MAKEMATION is a very intentional film, and having TAJ—Adeniyi Joseph Omobulejo—as its DOP explains why.
TAJ, a graduate of the Multichoice Talent Factory, studied the business under the best in the business. He learned how to handle people, handle techniques, and handle scenarios. All of these, he learned together with the art of filmmaking. Then he packaged himself, stepped into Nigeria’s creative economy, and is leaving his mark.
Netflix. Multichoice. Film Festivals. Multi-Episode Series. Cinematic Releases.
TAJ—which stands for “The Adeniyi Joseph”—can boldly say he has been around and made an impact in Nollywood. And this is why Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, the Creator and Executive Producer of MAKEMATION, wasted no time in tapping him up for the film.
TAJ is a professional par excellence. He is incredibly detailed and has a knack for storytelling that brings colour to film projects. He and Michael “AMA Psalmist” Akinrogunde together were magic. Even in professional disagreements, Toyosi couldn’t help but gush over the beauty of the principal photography of each scene that TAJ directed.
Read Also: AMA Psalmist on Directing Nollywood AI-Themed Feature, MAKEMATION
TAJ on MAKEMATION: A Hard Film to Make
TAJ knew MAKEMATION was special from the jump. “This was particularly a very hard film to make,” he said, while speaking on his experiences on set. “We were combining drama and technology and that in itself, is a challenging feat. The film also had to connect emotionally.”
“Also, technology means innovation and invention, which meant that the film had to represent these fully.”
The experienced filmmaker praised the Toyosi’s worldbuilding. He said it helped him and his team create magic. He worked with the brilliant Key Grip Ebere Emmanuel and a second unit comprising Amara Udoezika and Loye Akinyemi—his fellow Multichoice Factory Alumnus.
“It was really the world of the film that guided our work. It inspired how the film was shot,” he said. “We filmed in places where we’d never explored before—in technologically advanced places. They inspired our work greatly.”
Don’t just take his word for it—go see the film. The reviews have been spectacular and the reception has been wonderful. If you need more prodding, TAJ also has this to say:
“MAKEMATION is the film of the decade because it’s in a place of its own. It’s a film that the world should see.
“Even as the Director of Photography, I learned a lot about technology. Many things I didn’t know about became clearer because I worked on the film. So, I’m sure that it’s a film that the world needs to see.”
