Entertainment
Movie review: Blacksmith (Alagbede) is a stereotypical Nollywood story but funny with good acting
Blacksmith (Alagbede) is a Yoruba movie you will enjoy even though it might not have any hook on you afterwards. The movie, currently showing in cinemas, is a mix of romance, comedy and drama. Directed by Usman ‘Blackky’ Ogunlade and produced by Motunrayo Adeoye and Jaiye Kuti, the film is packed with good acting and nothing more than needed.
Blacksmith (Alagbede) tells the story of a blacksmith named Adio (Femi Adebayo) and his sweetheart from a well-to-do-home, Omolewa (Kehinde Bankole). As a poor young chap, Adio was left with no choice but to struggle to measure up to the standard demanded by Omolewa ‘s mother (Bimbo Oshin), who was ready to give her daughter’s hand in marriage to a rich guy. Backed by his friend Wole (Gbenga Afolayan), Adio decided to get wealth through money rituals. This led to a lack of peace of mind, and wealth became undesirable to him.
Firstly, the romantic part of this movie is more like a remix of the stereotypical Nollywood movies of the 90s and early 2000s, where a broke boy with no future ambition will have the beautiful daughter of a wealthy man in love with him. However, I like that the writers plotted the romance to lead to money rituals and spiced the movie with light comedy. Even during serious scenes, many others and I, viewing the movie at the cinema, couldn’t help but laugh out loud.
Like I said earlier, the acting in this movie is really good and deserves 8/10. The part that made me believe I was in for a good movie was the scene involving the first babalawo (witch doctor) played by Adewale Alebiosu. That part was barely up to three minutes long, but the man killed it. While addressing Adio and Wole, the look on his face, despite how serious it was, flowed freely with the comedic vibe associated with the scene. Femi Adebayo and Gbenga Afolayan also matched him with their A-game. Other actors in the movie include Jide Kosoko, Mr Macaroni, Elesho, Jaiye Kuti, Fathia Balogun, etc.
Another thing that blew me away about the Babalawo scene was the lighting, which was cinematic. The lighting department did well in the night scenes by not only providing light for the faces of the characters but also for the environment, which was an open space. This was also done for the night bathroom scene, where a white light blasted behind the trees to mimic moonlight. So far, the all-night scenes of this movie get 8/10 from me. If I’m thinking of making a film today, the guys behind this movie’s lighting and colour grading will get a call from me.
Blacksmith (Alagbede) mimicked the 1970s Nigeria as seen in the costumes. Some of the actors rocked afros and fashion from that time. Even the architectural style and cars were from that period. I don’t know if those who don’t understand Yoruba will enjoy the movie because I didn’t notice the subtitles. I also can’t predict if the movie will perform well in cinemas. However, I strongly believe this movie will do well on streaming platforms, to the point of trending on X’s social media platform. Blacksmith (Alagbede) gets 7/10
Kanayo O. Kanayo recently expressed his frustration regarding Angel Unigwe and her mother. In a video he posted online, the veteran actor alleged that Angel, with her mother’s support, breached their contract by prematurely leaving his set.
Responding to these allegations, Angel Unigwe’s mother strongly denied the accusations and defamatory statements made by Mr. Kanayo in his video. She stressed their firm adherence to contractual terms and their dedication to honoring all legal commitments.
Angel Unigwe’s mother provided a detailed account of events from June 17th to June 19th, 2024, during which Angel was engaged in Kanayo’s film project with clear agreements, specifically finishing filming by 9 pm each day. Despite their initial concerns about filming fifty-seven scenes in three days, they agreed to proceed based on assurances from Mr. Kanayo O. Kanayo and his director.
On the final day, filming extended beyond 9 pm by an additional 45-50 minutes, which they accommodated as a gesture of goodwill. She emphasized that they left the location after fulfilling their obligations, without any objections from the director or production manager.
Her statement:
“As a background to the events that led to this, between the 17th of June 2024 and the 19th of June 2024, Miss Unigwe participated in a film project under clear and agreed terms, most important of all being a daily wrap time of 9 pm. Despite our concerns about the feasibility of filming fifty-seven (57) scenes in three (3) days, we proceeded based on the assurances we received from Mr. Kanayo O. Kanayo and his director, in person of Ndifreke Matthew, that the three days period will be sufficient for shooting and that the talent’s shooting time of 12 hours starting from 9 am to 9 pm is acceptable to them, moreso there will be no extension considering her prior engagement. On the final day, despite the agreed terms regarding wrap up time of 9 pm, we accommodated an additional 45-50 minutes of filming beyond the agreed time, which was done out of the spirit of goodwill and understanding that had existed between us, Mr. Kanayo and the film Director. Upon completion of the shoot, we left the location without protest from the director or the production Manager Mr. Cosmos Nwaihe, having performed our obligations.”
Mrs. Unigwe was deeply shocked upon learning of the accusations made by Mr. Kanayo in his video. She shared the emotional distress caused by what she perceived as threats against her daughter, Angel Unigwe. She condemned these actions as cyberbullying and gender-based harassment, particularly hurtful given her long-standing respect for Kanayo.
Juliet Unigwe concluded her heartfelt statement by announcing their intention to seek legal action to ensure accountability and justice in this matter, asserting their refusal to be intimidated. She called on relevant security agencies and organizations to protect Miss Unigwe and herself from any potential hostility from Kanayo.
Nigerian musician, David Adeleke, better known as Davido, and his newly wedded wife, Chioma, commenced their honeymoon in a grand style.
We reports that Davido married to his long-time lover, Chioma, in a lavish event attended by the bigwigs in the entertainment industry and top politicians and businessmen in Lagos on Wednesday.
Shortly after the event, Davido took to his X account with images of a private jet with the caption, “Let’s first launch this one.”
It could not be immediately confirmed, however, where the couples would enjoy their honeymoon.
A viral video clip on social media also captured the couple boarding the private jet in Lagos, accompanied by Davido’s team members, including Asa Asika, Lati, and Chioma’s manager, Ubi Franklin.
On June 25, 2024, the world witnessed the union of one of Africa’s most beloved couples: Davido and Chioma. Their love story has been a topic of much speculation and fascination. As fans and followers celebrated their wedding, many wondered about the secrets that made their relationship so strong and enduring. Here, we uncover some of the key elements that have contributed to their journey together.
Davido and Chioma’s relationship began as a deep friendship. This foundation of trust and mutual respect has been a cornerstone of their bond. Friends before lovers, they have always valued open communication and support, which has helped them navigate the ups and downs of their relationship.
Both Davido and Chioma share a commitment to family and community. Their shared values have brought them closer, allowing them to work towards common goals. Whether it’s supporting each other’s careers or engaging in charitable activities, their unity in purpose has been evident.
As celebrities, Davido and Chioma have lived much of their relationship in the public eye. They have faced rumors, criticisms, and intense media scrutiny. However, they have consistently shown resilience and have maintained their privacy where it matters most. Their ability to focus on their relationship and block out external noise has been crucial to their success.
Davido’s support for Chioma has been unwavering, as has Chioma’s support for Davido. This mutual encouragement has helped them grow individually and as a couple. Davido has often expressed his admiration for Chioma’s strength and grace, while Chioma has praised Davido’s dedication and passion.
Like any couple, Davido and Chioma have had their share of disagreements and challenges. However, their willingness to forgive and move forward has been a defining feature of their relationship. They understand that no relationship is perfect and have shown a remarkable ability to learn from their experiences.
Both Davido and Chioma have achieved significant milestones in their careers. Davido, an international music sensation, and Chioma, a successful chef and entrepreneur, have always celebrated each other’s achievements. Their mutual respect for each other’s ambitions has strengthened their bond.
Family plays a crucial role in Davido and Chioma’s lives. Their families have been supportive of their relationship, providing a strong network of love and encouragement. Additionally, their shared cultural heritage has enriched their connection, giving them a deeper understanding of each other’s backgrounds and traditions.
Davido and Chioma’s marriage on June 25, 2024, is more than just a union of two individuals; it is a testament to love, resilience, and mutual respect. Their journey together has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but their commitment to each other has never wavered. As they embark on this new chapter, they continue to inspire countless fans with their love story.
What aspect of Davido and Chioma’s relationship do you find most inspiring? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
