Meet Ifeanyi Ezieme | Writer & Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ifeanyi Ezieme and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ifeanyi, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
To continue forward is the only way I’ve ever looked at anything in life so that’s really the only perspective I have. The concept of failure doesn’t really register to me because what most people would consider failing to me is just a matter of fine tuning the game plan and giving it another shot. Whether it’s pressure I put on myself or the subconscious pressure I feel from being the son of two Nigerian immigrants, all I know is this mindset is what’s gotten me as far as I have in my career as a filmmaker.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I am a filmmaker of many trades but am primarily known for my writing & directing. My unique journey is what’s shaped my filmmaking lens and approach to interpersonal relations. Since a kid, I always found it challenging to fit in and express myself amongst groups. I felt like I lacked a defined identity because apparently my skin color didn’t match my manner of speech, my interests were “nerdy” & niche, and as a result I had the confidence level of a 2005 Nissan Altima (no offense to Nissan drivers those cars are very reliable). Learning to embrace my differences made me realize, “I was never meant to fit in, I was meant to stand out.” This new lens on life was the dawn of what made me grateful for my experience of becoming a socially estranged nomad. Because it propelled me to confidently engage with ensembles of different people, expanding my understanding of people, which I now infuse into my films.

My drive however, came from a different place. I grew up in a Nigerian immigrant household, so pursuing a career in filmmaking was not widely perceived as a respectable career. Amidst this external pressure, I decided to secretly apply to university film programs without notifying my parents until after submitting my applications. They were under the impression that I would study law. But I took this route to safeguard my passion and prevent my aspirations from being swayed.

As a broke college student with no financial cushion now studying Media Production at Pepperdine University, I had to be resourceful and find creative ways to make films. I worked at my university’s camera rental house for all four years to make money and gain access to equipment. I sacrificed weekends & social life in pursuit of creating the best films I could. But I embraced the grind, I loved what I did which only fueled my determination to succeed.

These factors, although challenging, have ignited an unwavering fire within me to defy expectations and forge my own path in the entertainment industry. Looking back, I can be proud of the distance I’ve traveled without the advantage of having a legacy in the industry. Every accomplishment I have achieved thus far is the result of sheer willpower and hard work. From winning awards at festivals as early as 18 to graduating from USC’s MFA film program to then being chosen to direct for Issa Rae’s company all by the age of 25 are milestones that I can truly be proud of. However, it is important to note the immense effort and dedication that many won’t acknowledge behind the scenes. I am grateful for the opportunity to tell stories that resonate, push boundaries and offer unique perspectives. My journey has been arduous, but it has equipped me with the resilience and tenacity needed to overcome future obstacles and create meaningful cinematic experiences.

 If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area are filled with hidden gems whether it be food or beautiful views. I won’t reveal all my special places in this article but I will share just enough for anyone reading to find places to appreciate the city. In terms of food, you definitely gotta hit the red taco truck on South Fair Oaks Avenue called Los California Tacos. Best tacos in Pasadena hands down. There is also a great Poke place on Colorado Boulevard called Poke Salad Bar managed by my home girl Jessa. If you ever go tell her I sent you.
If you head up into Altadena, you can find an incredible hiking trail at the very top of Lake Avenue. Very popular on the weekends. I heard the trail is haunted at night so take that with a grain of salt. I personally have never experienced anything weird but that could also be because demons know I’m ready to throw hands.
Farnsworth Park, Old Town Pasadena, and pretty much any bar in studio city is where I’m sure you can find a vibe that suits your personality. The true gems are reserved for those who actually get to know me.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to God, who has diligently shaped my journey and bestowed divine grace upon me at every step. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Whitley, my 6th-grade science & history teacher, whose unwavering belief in my potential led her to invest an extraordinary amount of time in my development. Additionally, I am indebted to Matthew Robinson, my mentor-turned-friend from Pepperdine University, who provided unwavering support throughout my undergraduate years as the former media facilities manager. I must also acknowledge my longstanding collaborators, including but not limited to producer Audrey Huey & cinematographer Moises Barba who consistently breathe life into my cinematic creations. There are so many people to thank: Bryson Moore, Peter Filimaua, Boris Liu, this list could legitimately be an entire page. But lastly, I wish to recognize my parents for challenging me to prove myself, as their influence served as the common thread connecting all the exceptional individuals mentioned above.

Website: www.ifeanyiezieme.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eefaunee/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ifeanyieziemeFILMS

Other: https://vimeo.com/ifeanyiezieme

Image Credits
– Moises Barba – Sampson Ezieme – Claire Fagin