As we step into a new month, let’s take a moment to reflect on the cinematic gems and not-so-great films that Nollywood served us in August. From the heart-wrenching tales of grief to predictable thrillers, this past month showcased a mix of emotions, leaving us chuckling, frowning, and occasionally scratching our heads in confusion. Here’s our humorous take on the films that graced our screens.

With Difficulty Comes Ease (August 1)

Kicking off August was With Difficulty Comes Ease, a film that felt like a slow, melancholic stroll through Aisha’s grief. This Muslim widow’s journey through heartache was beautifully portrayed, but the film’s sluggish pace might leave you questioning your life choices—or just your choice of movie snacks. While we felt every painful moment Aisha endured, the rushed ending wrapped up her struggles in a neat little bow, leaving us with a bittersweet sense of ease. We rate this film 3/5, definitely, one of the best this year, even if it had us fighting off the urge to sleep.

The Betrayed (August 2)

Next up, The Betrayed hit cinemas with a promise of thrills, but it was as predictable as a Nollywood plot twist. Spoiler alert: someone close is the betrayer! With stunning visuals and a catchy soundtrack, this film had its moments—especially when the handsome playboy met his untimely end. Despite its cohesive plot and engaging storyline, the film’s suspense felt more like a gentle nudge than a punch to the gut.

We give it 3.5/5 for its efforts, but we can’t help but wish for a twist that didn’t feel like it was written in stone.

Something Like Gold (August 17)

Now, Something Like Gold left some viewers raving, while we found ourselves yawning. Despite its technical prowess, the protagonist’s exaggerated antics pushed the boundaries of believability, causing a disconnect that made us question why we should care about her journey. With a direction that felt indecisive and shallow, this film barely held our interest. We rate it 2.5/5. An ironic title for a film that felt more like a heavy burden than a treasure.

Tokunbo (August 23)

Arriving on the scene was Tokunbo, another mixed bag. It had its strengths, with well-planned camera shots and decent transitions, but it leaned heavily on clichés and predictability. Despite its strengths, audiences were treated to a conventional narrative that left us yearning for more excitement. Ramsey Nouah’s film managed to tick some boxes, but it felt like it was playing it safe. We score it 3/5. A solid effort, but not quite a home run.

Force Empire (August 23)

Also released on the 23rd, Force Empire tackled the pressing issue of gender inequality in the workplace, particularly in the Nigerian Ploce force. With Nse Ikpe-Etim shining as the protagonist, this film brought an important message to the forefront. However, despite its commendable intentions and moderate visuals, it fell short of being an immersive experience worthy of a cinema trip. We give it a 3/5. A thought-provoking watch, but maybe better suited for a cozy night.

Break of Dawn (August 23)

Last but not least, Break of Dawn attempted to confront serious issues surrounding blood money, but it stumbled through its narrative. Despite a decent premise and some impressive night-time visuals, the film failed to deliver a coherent message, leaving us more confused than enlightened. The characters felt flat, and the performances struggled to connect. We rate it 2.5/5. A missed opportunity that left us wishing for a better plot twist.

As we bid farewell to August, it’s evident that we received slightly better films than in July, with most falling on the moderate side of the quality spectrum. While some films had us appreciating the effort behind Nollywood filmmaking, others left us chuckling at their absurdities.

As we draw the curtain on August, it’s clear that Nollywood has presented us with a varied array of cinematic experiences. While some films soared with heartfelt storytelling and stunning visuals, others stumbled into the realm of predictability and confusion. This month’s lineup reminded us that the journey of filmmaking is a labour of love, filled with both triumphs and trials. Despite the ups and downs, we appreciate the creativity and effort behind these films, and it’s evident that Nollywood is evolving.

Whether we laughed, sighed, or rolled our eyes, each film sparked conversations and reflections about our society and culture. So, here’s to August—may it be a stepping stone for even bolder narratives and more daring stories in the months to come. We’re excited to see what Nollywood has in store next, and we’ll be right here, popcorn in hand, ready for the next cinematic adventure!