Ebuka turns up Africa
While reviewing Timini and Zubby based on some controversial online rumours, I found myself watching ‘Ebuka Turns up Africa’ on Amazon Prime. It’s time to expand your imagination beyond just musicians and footballers to these guys from the entertainment world. If all the materials are theirs and they are doing as well as they claim this season, I’d recommend anyone to watch it. I’ve only seen Episode One, featuring Ebuka, Alistair, Jimmie, Onoja, Timini, and Zubby. I know some parts are scripted, but I believe you’ll enjoy it. In that spirit, that vein, between Timini and Zubby, who do you consider the foremost actor in Africa?
While most of you will dismiss this review, some will understand my perspective. The goal isn’t to favour one over the other, so please set aside any Nigerian entitlement while reading this thread. Let me ask you this question: what’s the primary aim of acting in a movie? It typically revolves around two things for every actor and actress: either to become well-known locally as a champion or to gain international recognition and potentially represent Nigeria to the world, like John Boyega. My focus is on Nigerian-born talents, both local and superstar: Zubby versus Timini.
Respectfully, Zubby is an icon who shouldn’t be compared to Timini, considering how the movie industry was designed for him to remain relevant up to this point, where even Generation Z can appreciate his work. This review highlights his success compared to most of his colleagues. However, it’s unfortunate that we live in a time of rapid change, where people easily tire of the same roles and themes. This lack of adaptability can confine Zubby to being seen only as a local champion, despite his widespread influence across Africa, not just Nigeria. His appearances with Zlatan and Burna Boy further emphasize his reach beyond local boundaries.
On the other hand, the age gap between Zubby and Timini isn’t significant. I consider Zubby an icon due to his 28 years of experience in the movie industry, while Timini has only been at it for 12 years. However, don’t underestimate Timini’s potential to become the next RMD when the time comes. He’s the only one who can fill that position, provided he doesn’t jeopardize his career with his reputation as a ladies’ man. When it comes to acting, I’d choose Timini over Zubby. He embodies his roles so convincingly that even viewers from outside the country can relate better to his performances than Zubby’s. Before you criticize me for this, pause!!! Let me ask you: can Zubby handle any of Timini’s roles? But I believe Timini could master all of Zubby’s roles if he wanted to.
While everyone is entitled to their opinion, I urge you to watch this last clip from Timini. It’s profound; how you carry yourself determines how the world perceives you. I believe it’s time for movie actors and actresses to value themselves as they deserve. Timini is someone who envisions the future and works towards his goals, whereas Zubby seems content with his current success and doesn’t fully embrace Western culture, as evident in his demeanor. I intentionally avoided discussing their wealth, as there’s too much ‘audio money’ floating around, making it difficult to determine who is truly successful in that regard. Nevertheless, both are thriving and represent the industry admirably, both locally and internationally. If you have any additional insights, feel free to contribute to the discussion.
