer and writer Nicole.
She explained that the screenplay was shaped around dramatic characters, emotional depth and multicultural relationships.
Another co-writer, Diche Enowa, stated that the film highlights how people from different backgrounds “are literally the same” despite cultural differences.
The writers added that audiences should expect drama, comedy, romance and emotional moments throughout the movie.
