Realtime International Film Festival: A Platform for Emerging Creators

The Realtime International Film Festival (RTF), founded by Stanley Ohikhuare in 2016, has become a significant contributor to the entertainment ecosystem in its host city. As an independent film festival, RTF is dedicated to fostering a thriving creative economy for filmmakers. Since its inception, the festival has played a crucial role in launching the careers of over 150 young filmmakers, several of whom have gone on to have their works featured on major streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon.

One of the key aspects of RTF is its focus on emerging creatives. The festival has a high turnout of up-and-coming filmmakers, with around 80% of its participants each year making their debut in the industry. This inclusive approach has helped to create a platform for creative talent to showcase their work and collaborate with industry professionals.

This year’s edition of RTF featured an array of Nigerian films, including “Garden of Healing” produced by Ozor Uche, “Kaka” by Prince Daniel, and “Arinye” by Seun Afolabi.

Aside from the films, RTF also showcased an image from “The Interrogation of Lotanna”, a film directed by Ibukun Adetoyinbo. The image, which was screened during the festival, tells the story of a commander sent to quell a rebellion in the east. The film explores themes of torture, innocence, and determination, featuring a talented cast including William Chinoyenem, Cassey Oritsejolomi, and more.

The Realtime International Film Festival provides a unique platform for emerging filmmakers to express themselves, share their stories, and push the boundaries of the film industry. The support and recognition it offers filmmakers are invaluable, and it plays a vital role in shaping the future of global cinema.