Filmmaker and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sparrow Studios, Shirley Frimpong Manso, has highlighted the role films play in shaping society.
In her speech during the launch of her company’s YouTube channel, Sparrow Station, she indicated that film possesses a profound power to reshape perceptions, inspire people’s perspectives, and challenge societal norms.
“We are not merely storytellers, we are catalysts for change,” she said.
Her statement emphasizes the impact of arts on the socio-cultural development of people worldwide.
Sparrow Studios launched a YouTube channel to host its content. The channel, Sparrow Station, will help distribute movies, series, and shows from the company’s stables.
Speaking at the launch which took place at the Labadi Beach Hotel on Wednesday, February 25, 2025, Shirley Frimpong Manso recounted how overcoming her fears and doubts at the incipient stage of her film career kept her moving.
“Today I stand before you reflecting on my 18-year journey as a filmmaker. It all began with my first feature film, Life and Living It which I nervously wondered if audiences would leave the comfort of their homes to see at the National Theatre, one of the few things I had been up within Ghana at the time.
Yet, despite my doubt, the film resonated with viewers and we have since enjoyed numerous successful screens,” she noted.
Announcing their new distribution model – YouTube, she spoke about the prospect of the video streaming platform and how would impact their new journey.
“Throughout Sparrow’s 18-year history, we have explored various distribution platforms, seeking the perfect outlet for our vision. YouTube in particular has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, redefining its content landscape. Now, we are proud to announce the launch of SparrowStation on YouTube, a platform we believe holds tremendous promise. We pledge to deliver exceptional films, series, and shows that showcase African excellence,” Shirley said.
However, she indicated that “this endeavor relies on your engagement. We are introducing the Watch to Create model, where the viewership directly inspires new content. The more you watch, the more we create.”
In the meantime, Sparrow Production is preparing to premiere its new movie titled ‘For Love and Country’ on March 6, 2025.
The movie, which stars Naa Ashorkor, Lydia Forson, Caroline Sampson, Jackie Appiah, and Melvin Dain, will premiere on the SparrowStation YouTube channel.
Source: Kwame Dadzie
