Beyond drama and headlines, a Nigerian filmmaker says the real stories are the ones we don’t fully tell.
Nigerian filmmaker Busola Komolafe has called for a move toward ethical, psychology-driven storytelling, urging creatives to prioritise depth and responsibility over sensationalism.
Speaking in Lagos, Komolafe said filmmakers play a powerful role in shaping how society understands trauma, behaviour, and truth—especially in documentaries and African brand storytelling.
She noted that many narratives, particularly about women, focus on surface experiences while ignoring deeper psychological struggles that influence actions and identity.
Drawing from her work, she highlighted how trauma is often overlooked, stressing the need for storytellers to explore the emotional and mental realities behind events.
Komolafe also described filmmakers as “gatekeepers” who determine how stories are framed, warning that storytelling can easily shape public perception—even to the point of influencing views on guilt or innocence.
She encouraged creatives to tell more authentic stories that reflect real-life pressures, including mental health challenges and the hidden economic roles many women play in society.
According to her, such untold stories offer richer, more relatable content that resonates strongly with audiences.
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