AMVCAs returns with more magic for third edition

Africa Magic and multichoice have called for entries for the 2015 edition of the AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs), the initiative that honours film and TV talent across the continent.

The AMVCAs, which will hold at Eko Hotels and Suites, were created to celebrate the contribution of African filmmakers, actors and technicians in the success of the continent’s film and television industry. With the success of the 2013 and 2014 editions, preparations are in top gear for the 2015 edition.

“We are pleased to announce the call to entry for the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. The African movie and television industry is brimming with exciting talent, and at Africa Magic we contribute to the industry by not only giving these talents the platform to showcase their art/efforts and celebrating their achievements, but also encouraging them to keep honing their craft,” Wangi Mba-Uzoukwu, regional director for M-Net (west), said.

This year, a number of awards in different categories will be presented, ranging from acting and directing to script writing and cinematography. Other categories will include editing, make-up, sound, and lighting.

John Ugbe, managing director, MultiChoice Nigeria, expressed his delight at the growing success of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, saying: “There have been two editions of the AMVCAs and so far, the improvement that this award has brought to African film production cannot be ignored.

“For us as MultiChoice, the success of these awards further showcases our commitment to recognising the amazing skills that exist in this ever-growing industry. Furthermore, our continued investment demonstrates our dedication in helping unearth and celebrate talent in the whole continent. I have much confidence that the next edition in 2015 will leave an even bigger impact on the African film production industry than the previous two.”

Also expressing her excitement for being part of the AMVCAs, brand manager, Amstel Malta, Miss Hannatu Ageni-Yusuf said: “As the number one premium Malt brand in Nigeria, Amstel Malta is again pleased to be part of this year’s Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards.

“It is truly a unique platform, which aligns perfectly with the brand’s essence, encouraging and also rewarding young ambitious Africans who have proved to be the best they can be. Last year on this platform, Amstel Malta launched its new campaign, tagged ‘the journey’. This year, the brand is set to allow consumers witness the joys from being focused on their goals and even beating their best, while on their journey to success.”

The first edition of the AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards ceremony held  in Lagos on March 9, 2013, and was broadcast live from Lagos to DStv and GOtv audiences in more than 50 countries across the continent. The event drew big names from across the continent’s TV and film industry and saw the Best Actor and Best Actress in a Drama awards going to Nigerian OC Ukeje and Ghanaian Jackie Appiah, in the respective categories.

At the 2014 edition, multi-award winning actress, Nse Ikpe-Etim, took home the award for best actress in Michele Racca’s Journey To Self while Ghanaian film producer/director, Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s movie The Contract won in several categories. Renowned film and TV veteran, Pete Edochie, clinched the prestigious lifetime achievement award.