Making motion pictures that make sense with Michael ‘AMA Psalmist’ Akinrogunde

Michael ‘AMA Psalmist’ Akinrogunde is a young Nigerian filmmaker, editor, director & screenwriter. If you think Michael always knew he would be a filmmaker from a young age then you are wrong. He wanted to be an Aeronautical Engineer, and for his university degree, he studied Mechanical Engineering so as to get a wider knowledge of engineering before focusing on aeronautics, but well, passion happened, and his inner engines were drawn towards filmmaking instead.

What is the meaning of his alias, AMA Psalmist?

‘AMA’ means Akinrogunde Michael Akinkunle, and ‘Psalmist’ is a name his friends call him as a result of his singing ability. In an interview with The Fisayo, Michael reveals that, “I especially like Psalmist not just for singing, but because it also covers my writings and helps one of my brand scriptures being Psalm 45:1.”

“I especially like Psalmist not just for singing, but because it also covers my writings and helps one of my brand scriptures being Psalm 45:1.”

“Being a filmmaker gives a platform to have strong influences on the kinds of decisions people make, so knowing that motivates me to put in more work. I am inspired by some models that have changed and promoted strong narratives from telling stories, another strong inspiration is seeing people respond to what you create.”
Michael

Indeed movies are a powerful form of visual storytelling that can go a long way to change paradigms and inspire many people. Every achiever would usually have one or two persons who inspire, motivate and mentor them to be the best versions of themselves. To Michael, those who fit this category include but are not limited to: Mildred Okwo, Seyi Babatope, Judith Audu, Lala Akindoju and Niyi Akinmolayan.

Michael’s fruitful Journey through filmmaking

Michael had always been involved in the drama, theater and stage world as far back as the 2000’s, during his primary school years where he would be involved in stage plays. Professionally, he went into film making in 2015 and would read a lot about his intended career. He first began by acting, writing, and then learned to direct movies.

The Accelerate Filmmaker Project was an unforgettable experience to Michael as it was one of the stepping stones which led him to film one of his short films, “Penance” which went ahead to win in the 2018 AMVCA under the category of Best Short Film / Online Video.

Michael is indeed excited about filmmaking as a great opportunity to bring one’s imagination to reality and he continues to attend workshops as he still has a lot of stages, scenes, worlds and hearts to conquer. Searching for Michael online? Social media accounts – @amapsalmist across all platforms. Watch Michael’s award winning short film, Penance.

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