Leila Djansi has challenged the local film industry to step up its game, arguing that filmmakers are “chasing fluff” instead of focusing on real growth.

Taking to social media, the award-winning filmmaker questioned Ghana’s progress since its Oscar submission of Azali in 2018, lamenting that every subsequent entry has been a disappointment.

“In 2018, we got Azali for the Oscars, and since then, every single submission has been a joke. A literal joke. Some of the films would convince you to burn your Ghana card.”

Djansi pointed out that Ghana’s lack of progress is not due to a lack of talent or stories but rather an unwillingness to do the work.

“This ain’t cos we don’t have the talent. Not because we don’t have the stories. But because we refuse to do the work.”

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She shared a personal experience with a Hollywood agent who refused to represent her because her films lacked action sequences. Initially, she was frustrated.

“A few years ago, a CAA agent told me he couldn’t represent me because my films had no explosions. Ahhhh. Explosions?? Ok.”

However, instead of dismissing the feedback, she used it to improve her craft. “My next film, I made sure I not only had explosions. I freaking burned down a house and a human being. I went all out! Because what he actually said to me was, ‘go take risks with your storytelling.’”

The filmmaker urged Ghanaian creatives to embrace criticism rather than dismiss it as hate or jealousy. “If your default is to always accuse people who correct you of hating or envy, you won’t be introspective, and you will not grow.”

According to her, the industry must move beyond excuses and actively seek improvement. “We will get there” when? How? “We’re trying” – are you though? You are chasing fluff.”

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