COMMUNICATING WITH COSTUME AND MAKE UP IN NIGERIA HOME VIDEO FILM (A CASE STUDY OF EFUNSETAN ANIWURA)

COMMUNICATING WITH COSTUME AND MAKE UP IN NIGERIA HOME VIDEO FILM (A CASE STUDY OF EFUNSETAN ANIWURA)

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Background of the Study

Costume and makeup are integral components of visual storytelling in film. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a production but also serve as powerful tools for character development, cultural representation, and narrative progression. The Nigerian home video film industry, commonly referred to as Nollywood, has gained global recognition for its unique storytelling techniques and vibrant cultural depictions. Among the various elements that contribute to the authenticity and appeal of Nollywood films, costume and makeup play a significant role.

Historically, costume design has been a critical aspect of theatrical productions, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman theaters (Monks, 2018). In film, costumes help establish the time period, location, and social context of the narrative (Bruzzi, 2020). They provide visual cues that aid in the audience's understanding of characters' backgrounds, personalities, and evolution throughout the story (Miller, 2019). Similarly, makeup artistry in film has evolved from basic face painting to sophisticated techniques that create realistic portrayals of age, injuries, and fantastical elements (Timpone, 2017).

In the context of Nollywood, costume and makeup are particularly significant due to the industry's emphasis on cultural representation. Nigerian films often explore themes rooted in the country's diverse ethnic groups, traditions, and historical events. As a result, the accurate depiction of traditional attire and makeup is essential in portraying these stories authentically (Afolabi, 2021). "Efunsetan Aniwura," a notable film within the Nollywood industry, exemplifies the use of costume and makeup in enhancing narrative and character development. The film is set in the 19th century and revolves around the life of Efunsetan Aniwura, a powerful Yoruba female leader known for her wealth and influence.

Efunsetan Aniwura's story is not only a historical recount but also a cultural exposition. The film's portrayal of her life and era relies heavily on the accurate representation of traditional Yoruba attire and makeup, which helps to transport the audience back to that period. This alignment of costume and makeup with historical accuracy is crucial in fostering a sense of immersion and authenticity (Ogunleye, 2019). Additionally, the visual representation of characters through costume and makeup communicates socio-political hierarchies, gender roles, and personal identities within the story (Okoye, 2018).

The importance of costume and makeup in Nollywood films like "Efunsetan Aniwura" extends beyond mere aesthetics. These elements serve as a medium of non-verbal communication, conveying underlying themes and emotions that might not be explicitly stated in the dialogue (Akande, 2022). For instance, the choice of color, fabric, and accessories in costumes can signify a character's status, mood, or transformation over time (Ekwuazi, 2016). Makeup, on the other hand, can enhance facial expressions, highlight emotional states, and even symbolize internal conflicts or changes (Nwaolikpe, 2018).

Furthermore, the role of costume and makeup in film is supported by various theoretical frameworks, including semiotics and visual culture theories. Semiotics, the study of signs and symbols, provides a lens through which the meanings behind costume and makeup choices can be analyzed (Chandler, 2017). Visual culture theory explores how visual representations, including those in film, influence and reflect societal norms and values (Mirzoeff, 2015). Applying these frameworks to the study of "Efunsetan Aniwura" allows for a deeper understanding of how costume and makeup contribute to the film's overall impact and message.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the recognized importance of costume and makeup in film, there is a notable gap in academic research focusing on their specific roles in Nollywood productions. While much has been written about the technical aspects and cultural significance of Nigerian cinema, the intricate contributions of costume and makeup to storytelling and character development remain underexplored (Adesokan, 2017). This lack of detailed analysis undermines the understanding of how these elements function as non-verbal communicative tools within the narrative structure of Nollywood films.

"Efunsetan Aniwura," as a case study, presents an opportunity to address this gap by exploring how costume and makeup are utilized to enhance narrative depth, cultural authenticity, and character portrayal. The film's rich historical and cultural context requires a nuanced approach to costume and makeup design, which, if not accurately depicted, could lead to misinterpretations or diminished impact (Omoera, 2018). Therefore, this study aims to systematically examine the role of costume and makeup in "Efunsetan Aniwura" and their effectiveness in conveying the film's thematic and emotional undertones.

Furthermore, the problem extends to the practical aspects of costume and makeup design in Nollywood. Many practitioners in the industry lack formal training or access to resources that would enable them to fully realize the potential of these elements (Ugor, 2016). This research seeks to highlight best practices and provide insights that could inform future training programs and resource allocation within the industry.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To analyze the role of costume in enhancing character development and narrative structure in "Efunsetan Aniwura."
2. To evaluate the impact of makeup on the portrayal of cultural and historical authenticity in "Efunsetan Aniwura."
3. To identify the communicative functions of costume and makeup as non-verbal storytelling tools in Nollywood films.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How does costume contribute to character development and narrative progression in "Efunsetan Aniwura"?
2. In what ways does makeup influence the portrayal of cultural and historical authenticity in "Efunsetan Aniwura"?
3. What are the communicative functions of costume and makeup in the context of non-verbal storytelling in Nollywood films?

1.5 Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to fill a critical gap in the academic literature on Nollywood cinema by focusing on the underexplored areas of costume and makeup. This research is particularly important for several reasons.

Firstly, it contributes to the broader field of film studies by providing a detailed analysis of how visual elements such as costume and makeup enhance storytelling and character development. While much of the existing literature focuses on scriptwriting, cinematography, and acting, this study emphasizes the often-overlooked aspects of visual design, thereby enriching the academic discourse on film production (Hayward, 2018).

Secondly, this study has cultural significance. Nollywood is not only a major entertainment industry but also a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and Africa at large. By examining the use of costume and makeup in "Efunsetan Aniwura," the research highlights how these elements are used to preserve and promote Nigerian cultural heritage. This is particularly relevant in a globalized world where cultural identities are constantly being negotiated and redefined (Okome, 2020).

Thirdly, the findings of this study have practical implications for filmmakers, costume designers, and makeup artists in Nollywood. By identifying best practices and effective techniques, the research can inform the training and development of industry professionals. This, in turn, can lead to higher production standards and more culturally authentic representations in Nigerian films (Okeke, 2019).

Furthermore, this study addresses the educational aspect by providing a resource for film students and scholars interested in the technical and artistic aspects of costume and makeup design. The detailed analysis of "Efunsetan Aniwura" can serve as a case study for teaching and learning purposes, offering insights into the creative processes behind successful film production (Ogunleye, 2019).

1.6 Scope and Delimitations

The scope of this study is limited to the analysis of costume and makeup in the Nigerian home video film "Efunsetan Aniwura." The research will focus on how these elements contribute to character development, cultural representation, and narrative enhancement within the film. The study will not extend to other aspects of film production such as scriptwriting, cinematography, or acting, although these elements may be referenced to provide context.

The delimitations of the study include:

• The analysis will be confined to "Efunsetan Aniwura" and will not include other Nollywood films.
• The study will focus on the visual aspects of costume and makeup and will not delve into the technical production processes.
• The research will be based on qualitative analysis, including visual analysis of the film and interviews with industry professionals, rather than quantitative data.

1.7 Definition of Key Terms

Costume: The attire worn by actors in a film, designed to reflect the character's personality, social status, and historical context.

Makeup: The application of cosmetics and prosthetics to enhance or alter the appearance of actors for character portrayal in a film.

Nollywood: The Nigerian film industry, known for its prolific output of home video films and its cultural impact both locally and globally.

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