A United States of America-based historian, filmmaker and the Asoju Asa Oodua, Oladotun Taylor, has said that his latest movie and culture project, both titled, ‘Take me Home’, seeks to connect African-Americans with their roots and Yoruba heritage.
Taylor, who recently led some African-Americans to the ancient and historic town of Ile-Ife, which is regarded as the cradle of Yorubaland, said, “The major aim of the movie is to reconnect African-Americans to their roots, and I am happy that it is yielding positive results already.”
On his part, the Ooni of Ife emphasised on the importance of identifying one’s origin and roots, stating that it brings joy and a sense of belonging.
He said, “If you take a closer look at yourselves in comparison to your kinsmen and women here (in Ile-Ife), you will agree with me that there is no difference between us. The only difference is that my own forefathers missed the boat that yours caught up with. Luckily for you, your source (Ile-Ife) which is filled with lovely people, and it’s a very safe environment.”
Commending the ‘Take me Home’ project, the Ooni said, “This project is a commendable initiative that seeks to connect African-Americans with their ancestral home. I cannot overemphasise the joy and fulfillment that comes with identifying one’s origin and connecting with their roots. It is a step towards cultural awareness and identity preservation. I commend Taylor and his team for their efforts, and I urge everyone to support this laudable initiative.”
According to Taylor, the movie, which was shot on location in the US and Ile-Ife, is about the quest for originality and one’s root that led to the characters in the movie questioning the status quo and taking action to discover their roots. It also touches on the repatriation of African artifacts.
The movie, which is currently in post-production, features American and Nigerian actors such as Dave Sheridan, Felissa Rose, Amber Rivette, Mefi Black, Lateef Adedimeji and Bayo Bankole (Boy Alinco).
The Ooni of Ife also makes a cameo experience in the film.
