British-Chinese filmmaker Chee Keong Cheung has called on international filmmakers to collaborate more closely with African creatives, citing the continent’s growing pool of talent and its potential to produce globally compelling stories.
In an interview with JoyNews, the director said Africa’s film industry is rich in creativity, ambition, and skilled professionals capable of competing globally.
“There is so much talent across Africa, and collaboration is key. I encourage international filmmakers to work with African creatives,” he said.
Drawing from his experience directing Son of the Soil, his first major African production shot in Nigeria, Mr Cheung described the level of dedication and unity he encountered on set as exceptional.
“From the very first day, I was inspired by the energy and commitment of the cast and crew. There is a real sense of family here that you rarely see,” he noted.
He stressed that cross-border collaboration is not only beneficial for storytelling but also critical to expanding the reach of African cinema and unlocking new opportunities for the industry.
According to him, working with African actors and production teams allowed for a meaningful exchange of ideas and techniques, ultimately strengthening the quality and global appeal of the project.
“Collaboration opens doors that might otherwise remain closed. We often work in silos globally, and bridging that gap is important,” he explained.
Mr Cheung also highlighted the importance of telling authentically African stories that resonate with global audiences without losing their cultural identity.
“There is a wealth of stories on this continent. By partnering with international filmmakers, we can present them in ways that connect with audiences worldwide while preserving their essence,” he said.
Beyond storytelling, he pointed to the broader benefits of such partnerships, including industry growth, increased exposure, and sustainable development for African cinema.
“It helps develop the local industry and shows the world what African cinema can achieve. Collaboration is not just a partnership; it is a pathway to growth,” he added.
The filmmaker further urged African creatives to leverage platforms such as the Black Star International Film Festival, noting that such events offer valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and showcasing talent to global audiences.
Looking ahead, Mr Cheung expressed a desire to return to the continent for future projects, describing Africa as a hub of untapped opportunity.
“The talent here is extraordinary, and the opportunities are immense. Filmmaking is a collaborative medium, and working together is the key to success,” he said.
His remarks reinforce a growing sentiment within the global film community: Africa’s creative industry is not only rising but ready to take its place on the world stage through stronger international collaboration.
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