All the Colours of the World Are Between Black and White

Babatunde Apalowo, a Nigerian writer, has gained recognition for his contributions to the country’s film industry. Initially, Apalowo intended his debut feature film, All the Colours, to be an ode to the city of Lagos. However, one night, witnessing the lynching and killing of a man based on his sexuality forever changed his perspective. He realized how dangerous Lagos could be for outsiders or ‘others,’ and the film’s focus shifted to an examination of the people the city rejects. Apalowo stated, “What began as a love letter to Lagos, turned into an examination of the people the city rejects.”

The biggest challenge Apalowo faced during the process was not the fear of being sentenced (queer love in Nigeria is a criminal offense) but rather his doubt about whether, as a straight person, he could tell this story properly. However, as he recognized that his story was ultimately about love and related to the main characters through his own experiences, he gained the courage to create the film. He collaborated with many queer friends, inviting them to share their experiences, shaping the story of the film.

Rosa Oomen, QFFU