Discourse: Umar Turaki Discusses Cinematography, Literature, and His Freshly Released Book
Umar Turaki, a renowned Nigerian author and filmmaker, has been captivating audiences with his rich and authentic storytelling for years. His creative journey, marked by a seamless fusion of literature and filmmaking, has led him to a multifaceted career that spans both worlds.
Turaki's debut novel, Such a Beautiful Thing to Behold, received critical acclaim for its captivating storytelling. This success marked the beginning of his literary career, which would later intertwine with his passion for filmmaking. His upcoming novel, Every Drop of Blood is Red, set to release on November 12th, explores the tensions and divisions that have fractured Jos, Nigeria, but at its heart, it's about how we are more connected than we realize.
Turaki's filmmaking journey began during his undergraduate years, drawn to the visual aspect of storytelling. He made a short film in his mother's village, inspired by Italian neorealism and featuring non-actors and a shoestring budget. This humble beginning laid the foundation for his future cinematic endeavours.
Turaki's literary background has proven to be a strong foundation for his screenwriting and film directing. His narrative skills, character creation, and thematic exploration have been essential in crafting compelling stories for the screen. This intersection of storytelling disciplines has enabled him to develop a career that embraces both literature and film.
Parenthood has deepened Turaki's work as a storyteller, making him more patient and reflective. His future projects are inspired by his experiences as a parent, aiming to reflect the lessons he's learned about life through them.
Currently, Turaki is not only working on Every Drop of Blood is Red but also adapting his first novel, Such a Beautiful Thing to Behold, for TV. His dream is to make his first feature film as a writer-director in the next five years.
For aspiring authors and filmmakers, Turaki offers a blueprint for success. He advises to just keep going and to get started on their messy first draft. His favorite movie of all time, Magnolia by Paul Thomas Anderson, serves as a testament to his appreciation for compelling storytelling.
Turaki's website provides an opportunity for readers to order a copy of Every Drop of Blood is Red. His creative journey, marked by resilience, innovation, and a deep connection to his Nigerian heritage, continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Umar Turaki's career paths in literature and filmmaking, fueled by his passion for education-and-self-development, have created a unique lifestyle that intertwines his love for storytelling with entertainment. As he continues to release novels and adapt them for screen, his upcoming projects will reflect his experiences as a parent and the lessons learned about life.
