Filmmaker, Pascal Atuma to release movie on “Japa” syndrome featuring Omoni Oboli, others

Nigerian filmmaker, Pascal Atuma, who resides in Canada, is set to release his latest movie titled “Imported Wives,” which explores marriages affected by the Japa syndrome, featuring a stellar cast of Omoni Oboli, Nancy Isime, Mama Gee, Ngozi Nwosu, Linda Osifo, Joseph Benjamin and others.

Atuma, who is both the director and producer of the film, disclosed to journalists in Lagos during a press conference ahead of the release. that the movie took him a year and eight months to complete.

According to Atuma, the film highlights what occurs when men bring wives from villages in Africa to marry and then ‘import’ them abroad to start a new life.

Atuma explained, “This movie reflects my growth as a filmmaker based on my past experiences. For me, a movie must be substantial. It was shot in Nigeria and Canada, but the auditions were conducted in the U.S.”

He continued, “The movie follows a man in the U.S. or Canada who returns to Nigeria to marry a wife and bring her back. Once the wife settles in and starts earning money, complications arise.

Discussing the challenges faced, Atuma mentioned, “Visa procurement was a significant challenge. Obtaining visas for Mama G, Nancy, and Lucy was a lengthy and complex process. It was not easy, we had to navigate a lengthy process.”

Atuma also addressed the need for stronger support from Nigerian drama associations: “The associations, including the Producers’ Guild of Nigeria, Directors’ Guild of Nigeria, and Actors’ Guild of Nigeria, need to be more cohesive. When someone authentic applies for a visa, a supportive letter from these bodies could facilitate the process.”

Speaking on the movie release date, Group ED of The Nile Group, Ms. Lolu Desalu, stated that no specific date has been set yet.

She noted, “The movie is intriguing and reflects current social pressures and hot topics. It examines what happens when Nigerians move abroad and how it impacts their relationships. We often hear stories in the media about couples moving to the U.S., Canada, or London and facing difficulties. This film delves into those issues, exploring how moving abroad affects relationships and family dynamics. It quickly unravels tensions and intensifies the drama.”

Desalu added, “The release date will be announced in a special way. While it will not initially be available on YouTube, it will be distributed across various other platforms. You may see it on YouTube eventually, but not in the immediate future.”