Encomium
Yomi Fash Lanso is one of the top Yoruba actors in Nollywwod. In an encounter with him at the movie premiere of Heroes and Zeroes at Silverbird Galleria, Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos, on Friday, August 31, 2012, he opened up on the allegation that he is pompous and more.
What’s been happening to you?
I have been doing my job, though I am on leave now. I decided to give myself some rest. The last film I did before going on break is Omokunrin Kan.
Is it your own movie?
No, it’s not mine. I am not yet a producer. I prefer to be a full-time actor for now. I don’t want to go into production just because my colleagues are into it. I don’t join the bandwagon.
Why is it that every new comer is now a producer in your sector?
The reason is that we still don’t have the desired structure. We still don’t have the industry. We are just deceiving one another. We only have a working place. That’s’ why people just come, do whatever they like and get out. If we have an industry, the structure would be there and everything will be well organized.
Film production is not an easy task. I did film production course well over nine years ago and I have my certificate. Yet, I have not produced a film. It’s not as if I don’t want to do so, but we are still growing. Home movies in Nigeria would teach you how not to make a film.
People alleged you are so proud, it is true?
(Cuts in) It’s good like that. A sweet stew costs money. A cheap product lacks appreciation. When you set standards for yourself and operate on such platform and also believe in yourself, God would believe in you.
If they say I am pompous, yes, it’s true and I am cool with that. The only thing is that I am not arrogant. If I still deliver, they would pay for my brand.
People say you are blessed with an ageless face…
(Cuts in) I take care of myself.
Who are the actors you love working with?
I give it to Funsho Adeolu. Also, I love working with Gabriel Afolayan. He is highly talented. We also have Ibrahim Chatta. I love working with people like that, who give their best.
You are one of the top actors in the Yoruba movie industry, what the secret?
The secret is training. I learn everyday both formally and informally. Thus, I know my right. I know my worth and people appreciate me for who I am.
Do you have a crush on any actress?
No, I don’t.
How about your female fans?
I don’t go out like that, and if I go out, it’s with my close friends. I only go to meaningful events.
- This story was first published in ENCOMIUM Weekly on Tuesday, September 4, 2012
