Shirley Frimpong-Manso defends foreign involvement in The Eyes of Ghana

Yvonne Okoro urges Ghanaians to support local movies over Hollywood

Ghanaian actress and film producer Yvonne Okoro has raised concerns about the lack of local support for the domestic film industry. Speaking on Joy FM’s Showbiz A-Z, Okoro highlighted a disparity in how Ghanaian audiences perceive local productions compared to foreign content. She argued that while filmmakers in Ghana strive to improve the quality of their work, they are often met with harsher criticism than their counterparts in Hollywood, whose lower-standard productions are sometimes given a pass by local viewers. Okoro expressed frustration that Ghanaian audiences tend to view local films as inherently substandard, regardless of the actual quality of the production. She pointed out that many viewers are quick to dismiss home-grown efforts while simultaneously consuming "horrible" Hollywood movies. According to the producer, this cultural bias poses a significant hurdle for the industry, as it discourages filmmakers who are working hard to elevate the standard of Ghanaian cinema. She emphasized that for the industry to thrive, there must be a shift in the audience's mindset to appreciate and patronize local talent. Beyond audience criticism, Okoro identified challenges in marketing and awareness as major obstacles for the sector. Despite her efforts as both an actress and producer to promote her projects, she noted that many potential viewers remain unaware of new releases until well after they have premiered. This lack of initial engagement makes it difficult for filmmakers to sustain their work financially and reach a wider audience. She called for better engagement between filmmakers and the public to ensure that high-quality Ghanaian content receives the visibility it deserves. The actress's comments come as she continues her deep commitment to the industry through both acting and production roles. Her most recent project, Agency for the Dead, was scheduled for release on 30 October 2026. Okoro’s appeal serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle within the Ghanaian creative arts sector to secure loyal local patronage. By advocating for a more positive reception and a reassessment of how Ghanaians support their own, she hopes to pave the way for a more sustainable and vibrant national film industry.