One of the most successful and significant early Nigerian films, “Bisi, Daughter of the River” may soon hit the movie stands from a contemporary perspective. This anticipated remake reflects the enduring importance of the original film within the landscape of Nigerian cinema.
A movie producer is seeking the remake of the film, which represents the “golden age” of Nigerian cinema in the 1970s, a time when filmmakers began to produce films on celluloid specifically for Nigerian audiences. “Bisi, Daughter of the River” stands out as a landmark work from this transformative era, highlighting the creativity and ambition of pioneering filmmakers who laid the foundation for modern Nollywood.
The film, which production was said to have been financially supported by the late business magnate, M.K.O. Abiola starred, among others, Patti Boulaye (Patricia Ngozi Ebigwei), John Chukwu and Jab Adu.
Its success also helped to pave the way for future filmmakers and foster a sense of possibility for home-grown Nigerian movies, long before the video-based boom of the 1990s.
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Because of the significance of the film in helping to lay the foundations for modern Nollywood, the producer, through his lawyer, Rockson Igelige, has sought copyright clearance for a remake of the film from a contemporary perspective.
In a notice issued by Igelige, a copy of which was made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Abuja, he requested information that could assist in establishing contact with the estate of Ladi Ladebo, producer of the 1977 film.
According to Igelige, his client had made repeated attempts over several months to contact the producer of the film, in order to obtain the copyright clearance, but yet to receive a response.
The lawyer noted that Section 35(1) of the Copyright Act, 2022, empowers his client to obtain the copyright clearance on the grounds of public interest.
He has requested anyone possessing information that could assist in establishing contact with the producer to reach out at 08033076491 or akpotirigelige@nigerianbar.ng
Adapted from a play of the same title, by Ladi Ladebo, Jab Adu, and Kola Ogunnaike, the main character, in the film, Bisi, is from the coastal town of Badagry.
Her father believes she is a “gift” from the river-goddess, “Yemoja,” and insists she becomes a priestess serving the goddess.
Rejecting this destiny, Bisi flees to Lagos and becomes a secretary for a businessman (named Paul Banji).
There, she falls in love with his business partner, Dexter Raymond — a relationship that severs any hope of returning to Badagry.
The film introduces danger through a villainous character (Babalola), who plots to kill Dexter and Bisi to sabotage the business.
Under threat, Bisi tries to escape, but during a dramatic chase in a boat, she tragically falls into the river and drowns, in view of worshippers of Yemoja.
The film ends with the implication that the river goddess has claimed her, as her own. NAN
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