‘That’s Not My Story!’ – Verydarkman Slams Unauthorized Biopic Featuring Gentle Jack

Controversial social commentator and internet activist, Verydarkman, has stirred yet another digital storm—this time not for his usual explosive commentary or exposés, but over a Nollywood film inspired by his life. The outspoken figure, who has built a following for his blunt takes and unfiltered presence on social media, took to Instagram to express strong disapproval of a movie that has recently gone viral for depicting a character strikingly similar to him.

The film, which has yet to be officially titled in many mainstream listings, features veteran Nollywood actor Gentle Jack in a role that unmistakably mirrors the life and persona of Verydarkman, known popularly as VDM. A promotional poster for the film, which circulated widely on social media last week, shows Jack in an all-black ensemble with a look that screams Verydarkman: dark shades, intense demeanor, and a palpable air of rebellion.

However, instead of celebrating the nod to his growing cultural impact, VDM expressed anger and deep dissatisfaction over the portrayal. In a video posted to his Instagram page, he delivered an emotionally charged critique of the film, citing the lack of communication and consultation from the filmmakers as his main point of contention.

“I have a problem with it, to be very honest I’m not even happy with it,” he said. “Baba Gentle Jack for write to me say, ‘VDM what is your story? I want to play your story.’” His words struck a nerve with fans and critics alike, highlighting a broader issue of creative ethics in Nollywood—where real-life inspirations often go unacknowledged and unapproved.

According to Verydarkman, he’s not opposed to having his life turned into a movie. In fact, he hinted that he finds the idea flattering in theory. “By now I am sure most of you have seen the movie Nollywood did where legendary Gentle Jack play me (Verydarkman),” he captioned his Instagram post. “Honestly I am not happy about the movie, it cringed me. I was so irritated even watching it. They got the right character and our look-alike, however, the story was just irritating.”

His reaction has sparked a wave of discussion online. Supporters echo his frustration, arguing that Nollywood has a long-standing habit of fictionalizing public figures’ lives without due process or consent. Others, however, see the film as a harmless artistic interpretation, with some suggesting VDM should be honored that a figure like Gentle Jack—known for iconic roles in action-packed dramas of the early 2000s—was cast to play him.

Still, VDM’s reaction reveals a deeper pain. In the influencer's own words, it’s not just about casting or storyline—it's about respect. For someone who has carved out a highly visible, controversial niche online, often facing threats, suspensions, and intense scrutiny, seeing his life dramatized without so much as a phone call feels like erasure. “Respect my narrative. Don’t just create a version of me that suits your entertainment agenda,” he seemed to imply throughout his message.

While the movie itself has not yet been widely reviewed, early audience reactions on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok suggest a mixed bag of opinions. Some viewers say Gentle Jack delivers a convincing performance and even laud the effort to depict an edgy, unconventional activist in a Nollywood format. Others criticize the film’s scripting and storyline, claiming it lacks depth and fails to capture the complexities of VDM’s personality and journey.

Amid the controversy, neither the film’s director nor production house has released a statement in response to Verydarkman’s complaints. Gentle Jack, too, has remained publicly silent, despite being tagged in multiple posts and stories calling for his side of the narrative. The silence has only intensified speculation and debate about how the project was conceived and why VDM was not approached for input.

In an industry where biopics and life-based dramas are increasingly popular, the need for transparency and collaboration is more important than ever. Verydarkman's case may become a watershed moment—forcing filmmakers to re-evaluate how they approach stories inspired by living personalities. Is inspiration enough to bypass consent? Can public figures be freely fictionalized under the guise of creative license? Or should there be a clear ethical boundary when turning real lives into scripted content?

As for Verydarkman, the ordeal is unlikely to dull his presence or his voice. If anything, it has amplified his platform once again. Known for his no-holds-barred opinions on everything from politics to celebrity culture, VDM continues to draw attention with his unfiltered authenticity—a trait that ironically may have made him so attractive to filmmakers in the first place.

Whether this controversy leads to legal action, collaboration, or further fallout remains to be seen. But what’s certain is this: in a digital age where identity and image are currency, telling someone’s story without their blessing is no longer a harmless act. It’s a spark—and in the case of Verydarkman, it’s already started a fire.