Q&A with Audrey Adeoti

We chat to the creative force behind I am Hurt. The new dramedy exploring church hurt and the profound impact it has on individuals and communities.

British-Nigerian creative Audrey Adeoti is an expert in using comedy to communicate. Her loyal TikTok following (where she's garnered 23.6k followers 1.7m likes and counting) have seen her address the struggles of diasporic identity, dating, body image and more. In the new short film I am Hurt she aims to tackle one of the most taboo topics amongst many a West African family: the church. More specifically, the hurt that the church can cause and what you do when the place that is meant to offer sanctuary and closeness to God, become the root of your trauma. We caught up with Audrey about what we can expect from the upcoming short.

What was your specific role in this film?

I was basically almost everything. I'm joking! I was the writer, executive producer, co-producer, and actress.

How long has it been in production and what are the challenges facing independent filmmakers today? 

It's been in production for a year and a month now. The biggest challenge is funding. Having to fund a whole project out of your own pocket can be demanding. People need to get paid. You can find dedicated people who will see your vision and work on your project, but not having funding can slow down the film process because labour time is lacking.

A lot of people will know you more for comedy - what's sparked this more serious subject matter?

I already use my comedy to talk about serious issues, like body shaming and parenting. However, what sparked this subject matter was the constant complaints about certain social issues without solutions. I'm not saying this short film will bring immediate solutions, but I hope to spark conversations and be part of a movement towards change in our society, especially within the church community.

Church, religion and the hurt it can cause are touchy subjects, particularly in West African communities, did you have any reservations about broaching these topics?

I never did, to be honest. I live for healthy environments, and if it takes having an uncomfortable discussion to help build one, so be it. I had the idea, put it in God's hands, got confirmation, and went through with it. If God hadn't given the go-ahead, I would have been hesitant to talk about it. But I know the community I am dealing with, and I have already prepared myself for whatever may come.

How have you found the journey of navigating your faith whilst acknowledging the harm the church can cause?

It wasn't smooth when I first started becoming aware. However, I'd say it brought me closer to God. This is because I realised I believe in this faith to follow God, not humans. Yes, the church as a community is great, and I have been privileged to have been under amazing leadership and fellowships. But humans are not perfect; we all make mistakes and act on emotions. Establishing this in my mind has made it easier for me to navigate my faith while still acknowledging the issues around me.

What would you hope people take from this film?

First of all, just to clarify, I am in no way bashing the church or only associating it with negatives. I want to challenge both individuals and the church. I want people to watch this and feel inspired to extend more grace as a church to individuals, and for individuals to extend grace to the church. Secondly, it's okay to leave a toxic environment. Lastly, do not shut God out and deny yourself an amazing community just because some people have taken on the role of God's judges.

Article by Martyn Ewoma

Follow Audrey on TikTok and Instagram

Film directed by Olawumi Fatoki