TIPTOPSTARS - ONLINE MAGAZINE Array I’ll Marry a Cameroonian

I’ll Marry a Cameroonian - Jim Iyke, Nollywood Star

Ernest Kanjo / Wednesday, 04 March 2009 18:00

If Cameroon is fond of Nollywood, it is also thanks to Jim Iyke, one of the most talented Nigerian actors. Jim has inspired many rising Cameroonian actors who say they must work hard and be like him. On a recent visit to Cameroon, on the invitation of the Minister of Culture, the Nigerian movie hero spoke to Ernest Kanjo. Amongst other things, Jim urged Cameroonian film makers to strive for professionalism as well as embrace modern technology, required for the production of quality movies.

Who is Jim Iyke?

I’m a Nigerian, born in Gabon where I lived with my parents for eight years before moving to Lyon, France. We moved to Nigeria when I was eleven, after living in France for three years.

You should be a good French speaker then…

Je comprends un peu le Français…hahaha. Well, I speak a little bit of French, but my parents and sisters do speak the language properly.

How much do you know about the Cameroonian film industry?

I’ve watched one Cameroonian movie

How do you find it?

Fantastic! Cameroonian actors and actresses are incredibly talented and will go places, I can bet.

What would the Cameroonian film industry do to grow?

Cameroon just needs to polish up a few things. Collywood needs technological advancement to ensure quality products. Also, Collywood should embark on partnerships, even with the government.

Jim Iyke, you have millions of fans in Cameroon…

Cameroonians are too emotional and would easily love what is good. I’m really humbled by that and lack words to qualify my love for Cameroon.

What do you make of Cameroon?

A beautiful country with soothing weather and magnificent structures. I love the place.

Are you married?

Not yet.

Would you marry a Cameroonian?

Sure, I would do that.

So we shouldn’t be surprised to hear Jim is married to a Cameroonian

Yes, don’t be at all. I’ll probably do that. In fact, I’ll marry a Cameroonian.

Note: Jim Iyke will arrive in Cameroon for the second time on 13 March 2008 to shoot a movie. The Agbor Gilbert film will be shot in Bafut, also featuring Zack Orji, Yimbu Emmanuel and Quinta Eyong. We will do a special report on the Cameroonian actors who will star in the movie whose title is yet to be chosen.