Our team had the privilege of sitting down with Landry Nguetsa, the lead actor in the biopic about the legendary Jean Miché Kankan, whose real name was Dieudonné Afana Ebogo. Landry shared his enthusiasm for the project and the honor he felt in portraying such an authentic and iconic African comedian.
How did you get involved in this biopic about Jean Miché KANKAN?
“The director and producer contacted me personally before launching a general casting. They reached out about 8 or 9 months before the project began, but I was very busy with my theatrical activities. I even suggested other actors for the role. However, they insisted on working with me. When I finally became available, they organized a casting, and after an audition with another candidate, I was chosen for the role.”
What does it feel like to be selected to portray the greatest comedian of all time?
“It was an honor and a way for me to pay homage to Kankan. I’m a huge admirer of his work, and it was a significant challenge to play someone so well-known. I couldn’t afford to fake anything; I had to be as genuine as possible. It was a pleasure to do it.”
Did you meet his family or friends before filming?
“I met his family on July 10, 2023, during his birthday. The team and I visited his family in his village to express our gratitude for allowing us to make this film. I learned a lot about him from this visit. Before filming, I did extensive research, watched documentaries, and met colleagues who worked with him. This enriched my understanding of his character.”
What challenges did you face in portraying this character?
“Artistically, it was challenging to bring a character everyone knows to the screen. Mimicking his gestures, voice, and mannerisms was tough. We worked on the finer details like his laughter, his tears, and his unique expressions. We rehearsed for three weeks before starting the shoot. The volume and quality of his voice were particularly challenging, but I managed to incorporate my own touch to the character, which made the portrayal more authentic.”
The biopic reveals some of the artist’s personal struggles, including debts, and issues with alcohol and cigarettes. Do you think these excesses hindered his career?
“I can’t say for sure, as many people have similar issues and still thrive. He lived his life fully, without holding back. Had he not passed away, he could have had an even more significant international presence. But in Africa, we often ignore our heroes while they’re alive and only recognize them after they’re gone.”
His family mentioned he was very authentic and had no formal training in theater. How did he manage to apply professional techniques?
“He was a genius ahead of his time, despite not having formal training or internet access in his era. Many African schools now incorporate his art into their pedagogy, proving his enduring influence.”
You’ve won several awards for this portrayal. Has it led to more opportunities for you?
“Yes and no. I’ve received offers to work in France and Lomé. However, I’m selective about the roles I accept, ensuring they highlight my strengths as an actor.”
If Dieudonné were here, what do you think he would say about the film?
“Every time we started filming, I would say a prayer, asking him to guide me. I felt his presence, as if he was watching and guiding me. He would probably tell me where I could improve, but also commend the effort. Knowing his high standards, I always strive to do better.”
Do you think this project will inspire Cameroonian filmmakers to create more biopics about local heroes?
“We have a duty to preserve our history. Even if it’s not a biopic, it’s essential to promote our cultural values and nationalism. Everyone has their own dreams, but understanding and respecting our cultural heritage is crucial.”
