EDITORIAL: Abuse Of Privileges While Using People’s Houses For Film Location Is Inappropriate
In film production, location refers to the physical setting or environment where a scene is shot. It could be a church auditorium, school compound, private residence, hotel, open field, or even a public road. Every location contributes to the authenticity, emotion, and visual storytelling of a movie. In essence, the location is a silent character, it adds texture, mood, and believability to the story being told.
Scouting for film locations by Film Producers is not just a technical task, it is often a journey of faith, endurance, and discernment. Behind the uplifting messages seen in gospel movies lies a less glamorous side the painstaking search for the right environment that aligns with both the story and spiritual convictions.
Unlike the secular counterparts who may have access to corporate sponsors and established production houses, most Gospel filmmakers in Nigeria operate on shoestring budgets, relying largely on church support or personal sacrifice.
Budget constraints remain one of the biggest hurdles. www.gospelfilmnews.com
Christian filmmakers view these difficulties not as mere obstacles, but as spiritual tests. A few even testify of free access to schools, houses or estates after prayer.
Once the right location is found, another challenge begins: negotiation. In many Nigerian communities, local youth leaders or “area boys” expect payment before a camera can roll. In rural areas, village elders must also give consent. While secular producers may easily settle such issues with money, Christian filmmakers are often careful to maintain integrity and avoid confrontation.
However, it has become worrisome that some producers, after wrapping up production, fail to acknowledge the owners or facilitators of these locations, not even with a simple “Thank You” or a mention in the end credits. Such oversight is not only unprofessional but also ungrateful. Giving credit is not about flattery; it’s about honour and integrity.
As producers, it is your responsibility to ensure that:
Proper appreciation is expressed to individuals, churches, or organizations that allowed us to use their spaces.
Their names must included in the film’s end credits under sections like “Special Thanks” or “Special Appreciation”. Where possible, a token of appreciation or a thank-you visit is made after production.
These gestures go a long way in maintaining healthy relationships and ensuring that future productions are welcomed with even greater support. Every filmmaker must remember that no one achieves excellence in isolation m, and gratitude is the currency that sustains collaboration. The truth remains: A location you honour today opens doors for tomorrow’s production.
The Nigerian Christian film industry is thriving, with Gospel film producers exploring various monetization strategies. However, it’s crucial for them to invest in sustainable infrastructure, such as film villages or rentable apartments, to reduce the strain on existing locations.
Producers must be held accountable for their actions, and those who abuse locations should face consequences. Unfortunately, some producers misrepresent their intentions, using locations without proper authorization or respect for the property.
While it’s commendable that producers are generating revenue, it’s essential to allocate funds for future productions and invest in the industry’s growth. Building a film village requires significant investment, but it could provide a long-term solution for producers.
Many producers struggle with creating high-quality content, engaging audiences, and maintaining consistency and authenticity. To succeed, the industry must address the issue of location abuse, including:
– Overstaying
– Noise pollution
– Unauthorized use of property
– Environmental degradation
Let’s promote responsible practices and accountability in the industry. Producers who respect locations and adhere to agreements will benefit from a positive reputation and continued access to resources.
We celebrate the following ministries for working hard to build a befitting film village for shooting of their various Productions;
Faith- lift
Mount Zion
Opeyemi akintunde
ZionStone
LADTEM
We hope others will start Building.