Kojo Nkansah, widely recognized by his stage name Lilwin, has made a significant impact on the Ghanaian film industry, not only as an actor but also as a producer and a self-proclaimed leader. His audacious claim to be the “President of African movies” and the “King of Ghana movies” underscores his ambitious vision for the industry and his commitment to raising the bar for Ghanaian and African cinema. This self-proclaimed title is not mere bravado but a reflection of his substantial financial investments and his dedication to producing high-quality films that can compete on the international stage. Lilwin’s approach goes beyond acting; he has embraced the role of a cinematic entrepreneur, pouring his resources and energy into transforming Ghanaian storytelling into a globally recognized force.
Lilwin’s latest project, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, exemplifies his significant financial commitment to filmmaking. He invested a staggering $500,000 in the production of this biographical film inspired by events in Burkina Faso. This substantial investment encompassed not only his personal funds but also significant loans and external support secured to bring the project to fruition. This level of financial commitment is unprecedented in the Ghanaian film industry, especially within the Kumawood scene where Lilwin initially rose to prominence. His willingness to take on such substantial financial risk demonstrates his unwavering belief in the potential of African stories and his determination to tell them on a grand scale.
His ambitious investments aren’t limited to Captain Ibrahim Traoré. His previous projects, like A Country Called Ghana, saw an investment exceeding $300,000, showcasing Lilwin’s consistent approach to high-budget productions. He paid Nigerian actor Ramzy Nouah over $40,000 for his role in the film, a figure that excludes accommodation and other expenses. Additionally, the marketing campaign for A Country Called Ghana was equally impressive, with over one million Ghana cedis spent on promotional materials, billboards, and thousands of branded T-shirts. This comprehensive approach, from production to promotion, demonstrates Lilwin’s understanding of the multifaceted nature of successful filmmaking.
Further demonstrating his commitment to high-quality production, Lilwin’s movie series Mr President incurred expenses of approximately GH₵700,000. A significant portion of this budget was allocated to props, including rented Land Cruisers and motorbikes costing GH₵5,000 per day. Even seemingly minor details, such as the meat used in various scenes, amounted to over GH₵30,000. This attention to detail, even in seemingly minor aspects of production, highlights Lilwin’s commitment to creating a visually rich and immersive cinematic experience. He understands that every element, from the grandest set piece to the smallest prop, contributes to the overall impact of the film.
Lilwin’s significant financial investments are driven by his vision of elevating Ghanaian storytelling to international standards. He believes that compelling African narratives require substantial financial backing to achieve the desired impact. This encompasses all aspects of production, from casting and costumes to achieving high cinematic quality. He firmly believes that a shoestring budget cannot produce a film capable of competing on the international stage. Every element, from the actors’ performances to the locations and costumes, must be of the highest caliber to create a truly world-class product. This commitment to quality reflects his desire to see Ghanaian cinema recognized and celebrated globally.
Ultimately, Lilwin’s dream extends beyond just producing high-quality films; he envisions Ghanaian cinema gracing international platforms like Amazon and Netflix. He sees these platforms as crucial avenues for showcasing the rich culture and abundant talent of Africa to a global audience. By investing heavily in his productions, Lilwin is not only raising the standard of Ghanaian cinema but also paving the way for African stories to reach a wider audience. His actions speak louder than his bold proclamations; he is actively working to make his vision a reality, transforming the landscape of Ghanaian film and contributing significantly to the growth and recognition of African cinema as a whole. Through his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment, Lilwin is building a legacy that extends beyond his own films, creating opportunities for future generations of African filmmakers.
