Filmmaker Akhabue Evans talks about his journey into filmmaking

En’man, tell us about your journey so far in film making
Started off making Music Videos year 2010 after self tutelage back at the university, in Ekpoma as. Then as E-man, a short form for ‘Entertainment Manager’.

Later, I moved my studio to Benin 2012 upon graduating from Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma and finishing by Law School.

Getting to Benin, I updated my name from E-man to En’man. Still same meaning, but I thought to change it since some people mistake E-man for Emma.

Also I began the company, iMB Pictures. So videos directed by me had ‘Directed by En’man’ and ‘iMB Pictures’ logo

Between 2012 and 2014 in Benin City, I dominated the music video making scene.

In 2014 I won BEST MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTOR, SSMA (South South Music Award).

Same 2014 I moved to Lagos by an invite to come start off a new brand with some other great minds. That’s the birth of CAREL STUDIOS, making Music Videos, films & commercials with the name CAREL FILMS. Carel Films in strictly a Gospel brand founded in the Church for Christian Based Projects.

How did your childhood influence the person you are today?
Apart from been the lead Video Director & editor of the team, I currently serve in the capacity of the CEO of Carel Studios LTD. Its been from one award to the other each year that passes.

Best Music Video Director, Editor and Motion Graphics Editor LMAM Awards. Also nominations for Best Editor at the LOVEWORLD Awards with Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Envisioning 2021, what are your visions for the new year?
2020 is a beautiful year. And loaded with somethings I couldn’t do this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and some more great & new stuffs.

I am already on the move with great projects in the world of media. So it’s more expansion, more wins and more capital investments. Both for myself, Carel Films, BTS-GRAM (BEHIND THE SCENE GRAM) and more.

What challenges have you encountered in your journey thus far?
I don’t take challenges to heart like it’s a problem. Instead I see them as training ground to learn something new. Reason I am often referred to as a Result Oriented Person.

I see the solution in every challenges and always arrive at it. Then I smile, ‘I just learnt something New’.

For a filmmaker, expecially from Nigeria, it is common to say that your challenge is always getting the right budget to express your mind and creativity. But it is what it is. Its your country and the Economy. We live with it and make it better.

On the Area of Academics, it may be of concern as to how I managed to develop these skills while still studying as a Lawyer.

But then I just think I am created differently with a large mind to diversify.

What advice do you have for video producers looking up to you now?
My advise for Film Enthusiasts is to keep Shooting. Keep recording and Editing videos even for now reason. Keep the mind busy, exploring new ideas and creativity. It’s just the best possible way to grow your skill.

Then be a good team player. Good filmmaking is not a Job of one man. Build a team that’s willing to grow together.

It’s good to pursue money, but first pursue productivity and excellence. Don’t claim credit for what’s not yours. Accept your level and build on it.

Be open to corrections both from the public and your clients. They are not naive as you think.