This year’s independence day falls on a Friday. Apart from reflecting on what Nigeria has achieved in her 61st year of inexistence, we can also do some relaxing because it’s been a crazy year all along since Nigeria’s last independence. This is why we’ve decided to make a list of four movies that would be hitting your cinemas this weekend. Go relax, and most importantly, think of how we can work together as a country as you watch these movies:
Swallow
Swallow is the first film from Kunle Afolayan’s three-film deal with Netflix. The movie which is an adaptation of Nigerian-American novelist Sefi Atta’s third novel, Swallow, is a drama-thriller that explores drug trafficking in the backdrop of 1980s Lagos, struggling under the weight of severe measures and the infamous War Against Indiscipline. In Swallow, Afolayan was able to use a retro film look that pays perfect homage to a nostalgic past that will take viewers on a memorable ride.
13 Letters
Produced and directed by Kayode Peters, 13 Letters is a realistic love story that follows the life of Akinola Owolabi, a playboy who faces serious backlash when his ex-girlfriends air their grievances on social media. To contain the damage, he must collaborate with a PR professional who compels him to face his character flaws. The movie is a comedy intriguing movie that takes us into the life of a playboy. Starring top actors and social media sensations like Kunle Remi, Teddy A, Mofe Duncan, Bimbo Ademoye, Bolanle Ninalowo, Amanda Dara, Adedamola Adewole (Adeherself), the movie is a must-watch.
Hide and Seek
Hide and Seek is a crime-thriller drama that tells the story of a Robinhood-like attempt to stop a corrupt public servant of high designation from embezzling public funds. A security intelligence officer assigned to protect a permanent secretary investigates his corrupt practices and orchestrates a heist to re-steal what had been stolen. However, to succeed, he has to battle with several unforeseen factors, including an obsessed girlfriend and a mole who almost makes the operation go south. Kunle Remi plays the lead role in this movie, complemented by Efa Iwara, Kiki Omeili, Uche Motana, Akah Nnani, and Bimbo Ademoye, amongst others.
Pandora’s Box
Pandora’s box is an Ovie Odiete scripted film that follows the story of a couple forced apart when a tragic incident occurs testing their faith and love for each other. Directed by Simon Peacemaker, the film touches on themes of grief and the tough choice of euthanasia. Produced by John Udorah Chukwuemekain in conjunction with ETGSL Group, the movie stars an impressive cast of Ufuoma Mcdermott, Onyii Alex, IK Ogbonna, Timini Egbuson, and Nini Mbonu.