In a rapidly evolving Nollywood landscape, Femi Are, fondly known as Kingleeno, is emerging as one of the most exciting voices shaping the future of grassroots African storytelling. A filmmaker driven by purpose, authenticity, and cultural depth, Femi continues to carve a unique path as a director, editor, producer, and writer whose work resonates far beyond the screen.
As the Founder and CEO of Dream Magic Empire (DME), Femi Are who is in his early 30s has committed his career to more than just making films. He is building a movement. Dream Magic Empire operates both as a production hub and a creative academy—an ecosystem where young talents are trained, mentored, and empowered through hands-on experience in film, theatre, and media arts. For Femi, storytelling is as much about community and growth as it is about cinema.
His filmography reflects a bold and emotionally grounded creative vision. Projects such as Peregun, Kuti Atiba, Diary of Honey, Laba Laba, Atopinpin, Osupa Aje, Emi, Photographer, and short thrillers like Cycle, Conspiracy, and Ignoramus have drawn attention for their sincerity, social relevance, and compelling narratives. His works—including Ella (A Girl Child Education), I Told Her, and Amara—often explore human struggles, identity, and lived realities, inspired by his personal experiences and everyday life around him.
Femi’s talent has not gone unnoticed. His films have earned selections and screenings at respected festivals such as Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), AFRIFF, Lift-Off Global Network, AILFF, TIFF, AIFF, and other local and international platforms—clear proof of his growing influence within the global film community. Notably, Peregun, directed in 2021, gained multiple festival selections, including AMVCA recognition.
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, Femi Are works primarily as a director and editor on independent local productions. Coming from a filmmaking background himself, creativity runs deep in his roots. He sharpened his craft through formal training at EbonyLife Creative Academy and the African Film Academy, where he studied directing and developed the technical and storytelling discipline that defines his work today.
Beyond awards and festivals, what truly sets Kingleeno apart is his passion for creative empowerment. Through DME Academy, workshops, rehearsals, and community-based productions, he continues to inspire young creatives to find confidence, discipline, and purpose through the arts. His leadership style is hands-on, his storytelling emotional, and his commitment to excellence unwavering.
For Femi Are, film is not just entertainment—it is a tool for education, reflection, and social impact. As he continues to lend his voice through mainstream and conventional cinema, his vision remains clear: to tell meaningful African stories, raise future industry leaders, and build a legacy that will outlive the screen. And for Nollywood, Kingleeno is only just getting started.
