Adedimeji Quayyim Abdul-Hafeez

<p>I, like many Nigerians, have witnessed the craziness that comes with commuting in Nigeria’s public transport system. Drivers behave like the world's burdens are thrust heavily on their shoulders, and passengers would cast aspersions at you, like you had offended them in a previous lifetime. </p>

<p>Coupled with Nigeria's bad road network and police extortion, commuting or traveling in Nigeria is as herculean as tasks might seem, and this is why a movie like ‘U-Turn’ comes off as very relatable.</p>

<p>Directed by <strong>Gabriel Afolayan</strong> and <strong>Uche Agbambu</strong>, the movie follows a passenger, Chukwudinma (Gabriel Afolayan), the driver (Olaiya Igwe) transporting him from Lagos to Ibadan, and how the duo interface in a situation where their intentions are hidden from each other. </p>

<p>In the course of their journey, they face a lot of challenges, get to know each other better, and derail their dark intentions, gaining clearer perspectives on issues they once held dear.</p>

<p>In general, the movie is a stellar work of filmmaking. The way it shifts from addressing its core themes, while adequately balancing the narrative with examining stereotypes and perspectives is a huge credit to the movie producers. </p>

<p>The exceptional acting of both Gabriel Afolayan and <strong>Olaiya Igwe</strong> also elicits the necessary emotions needed to comprehend the movie's core messages, whilst also appreciating the realities and humor of their experiences in hindsight, making the movie very comical yet realistic. </p>

<p>Its cinematography also helps in elevating the movie's importance, in its path towards creating the necessary sphere for the movie's themes to effectively materialize.</p>

<p>The movie is a treatise on how human experiences define our worldviews, and how individuals should be ready to adapt to change in the face of truthful realities. This is seen in how Kamoru patiently listens to the advice of Chukwudinma on parental upbringing and planning. </p>

<p>It also passes the message of how wisdom radiates from better perspectives, not age, and how humans should interact to find common ground toward peaceful interrelationships and mutual understanding.</p>

<p>The movie also tries its best at appreciating tradition and eulogizing its role in contemporary development in African societies. This can be seen in the constant tributes to the traditional way of life as the best way to live, while simultaneously blaming contemporary problems on modernism and elitism. </p>

<p>The film also perfectly balances this perspective with the realization that elitism should be a catalyst towards improved thought processes and that traditional beliefs might come off as archaic in modern contexts.</p>

<p>It is also admirable how the movie often comes to a middle ground in the resolution of some of its messages, leaving it for the audience to pass judgement and grab lessons from the scenario. </p>

<p>This is seen in the debate between Chukwudinma and Kamoru on the safety of smoking cigarettes and the consumption of kolanuts; a contrasting display of the evils that might be attached to the adoption of primitive and modern worldviews without adequate examination of the benefits of adhering to these views.</p>

<p>As earlier stated, the essence of the project explicitly portrays the realities of road travel in Nigeria, and how each character battles challenges that might not be apparent upon first appearance. </p>

<p>In its portrayal of realities, the garage troubles, the driver-passenger conflicts and the driver rivalries come off as very instructive in this regard. </p>

<p>Also, the challenges both Chukwudinma and Kamoru face in their lives are not apparent at first glance, passing the message of kindness and goodness towards newly-met people, as their actions might not be reflections of their personalities, but rather exhibitions of their pressures and frustration.</p>

<p>The movie weakens along the way when there is a face-off between the characters of Olaiya Igwe and Muyiwa Adegoke in their driver conflict, where they both refuse to let each other pass through. </p>

<p>Although it shows a reflective reality of Nigeria's transport system, it comes off as a weak exhibition of a cameo featuring a litany of popular actors cramped in a bus. Also, the sound effects in the scene do not come off great (Wale Elesho’s voice was not clearly audible), rubbing the movie off its shine.</p>

<p>The film's U-Turn shows in Kamoru’s determination to desist from his evil intention, and Chukwudinma’s battle with his conscience. </p>

<p>Here, both parties’ initial cat-and-mouse relationship dissolves into friendship, which leads to mutual respect for their talents and potential, directing them both to life-changing experiences and opportunities.</p>

<p>‘U-Turn’ is an essential delve into Nigeria's transport and societal realities and exhibits the importance of respect and goodness. It also serves as a treatise on the examination of worldviews and addresses popular stereotypes in societal contexts. </p>

<p>It is a good exploration of quality filmmaking and is highly recommended as a must-watch movie.</p>

<p>Critic's Rating: 8 stars out of 10.</p>

The movie is a brilliant exploration into this country’s chaotic transportation system.

‘U-Turn’ effectively portrays the challenges and humanity that exist in Nigeria's transport experience [Pulse Review]

<p>As the 2023 elections draw near, Nigeria's political space comes under close observation, with citizens getting sensitized on the country's political history and realities to make the right choices of leaders elected.</p>

<p>Nollywood, being the gift that keeps giving, has produced movies reflective of the country's different political experiences. And here are 10 movies you should watch on Nigeria's political experience:</p>

<h3><strong>1) ‘Saworoide</strong>’</h3>

<p>This is a classic Yoruba movie on how military rule in Nigeria promoted autocracy in Nigeria. Released in 1999, and directed by the legendary filmmaker <strong>Tunde Kelani</strong>, the movie depicts the betrayals, violence, exploitation, bribery and corruption and other rots in Nigeria's leadership system.</p>

<p>The movie stars veteran actors like<strong> Lere Paimo, Kola Oyewo, Ayantunji Amoo, Kabirat Kafidipe, Larinde Akinleye, Kunle Bamtefa, Bukky Wright</strong> and <strong>Kunle Afolayan</strong>. It is still a great watch to date.</p>

<p>Directed by <strong>Izu Ojukwu</strong>, the political thriller details the account of a&nbsp;pregnant wife, who helps her husband, a young soldier accused of complicity in the abortive coup of 1976 helps him prove his innocence.</p>

<p>Released in 2016, the movie stars<strong> Ramsey Nouah, Chidi Mokeme, Rita Dominic</strong> and <strong>Ibinabo Fiberesima. </strong>The movie won Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Nigerian Film and was produced by Adonis Productions and Princewill's Trust. It is currently available on Netflix.</p>

<p>This is a crime and political thriller about Alhaja Eniola Salami, a businesswoman and philanthropist with a rising political stature called into question by her underworld connections.</p>

<p>She has to deal with sorrow, violence, exploitation, crime and vendetta to be able to conquer her enemies and rise above adversities.</p>

<p>The movie is a Netflix original first released in 2018. It is one that Nigeria's biggest movie in box office figures in contemporary times. ‘KOB’ was co-produced and directed by<strong> Kemi Adetiba</strong>, and stars actors like <strong>Sola Sobowale, Toni Tones, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Deyemi Okanlawon</strong> and <strong>Akin Lewis</strong>. It is currently streaming on Netflix.</p>

<p>The movie features a conflict between a husband and wife, who both win the nominations as the candidates of the two major parties in an upcoming gubernatorial election, and how they sustain their relationship in the face of impending chaos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Love is War’ is a 2019 Nigerian political drama film directed by <strong>Omoni Oboli</strong> and written by<strong> Chinaza Onuzo</strong>. Produced by Inkblot Productions, it stars<strong> Omoni Oboli, Richard Mofe-Damijo</strong> and <strong>Jide Kosoko</strong>. It currently streams on Netflix.</p>

<p>Produced by <strong>Hauwa Allahbura</strong> and directed by <strong>Mike-Steve Adeleye</strong>, ‘Code Wilo’ projects the story of a political godfather who announces his daughter as the gubernatorial candidate.</p>

<p>She ends up being kidnapped on the day of the announcement and gets a rude awakening when she's forced to fight for more than the right to save her people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Directed by <strong>Mike Steve </strong>and produced by Cut24 Production, the movie stars include <strong>Zack Orji, Eucharia Anunobi, Yaw Comedian, Uzo Arukwe </strong>and <strong>Gabriel Afolayan</strong>. It was released in 2019.</p>

<h3><strong>6) ‘4th Republic’</strong></h3>

<p>Directed by<strong> Ishaka Bako</strong>, ‘4th Republic’ follows the story of Ikechukwu Obiano, a young idealistic deputy campaign manager for industrialist Mabel King, who is competing against incumbent Governor Idris Sani in her bid to become the first elected female governor in the country.</p>

<p>The movie stars<strong> Kate Henshaw-Nuttal, Enyinna Nwigwe, Sani Muazu, Ihuoma Linda Ejiofor, Bimbo Manuel, Yakubu Muhammed, Sifon Oko, Jide Attah</strong>, and <strong>Preach Bassey </strong>and is produced by a collaborative effort between Amateur Heads and Griot Studios. Distributed by Netflix, the movie was released on the 12th of April, 2019.</p>

<h3><strong>7) ‘October 1’</strong></h3>

<p>Released in 2014, the movie is about Nigeria's independence from the British in 1960. It is a fictional account of a Nigerian police detective dispatched to investigate the murders of women in a rural community.</p>

<p>The detective is expected to solve the mystery before the Nigerian flag is raised on October 1, 1960, Nigeria's Independence Day.</p>

<p>Produced by Golden Effects Studios and FilmOne Distribution, written by<strong> Tunde Babalola</strong> and directed by <strong>Kunle Afolayan</strong>, it stars <strong>Sadiq Daba, Kayode Olaiya, David Bailie, Kehinde Bankole, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Nick Rhys, Kunle Afolayan, Femi Adebayo, Bimbo Manuel, Ibrahim Chatta, Demola Adedoyin</strong> and <strong>Deola Sagoe</strong>. The movie is currently showing on Netflix.</p>

<h3><strong>8) ‘If I Am President’</strong></h3>

<p>Written and directed by <strong>Bright Wonder Obasi</strong>, ‘If I Am President’ tells the journey of one young, middle-class Nigerian man as he runs and campaigns for the highest office in the land. Alongside his family and campaign team, he faces attempted assassinations, false accusations, smear campaigns and systemic disenfranchisement.</p>

<p>The group makes a push into the murky and rough political terrain, armed with little more than their ideals.</p>

<p>Released in 2018 and produced by High Definition Film Studios, the movie stars <strong>Ayoola Ayolola, Joke Silva, Rahama Sadau, Bimbo Manuel, Ivie Okujaye, Bryan Okwara, Ayo Emmanuel, Bimbo Manuel, Victor Decker</strong>, and <strong>Osas Iyamu</strong>. It is available in cinemas nationwide.</p>

<h3><strong>9) ‘Your Excellency’</strong></h3>

<p>The <strong>Funke Akindele</strong>-directed movie is about a rich businessman and failed presidential candidate, obsessed with running for Nigeria's top seat, the presidency. However, in his last race, the tides turn in his favour, and a social media smear campaign propels him to the presidency.</p>

<p>The film stars <strong>Akin Lewis, Funke Akindele, Shaffy Bello</strong> and <strong>Eku Edewor</strong>, and is produced by EbonyLife Films. It raked over N186 million at the box office, and is available on Netflix.</p>

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Find political and governance Nollywood movies to learn more about Nigeria's leadership and political experience.

9 political Nollywood movies you should watch today

<p>Dramatic projections of romance has sustained filmmaking for so long, and Nollywood, being the largest filmmaking industry in world, has been a perfect avenue for the turnout of romance movies. </p>

<p>The fact that these movies render our realities into visual consumption makes it relatable and interesting to watch. We have compiled a list of 10 great Nollywood romance movies that come highly recommended. Enjoy!</p>

<h3><strong>1) ‘Isoken’</strong></h3>

<p>Isoken is the ultimate romantic comedy about a woman whose family fears for her because of her unmarried status. </p>

<p>Starring <strong>Dakore Akande, Joseph Benjamin, Marc Rhys, Funke Akindele, Lydia Forson, Jemima Osunde</strong> and<strong> Damilola Adegbite</strong>, the movie is a treatise into cultural stereotypes and family pressures with the themes of marriage and love.</p>

<p>The film was produced by Tribe85 productions and distributed by Silverbird Distributions in Nigeria and Evrit film in the UK. You watch one of the best rom-coms to come out of Nigeria on Netflix.</p>

<p>The movie is a romantic story about a wealthy, lonely man who must confront the social stigma around age-gap romances, after his falling for a much younger woman.</p>

<p>Casting<strong> Richard Mofe-Damijo, Ego Nwosu, Zainab Balogun, Nse Ikpe-Etim</strong> in the lead roles, the movie is directed by<strong> Seyi Babatope</strong>. It is available on the Netflix streaming platform.</p>

<p>‘Hey You’ is a sultry drama about a young tech bro addicted to porn and frequently visits Fans Alone, a website where he meets online sex workers for satisfaction. Things take an interesting turn when he finds out his next-door neighbor Bianca (<strong>Efe Irele</strong>) whom he has fallen for, is his favorite sex worker on the erotic website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Produced by Anthill Production Studios and directed by <strong>Uyoyou Adia</strong>, the movie has an impressive cast including <strong>Timini Egbuson</strong>, Efe Irele, <strong>Temitope Olowoniyan, Rotimi Salami</strong>, <strong>Miriam Peters</strong> and <strong>Seyi Awolowo.</strong> Released in July, 2022, it is available on Prime Video and cinemas nationwide.</p>

<h3><strong>4) ‘Namaste Wahala’</strong>&nbsp;</h3>

<p>‘Namaste Wahala’, is a cross-cultural romantic movie, as you may have guessed from its title — “Hello Trouble.” </p>

<p>Being the first major collaboration between Nollywood and Bollywood, the movie navigates a narrative about two lovers from different cultures (Nigeria and India), and how the couple would endure and overcome family pressures and societal challenges to be together.</p>

<p>Set in Lagos, the movie was produced and directed by <strong>Hamisha Daryani Ahuja</strong>. Its cast includes <strong>Ini Dima-Okojie as Didi, Ruslaan Mumtaz, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Joke Silva, Osas Ighodaro, Ibrahim Suleiman</strong> and <strong>Broda Shaggi</strong>. Produced by Forever 7 Entertainment in 2020, the movie is available for viewing on Netflix</p>

<h3><strong>5) ‘Kambili: The Whole 30 Yards’</strong></h3>

<p>The pressure of marriage, heightened by societal expectations, may be overwhelming for your adults. In ‘Kambili: The Whole 30 Yards’, a young lady decides to change her behavior and character in determination to win back her ex-boyfriend. </p>

<p>In her quest towards becoming her better self, romance took over, and she succumbs to a relationship with her longtime best friend.</p>

<p>Written by <strong>Ozioma Ogbaji </strong>and directed by <strong>Kayode Kasum</strong>, the stars <strong>Nancy Isime</strong> and <strong>Jide Kene Achufusi </strong>in the lead roles, while <strong>Uzor Arukwe</strong>, T<strong>oyin Abraham, Venita Akpofure</strong> and <strong>Mawuli Gavor</strong> are casted on the movie. </p>

<p>Produced in joint collaboration between FilmOne Entertainment, Empire Entertainment and Huahua Media in 2020, the movie is available on Netflix.</p>

<h3><strong>6) ‘Finding Hubby’</strong></h3>

<p>‘Finding Hubby’ is a 2020 movie about two friends on the hunt for husbands, who must deal with their own expectations as they embark on their pursuit. </p>

<p>The movie is a two-part movie, where in its second part, a woman finds herself at a crossroads between a shallow marriage and a return to the chaotic world of dating upon the discovery of her fiance's secret.</p>

<p>Directed by <strong>Femi Ogunsanwo</strong> and based on a series of blogs by the author <strong>Tunde Leye</strong>, the movie casts actors including <strong>Ade Laoye, Kehinde Bankole, Munachi Abii, Tina Mba, Efa Iwara</strong> and<strong> Charles Etubiebi</strong>. It was produced by House Gabriel Studio and TLS Media Place in 2020.</p>

<h3><strong>7) ‘Dinner at My Place’</strong></h3>

<p>A Nigerian man finds his plan to propose to his girlfriend being jeopardized by an abrupt interruption from his ex-girlfriend. </p>

<p>Starring <strong>Timini Egbuson</strong>, <strong>Sophie Alakija, Uche Nwaefuna, Maynard Okereke </strong>and <strong>Bidola Aiyeola</strong>, the movie is a romantic movie where memorable moments are interrupted by encounters from the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Directed by <strong>Kevin Apaa </strong>and produced by Duku Pictures, the movie was released in 2022 and distributed by FilmOne Entertainment. It is available on Netflix.</p>

<h3><strong>8) ‘The Perfect Arrangement’</strong></h3>

<p>Directed by <strong>Chinaza Onuzo</strong> and produced in collaboration between FilmOne Entertainment and Inkblot Productions.</p>

<p>‘The Perfect Arrangement’ follows Tade, a daughter from a respected political family who is caught up in a complicated love triangle with Chidi, a fast-rising politician, and Cheta, Chidi’s brother.</p>

<p>The movie stars personalities like <strong>Sharon Ooja, Mr. Macaroni, Pere Egbi, Bovi, Adunni Ade </strong>and <strong>Rotimi Salami</strong>. Released in 2022, ‘The Perfect Arrangement’ is currently available on Amazon's Prime Video.</p>

<h3><strong>9) ‘The Order of Things’</strong></h3>

<p>A young man decides to get married to his girlfriend but his mother clings unto the societal tradition of hierarchy, and insists that his elder brother gets married first, even when he might not be ready.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Co-produced by Sid’s Zero Gravity and Filmone Entertainment, the feature length comedy was released earlier this year. Its cast includes<strong> Lateef Adedimeji, Ademola Adedoyin, Iremide Adeoye, Lilian Afegbai</strong>. The movie is available in cinemas nationwide.</p>

<h3><strong>10) ‘Still Falling’&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>Here, two lovers discover themselves to have permanently changed after their reunion brings back memories of their toxic past, and they have to navigate through their challenges to remain stronger together.</p>

<p><strong>Sharon Ooja, Daniel Etim-Effiong, Kunle Remi </strong>and <strong>Liz Benson</strong> star in the 2021 movie. Directed by <strong>Karachi Atiya</strong> and <strong>Dimbo Atiya</strong>, the film is currently available on Prime Video.</p>

Find romance movies perfect for a romantic night in with your partner or by yourself.

10 great Nollywood romance you should add to your must watch list

<p>The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN), has disclosed that Nigerians have spent a total of N914 million on movies in November, 2022. Out of this revenue, Marvel's ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ raked over N600 million Naira (65%) out of the total sum.</p>

<p>The sequel to the 2018 original became the most viewed movie in cinemas for November after three weeks of its release last month, surpassing top rivals which include Nollywood’s ‘Brotherhood,’ Hollywood’s ‘The Woman King,’ and ‘Black Adam.’</p>

<p>‘Brotherhood’ remained in the list of the top five highest-grossing movies for November, going toe to toe with Hollywood’s ‘The Woman King’ despite playing in Nigerian cinemas for one less week. The movie records a cumulatively earning of N318.8 million and finished top 2 at the box office for November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the data released by CEAN, more than 223,297 people trooped to the cinemas to see the Marvel production across the country. That is 38,548 more than its closest rival, ‘Black Adam’, which had 184,749 viewers. ‘Black Adam’ is showing for its 6th week in Nigerian theatres.</p>

<p>The top 10 Nollywood movies for the year so far have grossed a combined sum of&nbsp;N1 million with ‘Brotherhood’ overtaking ‘King of Thieves’ to become the Number 1 Nollywood movie of the year and the 5th highest grossing Nollywood film of all time.</p>

<p>Commenting on this year’s box office figures, Patrick Lee, the CEAN National President, told the News Agency of Nigeria that the massive box office earnings of Nigerian movies is a testament to the shift in orientation and interest in watching movies screened at cinemas, rather than the usual practice of streaming or downloading pirated movies. Lee says a similar trend was observed in April when a 50% increase in sales volume was recorded, from the N388 million recorded in the same period last year.</p>

<p>Despite these huge revenues from the box office, streaming platforms still eclipse cinema exhibitions. According to the <a href="https://insidenollywood.substack.com/p/is-the-cinema-audience-avoiding-nollywood">Industry Report from Inside Nollywood</a>, “If the audience is beginning to depend more on streaming to see Nollywood films, the filmmakers and other stakeholders have a heavy hand in this. </p>

<p>They created a system where films make their debut on the big screen and go on to stream on an online platform about three months later. To the audience, the wait is not an unbearably long one to watch a Nollywood film, especially if expectations are low.”</p>

<p>In December's opening weekend, ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ still tops Nigeria's most watched movies list, grossing N48,931,834, followed by fresh and long releases including ‘Violent Night’, ‘The StandUp’, and ‘Gbege’ in its top 10 list.</p>

Nollywood has accumulated over nine hundred million in Nigeria’s box office in November, and it is just starting.

Box Office: Nollywood grosses N914,404,301 in November, with ‘Wakanda Forever’ leading the list

<p>The journey from script to screen is a delicate path in filmmaking, and a whole lot may go wrong in a film production team’s attempt in adapting its script into movie reality. </p>

<p>There are times when filmmakers intend to document realities and elicit relatability from their audiences, but a shift in the acting, cinematography or plot ends up pulling the movie off its balance, landing its filmmaking in an almost abysmal position. </p>

<p>This is the case with ‘Weather for Two’ as the filmmakers are widely off their berths.</p>

<p>‘Weather for Two’ is a Wale Adesanya-directed franchise that documents the experiences of a married man, Kolade, who cheats on his wife, Adesuwa, despite his relentless attempts to do right by his family. Written by <strong>Nkeoma Umudu</strong> and featuring a cast including <strong>Beverly Osu, Eso Dike, Tope Olowoniyan, Racheal Enem Isaac </strong>and <strong>Tina Mba</strong>, the movie explores the tropes of sex, vunelrability and marital challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is a glimpse into the realities of the plight of men caught in extramarital affairs. At least this is what is what the movie sets out to achieve. But upon execution, it fails abysmally in transforming its themes to presentable visualization on screen. </p>

<p>This failure starts right from its title. ‘Weather for Two’ is the most unfitting title I have ever seen for a Nollywood movie, as the movie does not even explore themes that could be an instigation towards the selection of the title. </p>

<p>For a movie with this title, it is expected that the movie would lean towards romance and sex, but instead it channels its narrative towards an ill-fated display of sexual debauchery.</p>

<p>Apart from the title, the movie misses its mark right from the start. From first glance, viewers are met with displays of a loyal wife, a cheating husband and a string of side chicks, all of whom are with the shaky assurance that their flings could turn into something solid with the cheating husband. </p>

<p>But the movie's narrative comes off as rough, making it difficult for it to creatively deliver its message. The narrative makes absolute mockery of the characters in the movie, and the illogicality of its plot renders the quality of its acting worthless and useless.</p>

<p>The film also falls short in the delivery of its intended message. For example, the movie seems to largely humanize the actions of the Kunle, instead of fitting it into the moral context of the Nollywood audience, which is that extramarital affairs often ruin familial relationship. </p>

<p>Kunle is portrayed as a victim of his experience and circumstance, while Adesuwa seems to come off as an embittered wife who is conniving to alter her child's DNA results</p>

<p>Also, a number of themes are raised but not pursued to their completion. For instance, the details of the death and inheritance of Kunle’s father are not fully disclosed, leaving a huge gap into the movie plot and allowing for a lot of guesswork. </p>

<p>Some of the scenes are totally unnecessary, like scenes where the hitman hired by Adesuwa turns out to be an informant for Kunle’s mother has no relevance, and adds no credence or credibility towards the movie's sail off-plot.</p>

<p>The movie's tipping point, where Kunle has a dreamy revelation that jolts him to his senses, proves to be absolutely bereft of coherence and logicality. </p>

<p>The fact that he has two concurrent dreams in one sleep, and that his realization is not fully explored before the end, botches any attempt for the movie to instill coherence in its plot. However, the acting is impressive, but is utterly hindered by the illogicality of the film's plot.</p>

<p>‘Weather for Two,’ while exploring the intricacies of sex, vulnerability and marital challenges, fails to administer its plot towards ensuring relatability and understanding from its viewership. </p>

<p>Its irregularities in sustaining its plot narrative makes the movie a treatise that dithers and fails in its journey towards execution. </p>

<p>The movie is a perfect example of how a Nollywood movie ought not to be made, and it is a clear testament to how there is a need for improved storytelling&nbsp;for Nigerian filmmakers.</p>

<p>Critic's Rating: 4 stars out of 10.</p>

The movie, a glimpse into the realities of the plight of promiscuous men, is an abysmal attempt at filmmaking.

‘Weather for Two’ dithers on its bridge towards execution

<p>Filmmaking is a visual representation of realities, in a bid to portray the struggles faced by viewers, who then draw inspiration to address and find solutions to thematic problems affecting them. </p>

<p>This is why excellent filmmaking in the eyes of the audience is often not determined by how cinematic tropes are efficiently executed, the quality, camera angles, or shots, but by how well they can relate to the representation of reality on screen.</p>

<p>This makes a Nollywood short film like the <strong>Adeniyi Joseph Omobulejo-</strong>directed 'Kill the Impostor’ a delightful and excellent representation. The film tells the story of an acclaimed writer,<strong> </strong>Salama<strong> </strong>(played by <strong>Susan Echa</strong>), who struggles to creatively document her story because of the challenges she is facing in her marriage. </p>

<p>The movie thematically explores delicate issues surrounding marital relationships, creative blocks, family interactions, and emotional turmoil.</p>

<p>I could relate so much to the creative problems of the lead because of my dispensation to writing and documenting stories, but what makes the storytelling unique is its excellent fusion of the narrative technique to adequately provide context and solutions for the viewers. </p>

<p>The movie does not only lay out problems and explore themes propelling the movie's message, but it also provides practical solutions, like the voiceovers reeling off suggestions on how creative blocks could be channeled into telling stories that would be brilliant and relatable to the audiences we intend to address.</p>

<p>The movie's essence is well-portrayed in showing the challenges of its main character, Salama, who navigates a tumultuous experience with her husband, Ezeonu (played by <strong>Patrick Dibuah</strong>), in facing her challenges — child-bearing demands, societal pressures on married women, and a lack of understanding of emotional depths from partners in a marriage— which all strain marriages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The film does a great job in the cinematography department, as the shots are well-effected to fully portray the depths and the criticality of the project's essence. The up-close camera shots of the characters effectively convey their pain and vulnerability to the viewers. </p>

<p>The characters execute their roles flawlessly, bringing the rawness of the core themes and essence of the film to life. The movie also kills it with the grading, lighting, production, and sound design.</p>

<p>The result is a beautiful exposition of injustice, and how the pressures on women affect their emotional and mental abilities to fulfil and actualize their duties, dreams, and ambitions.</p>

<p>It exhibits the arrogance portrayed by male chauvinistic characters, as seen in how pleas towards reconciling with Salama are not met with an apology from her husband, Ezeonu. </p>

<p>It also examines the harsh realities of unrealized ambitions, and how our battles could hinder our projected dreams and visions (Salama’s challenges led her to discard a promising draft of her story).</p>

<p>‘Kill the Impostor’ is a perfect documentation of vulnerability, repressed dreams and the imposter syndrome which can hinder one's gifts and talents. Like the title implies, the movie calls on the viewers to stand firm in the face of life's challenges and refuse to give in to the imposter standing in the way of our dreams and aspirations.</p>

<p>The movie is currently streaming <a href="https://kill-the-impostor.tribearc.work/">here</a>.</p>

<p>Critic's Rating: 7 stars out of 10.</p>

BTS from TAJ's 'Kill the Impostor' short film [Nostalgia Media]

This well-executed short film is the perfect motivation for creatives, and anyone struggling with imposter syndrome.

‘Kill the Impostor’ beautifully exhibits the realities of societal pressures, repressed dreams and self doubt

<p>December is often an interesting time at the box office with some of the biggest Nollywood movies coming out just in time to entertain viewers as the year draws to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We at Pulse have compiled a list of movies to watch out for next month, for your maximum enjoyment and entertainment.</p>

<ul><li><strong>‘The StandUp’</strong></li></ul>

<p>Produced by Peekaboo Productions and directed by <strong>Jide Oyegbile</strong>, this movie is about the struggles of an electrician who travels from Warri to Lagos to make it big in his profession and save his sister, who is being held ransom because of the debts accrued by his late father.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The movie has an impressive cast like <strong>Richard Ayodeji Makun (AY)</strong>, <strong>Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), Anita Asuoha (RealWarriPikin), Jide Kosoko, Mofe Duncan, Dibor Adaobi Lillian, Stephanie Zibili, Paul Olope</strong> and<strong> Eso Dike</strong>. ‘The StandUp’ premieres in cinemas nationwide on December 2, 2022.</p>

<p>In ‘U-Turn,’ <strong>Gabriel Afolayan</strong> plays the role of a passenger who faces challenges alongside his cab driver, <strong>Olaiya Igwe</strong>, whilst hiding their true intentions from each other. Directed by <strong>Gabriel Afolayan </strong>and <strong>Uche Agbambu</strong>, the cast includes <strong>Jide Kosoko, Muyiwa Adegoke, Ebun Oloyede, Mama No Network</strong> and <strong>Tina Mba.</strong></p>

<p>Produced by Studio 6 Multimedia Limited, the movie is scheduled for release on Netflix on the December 2, 2022.</p>

<ul><li><strong>‘Palava!</strong>’</li></ul>

<p>In Niyi Akinmolayan’s latest project, ‘Palava!,’ Richard Mofe Damijo plays the role of Osage Idehen, a renowned musical artist with five beautiful daughters. His love for women constantly lands him in drama and problems, a theme that informs the movie's title. His life and family is turned upside down when a scandal is revealed on the eve of his 60th birthday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>‘Palava!’ features <strong>Linda Ejiofor, Bisola Aiyeola, Jemima Osunde, Beverly Naya, Beverly Osu, Chinedu Ikedieze, Iyabo Ojo, Mercy Aigbe, Eniola Badmus, Omawumi Megbele, Gideon Okeke </strong>and <strong>BB Naija star, Neo Akpofure</strong>. Produced by Inkblot Productions, the movie is set for release in cinemas December 9th.</p>

<ul><li><strong>‘Rising: City Of Dreams’</strong></li></ul>

<p>‘Rising: City of Dreams’ highlights two groups who engage each other in a gangster-induced war over the leadership of a market. Directed by<strong> Samuel Olatunji</strong>, produced by <strong>Wale Muraina </strong>and shot in Oshodi, Lagos, the movie showcases the the leadership tussle that exists among Nigerian politicians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cast includes<strong> Jide Kosoko, Zubby Michael, Femi Branch, Yvonne Jegede, Reminisce, Slimcase, DJ Neptune, Yakubu Mohammed </strong>and <strong>Bolaji Amusan. </strong>The movie is set for release in cinemas on December 9, 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<ul><li><strong>‘Battle On&nbsp;Buka Street</strong>’</li></ul>

<p>Produced in a joint collaboration between Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network (FAAN) and FilmOne Entertainment, the movie is a chronicle of a food challenge between two women fighting over the best local food seller title — the ‘King of Buka Streets’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cast includes <strong>Femi Jacobs, Mercy Johnson, Kelvin Ikeduba, Bimbo Ademoye, Tina Mba, Sola Sobowale, Nkem Owoh</strong> and the movie's co-director, <strong>Tobi Makinde. </strong>The movie premieres on December 16, 2022.</p>

<ul><li><strong>‘Ijakumo’ (The Born-Again Stripper)</strong>&nbsp;</li></ul>

<p>Produced by<strong> Toyin Abraham </strong>and written by<strong> Kehinde Joseph</strong>, ‘Ijakumo’ (The Born-Again Stripper) is a thriller that follows the daughter of a powerful spiritualist, who is hell-bent on destroying the life of her former lover, a renowned pastor of a mega-church, who jilted and left her to die. She partners with a stripper and choir leader to exert her revenge plan on her former lover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Led by Toyin Abraham, the cast includes<strong> Kolawole Ajeyemi, Lolade Okusanya, Kunle Remi, Lillian Afegbai, Olumide Oworu </strong>and<strong> Eso Dike</strong>. The movie is set for release in cinemas on December 23, 2022.</p>

Richard Mofe Damijo in Inkblot's 'Palava!' movie [Instagram/Inkblotpresents]

The holiday season is an exciting time for movies. Stay tuned for the most anticipated films coming out next month.

6 Nigerian movies you should watch out for this December

<p>Griots in Africa have always been transmitters of history, passing on oral tradition and culture from generation to generation. </p>

<p>These storytellers or musicians, who are often the oldest in the tribe are key to the understanding of our historical vestiges and heritages, especially in a world that has sought to be replace our beautiful linage with Western narratives. </p>