At its Lagos premiere, cast and crew of ‘Red Alert’ spoke about the characters and the challenges of making a film centered on drug wars and the underworld.
Produced by Kizzy Uzoma and Austin Faani, and directed by Faani from a script by Prisca Okeke, ‘Red Alert’ follows two rival drug lords whose feud reignites after the abduction of one’s daughter. The suspicion sparks a violent clash that drags family into the battlefield.
Uzoma, who also stars in the film, said his decision to back the project came from a long-standing desire to see more action thrillers in Nollywood. “From my background as a combat sport athlete, this was the right time to pour more energy and resources into it,” he said. He added that his fight sequences drew directly from his ring experience, making choreography less of a challenge.
Juliet Njemanze, who plays Ada, described her character as driven by “dark feminine energy.” She said the role stretched her beyond her comfort zone. “I was terrified during one particular scene,” she explained. “I was scared of the criticism that might come, but I had to remind myself that this is my job, I’m an actor, and I just had to play it.”
For Valentine Onyeka, who plays Cheta, son of a gangster, the film highlighted generational consequences. “Whatever you do as an adult has an impact on your children,” he said. ‘Red Alert’ is his second feature film.
Ella Idu, cast as Martha, said the project marked her first foray into action after typically playing “lover girl” roles. “The stunts and the handling of the gun were a whole lot,” she said. “It was just fun. I wasn’t scared at all.”
The ensemble cast also features Jide Kene Achufusi, Tina Mba, Linda Osifo, Charles Billion, Onny Michael, Alex Usifo Omiagbo, Chacha Eke Faani, Raymond Okafor, Prisma James, and Uzoma himself.
‘Red Alert’ is produced by Austin Faani Studios and Golden Kizzy Production and distributed by SkyFilm Distribution.
