Filmmaker, producer, and actress Funke Akindele is taking audiences on an intimate tour behind the creation of her newest movie, Behind the Scenes, a story that explores family pressures, self-sacrifice, ambition, and the power of self-love. As the director, executive producer, and one of the leading actors, Akindele wore multiple hats throughout the production, ensuring that every scene reflected her vision.
“This film is about the pressures young women face under black tax, the expectations from family and community to provide support at their own expense,” she says. “It’s about a woman working tirelessly to put food on the table for her family, often forgetting her own needs. These stories are relatable to many, yet rarely told authentically, and I felt it was time to shed light on them.”
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The writing process was a journey of collaboration, creativity, and intense research. Working alongside co-writers Wendy Mas and Collins, Akindele admits the process was sometimes challenging. “There were times when we hit writer’s block, or I just didn’t feel like working. But Wendy and Collins kept pushing, ensuring that the story came out as real and relatable as possible,” she recalls. The team conducted in-depth interviews and drew on real-life experiences to make the narrative resonate with audiences.
On set, Akindele’s role extended far beyond acting and directing. She supervised every department, from production design to costumes, ensuring that the story’s African context came alive authentically. “I wanted every set to tell a story. Every house, every studio, every prop had to feel real. Leon Isaka, our art director, was phenomenal in recreating sets that audiences could relate to, while still feeling fresh and unique,” she says. The production team meticulously rebuilt sets, combining attention to detail with creative innovation to reflect the characters’ lives authentically.
Costume and styling were equally critical. Akindele worked closely with wardrobe teams and designers including Wani Fuga, Masby, Zepha Co., and Vanity to ensure every character looked their part. “Adon, for instance, had to look sophisticated and wealthy. Miam’s PR consultant persona demanded elegance, and every other character had to feel real to the audience. Even my own character required detailed wardrobe supervision,” she explains. The careful attention to costume and styling enhanced the storytelling and added depth to the characters’ identities.
The cast delivered emotionally charged performances under Akindele’s guidance. Scarlet Gomez, portraying one of the lead roles, tackled intense emotional scenes that demanded multiple takes and unwavering focus. “Scarlet was amazing, giving her all even when scenes were emotionally draining. She brought depth and authenticity to her character, which was essential to the film,” Akindele notes. Other cast members, including Debo Mr. Macaroni, Usuzu, and Ibraim Chhatta, embraced roles that challenged them to step outside their usual characters, creating a dynamic ensemble that brought the script to life.
Some scenes, like the monitor room and funeral sequences, required precise attention to detail and emotion. Akindele emphasizes that every element, including lighting, props, costumes, and set design, was carefully crafted to evoke the intended mood. The film also includes elaborate party and wedding sequences, combining costume, choreography, and decor to break from typical Nollywood visuals while remaining deeply relatable.
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Beyond its cinematic appeal, Behind the Scenes carries a profound message. “This film is about self-love, self-care, and prioritizing your own well-being. You cannot pour from an empty cup. It’s also about recognizing your economic and personal power, even in the face of family or societal pressure,” Akindele explains. The film also touches on chronic illness, portraying the importance of caring for oneself physically and emotionally.
Reflecting on the production, Akindele says, “Working with a professional crew and talented actors allowed me to bring my vision to life. It was challenging wearing so many hats, but seeing it all come together on screen made it worthwhile.”
Behind the Scenes is now in cinemas, inviting audiences to engage with a story that is emotionally powerful, socially relevant, and visually captivating. Funke Akindele’s commitment to storytelling shines through, reinforcing her place as a filmmaker deeply invested in creating films that entertain, inspire, and spark conversation.
