In a historic collaboration that is set to redefine distribution in the Nigerian film industry, Genesis Pictures and Silverbird Distribution, two of the country’s leading film distribution companies, have entered into a co-distribution agreement for The Waiter, the latest movie from celebrated comedian and filmmaker Ayo Makun, popularly known as AY. This agreement marks the first-ever collaborative distribution effort between two major industry giants in Nigeria, setting a new standard for the future of film distribution. Created by Corporate World Entertainment, The Waiter is a fast-paced action-comedy that combines thrilling entertainment with a sharp commentary on the state of Nigeria. It delves into the challenges faced by the country’s aggrieved youth and points to the hope for a better future through unswerving love for the country. “This is an idea whose time has come,” said the Chairman and Founder of Genesis Group, Dr. Nnaeto Orazulike.
“The co-distribution model is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence.” The Waiter is more than a movie; “it’s a cultural moment. Together with Silverbird, we are ensuring that this film reaches every corner of Nigeria, maximising its impact and box office potential during the holiday season.”
General Manager, Silverbird Film Distribution, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This partnership between Silverbird and Genesis Pictures is historic, spectacular and groundbreaking. We are combining our strengths to create a new benchmark for film distribution in Nigeria. By uniting our resources, we are poised to unlock new revenue streams and elevate the success of The Waiter to unprecedented heights.”
AY, the creative force behind Corporate World Entertainment, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the collaboration, saying, “The Waiter is a project that is very close to my heart, and I am pleased to see the Nigerian film industry embracing a global practice.
“We’ve seen partnerships like Sony Pictures and Marvel Studios co-distributing the Spider-Man franchise; Warner Bros. and Legendary Pictures collaborating on Godzilla, and Disney and 20th Century Studios co-distributing Avatar. Now, with Silverbird Distribution and Genesis Pictures joining forces for this film, we are taking a bold step in that same direction. I truly believe this collaboration will open up new possibilities and drive unprecedented success for Nollywood and everyone involved.”
Brought to life in the vibrant city of Abuja, with much of the production set at the iconic Transcorp Hilton, the film is produced by Darlington Abuda and directed by Toka McBaror. This genre-blending film features an all-star cast including Shaffy Bello, Deyemi Okanlawon, Regina Daniels, Williams Uchemba, Rahama Sadau, Chris Atoh, Thin Tall Tony, Toke Makinwa, Daniel Lloyd, Greg Ojefua, Uzee Usman, Richard Mofe Damijo and AY. The Waiter is scheduled for release on Friday, December 20, 2024.