The Role of Film in Preserving Indigenous Languages:a Case Study of Lisabi the Uprising

ABSTRACTIn Nollywood, English and Nigerian Pidgin dominate film production, often overshadowing indigenous languages that carry deep cultural and historical significance. The diminishing representation of these languages in cinema poses a risk to their survival, prompting the need to explore how film can serve as a tool for language preservation. This study adopts a qualitative case study approach, using Lisabi: The Uprising a historical film on Lisabi’s rebellion as its primary focus. Data was gotten through textual analysis of the film. The research is guided by sociolinguistic and cultural preservation theories, emphasizing the relationship between language, identity, and media representation. The findings reveal that subtitles significantly enhance audience engagement, comprehension, and enjoyment, reducing linguistic barriers and broadening the film’s reach. Viewers expressed strong appreciation for subtitles in indigenous language films, while industry experts affirmed cinema’s role as a repository of culture and identity. Despite challenges such as limited funding and concerns over audience reception, Lisabi: The Uprising demonstrates the viability of indigenous language storytelling in mainstream Nollywood. This research contributes to the discourse on language preservation by highlighting the strategic role of subtitles and linguistic authenticity in expanding the reach and impact of indigenous language cinema. It underscores the potential of Nollywood as a platform for safeguarding cultural heritage while appealing to diverse audiences.