By Christian Agadibe
Actor, singer and Project Fame presenter, Joseph Benjamin is one of the most sought after faces in Nollywood. Thanks to hard work and a determination to succeed against the odds. In this chat with The Entertainer, the thespian opens up on career, female fans and what movie buffs should expect from him in 2015.
Excerpt:
Tell us about yourself and what you are currently working on?
I have been doing what I know how to do best which is acting; I have been working and filming on set. I just got off a set today but I can’t disclose any information about it yet because it is something big and it will hit TV screens pretty soon. And you guys should watch out because it is going to be worth the wait.
You are one of the most sought after faces in Nollywood, what is the secret of your success?
It is all about putting my best foot forward always. Like I tell people, if you go into the supermarket to get an item and at the end of the day you are satisfied, the cinch is high you will come back for more of that item. So, it is pretty much about what I bring to every job I sign up for. And directors of course want to work with me because of what I bring to the table. I am always determined to put in my best. I always look forward to giving my all in everything I do.
What makes a good actor?
It is your ability to imbibe each character or the personality you are interpreting, it is your ability to take that character and bring it to life; animate it. That is pretty much what makes a good actor.
Aside from what we see on screen, who is the real Joseph Benjamin?
I am your regular guy from Kogi State who loves what he does with a passion. I love being me and being original; that pretty much is who I am?
What is the craziest thing a fan has ever done to you?
A fan actually kissed me. You know, it was quite shocking! As a matter of fact, I didn’t expect it!
Which movie has been the most challenging for you?
Hmmm…my most challenging movie? Every movie, every project I undertake, every role I play comes with its own unique challenges so I can’t point at any one and say ‘here is my most challenging movie.’ And this is because each movie helps bring out something fresh and new from within me. However, I would say the most challenging in recent times was the one I did a month ago but I am keeping my fingers crossed; I am hoping I did my best because it was quite challenging.
Do you watch your movies? Do you sometimes feel there is a particular scene you could have done better?
I always critic myself irrespective of how well people might say I did. For me, growth and change are constant so if you are not passionate or driven to grow, then you will be stagnant. You are only as good as your last job; that is my take. I critic myself always and want to do better most times after I watch my movies.
How best would you advice an up-and-coming actor?
Be as real and as natural as possible and just let it flow and let it come from deep within you effortlessly. That is when they will see that what is oozing out of you is natural.
Have you ever turned down a script?
Of course; I am quite selective when it comes to scripts. I always look at the prospects of what each story will add to my personality and I usually want every role I play to create a different image in the minds of people. Consequently I always look out for certain elements in scripts. I always tell people that beyond everything, we should look at acting as a medium for educating the entire society. I am always looking forward to that in every script that comes my way. There should be something the viewer will take away after watching me. Most times I prefer scripts that dwell on social issues.
What is your New Year resolution, your expectations and plans?
I am hoping to be better at what I do. I want to give my all; I just want to push myself harder so I can achieve greater results in the New Year.
How do you handle female fans that want to get down with you?
I am always calm and patient. I pretty much open my arms and embrace everyone because these are the people that make you who you are.
Were you born with a silver spoon?
I was born with a silver spoon but I lost it along the way. I have seen the highs and lows of life but thank God I am standing here today because all that I went through has helped form the very fabric of the man I am today. So every life experience should be a lesson for you.
What has been your most difficult moments in life?
My most difficult moments must probably be those days when I was still hustling as a young man and when I lost my step father. When I got thrown into the world to find a footing as a man was another difficult moment but it helped me to stand.
Is marriage very far or very near for you?
No comment on that.
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