Nollywood in Review
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Conversation with Femi Adebayo – Part 2

Kola Olaiya
1–2 minutes
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Femi Adebayo stands among the few stars whose vision continues to shine in the ever-evolving world of Nollywood, where tradition meets modern storytelling. Born into the creative lineage of Adebayo Salami, he has forged a path defined by devotion—to craft, culture, and the enduring rhythm of narrative. From his early breakout in Owo Blow, he emerged not just as an actor, but as a custodian of indigenous stories. With advanced training in law, he brings to the screen a rare blend of intellect and instinct. Across more than five hundred films, his performances balance humor and depth with remarkable ease.

Beyond acting, his influence expands through initiatives like J15 Media Network and Euphoria360 Media, where he mentors and nurtures emerging talents. His landmark productions — King of Thieves (Agesinkole), Jagun Jagun, and Seven Doors—underscore the global appeal of Yoruba language, mythology, and aesthetics.

Honored by institutions such as the Africa Movie Academy Awards and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, Adebayo remains disarmingly humble — an artist whose excellence is matched by his grace. In him, the past finds voice, the present finds expression, and the future finds promise. In July 2025, he sat down with Kolawole Olaiya of Nollywood in Review in Lagos for a thoughtful conversation on his films and creative process — one that will interest film scholars and enthusiasts alike.

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One response to “Conversation with Femi Adebayo – Part 2”

  1. usuallysharkd40b04e9c9 Avatar
    usuallysharkd40b04e9c9

    This interview is really a blockbuster.

    So many things were revealed!

    On seven doors, I was actually misinformed about the fictitious nature of the movie. But now I know better because I actually had a number of unanswered questions.

    If I would analyse the role of Chioma, for me, it represented the mindset of a typical woman who most times support their husbands’ bids into taking a position of authority. 

    Usually, even when they are told the expected downsides of the position, the anticipated glamour and respect cloud their sense of reasoning. But they hide under the pretext of love for supporting the bid. Of course there are exceptions.

    Again,  I must say that Chioma really loved her husband.The last scene when the King was returning from Esusu’s den showed it all.

    On Jagunjagun, the role of Agemo is still somehow confusing to me.

    Agemo was actually untamable by her nature as a jin.

    This was well displayed in the first war she fought. But how the tree was able to conquer her is a mystery that I have not being able to unravel.

    More importantly,  a person like Agemo in the Yoruba metaphysical beliefs should not have any sexual relationships which ordinarily would have weaken such powers.

    Perhaps, that may explain why she was conquered because she had sexual relationship with Gbotija.

    I am also surprised by how Agemo was talking to Gbotija about Ogundiji’s secret son and how unhappy she was for being used for wicked acts.

    Could that mean that she knew that she could operate as both human and jin?

    I wish Femi could provide answers to all these questions.

    Well, in all I appreciate what Femi Adebayo is doing, not only because he is a native of my town but also because he is a professional per excellence.

    Thank you very much, Prof. for these pieces of information.

    God Bless.

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