Ghanaian filmmaker and director, Lil Win, has shared the challenges faced behind the scenes during the making of his latest film, ‘A Country Called Ghana.’
Originally, the project aimed for an all-Ghanaian cast. However, Lil Win explained that they later opted to include some Nigerian actors to broaden its international appeal, especially for platforms like Netflix.
Two Nigerian actors, Charles Anwurum and Victor Osuagwu, known as ‘Awilo Sharp Sharp,’ were suggested for inclusion.
Lil Win clarified that Ramsey Nouah was added as the lead after the initial cast withdrew just 10 days before shooting was set to begin.
Initially, they had chosen a “light-skinned Ghanaian actor who is a superstar” for the role and had even negotiated terms and prepared costumes based on his measurements.
“We had extensive discussions and even agreed on a fee. We took his measurements and all his costumes were sown. But when he learned that some Nigerians were joining the project, he decided to cancel, citing payment concerns despite our negotiations and budget considerations.”
Lil Win
Despite further negotiations, the Ghanaian actor continued to impose restrictions, including limited shooting days and refusal to work on weekends.
This led Lil Win to terminate the deal and seek an alternative, resulting in casting Ramsey Nouah.
The process of bringing Ramsey on board was described as smooth, with agreements reached and half of the payment secured before he arrived in Ghana to collaborate on the film.
When asked to name the Ghanaian actor causing difficulties, Lil Win mentioned he would disclose this information after the movie’s premiere.
Also, according to Lil Win, people hate him because of his longevity in the movie scene.
“In this country, if you are relevant in the industry for a long period, they feel like you have a spiritual backing. But it is my hard work paying. If you have the talent and you’re not serious, the serious ones will be at the top while you remain where you are.”
Lil Win
He revealed that since he is no more casting in movies, he decided to start doing something for himself with the savings he made from previous shoots and invest in his crafts and movies to remain relevant, adding that he is not quitting shooting movies anytime soon.
Lil Win Boasts
Ghanaian actor and footballer, Kwadwo Nkansah, also known as Lil Win, has claimed that his transfer to Division One club New Edubease was more lucrative than Asamoah Gyan’s move to the Premier League team, Legon Cities.
Recalling events from October 2021, Lil Win inked a two-year contract with Legon Cities, taking on dual roles as a player and brand ambassador.
A 2022 report noted that Lil Win appeared in only four matches for New Edubease.
Conversely, Asamoah Gyan joined Legon Cities in 2020 in a deal rumored to be worth GH₵1 million.
Lil Win boasted that his agreement with New Edubease was financially superior to Asamoah Gyan’s contract with Legon Cities.
“I signed a two-year deal with Edubease. The club’s owner, a close acquaintance, recognized my talent and invited me to join. He provided a personal trainer, and my skills and popularity added excitement to the league. The amount was substantial, but I prefer not to disclose it.
“Asamoah Gyan’s earnings from Legon Cities were a fraction of mine from New Edubease. In terms of salary and bonuses, no local league player could match me. I avoid specifics to prevent a surge of financial requests, but rest assured, it was a considerable sum.”
Lil Win
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