Category: Entertainment

The Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL), pitting the best teams from the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC) against each other. It’s the culmination of a thrilling playoff season, with the winner taking home the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. At the games some top anticipated movies will release their trailers. List of movie trailers to be released at the Super Bowl are:

Captain America: Brave New World

The Anthony Mackie and Harrison Ford-led blockbuster is likely to get it’s trailer released on 9th, considering its release date is just five days after the Super Bowl.

Captain America: Brave New World is an upcoming American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character Sam Wilson, aka Captain America. The movie is directed by Julius Onah and written by Malcolm Spellman and Dalan Musson.

The film takes place after the events of The Falcon and the Winter Soldier series and follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he navigates his new role as Captain America. The story explores the challenges Sam faces as a Black man wielding the shield and the weight of responsibility that comes with it.

Harrison Ford joins the cast as Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross, a character with a complex history in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The movie promises to delve into themes of identity, power, and what it means to be a hero.

Jurassic World Rebirth

Universal Pictures is reportedly planning to offer a first look at the movie during the game on February 9th.

Jurassic World Rebirth is an upcoming American science fiction adventure film directed by Colin Trevorrow and written by Trevorrow and Emily Carmichael. The movie marks the sixth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise and serves as a sequel to Jurassic World Dominion.

The story takes place four years after the events of the previous film and follows a new generation of characters as they navigate a world where dinosaurs and humans coexist. The movie promises to explore the consequences of playing with nature and the ethics of genetic engineering.

With a talented cast, including Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Laura Dern, Jurassic World Rebirth promises to deliver an epic and thrilling adventure that will take audiences on a journey back to the world of Jurassic Park.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

A new teaser for the Tom Cruise-starrer is expected on February 9th at the game, especially after the commercial failure of its predecessor.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is an upcoming American action spy film directed by Christopher McQuarrie and written by McQuarrie and Erik Jendresen.

The movie marks the eighth installment in the Mission: Impossible franchise and promises to be the most epic and action-packed chapter yet. Tom Cruise reprises his role as Ethan Hunt, who must face off against his most formidable foe yet: a rogue agent with a personal vendetta against him.

The film promises to deliver heart-stopping stunts, intricate plot twists, and high-octane action sequences, as Ethan Hunt and his team navigate a complex web of espionage and deception. With Cruise performing many of his own stunts and a talented supporting cast, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is shaping up to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

Although not confirmed, there’s a possibility that the first official teaser for the Marvel movie might drop during the Super Bowl.

Fantastic Four: First Steps is an upcoming American superhero film directed by WandaVision’s Matt Shakman and written by Jeff Kaplan and Ian Springer. The movie serves as a reboot of the Fantastic Four franchise and stars Miles Teller as Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic), Emma Stone as Sue Storm (Invisible Woman), Michael B. Jordan as Johnny Storm (Human Torch), and Adam Driver as Ben Grimm (The Thing).

The story follows the origin of the Fantastic Four, a team of superheroes who gain their powers after being exposed to a strange energy source during a scientific expedition. As they learn to control their new abilities, they must also confront the villainous Doctor Doom, who seeks to exploit their powers for his own evil purposes.

With its talented cast, engaging storyline, and stunning visual effects, Fantastic Four: First Steps promises to be an exciting and action-packed adventure that will introduce the beloved superhero team to a new generation of fans.

Thunderbolts

Marvel Studios might showcase a new trailer for the ensemble movie, but it’s unclear if it’ll make the cut.

Thunderbolts is an upcoming American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics team of the same name. The movie is directed by Jake Schreier and written by Eric Pearson.

The film brings together a team of anti-heroes, including Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova, Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier, and Wyatt Russell’s John Walker, among others. The story follows this misfit team as they embark on a high-stakes mission that requires them to work together and confront their troubled pasts.

Thunderbolts promises to be a gritty, action-packed ride that explores the gray areas between heroism and villainy. With a talented ensemble cast and a rich comic book source material, this movie has the potential to be a game-changer in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Snow White

Disney’s live-action remake might get a teaser or trailer during the game, especially after facing pre-release criticism.

Snow White is an upcoming American fantasy romance film directed by Marc Webb and written by Greta Gerwig, Erin Cressida Wilson, and Marc Platt.

The movie is a live-action reimagining of the classic Disney animated film, starring Rachel Zegler as Snow White and Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen. The story follows Snow White, a beautiful and kind-hearted princess who is forced to flee her kingdom when the Evil Queen becomes jealous of her beauty.

The film promises to offer a fresh take on the beloved fairy tale, with a focus on female empowerment, self-discovery, and the complexities of beauty and identity. With a talented cast and a visionary director, Snow White has the potential to become a modern classic.

Tron: Ares

Although less likely due to its October release date, Disney might still decide to give it a Super Bowl spot.

Tron: Ares is an upcoming American science fiction film directed by Joachim Rønning and written by Jared Bush. The movie serves as a sequel to Tron: Legacy and stars Jared Leto as Ares, a powerful and mysterious program.

The story takes place in a new, unexplored grid, where Ares has risen to power and threatens the very existence of the digital world. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), must once again embark on a perilous journey to stop Ares and save the grid.

With its groundbreaking visual effects, pulse-pounding action sequences, and thought-provoking themes, Tron: Ares promises to be a thrilling and immersive cinematic experience.

Lilo & Stitch

A 2-minute trailer for the live-action remake might debut during the Super Bowl.

Lilo & Stitch is an upcoming American science fiction comedy-drama film directed by Dean Fleischer Camp and written by Mike Van Waes.

The movie is a live-action/CGI reimagining of the beloved Disney animated film, starring Maia Kealoha as Lilo and Zach Galifianakis as the voice of Stitch. The story follows Lilo, a quirky and eccentric young girl who adopts a genetically engineered alien experiment named Stitch, who becomes her unlikely friend and companion.

The film promises to capture the offbeat charm and humour of the original, while exploring themes of family, identity, and acceptance. With a talented cast and a unique visual style, Lilo & Stitch has the potential to become a cult classic.

Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors is not just a movie series it’s a cultural and thematic journey that transcends the typical Nollywood offering. Released on Netflix in December 13th, 2024, this six-part series has gatheredsignificant attention for its profound exploration of tradition, personal sacrifice, leadership, and spirituality.

The series marks Adebayo’s debut as a director, and he undoubtedly proved himself as one that is a master of the craft already with this ambitious project that combines rich storytelling with exceptional cinematic craftsmanship.

Plot Overview

Set against the backdrop of the late 18^th and early 19^thcenturies, Seven Doors revolves around the central character, Adedunjoye (played by Femi Adebayo himself), the heir to the throne of Ilara Kingdom. Initially a humble man and content in his familial life, Adedunjoye is thrust into a role of great responsibility when circumstances force him to ascend to the throneafter he was convinced by his wife to take up the responsibility.

However, his reign is marred by a series of calamities, including a devastating famine, civil unrest, and personal loss, all of which are believed to be the result of an ancient curse tied to his ancestors’ unresolved sins.

The ancient tradition that governs the kingdom stipulates that in order to restore balance, Adedunjoyemust marry seven wives, symbolically knocking on “seven doors.” His refusal to comply with this ancestral decree sets the stage for a tense exploration of personal values, leadership responsibilities, and the impact of tradition on one’s choices.

As the series unfolds, we are drawn into Adedunjoye’sinternal struggle should he honour the customs of his kingdom or take a stand against practices that he believes are unjust and goes against his undying love for his wife which they had both promised one another that they were only both made for one another in this world. 

This conflict forms the backbone of the narrative and is woven with themes of sacrifice, power, morality, and the generational burden of ancestral mistakes and misdeeds.

Critical Reception

Critics and audiences alike have applauded Seven Doors for its rich thematic depth and masterful direction. The movie series has been described by Premium Times describes as a “thematic masterpiece” that is compelling from start to finish. The careful blending of traditional Nigerian folklore with contemporary dilemmas creates a narrative that feels both timeless and timely. Adebayo’s ability to tackle complex issues surrounding leadership, destiny, and personal integrity resonates deeply with viewers, making it more than just a historical drama.

The series’ portrayal of Nigerian culture is also a standout feature. While historical fiction, Seven Doors does an exceptional job of integrating authentic Yoruba language and cultural elements. In fact, the language used throughout the series ranging from Yoruba to English to Igbo adds a layer of richness, immersing the viewer in a deeply cultural and multi-dimensional world that feels real and lived-in.

Production Design and Cinematography

Visually, Seven Doors is stunning. The production design is meticulous and well detailed, bringing the 18^th and 19^th centuries to life with an accuracy that enhances the storytelling. The intricate set designs, from grand royal palaces to the rustic settings of rural villages, serve to immerse the audience into the world of Ilara Kingdom. The costume design is equally impressive, with elaborate garments that reflect the wealth, power, and customs of the time.

Adebayo’s direction shines in the way he captures the emotional depth of each scene, especially in moments of internal conflict. The cinematography stands out, with sweeping shots of the kingdom’s landscapes contrasted with intimate close-ups of the characters’ faces, allowing the viewer to feel the tension, fear, and determination in their eyes. This attention to detail serves to ground the fantastical elements of the story in a believable reality.

Characters and Performances

The performances in Seven Doors are a driving force of the series. Femi Adebayo, who takes on the central role of Adedunjoye, delivers a powerful and professional portrayal of a man who is torn between duty and conscience.

His performance is deeply relatable, conveying the internal battle of a leader who must weigh the demands of his people against his personal beliefs. Adebayo skilfully navigates these emotional imbalances, adding layers of complexity to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional.

Chioma Akpotha as Queen Amaka is another standout. As a strong, compassionate, and pragmatic character, Amaka serves as both a pillar of support and a voice of reason to Adedunjoye. Portraying herself as a woman who’s got great love for her husband and family, a supporting wife and strong Igbo woman who stood by her husband till the very end despite the tragic occurrence.

Her creativeness of speaking Yoruba despite being an Igbo woman shows how rooted she had become with her husband.

Akpotha’s ability to convey deep emotional complexity with subtlety and grace makes her one of the most memorable characters in the series.

Muyiwa Ademola plays Oba Adedunjoye, bringing gravitas to the role of a king burdened by the weight of his lineage. His portrayal captures the inner turmoil of a ruler trying to balance personal happiness with the duty to his kingdom.

Aliu Gafar’s role as Esusu, the antagonist, is chilling, as he embodies a complex character whose motives are shrouded in mystery and manipulation. His performance brings an intensity to the series, creating a chilling tension between the forces of tradition and the evolving world.

Themes and Symbolism

Seven Doors is much more than a historical drama it is a deep dive into the philosophical and moral dilemmas that come with power and tradition.

The series tackles universal themes such as the consequences of one’s actions, the struggle between personal autonomy and societal obligation, and the age-old tension between progress and tradition.

The concept of the “seven doors” is symbolic, representing the trials and tribulations that Adedunjoyemust face. The doors are not just literal but also metaphorical, representing the thresholds of personal and spiritual growth. Each “door” symbolizes a challenge that the protagonist must overcome whether it be accepting his role as king, navigating the consequences of his ancestors’ actions, or coming to terms with his moral choices. This use of symbolism elevates the narrative, making it a rich text for interpretation and analysis.

The series also explores the consequences of ancestral actions. Adedunjoye’s struggle to escape the shadow of his forefathers’ sins is a potent reminder that the choices of previous generations have lasting effects. This generational burden resonates deeply with viewers, reflecting the broader societal conversations about history, legacy, and accountability.

Music and Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Seven Doors plays a crucial role in establishing the mood of the series. The music, composed to reflect the cultural and historical themes of the show, uses traditional Yoruba rhythms and instruments, further enhancing the immersive experience. The score serves as a kind of emotional guide, subtly urging the audience to feel the tension, sorrow, and hope that permeate the series.

It’s an essential part of what makes Seven Doors so compelling elevating scenes of great emotional depth and providing moments of introspection.

In the end, Seven Doors is an exemplary piece of Nigerian cinema that is made to resonate far beyond its immediate audience. With great performances, captivating direction, and a complex narrative filled with philosophical depth, Femi Adebayo has delivered a series that is as intellectually stimulating as it is entertaining.

The film is an exploration of power, responsibility, and the ever-relevant battle between tradition and progress. It is a visual and emotional journey that demands to be seen and discussed.

Seven Doors stands as a milestone in Nollywood’s evolution, setting a high bar for future productions. The costuming and props used in the series and creativity sets its on high amongst many Nollywood movies released in recent times. It combines the traditional with the modern, the personal with the universal, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in cinema that challenges the boundaries of storytelling.

Rating

Without much deliberation and prejudice to recent movies it is easy for audience to give the new series a rating of 9/10.

A must watch this festive season if you are a lover of Nigeria cultural and epic movies.

Making it to Complex’s top album of 2024 ahead of Gunna, Charlie XcX, Glorilla, J.Cole, and Kanye West (Ye) are part of Nigeria’s greatest music talent exports, Tems and Ayra Starr.

Sitting at number 14 is Tems ‘Born in the Wild, and Ayra Starr’s ‘The Year I Turned 21’ is at number 12.

14. Tems, Born in the Wild

Released on the 7th of June, in the article it was stated “But even when Tems was behind the scenes, she faced betrayal and growing pains, which tested the resilience that encapsulates her storytelling on Born In the Wild. She flawlessly makes a 1997 Seyi Sodimu staple her own on the amorous track “Love Me JeJe.” Elsewehere, she looks for a bad boy who can match her freak over the rhythmic acoustics of “Gangsta.” And she comes to grips with her regret of becoming a romantic avoidant when confronted by collaborator J. Cole on “Free Fall.” Tems gets real with her internal struggles and doesn’t run from herself.“

12. Ayra Starr, The Year I Turned 21

Ayra Starr is described as: “She doesn’t mince her words on opener “Birds Sing of Money,” popping off saucy lines like “I don’t watch my tone ’cause I like how I sound, bitch,” because time is, well, money. When social media tried to instigate a feud between Starr and Grammy winner Coco Jones, they joined each other and Brazilian artist Anitta on the feminist war cry “Woman Commando.” As sultry as she is sharp, Starr takes control on 21. It’s only up from here.“

Read the full article here.

To reboot DC on screen, James Gunn—co-CEO at DC—will be banking on the success of the first DCU slate, Creature Commandos and Superman (Legacy). Yesterday the Creature Commandos launched the new DCU as a “soft intro” to the bigger story.

If you enjoy The Guardians of The Galaxy franchise, The Suicide Squad, or Peacemaker, then you will enjoy Creature Commandos, which has the same tone (of rogues doing something good) that is maintained. The adult animation blends gory fights and mature comedy that you can relate to, similar to Family Guy, Harley Quinn, and Hit Monkey.

To understand the show, you need to understand how Canon works when it comes to rebooting in DC. Until it is mentioned or referenced, nothing is canon. What’s canon so far includes Rick Flag Jr.’s death, Adebayo’s outing Waller’s Task Force X project, and a bunch of subtle things (watch Peacemaker and The Suicide Squad to get the references).

In my opinion, there are parts of the show that seem unnecessary; for example, James Gunn animated in the intro (which was later clarified as a surprise he later went with). Rick Flag’s relationship with the princess and how short each episode is are my major concerns.

Aside from the first episode, which feels weird, episodes 2 through 7 seem to properly introduce each character with a backstory.

Creature Commandos Episode 1 & 2 Easter Eggs You Might Have Missed

Themyscira is a rumoured place in the DCU.

In a GBS News report when describing the events of Circe and the Sons of Themyscira, the Amazons were mentioned. In the New52 comics, The Sons of Themyscira are the male children of the Amazons who were abandoned at birth. The news anchor described Themyscira as a “perhaps mythical, perhaps real” place. This gives a better understanding of the timeline of the DCU.

It is important to note that GBS is a company owned by one of Superman’s villains, Morgan Edge. It’s a cable service and phone service in Metropolis.

Circe and Superman might have met.

Circe is an exiled sorceress from Themyscira, and via news reports, we can assume she attacked Metropolis, which led to her encounter with Superman. Circe would later be arrested by the Metropolis Police Department, home of Superman.

Rap battle meme

The Sons of Themyscira referenced the famous “Supa hot fire rap battle” meme.

GBS News anchor

The GBS News Reporter is voiced by an actual American journalist, known as Jake Tapper, a popular CNN News host.

Adebayo did expose her mother.

Rick Flag Sr., in a conversation with Waller, mentioned Waller’s daughter exposing Project Starfish. What this means is that the events of Peacemaker Season 1 are canon. At the end of Season One, Leota Adebayo exposed Project Starfish, forcing Congress to place a ban on using humans for Task Force. Amanda Waller, being herself, used this loophole to make A.R.G.U.S. shift from using humans to monsters.

Jason and the Argonauts

Rick Flag, Sr. refers to Doctor Phosphorus as Jason and the Argonauts, a reference to the classic movie with the same name.

The Bride was born in 1831.

The Bride in the DCU was created as a wife for Frankenstein, but their relationship was never manifested as she developed feelings for her maker, Victor. Victor was then murdered by Frankenstein, who later stalked and chased her for over 200 years.

The year the bride holds a historic value in the real world is the same year Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, the book, revised edition was released.

Ultra Bunny is back!

Ultra Bunny is a fictional character in the DCU. It appeared on Rick Flag Jr.’s shirt in a couple of scenes in Peacemaker, and now on Frankenstein’s shirt with the same slogan, “Obstacles are opportunities.”

Slither/Nina Mazursky

The scene where Nina was in the bathtub referenced the movie Slither (2006). It is a science fiction comedy horror film written and directed by James Gunn.

Superman will die…?

In the season trailer, via a vision by Circe, it was revealed there is a future where Superman, Mr. Terrific, Starfire, Captain Atom, and Peacemaker will die.

Shaggy is canon

During The Bride’s flashback and origin scene, we were able to understand the relationship between The Bride and Frankenstein. Shaggy from Scooby-Doo appears in the flashback sequence.

Pokolistan

Pokolistan is a fictional country located in Eastern Europe, broken off from the Czech Republic. In the comics, they had secret deals with President Lex Luthor.

The Bride reads ‘Young Love.’

The Bride is spotted reading an issue of ‘Young Love’ in Belle Reeve prison. Young Love was a real romance comic, published by Crestwood/Prize, and was later sold to DC Comics. It ran through the 1950s and 60s.

How old are the Rick Flags?

Rick Flag Sr. mentioned he and his ex-wife had their son when they were in the military at 18 years old. Rick Flag Jr. died in Corto Maltese by Peacemaker during Project Starfish.

Frankenstein’s dialogue

In episode 2, Frankenstein directly quoted Mary Shelley’s 1818 Frankenstein edition book. “Shall each man find a wife for his bosom, and each beast have his mate, and I be alone?” In the book, The Bride is never born. Victor discards her body parts out of fear.

Ratings: 4.5/5

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Hijack ’93 is a Nigerian historical drama based on the infamous October 1993 hijacking of a Nigerian Airways flight by four young men advocating for democracy during Nigeria’s military regime. Written by Musa Jeffery David and directed by Robert Peters, the movie dramatizes this real-life event while exploring themes of youthful idealism, disillusionment, and political resistance. The film debuted on Netflix in October 2024, marking a significant addition to Nollywood’s repertoire of historical thrillers.

The hijackers’ story centers on their desperate mission to bring attention to their democratic demands. Although the movie includes some fictional elements, such as altered character names and motivations, it retains the core of the event. It highlights the hijackers’ internal struggles, the tense interactions between passengers and captors, and the ultimate resolution through negotiations and force.

Strengths

Cinematography: The film excels visually, particularly in capturing the confined space of the airplane. The camera work during action sequences is commendable, enhancing the film’s intensity.

Themes: The exploration of tribalism, grief, and abuse offers relevant social commentary, reflecting issues still prevalent in Nigeria today. Historical Resonance: By revisiting a dark chapter in Nigerian history, the film prompts viewers to reflect on political struggles and societal change.

Weaknesses

Plot and Character Development: The film struggles with narrative cohesion, leading to flat emotional moments. Characters lack depth, and their motivations such as the hijackers’ transition from personal grievances to political activism are underexplored.

Dialogue and Acting: The script and performances fall short of delivering the tension and emotional stakes expected in such a high-stakes story.

Historical Authenticity: While visually modern, the film fails to convincingly portray the 1990s setting, with overly polished props and inconsistent period details detracting from the narrative’s credibility.

Sound Design: Inconsistent audio quality disrupts immersion, particularly during pivotal scenes.

Overall, while Hijack ’93 provides a gripping premise and impressive cinematography, it falters in execution, leaving its emotional and historical impact underwhelming. However, its bold attempt to tackle a complex historical event makes it a noteworthy, albeit imperfect, addition to Nollywood’s catalog.

Rating 5/10

I want to believe most of us grew up with DC or, at the least, have consumed DC content; I know I did. When I was a kid, I used to have a sense of joy calling myself a fan of DC, but this past decade, it’s more than embarrassing watching what DC has turned to, especially in this MCU world we live in.

Warner Bros. and DC executives sometimes forget they sit on a gold mine of IPs, and it’s a shame we have to rotate between Superman and Batman repeatedly. Filmmakers have tried to do justice to these characters, but to the audience, it’s the same story. DC has continuity issues; the DCEU (Extended Universe), DCAU (Animated Universe), or all iterations of the film and TV universe all meet the same fate. CANCELLED.

Don’t get me wrong; DC has some successful projects, but it’s time they do something stable, and this is where James Gunn and Peter Safran come in. As a fan observing from the outside, looking in, it’s fascinating to see that they are finally getting a creative head, and hopefully, they get it right.

On January 31st, 2023, James Gunn announced the start of a new DC, the DCU, a reboot of everything DC on film, TV, and gaming. His vision includes the continuity of Peacemaker, Creature Commandos, a new Superman film, the Lantern shows, and many more. Today is the start of that universe.

What do you need to watch to understand this universe?

To be honest, nothing. If you’ve watched or consumed any DC content, then you should understand what “reboot,” “continuity,” or “canon” is in the context of DC. If not, let me explain. When you reboot a universe, you are not necessarily starting over but moving the story in a better direction, resulting in the issue of continuity. How do you move what we’re following and enjoying? What are you bringing into this universe?

This new universe will include nods to some of the events of the DCEU, such as Peacemaker Season 1, The Suicide Squad, and Blue Beetle.

Peacemaker: James Gunn recently mentioned that the events of Peacemaker remain canon aside from the scene where the Justice League showed up. He explained that, in his DCU, the Justice League is yet to be formed.

The Suicide Squad: [Spoilers] In Creature Commandos, Weasel survived, and Rick Flag Jr. is still dead.

Blue Beetle: I’m still unsure, but with the announcement of a Blue Beetle animated TV show with the same actors, I want to believe the origin of Blue Beetle will remain canon.

The Timeline

The events of Creature Commandos begin two years after The Suicide Squad and just before Superman (Legacy).

Creature Commandos takes the same tone as The Suicide Squad but with monsters. If you’re done with that tone, it’s understandable not to watch Creature Commandos. James Gunn has announced the defining moment to begin the DCU starts with Superman.

Then why start Creature Commandos now?

James Gunn told fans he greenlit Creature Commandos after he became DC Co-CEO. He explained he wrote Creature Commandos after The Suicide Squad. Critics may argue that Creature Commandos, being the same tone as previous Marvel/DC work, will never be greenlit.

Will DCU remain permanent?

Previously, executives and creatives did not always agree on the way forward, which is why most projects get shelved. Giving Warner Bros. Discovery state, if David, James, and Peter continue to agree, the DCU is projected to be a success.

Your only excuse should be that you’re on a remote island with no access to the internet and don’t notice the wave of new talents in the Nigerian music industry. The wave is led by those I will consider the latest Big 4, starring Ayra Starr, Asake, Rema, and Tems. These talents have well-crafted and mastered the art of making good music, and it’s high time they get their flowers.

The Rolling Stone’s 2024 Top Albums List, released on Monday, features Rema’s ‘Heis,’ Tems’ ‘Born in the Wild,’ and Ayra Starr’s ‘The Year I Turned 21.’

Ranking them, we have:

Rema’s second studio album, ‘Heis,‘ was ranked 11th overall. The album recently received a Grammy nomination for Best Global Album Performance.

Description: “Rema has taken to calling his own style of Afrobeats “Afro-rave,” in the tradition of Burna Boy and the like who have fought to differentiate themselves from what became a catchall for African music in general. Yet, there was no real sonic signifier for Rema’s Afro-wave — he seamlessly traverses hip-hop, house, R&B, and dancehall. Heis sounds more like a rave than almost anything Rema has made prior (excluding the excellent loosey “Bounce,” for example, raging while everything else simmers. The result is the buzzy, visceral, sweat-it-out music that no one else in the mainstream is making.”

Tems’ debut album, ‘Born in the Wild,‘ ranked 37th overall. Tems, whose voice is captivating, earned Grammy nominations for both ‘Best African Music Performance’ and ‘Best Global Music Album.’

Description: “Tems has already remade Nigerian pop in her own image. Her debut album measures the soul work it’s taken to get here. All of it has paid off on an album so rich that the listening experience is a physical one as much as it is emotional. “Wickedest” is primed for the dance floor, while the single “Love Me Jeje” is a masterpiece, soaked in the sun and major-key dopamine. Her vision is made timeless via a seamless blend of stripped-down ballads, the cool of 1990s R&B with flecks of SWV and Sade, joyous high life, Afro-dance music like amapiano, and rugged hip-hop.”

Ayra Starr’s sophomore album, ‘The Year I Turned 21,′ ranked 53rd on the list according to Rolling Stone.

Rolling Stone describes it as:
“With the follow-up to her 2021 debut, Ayra Starr asserts a musical maturity that could be considered far beyond her years, but perhaps more aptly serves as a reminder of the emotional depth, logical prowess, and enviable passion young people often possess. Across it, Starr refreshes tried-and-true Afrobeats elements with the type of songwriting that SZA fans flock to, darting between Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba, and English with endless finesse and attitude in all three languages.”

I, for one, am glad for the recognition of Nigerian musical talents on a global stage, and this should continue for a long time. Last year the list featured legends like Mr. Eazi, Burna Boy, Adekunle Gold, and Asake.

Oscar-winning actress Angelina Jolie has publicly reiterated what matters to her above all… Motherhood.

While speaking on Good Morning America with Michael Strahan to promote her upcoming film, Maria, Angelina Jolie expressed how she feels about her kids describing it as something similar to Maria Callas’s passion for singing.

The actress told Strahan that motherhood is happiness: “You can take everything else away from me. Nothing else matters.”

Maria is a biopic about the opera singer, Maria Calles portrayed by Angelina Jolie. The movie also stars legendary actors Haluk Bilginer, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Alba Rohrwacher, and Valeria Golino directed by Pablo Larraín.

She and ex-husband Brad Pitt share six kids: Maddox, 23, Pax, 20, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, and Knox and Vivienne, 16-year-old twins.

Jolie’s two eldest sons, Maddox and Pax, worked with her on Maria as assistant directors, which described the experience as “amazing” despite having no interest in being seen on camera yet. “They’re quite private. Shiloh’s extremely private. They weren’t born with privacy, right? So I hope they can have that as they grow,” she said.

The Eternals star has always been outspoken on motherhood and the importance of education.

“I’m somebody who has tried to have a better education on foreign policy. I think of the amount of times it’s been summarized, ‘You’re an artist, but you also use your voice,’ you feel like, that’s just being a person,” she said. “I’m trying to understand what is happening within our world, why so many things are the way they are. I’m trying to understand how to best be a guide for my children, to make sure that they are good people. I don’t often feel like I’m doing enough. So when you say, ‘You use your voice,’ I feel like there are so many things I don’t quite know how to do or say at this time.”

Angelina Jolie underwent vocal training for her performance as Callas in Maria—a process that her kids were apparently witnesses to. “All of my children suffered through my early opera singing in the house before I got kinda good,” she recalled, adding jokingly, “which was a nightmare.”

Lisabi: The Uprising is a cinematic story of the Egba people’s historic rebellion against the Oyo Empire’s oppressive reign in 18th-century Yorubaland.

Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, the film spotlights the bravery and leadership of Lisabi, a farmer turned revolutionary who rallies his community against tyranny. The movie blends historical events, cultural representation, and personal sacrifices to craft a narrative that is both educational, thrilling and deeply emotive.

Thematic Depth

The film’s core themes include resistance to oppression, the strength of unity, and the power of cultural heritage in the face of adversity.

Lisabi symbolizes the transformative potential of collective action as he unites farmers and oppressed individuals to reclaim their dignity. Through the struggles depicted, the movie reflects the importance of standing up against injustice.

Additionally, the narrative incorporates themes of sacrifice, as Lisabi and his companions must endure personal losses for the greater good.

While these overarching themes resonate strongly, there is a noticeable lack of focus on women’s roles within the rebellion.

Abebi, Lisabi’s wife, is portrayed as a victim whose tragic demise propels the uprising, but her potential as a fully realized character is underexplored which could have been as a result of the old concept about women back in the historical days.

This omission limits the story’s depth, particularly in highlighting how women contributed to historical movements.

Cultural Authenticity

The film excels in its depiction of Yoruba traditions and lifestyle. From the detailed costumes to the realistic portrayal of rural Egba life, every visual aspect immerses viewers in the time period.

The traditional chants, songs, and rituals interwoven into the narrative enhance the cultural richness. The filmmakers also focus on the symbolic role of land and farming, which not only defined Egba identity but also became the very essence of the resistance.

The cinematography further elevates the cultural experience by capturing the serene beauty of Nigeria’s landscapes. These visuals contrast sharply with scenes of violence and oppression, emphasizing the stakes of the rebellion.

Performance and Characterization

Lateef Adedimeji’s portrayal of Lisabi anchors the film with a mix of determination, charisma, and vulnerability. His transformation from a humble farmer to a revolutionary leader is compelling and emotionally resonant. Ibrahim Chatta’s menacing performance as Songodeyi, the brutal tribute collector, brings a palpable sense of danger to the story.

Supporting characters, while impactful, sometimes lack narrative depth. For instance, Oshokenu’s storyline, feels incomplete, as does the portrayal of the Alaafin of Oyo, who is depicted more as a symbol of power than as a complex figure. Similarly, Abebi’s character arc, while central to Lisabi’s motivation, could have been expanded to give her more agency in the story.

Narrative Structure and Weaknesses of the Movie

The storytelling struggles with inconsistent pacing, alternating between slow, reflective moments and abrupt action sequences. While the reflective scenes effectively build the world and explore the characters’ struggles, they occasionally drag, disrupting the film’s momentum.

The inclusion of supernatural elements, meant to reflect Yoruba spirituality, feels underdeveloped and disconnected from the main narrative, diminishing its impact and the whole essence of incorporating it in the movie.

The film concludes on an unresolved note, leaving room for a potential sequel. While this approach allows for a broader narrative, it risks leaving the audience unsatisfied with the incomplete resolution of key storylines and feelings of a bad ending alongside a quest to know if there will be a next.

Production Value

The film’s production values are impressive, with attention to detail evident in the set designs, props, and costumes. The vibrant depiction of traditional Yoruba attire and the careful recreation of Egba and Oyo environments add to the film’s authenticity. The sound design, incorporating traditional music and chants, further immerses viewers in the world of the Egba rebellion.

Sociopolitical Resonance

Beyond its historical focus, Lisabi: The Uprising resonates with contemporary audiences by drawing parallels between historical oppression and modern struggles for justice and self-determination.

The story of Lisabi serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of unity and resistance against exploitation, oppression and injustice making it both a tribute to Yoruba history and a call to action for current and future generations.

In conclusion, Lisabi: The Uprising is a culturally significant film that showcases the richness of Nigerian history and heritage.

Despite its narrative shortcomings, including pacing issues and underdeveloped characters, it succeeds in capturing the spirit of resistance and the beauty of Yoruba traditions. The film stands as a testament to Nollywood’s growing capability to produce grand historical epics and sets the stage for future projects that can refine and expand upon this foundation.

For viewers interested in historical dramas or African culture, this film is a worthwhile experience, offering both entertainment and a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s rich past.

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