By Ifeoma Ben, LLM, MBA
Nigeria’s film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades, establishing itself as a significant player in global cinema. The advent of global streaming platforms, notably Netflix, has introduced new dynamics to the industry, presenting both collaborative opportunities and competitive challenges. This article examines the relationship between local Nigerian filmmakers and these streaming giants, exploring the implications for Nollywood and the legal industry.
Collaboration: Opportunities for Growth and Global Reach
The entry of streaming platforms like Netflix into the Nigerian market has opened unprecedented avenues for local filmmakers:
• Global Audience Access: Streaming services provide Nigerian films with a platform to reach international audiences, enhancing global recognition and appreciation of Nollywood’s unique storytelling. This exposure has led to increased interest in African narratives and cultures.
• Financial Investment: Netflix’s investment in Nigerian content has injected substantial capital into the industry. By 2022, Netflix reported investing $23 million in Nigeria, funding over 250 titles and creating numerous jobs.
• Enhanced Production Quality: Collaborations with global platforms have encouraged higher production standards. Access to better resources and adherence to international quality benchmarks have led to improvements in cinematography, storytelling, and overall film quality.
Competition: Challenges and Industry Concerns
Despite the benefits, the presence of global streaming platforms poses certain challenges:
• Market Dominance: There are concerns that streaming giants could overshadow local distribution channels, potentially marginalizing indigenous platforms and reducing the bargaining power of local filmmakers.
• Content Control: Global platforms may influence the type of content produced, favoring themes that appeal to international audiences over local narratives. This shift could dilute the cultural specificity that characterizes Nollywood films.
• Financial Disparities: While investments have been made, some filmmakers feel that the funds are insufficient compared to other markets, limiting the potential for large-scale productions.
Impact on the Legal Industry
The evolving relationship between Nollywood and global streaming platforms has significant legal implications:
• Intellectual Property (IP) Rights: With wider distribution comes increased risk of content piracy. Legal professionals must bolster IP protection mechanisms to safeguard creators’ rights and revenues.
• Contractual Agreements: Negotiating contracts with international platforms requires meticulous attention to terms regarding content ownership, revenue sharing, and distribution rights. Legal experts play a crucial role in ensuring that agreements are equitable and protect the interests of Nigerian filmmakers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating the regulatory landscapes of multiple countries necessitates comprehensive legal guidance to ensure compliance with varying laws and standards.
• Antitrust Considerations: The dominance of a few streaming platforms raises concerns about monopolistic practices. Legal scrutiny is essential to maintain a competitive and fair market environment.
Conclusion
The interplay between Nollywood and global streaming platforms embodies both collaborative potential and competitive tension. While these platforms offer Nigerian filmmakers opportunities for global exposure and investment, they also present challenges that require strategic navigation. The legal industry stands at the forefront of this evolution, tasked with protecting creative rights, ensuring fair practices, and guiding the industry through the complexities of this digital age. Striking a balance between embracing global collaboration and preserving the integrity of local cinema is crucial for the sustainable growth of Nollywood.
Ifeoma Ben is a Partner at The Law Suite and the Editor-in-Chief of Lawhauz Magazine and can be reached on 08033754299
