Popular Nigerian actor Deyemi Okanlawon has stirred controversy after boldly stating that “noise” is increasingly being rewarded more than quality in Nollywood, igniting fresh debate about standards in the film industry.
The award-winning actor made the remark while reflecting on the evolving nature of Nigeria’s film scene, suggesting that attention and visibility are now often driven more by hype, publicity, and social media buzz than by genuine talent and craft.
According to him, many deserving projects and performers are being overlooked, while louder, more aggressively promoted content tends to dominate conversations and gain wider recognition.
His comments have quickly gained traction online, with fans and industry stakeholders divided over whether Nollywood is truly prioritizing popularity over artistic excellence or simply adapting to changing audience dynamics.
Some supporters of his view argue that the industry is facing a shift where marketing and online visibility increasingly influence success, sometimes at the expense of storytelling depth and production quality.
Others, however, contend that Nollywood remains one of the fastest-growing film industries in the world and that both quality and visibility are necessary for commercial survival in a highly competitive entertainment market.
Despite the debate, Deyemi Okanlawon’s statement has reignited broader conversations about the balance between art and commerce in African cinema, and what it truly takes for quality productions to stand out.
As reactions continue to pour in, his critique has added fuel to ongoing discussions about how Nollywood can better support creative excellence while still embracing modern promotional realities.
