Paul Nnadiekwe and Riyo David on Acting, Directing, and ‘The Currency of Smoke’s’ Social Message

Money is a construct—an agreement between society and its people, dictating value and power. But what happens when we question its significance? Paul Nnadiekwe’s short film, ‘The Currency of Smoke’, dares to explore this concept through a sharp, dialogue-driven narrative. Starring himself and Riyo David, the film presents a thought-provoking conversation on the psychology of money and its grip on human behaviour.

With the rise of digital filmmaking and YouTube as a launchpad for independent Nollywood projects, ‘The Currency of Smoke’ represents a new wave of self-driven storytelling where actors no longer wait for opportunities but create their own.

For Paul Nnadiekwe, stepping behind the camera was a deliberate choice—a necessity rather than a luxury. Like many actors in Nollywood, he realised that waiting for producers or casting directors to hand him roles meant surrendering control over his artistic growth.

I am on a journey to take charge of my career and not wait for a producer or casting director to put the opportunity in my hands, he explains. I am actively building a community (fan base) that can relate to both my art and myself as an artist, hence why I am making films.

Beyond personal agency, directing gave him the freedom to tell the kinds of stories that truly excite him.

“Not often does an actor get to play what they are very excited about on a commercial level,” Nnadiekwe tells West Africa Weekly.

His directorial debut is rooted in an intellectual curiosity about human psychology—specifically, the societal constructs that shape our beliefs.

Nnadiekwe’s fascination with societal influence led him to explore money as a case study. “I am intrigued by the human mind and the psychology of influence that society and evolution have on it. Our beliefs and way of life are greatly influenced by our society. In this case, I decided to use the concept of money as a case study,” he says.

Referencing the rise of digital currencies, he adds: “I believe that if we are made to agree that a piece of material has value, then it does. We’ve seen this play out just well with Bitcoin, NFTs, and the likes.” His goal with ‘The Currency of Smoke’ is clear: to make audiences question fundamental ideas they have long taken for granted. “I hope the audience takes away the fact that they can question ideas and hopefully get answers,” he says.

Independent filmmaking comes with its hurdles, particularly when working with limited resources. For Nnadiekwe, time was the biggest obstacle.

I am a very busy person trying to run my career, and I have had to step into many shoes. I am the director, editor, writer, sound designer, colourist, and many more, he shares. Despite these challenges, he found solace in the talent of his cast. I am blessed to know great talents like Riyo David, Emmanuel Okpala, and Emmanuel Izuoba, who understand my vision and helped me bring it to life, he says.

For David, the philosophical depth of the script made his role particularly engaging. “I always loved philosophical and existential pieces, so when Paul reached out for a collaboration, I found it easy to accept,” David recalls. His character transforms, mirroring how knowledge can shift perspectives in real life.

As it is with anyone in contact with transformative knowledge, my character undergoes a change. I find it interesting that he would—although I did not for a second wonder why, seeing money is involved, Lol, he tells West Africa Weekly.

While the shoot was smooth, David found one aspect of his character’s conversation frustrating. “Nothing was challenging as any conversation that has to do with making more is easily welcomed. However, what was somewhat annoying was Paul’s character repeating my words back to me, lol,” he jokes.

The film’s central theme—the illusion of money—was a story Nnadiekwe felt needed to be told.

To help people know that money is just a tool and should not control us and our actions or turn us into desperate, corrupt people, he asserts.

The decision to release ‘The Currency of Smoke’ on YouTube was practical and strategic. “It’s free, and it permits me to put my art out there for the world to see with no barrier,” Nnadiekwe explains. With Nollywood’s growing digital presence, online platforms like YouTube allow emerging filmmakers to distribute their work without the traditional gatekeeping of film festivals or cinema networks. “It’s a good training ground for cinema,” Nnadiekwe adds.

David also believes the themes of ‘The Currency of Smoke’ extend beyond just the film industry, touching on broader economic and ideological shifts. “I believe the project’s relevance goes beyond just one industry, as it deals with economic ideologies and philosophical experiences,” he says. As Nollywood continues to evolve, the rise of digital storytelling is shifting power dynamics, allowing artists to reach audiences on their own terms. For Nnadiekwe, ‘The Currency of Smoke’ is just the beginning. “Yes, I have plans to do more amazing stuff as I get inspired,” he confirms.

In just three minutes, ‘The Currency of Smoke’—delivers a profound message about money, power, and human perception. Through a minimalist yet impactful approach, the film challenges audiences to rethink the structures that govern their lives. Paul Nnadiekwe’s directorial debut is not just about making a film but about reclaiming creative control, building a community, and pushing Nollywood’s digital revolution forward.

Alongside talents like Riyo David, he is proving that independent filmmakers have the power to shape their own narratives. As Nollywood embraces digital platforms, ‘The Currency of Smoke’ serves as a reminder that thought-provoking cinema does not need grand budgets—it just needs a compelling idea and the courage to tell it.

Read More:

• Oando Expands Abroad with Trinidad Refinery Lease, Stakeholders Raise Concerns Over Lack of Local Investment
• INEC Receives Recall Petition Against Senator Natasha Despite Fraudulent Recall Process

About The Author

Ikenna Churchill

editor

See author's posts