Private Project

Of Burning Questions and Fiery Answers

A recovering alcoholic and her introverted boyfriend find their relationship hanging by a thread due to unsolvable differences. Once smitten and deeply in love, they now struggle to communicate effectively, their shared memories insufficient to keep them together. Amidst their turmoil, they decide to embark on a peculiar exercise - a game of 14 questions, which they believe might reignite their lost connection.

The rules are simple - one asks, and the other answers, yes or no. The questions, though seemingly easy, pry into the most vulnerable corners of their hearts, revealing truths they've shied away from, truths that have silently chiselled at their relationship. As they traverse through each question, the lovers inch closer to an impending revelation that might just shake the very core of their bond.

"OBQAFA" is a poignant exploration of love, addiction, communication, and the painful beauty of truth. It's an intimate portrayal of two people's desperate bid to rekindle a dying love - where a simple game of questions and answers becomes a make-or-break crucible for their future.

  • Julie Onoshiokhue Ako
    Director
  • Julie Onoshiokhue Ako
    Writer
  • Daphne Atsutse
    Producer
  • Emmanuel Oputa
    Producer
  • Julie Onoshiokhue Ako
    Producer
  • Uwaye Anenette Eigbedion
    Key Cast
  • Daniel Alaneme
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Short
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes 5 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 5, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    14,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Nigeria
  • Country of Filming:
    Nigeria
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Arri Alexa LF
  • Aspect Ratio:
    2.39:1
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Julie Onoshiokhue Ako

My name is Julie Onoshiokhue Ako, a writer, director, and founder of Albantsho. In 2019, I received a higher diploma certification in Film and Television Studies awarded by the School of Media and Communications, Pan Atlantic University, and a certification in short-form storytelling from the New York Film Academy via the MTF film residency program.

My passion for compelling narratives was recognized when I received the Nihilient Award for Astounding Talent in Screenwriting. My commitment to telling unique stories manifested in the film "Bride Untangled", which I co-wrote and directed. This film won the Best Student Film Award at AFRIFF 2021 and was nominated for the MTF prize. I have gone on to write and co-produce feature films and recently, an animation series: Jay-Jay: the Chosen One for Showmax.

In 2020, I wrote and directed "THE STREAM", a PSA, for the United Nations PAUSE campaign. I have also crafted documentary scripts for organizations such as Save The Children and GAIN HEALTH, further refining my skills and expanding my portfolio.

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Director Statement

“OBQAFA" is more than just a film for me; it is a deeply personal exploration of lingering memories and unsaid words. This is a story that has been forged in the fires of my own experiences and introspections, a narrative derived from images of conversations that haunt the corridors of my mind. The conversations that should have been, could have been but were not.

In creating this movie, I have been presented with an invaluable opportunity to probe the depths of my life and influences, heal from past wounds and facilitate growth. It is an uncomfortable yet enlightening process, making the screen both a canvas and a mirror. It is a privilege to use cinema as a means to understand, unravel, and express my deepest sentiments.

While the structure of the film is built around a game, the essence lies in how the couple plays it. Their responses, their reactions, their hesitations, and their courage are the true embodiment of their character. It's not about the questions, it's about their answers. It's about facing the uncomfortable truths and learning to navigate through them. It's about understanding that sometimes the simplest questions can be the hardest to answer, and the most revealing.

With this movie, I aim to not only entertain but to inspire introspection within the viewer, to spark a conversation that extends beyond the film's running time. My hope is that, like the couple we, too, can find the courage to ask and answer the hard questions, to confront the truths we often hide from ourselves, and in doing so, find the healing and growth we so desperately seek.