Love In Every Word Review: A Successful Yet Predictable Nollywood Film

Love In Every Word Review: A Successful Yet Predictable Nollywood Film

“Achalugo, I am going to marry you.”

Nollywood continues to produce films that, while familiar in concept, manage to stand out due to their unique take on age-old themes. Omoni Oboli’s latest production, Love in Every Word, is a significant highlight, especially at a time when the Nigerian film industry is addressing social issues such as stereotype correction.

Set in Lagos, with some scenes in Anambra, Love in Every Word delves into the challenges faced by ambitious, hardworking women struggling to balance their careers with love. The film explores how these women navigate emotional turmoil, toxic workplaces, strained relationships, familial expectations, and societal stereotypes. It resonates with women who seek a partner whose life isn’t as dominating as their own…READ MORE….

Plot Summary

The movie follows Chioma, a successful, independent Lagos businesswoman, as she navigates love and relationships. After ending a two-year relationship with Jessy, who mismanaged her financial investment, Chioma’s life becomes even more complicated with her demanding boss and an upcoming family function in Anambra. At this function, she meets Obiora, a wealthy, determined businessman from Anambra whom her mother hopes she will marry.

Chioma is initially put off by Obiora’s mannerisms, which remind her of her father, whom she has a strained relationship with. As the two interact, Chioma tries to avoid him, and it’s only when her friends reveal her reasons for distancing herself that Obiora understands her hesitation. Eventually, the couple addresses their issues and reaffirms their love for each other.

Thematic Exploration

Omoni Oboli’s Love in Every Word explores the lives of Nigerian women who are determined to succeed in their careers. Chioma, for instance, embodies the modern, independent woman, balancing her career with her personal life, managing a branding company, an accessory brand, and investments in digital currency. Her character highlights the potential for women to succeed on their own terms.

On the other hand, Obiora represents the stereotype of wealthy Igbo men in Nollywood, often seen as domineering and transactional in relationships. However, the film challenges this by portraying Obiora as patient, resilient, and willing to listen to Chioma without judging her past. This dynamic challenges the stereotype of Igbo men and emphasizes the importance of open communication in relationships.

Cast and Performance

The film stars Uzor Arukwe as Obiora and Bam Bam Olawunmi Adenibuyan as Chioma, both of whom deliver standout performances. Arukwe brings the perfect Igbo accent and a strong presence to the role, while Bam Bam successfully captures the essence of a modern Lagos woman, making their on-screen chemistry one of the film’s highlights.

Cinematography

The cinematography of Love in Every Word is generally solid, with well-executed camera angles, sound, and costumes that complement the story. However, there is one notable flaw where Obiora appears at Chioma’s workplace with drums in a scene that confuses the time of day.

Rating

At 1 hour and 55 minutes, the film raises questions about the true meaning of love, particularly when it comes to gift-giving as an expression of affection. Obiora’s constant gifting to Chioma creates an unrealistic portrayal of love, especially during the early stages of a relationship. This overemphasis on material gestures diminishes the film’s depth and predictability, as viewers can easily foresee the outcome.

Additionally, Chioma’s decision to go to a hotel with a man she just met doesn’t align with her image as a classy and independent Lagos woman. The movie also falters in its narrative structure, with Chioma’s backstory being awkwardly conveyed through her friends, rather than through flashbacks that could have given more depth to her character.

Despite these shortcomings, the film has garnered attention, largely due to the undeniable chemistry between Arukwe and Bam Bam, and the catchy “Achalugo” phrase that has gone viral. While Love in Every Word may not be perfect, it has certainly sparked conversation and left an impact in the Nollywood scene.