The Impact of the “Magic” In Nollywood: An Analysis
Dauda Musa Enna, Emmanuel Paul Idakwo, Olaku Dorothy Akpovye

Abstract
The Nigerian film industry emerged from the dregs to become a globally acclaimed source of entertainment for many film lovers. It rose to prominence within the last two decades, providing employment, and business opportunities for many. Apart from generating revenue (thus contributing to the nation’s Gross National Income - GNI), it boosts Nigeria’s presence internationally. However, contents of most Nigerian-made films are noted for their bizarre, preternatural/diabolical actions. They present the Nigerian society as one that largely subscribes and employs diabolism as a means for confronting challenges. The implication is that the mind sets, especially those of the younger generation, are accepting the belief that magic is a shortcut to success over science, reason and hard work. Consequently, success and failure are credited to mystical forces. The same is applicable to the cause of ailments, natural disasters and accidents. Since culture is said to be the soul of a country, and film being one of the vehicles that drives it, the research probed into the shift from science to superstition among the youth. In particular the contribution of magic themes in Nigerian films to the perception of Nigeria among viewers abroad is made. Data was collected through a survey and analysed using simple frequency and descriptive analysis of percentage. Our key finding confirms the fact that the depiction of magic portrays the nation as one still trapped in the world of prescience. Also, it suggests that many people in real life situation still believe in magic. The study recommends that the industry and regulatory agencies should de-emphasise “magic”, since it portends a cog to development, in today’s scientific and technological age.

Full Text: PDF