Christian actor and filmmaker, Damilola Mike-Bamiloye, has revealed that his father, Mike Bamiloye, initially rejected plans to remake the popular 1993 Christian film, Agbara Nla.
Damilola said he and his brother, Joshua, first approached their father about remaking the movie about four years ago, hoping to retell the story in a way that would connect with a younger generation.
According to him, Mike Bamiloye told them that the time was not right, so they abandoned the idea temporarily.
He explained that the project resurfaced after he discussed Christian filmmaking with a producer friend, Chris, who encouraged him to pursue the remake. After further discussions, prayers and consultations, they approached his father again, and this time he approved the project.
Damilola said the new movie, titled Agbara Nla: The Return, was filmed in about 20 to 21 days and was developed to retain the original story while presenting it through modern filmmaking techniques.
He explained that all the major characters from the original production are represented, while new elements have also been introduced to give audiences more background and depth.
According to him, the remake explores the same themes of spiritual warfare and the supremacy of God while using contemporary storytelling, action, graphics and special effects to appeal to today’s audience.
Damilola also spoke about directing his father, who reprises his iconic role as Isawuru. He recalled watching the original movie as a child and imitating his father’s character and scenes with his siblings.
He said seeing his father return to the role decades later was an emotional experience, particularly because Mike Bamiloye can now portray the character closer to his actual age without needing makeup to appear older.
Damilola, who also plays Kola in the new production, said he shared directing responsibilities with his brother, Joshua, allowing them to manage both acting and directing duties.
He explained that the remake was specifically developed for the cinema, with extensive script reviews, post-production work, modern cameras, visual effects and other technical improvements aimed at delivering a full cinematic experience.
He said the production was designed to appeal to both viewers who grew up with the original Agbara Nla and younger audiences discovering the story for the first time.
Damilola added that despite adopting modern techniques, the central message of the movie remains unchanged, with evangelism and winning souls through drama still at the heart of Mount Zion’s mission.
He described being part of the remake as a privilege, particularly because his father is alive and able to witness the continuation of the project.
The filmmaker also revealed that the new production contains several additions not found in the 1993 version, including a king, the kingdom of Muwonleru and a confrontation between the king and Isawuru.
He said the additions were made to expand the story without losing its original essence.
Speaking about Mount Zion’s longevity, Damilola attributed the ministry’s survival to its commitment to the Word of God and said the same foundation would guide its future.
He also expressed confidence that cinema would become an important part of Mount Zion’s next phase while maintaining its focus on Christian evangelism through drama.
