Ghana’s Movie Industry Wasting Talents - Gloria Sarfo Laments

Celebrated Ghanaian actress Gloria Sarfo has issued a scathing critique of the local film sector, revealing that she spent her prime years in an industry failing to support burgeoning talent.

Sarfo, renowned for her role in the sitcom Efiewura and winner of the 2020 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award, spoke candidly during an appearance on Between Hours on Asaase 99.5 FM, hosted by Naa Ashorkor. She recounted how, beyond her work on the long-running TV series, “there was no opportunity anywhere else” in the film industry.

“The movie industry wasted my youth,” she lamented, describing gruelling audition days at Afrikiko—arriving at 7 AM and staying until 7 PM—with little hope of landing roles in the films that aired on TV.

Sarfo attributes part of the problem to producers’ superficial casting choices. She criticized directors for prioritizing looks over acting skill, often plucking “a beautiful lady on the streets” for roles, regardless of craft or passion.

Moreover, she condemned the industry’s clique culture and favoritism. Sarfo pointed out that only a select few actors consistently receive roles, leaving others—no matter their talent—on the sidelines. This “factionalism,” she argues, stifles competitiveness and marginalizes many performers.

Language bias has also hindered her. Sarfo insists her identity and authenticity are rooted in speaking Twi, but this connection inadvertently limited her chances in English-language films. She explained that while Efiewura gave her space to say her truth in Twi, it led some producers to falsely assume she was too “local” or not educated enough for broader roles.

Yet, Sarfo has found redemption through perseverance. Her award-winning performance in Shirley Frimpong-Manso’s The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later shattered stereotypes and underscored the value of her Twi-infused talent.

Calls for Reform & Industry Renewal

Sarfo’s experience highlights deeper structural problems in Ghana’s movie industry as identified by analysts and creatives:

• Favoritism & Cliques: Industry insiders channel opportunities repeatedly to those within trusted circles, making it harder for fresh talents to break through

• Surface-Level Casting: Many roles are filled based on looks or social connections rather than acting merit — discouraging for serious artists

• Linguistic Prejudice: English-centric expectations marginalize those expressing themselves in local languages like Twi, despite their authenticity and depth

Several Ghanaian filmmakers and advocates are calling for:

1. Transparent casting — with open auditions and criteria centered on talent.

2. Inclusive training and mentorship — especially for young actors outside established networks.

3. Local-language acceptance — celebrating Ghana’s culture in all its linguistic richness.

Gloria Sarfo hopes her candid advocacy will catalyze change, not just in her career but for the next generation of Ghanaian artists. As she emphasized: “I had a lot in me… I wish I did more.” With industry reforms, she believes many other untapped talents could shine too.

Background on Gloria Sarfo:

Gloria Osei Sarfo began her acting career in the mid-2000s, gaining fame through roles in Efiewura and films like The Perfect Picture: 10 Years Later. She was awarded Best Supporting Actress at the 2020 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and has continued to speak out against barriers in Ghana’s film industry.

The Way Forward

For Ghana’s cinema to flourish, both institutional reforms and cultural shifts are essential. Gloria Sarfo’s voice sheds light on an industry at a crossroads—one where embracing merit, transparency, inclusivity, and local expression can transform latent frustration into collective creative strength.

Written By: DJ RAYA