Cameroon
Cameroon: A Rising Star in African Cinema
In a significant milestone, the country celebrated the release of its first film on Netflix in 2021, marking a major step forward for the Cameroonian film scene and signalling its immense growth potential.
Location
Cameroon’s diverse terrain and wildlife make it an ideal destination for film producers. Most locations are available for filming, including privately owned sites that can be negotiated with the assistance of African film fixers who also help manage associated costs. The country’s main destinations are Yaoundé, the inland capital, and Douala, its economic hub and largest seaport.
Communication and Infrastructure
While major roads in Cameroon are paved, rural roads can be less navigable, especially during the rainy seasons. Filming during the dry season is advisable, and fixers can assist in organising safe and reliable 4-wheel-drive transportation. Internet access in Cameroon tends to be slow, often prompting post-production work to be carried out outside the country.
Staffing and Equipment
Cameroon’s film industry, affectionately known as Collywood, has made significant strides over the past five years. Improvements in terms of actors, equipment, and image quality have been notable. Earlier productions were shot in HD, but today, many have transitioned to 4K. While Cameroon may not be rich in film equipment resources, leading productions often bring necessary equipment from neighbouring countries. However, the country does possess a small pool of local staffing resources, including directors of photography, still photographers, art departments, camera assistants, sound operators, grips, gaffers, stylists, hair and makeup artists, PA/runners, production drivers, and of course, the best line production company on the continent, African Film Fixer!
Visas and Permits
Once filming locations are identified, public locations typically require a blanket shooting permit, which takes approximately two weeks to obtain and costs around $500. Producers should be cautious not to film government buildings and military installations, as it is illegal. Consulting with local film fixers regarding regulations can help avoid unauthorised photography issues. Drone use also requires a permit, and it’s advisable to engage a local drone pilot.
With Cameroon’s film industry on the rise and streaming giants like Netflix taking notice, the country is positioned as a significant player in West African cinema. Local streaming services like Wouri TV have also been developing since 2016, highlighting the substantial opportunity not only for local audiences but also for the African diaspora and global viewers. As the industry continues to flourish, Cameroon’s hosting of the 2nd International Film Festival “Let’s go to the Cinema” in 2023 promises to further open up opportunities for film production in the country.
Cameroon is not just a land of natural beauty; it’s also a land of cinematic potential, where film dreams are beginning to take flight.
African Fixer plays a vital role in connecting the global film industry with this burgeoning African gem, helping to navigate the intricacies and challenges of producing captivating cinema in Cameroon. The future is bright for Collywood, and the world is eagerly anticipating the stories this vibrant nation will share with global audiences.