The National Film Authority say they made an effort to reach American producer Spike Lee when he came to Ghana.
In a press release, the Authority stated that they were excited to reach out, especially since they had been working in the past years to elevate Ghana’s film industry, positioning the country as a film and content destination.
However, the NFA said they were told Spike Lee was busy and would not be able to meet the Authority.
“We have become aware of a circular on the visit of Mr Spike Lee. As excited as we were to hear this news after he landed on air, the Authority’s CEO was on her way to meet Mr Lee to reiterate the positioning when the Authority was informed that his schedule was busy for the evening.”
“Given the circumstances, the Authority relayed a goodwill message from the CEO reiterating Ghana’s welcome and particularly the film industry and expressed our desire to commence a conversation.”
Lee in an interview with Asaase radio had said that he had no idea Ghana had a vibrant film industry and was shocked to not have met anyone from the sector.
“I made the point that it was publicised that I was coming and no one approached me from the film office. I would have loved to meet the people in the film industry here [in Ghana].”
Many Ghanaians wondered why the film industry had failed to meet such a huge filmmaker who has broken boundaries and told some of Hollywod’s best stories.
Many filmmakers in Ghana were also taken aback stating that they had no idea Spike Lee had come to Ghana or where he had been.
Director Peter Sedufia who has been at the helm of films like Aloe Vera, Keteke and Sidechic Gang said it is unfortunate filmmakers in Ghana are being criticised after Mr Lee’s statements.
He said no one knew why he was in Ghana or his itinerary for them to interrupt his schedule with unsolicited film industry appointments.
“If Spike Lee wanted to meet the Ghanaian filmmaking Community, he would have mentioned it before coming, then we’d be aware of the invitation to treat. Or, whoever was inviting him would have made that known. He can’t pretend not to know people make films in Ghana.”
“If he was invited on the ticket of the government, then there’s a communication failure somewhere. I cannot single-handedly make my way to Spike Lee to make an appointment to have an entire film industry conversation with him. Where’s my access point?”
Meanwhile, the NFA called on organizers of such trips to inform the necessary agencies to ensure that Ghana takes full advantage of all opportunities for the benefit of all.
