Oge
Okoye became well-known after she featured in the film titled Sister
Mary. Her popularity grew as she continued to put up stellar
performances in subsequent movies she took part in. She is successful
woman, proud mother of two children and talented actress. She has staged
a comeback in latest interview where she spoke at length on her life as
a mother and an actress. Oge Okoye opens up on a range of issues in
this interview with AHMED BOULOR.
What was the experience like on the set of the movie Turning Point?
It
was a mind blowing and bonding experience for me. I had an amazing time
working with all the international stars and my other humble
colleagues. We were all like a family on set. Even the director was so
soft spoken, cooperative and accommodating. I learnt a lot from his mode
of directing which I will put into practice in the near future. I wish
such projects will continue to come my way.
What made you accept the role?
The
script was an amazing one and the fact that my character was a
controversial one in the movie made me accept the role. And with such a
wonderful cast and a whooping sum (smiles) who won’t accept the role?
Was it a challenging experience trying to fit into your role?
All
the characters I’ve been able to bring to life have all been
challenging and likewise my role in the movie Turning Point. My role in
the movie was a hectic one; I took up the role of a ‘ghetto fabulous’
lady that lives in the US after relocating from Nigeria in search of
greener pastures. The character entangles herself in all sorts of deals
and businesses not minding whose toes she steps on to make a living. All
she cares about is to put food on her table either by hook or crook.
The character was of course challenging and I look forward to such roles
in the future.
Was it hectic moving from Africa to America trying to shoot scenes of the movie?
It
wasn’t hectic at all moving around but certainly it was hectic arriving
and being rushed off to set that same minute from the airport. Not
having a shower or a bite or even time to do a run down through the
script to shoot a scene. Gosh! I felt like screaming but it’s all part
of the job and we are used to all the numerous challenges that come with
it.
What do you think is the significance of the movie?
I
took home a lot from the movie; I learnt that humility goes a longer
way than pride. I learnt never to underestimate the power of a woman,
never to involve a third party when you are having issues in your
marriage and the consequences of greed. I also learnt that life in its
fullness is like a clock that rotates, so in our best interest, one
should always live a straight forward life to avoid complications. One
also has to be nice to people you meet on your way up because you never
can tell who you’ll meet on your way down.
Do you consider yourself as an accomplished actress?
Do
I consider myself as an accomplished actress? I would say I am happy
and I thank God that I accomplished my dream of becoming an actress and
improving in my skills, but seeing myself an accomplished actress? Not
yet, because there’s still a lot undone that must be done by God’s
grace. Only then will I be able to consider myself as an accomplished
actress.
Do you think you are one of the most misunderstood actresses on the scene?
I
am kind of misunderstood at times but that notwithstanding, in life one
is misunderstood to be understood. Sometimes somethings are meant to be
that way. I won’t be the first nor will I be the last.
Do you every now and then watch movies that you have featured in?
I do that all the time. I watch my movies and it’s mostly on weekends. I am also a critic of my movies too.
What is it like being a mother?
No
doubt being a mother is no child’s play but it takes patience, love and
care and most especially in the midst of all, being a mother gives one
an unexplainable joy inside of you.
How close are you to your kids?
I am very close to my kids. I am their mother and it is expected that I am close to them at least.
How tasking is it being a mother, an actress and a wife?
It
is tasking I must confess but at the same time it is a fulfilling and
satisfying feeling when everything is being put in its place. I put my
100% attention to my family and my career. It’s pretty difficult at some
point but I have been able to put all in line and fill up the margin by
striking up a balance in my home and place of work. I don’t want either
part to suffer. It all has to do with planning.
Would you allow any of your kids to venture into acting?
Well,
that depends on the child; if that’s what he or she wants. I would
support and give useful advise where needed to any of my kids that want
to venture into acting. Acting is a noble profession.
What have you been working on in recent times?
I
have been spending time visiting the less-privileged homes and schools
where I try to meet up with their needs in my own little way. Holding
seminars on the importance of education but I won’t forget to mention
that I have just set up my non-governmental organisation which is known
as Positive Life for Children Foundation (PLCF). The foundation is built
on the growth and hope of children. It is aimed at stimulating and
encouraging their mental activity. It is about placing priority on the
issue of brilliant but less-privileged children and children with
special needs anywhere in Africa.
How many movies have you been part of in recent times?
I
have really and truly lost count of that. I have featured in scores of
movies and I can’t start mentioning them one at a time. If you consider
the year I started acting you will sum up that I have featured in a lot
of movies but I can’t count how many movies I have featured in, even in
recent times.
Is the movie Sister Mary one of the most memorable films you have been part of?
You
bring back fond memories with that question. Yes, Sister Mary is one of
the most memorable films I’ve been part of because it’s my first lead
role in the industry from the stables of Great Movies Production. The
feeling was overwhelming; that was where it all started for me and I am
really grateful for having such an opportunity.
How did you feel when you got the role?
I
was so excited that I got the role eventually and at the same time so
uneasy out of tension. It was my first time and I wanted to make a
lasting impression. I did in the end and the rest as they say is
history.
Source: The Nation
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