In the highly anticipated remake, Stan Nze takes on the iconic role of Ahanna; a young man who is dissatisfied with the way his life has turned out and masterminds a way to steal the life he wants. He handpicks the Armadas, a highly intelligent group of thieves and together they carry out spectacular heists that bring them everything they ever wanted. But like everyone knows, nothing lasts forever. Soon, The Armadas find themselves with bitter enemies on both sides of the law. Will Ahanna be able to mastermind his way out of the life of crime he chose? Or will his sins catch up with him? You’ll have to watch to find out.
Executive Produced by Charles Okpaleke and Directed by Ramsey Nouah; the Rattlesnake remake is star-studded. Alongside, Stan Nze, the cast includes Osas Ighodaro, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Elma Mbadiwe, Chiwetalu Agu, Ayo “AY” Makun, Fred Amata, Bucci Franklin, Efa Iwara, Ejike Asiegbu, Chinyere Wilfred, Tobi Bakre, Gloria Young, Norbert Young and a host of others. It is also a fun fact to know that this is the first movie in Nollywood history that stars the Young Family, where their daughter Antoria Uri Young makes her acting debut.
Hailed as the ‘King of Remakes’, Charles Okpaleke’s entrance into Nollywood has reshaped the way the industry tells stories by paying homage to the classics with a 21st century lifestyle spin.
Some would say that acquiring the rights of the original Living in Bondage film was a high risk move. Yet, the 2019 sequel, Living in Bondage; Breaking Free received critical and commercial acclaim – becoming one of the most successful movies in Nollywood till date with a record of 163 million Naira at the box office. One can say that in this case, high risk equals high rewards. Another unexpected move from Charles that yielded these high rewards was his decision to partner with Nollywood veteran, Ramsey Noah whose directorial debut won him the AMVCA award for Best Director.
Thus, it is no surprise that there has been wild anticipation for what Play Network Studios has up its sleeves for Rattlesnake. Unlike Living in Bondage which was a sequel to the original story, this is a remake. From what we know about remakes, there are no rules, any story can be completely transformed into a newer and exciting narrative.
A few days ago, this September, a virtual press conference for Rattlesnake was held. Journalists and film critics had full reign to ask all of their burning questions about what exactly was in store for audiences. In attendance were most of the cast and crew; including Charles Okpaleke, the Executive Producer; Ramsey Nouah, the director; Chris Odeh, the producer and Nicole Asinugo, the scriptwriter.
The producer Chris Odeh Said ‘’ While producing Living in Bondage, the idea of re-making other nollywood classics was discussed. Some of us in the team were teenagers or pre-teens at the time some nollywood classics were made, this is why I think telling the Rattlesnake story is important; it has a strong “coming of age” narrative which a lot of us can resonate with. You know that period in time when your father is warning you about armed robbery or getting into bad gangs. I don’t know about you, but my father sat me down, showed me the Rattlesnake movie, pulled my ears and said “It will never be heard that my son went to lagos to join a bad gang” The film first of all, gives us that nostalgic feeling, secondly, it does alot for the igbo culture and the nigerian nation, thirdly, we honour Amaka Igwe, who is an icon and has been responsible for a lot of people you call stars today; likes of the RMD’s, the Nkem Owoh’s and co. We came out the first time with LIB and we are going to keep coming out every year to blow your minds.”
Judith Audu, the line producer and host of the recent Digital Press Conference stated that ”Rattlesnake is a film that will entertain and educate you. You are going to have drama, Emotions will run wild, you are going to go home asking yourself questions. The film is filled with family values, friendships, love and so much more. What we are promising is an experience.’’
Nicole Asinugo, when asked what it was like to write the movie, graciously gave the credit to original script writer, Amaka Igwe. she said, ‘’There was already a lot of material to work with, I was just building on what the great Amaka Igwe wrote. As a remake, one is creatively allowed to think about things from a different perspective, but stay true to the real essence of the movie, which I believe we did; so even if you did watch the original Rattlesnake, we made sure we incorporated experiences relevant to now. We also had the freedom to build on and incorporate other characters.”
Despite the constraints of the Covid-19 pandemic, the cast and crew were able to push through with production and post-production by complying with all necessary measures intended to keep everyone safe by keeping a very close system, maintaining clean healthy environments, and sanitising regularly with the support of a health agency.
Okpaleke, at the conference, confirmed that the movie will premiere on November 8th 2020, with safety precautions as top priority. The movie will be released in cinemas on the 13th of November, 2020.
For more about Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story, visit and follow;
Website – https://www.playnetworkstudios.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/playnetworkstudios/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/PlayNetworkStudios
Twitter – https://twitter.com/playstudiosafr
]]>
‘The Creative Collective’
“…as Creatives – we just want to Create.”
To be a Canvas for Creativity it takes
Collaboration & Compatibility.
Creative Crew:
Photography: @emmanueloyele &
@rebeccanwose for @eopstudios
Styling: @s.b.youme for
@thestudiobysbyoume
All pieces made by @thestudiobysbyoume
Makeup: @bimpeonakoya
Hair & headwrap: @zubbydefinition
Spoken word: @officialosas
Written by: @officialosas &
@moshoodfattah
—————
———
‘The Creative Collective’
It has been said:
‘Creativity is the way to
Share your soul with the world’
Experience, Explore
my desires as a woman, as a being
exude the strength of my ancestors.
My existence in the present
look upon the light of the future,
the light of creativity.
bloom, Burst, Blossom! …BECOME!!!
How bright you shine!
Thy soul open up
let God’s greatness SHINE!
Rise in your greatness.
…and your time is NOW
NOW.
Now
You fought the world
You caught the scar
You won the war
YOU. ARE. A. STAR.
CREATIVITY is me.
CREATIVITY is YOU!
#OsasIghodaro #thecreativecollective
View this post on Instagram
]]>
With the theme Generation Equality, Knorr Nigeria has shown how important women are in the society, especially in homes and amongst family and friends, emphasizing the need for an equal society where women take key roles in decision making. The brand celebrated women by delivering gift boxes of Knorr Goodness to their doorsteps, with a heartfelt emotional letter of recognition. The recipients were excited to be recognised for their good works, giving them the encouragement to even do more.
BUNMI GEORGE
Reacting to this move, Rene, founder of Visit a hospital, expressed her gratitude to the brand and extended her warm regards to other amazing women; she took to her twitter handle and said ‘Thank you so much Knorr Nigeria, thank you for honouring me and Visit a hospital; to all amazing women out there doing amazing things every day, keep being you… happy International Women’s Day’
ADERONKE RENE AHMED
Speaking about celebrating Women, Nnenna Osi- Anugwa, Marketing Manager Savoury Unilever, Ghana/Nigeria, She stated that ‘It’s not just about celebrating women, it’s more of appreciating their impact in our societies. Women have been an important part of every society and at Unilever, we take pride in celebrating and honouring our women. Knorr Nigeria has always been at the forefront, championing women empowerment and celebrating impactful women. We will not stop doing this; our women know how important we rate them and we are very thankful for all that they do’
The brand will empower women throughout the month of March as it is referred to as the month of women- more women will be reached out to and celebrated across the country Nnena added.
Over the years, Knorr Nigeria has been instrumental in promoting a healthy society through women empowerment with unique Knorr products and food recipes. The brand has created a unique taste experience for families across the country, making the seasoning cube a household brand for many.
Follow @KnorrNigeria on all social media platforms or visit https://www.knorr.com/ng/home.html for more updates.
See Bunmi George’s of Shredder Gang’s reaction.
View this post on Instagram
See Osas Ighodaro’s reaction
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
NELLY AGBOGU
OSAS IGHODARO
BUNMI GEORGE
ARAMIDE ABE
NELLY AGBOGU
LATASHA NGWUBE
]]>Over the weekend, the highly anticipated drama-thriller, Queen and Slim, premiered in Filmhouse Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos. The event, hosted by UMG Nigeria in conjunction with Fimhouse Cinemas, welcomed A-listers including English actor, Oscar nominee and lead actor of the movie, Daniel Kaluuya, as well as GRAMMY®-winning director and director of the movie, Melina Matsoukas.
DANIEL & MELINA
The premiere which occurred on February 15, included a red-carpet event and a private screening with Nigerian and Global entertainment powerhouses in attendance including Bankole Wellington, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Dr. Sid, Uti Nwachukwu, Eku Edeawor, Mo Cheddah, Osas Ighodaro, amongst others. The star guests Daniel Kaluuya and Melina Matsoukas, were also joined by, Sipho Dlamini, Managing Director of Universal Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa and Marc Byers, General Manager of Motown Records. For the promotion of the movie fondly described as “a love story to Africa ”, the powerful duo, Daniel and Melina, have embarked on an African world-tour, visiting other African countries including South Africa amongst others and now, Nigeria.
DANIEL KALUUYA
MELINA MATSOUKAS
Addressing the guests at the event, Sipho Dlamini, Managing Director of Universal Music South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, expressed gratitude for the support received saying, “Handling a project this delicate is not an easy one and would not have been possible without everyone who has shown support, either by telling people about it, honoring our invitation to this exclusive screening or generally spreading awareness about the movie. We are so glad to finally be sharing the result of this journey with you and hope it leaves a remarkable impact on how you currently perceive life. Thank you all for showing up and showing out.”
Kene Okwuosa, Group Chief Executive Officer of Filmhouse Cinemas said “It is an honor to partner with Universal Music Africa, Daniel And Melina and the entire team on bringing Queen and Slim to Nigeria. It is a powerful story that handles its themes of resistance and joy with as much care and entanglement. “
Queen & Slim, a Universal Pictures production, is a powerful, consciousness-raising love story that confronts the staggering human toll of racism and the life-shattering price of violence. The film which was directed by GRAMMY®-winning director Melina Matsoukas and written by Emmy®-winning writer Lena Waithe, tells an emotional story of a black man (Daniel Kaluuya) and a black woman (Jodie Turner-Smith), whose first date takes a dramatic turn of events that affects their lives in unthinkable ways.
Embedded in the movie is the overarching message of love, grief, survival, pain and fear. It is one of discovery, desperation and humanity which is also strongly represented in its soundtrack. Showcasing the range of talent across Black artists with a compelling blend of genres, the soundtrack features a 16-song EP with tracks by Burna Boy, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Lil Baby, Vince Staples featuring 6lack X Mereba, Tiana Major 9 & EARTHGANG, Coast Contra featuring BJ The Chicago Kid and Syd, plus classic songs by Roy Ayers, Bilal, Mike Jones and others.
Now available nationwide, you can watch Queen & Slim at any Cinema near you.
You can listen to the soundtrack here.
OSAS, NONSO & LATASHA
UTI
DENOLA & YAGAZIE
ABAYOMI ALVIN
DANIEL KALUUYA
RONKE BAMISEDUN
DJ LAMBO
BOLLYLOMO
]]>The short film shows the struggles of an expectant woman who tries to work hard to figure out why her husband is not on the same page as her as they both embark on a new phase in their lives.
Directed by Seyi Babatope, Omo Wa the young couple are played by Folarin (played by Baag Adebuke) and Salewa, (Marcy Dolapo Oni) who live in Lagos.
Dolapo said “ I’m calling this year, the year of the mother because it seems my entire projects are centred around motherhood. I’m talking about what I know and what I’m currently experiencing. That’s why I produced a short film about pregnancy and motherhood and the fact that it is what women are going through, and it can be tough – you have two people who are about to parents, it can be exciting but at the same time the couple may be processing things in completely different ways – it is something I wanted to highlight.”
The short film, being only 15 mins long was impactful and met with rave reviews, the screening was quickly followed by a panel session which was moderated by Toyosi Etim- Effiong, joining here were Marcy Dolapo Oni, Tito Bez-Idakula, Oscar Oyinsan, Anita Okoye, and Noble Igwe who spoke through the issues depicted in the film and on how creating a healthy family is part of a growth process.
In attendance were Dolapo’s husband, Prince Adegbite Sijuwade, Mo Abudu, Biola Alabi, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Bez Idakula, Baaj Adebule, Daniel Etim-Effiong, Waje, Chigul, Osas Ighodaro, Ozinna Anumudu, Emmanuel Ikubese, Anita Adeoye, and many more guests.
Synopsis of Omowa
The pregnancy journey is a profound one. Many women find greater purpose in their lives by becoming mothers although it is not always the case. But it is no less a profound journey for a man. We see Folarin and Salewa, a young couple living in Lagos, as they manoeuvre their way through their relationship. They are about to embark on a new phase of their lives. Parenthood. While all seems well and straight forward, cracks soon begin to show as it becomes clear they are not on the same page. While becoming a parent, in theory, sounds wonderful the reality of it becomes all too daunting for Folarin.
See all the photos from her TW Magazine Cover and the premiere below!
SEYI BABATOPE
SIMI ESIRI
SIMI ESIRI AND ANITA OKOYE
CHI GURL, MARCY DOLAPO ONI AND WAJE
BEZ IDAKULA
BOLANLE AUSTEN-PETERS
MARCY DOLAPO ONI AND ADEGBITE SIJUWADE
MARCY DOLAPO ONI AND OSAS IGHODARO
NOBLE IGWE
MARCY DOLAPO ONI AND TOYOSI ETIM-EFFIONG
BAAJ ADEBULE, OSCAR OYINSAN AND SEYI BABATOPE
EMMANUEL IKUBESE AND ANITA ADETOYE
Dolapo Oni is social
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/marcydolapooni/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarcyDolapoOni
Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MarcyDolapo/
Photo Credit: Kola Oshalusi for Insigna Media
]]>
Have you ever thought about what it would like to walk in the shoes and delve into the lives of the 1% of the 1% even for just one day?! #TheBlingLagosians are here; Bolanle Austen Peters has her directorial debut with “The Bling Lagosians” having successfully showcased critically acclaimed stage plays such as Saro the Musical, Wakaa the Musical, Fela and most recently, the Kalakuta Queens.
The movie is a powerful story and gives us a glimpse into the lifestyle of Lagos’ high society; the “big men”, “big madams’ and their inner circle of the ruling elite. They are super rich and they do not feel guilty about it one bit! In the film, we step into the world of the elite who are truly in charge of Lagos; these folks have immense power. These are the 1% of the 1% in Nigeria and they put everyone in the shade with their lavish display of wealth. They may have the wealth, the luxuries and of course : “The Bling” lifestyle, but have they mastered their pursuit of happiness?
Austen-Peter’s vision for this film is to create something reflective of her experience in Lagos The Movie tells the story of “The Holloways”, a powerful Lagos socialite circle whose matriarch never disappoints when it comes to flaunting her families extreme wealth. She is resolute on having her 51st birthday become the year’s biggest society event – however things take a turn when her family’s huge dept verges on being exposed – How will the family cover it up when she is 100% reluctant to cut back on her extravagant lifestyle?
The trailer reveals the party preparations, showing the formidable cast which includes: Elvina Ibru, Toyin Abraham, Jide Kosoko, Bisola Aiyeola, Denola Grey, Monalisa Chinda, Osas Ighodaro Ajibade, Sharon Ooja, Helen Paul, Alex Ekubo and more.
While it doesn’t give too much of the plot away, it’s clear that the film is going to be very scandalous, and if you live in Lagos, this should come as no real surprise to you. The movie is a must watch with enough drama, twists and turns, giving us a detailed in road in to ‘the magic circle’ with whom on the surface everything seems to work for, everything they touch turns to GOLD, until it doesn’t. Even though they may hide behind very high walls, exclusive estates, tinted cars and security details, for how long will they continue to keep up appearances?
Watch the Trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oL3QmjwS7w
About FilmOne
FilmOne is an independent distributor of filmed entertainment providing top-end film release services with emphasis in Nigeria territory. We distribute a wide-range of mainstream, commercial pictures including international and indigenous titles, and maintain international strategic alliances and relationship with studios/distributors across the globe.
The FilmOne team possess sound expertise and extensive experience, gained in the United Kingdom and Nigeria, in theatrical and non-theatrical distribution of feature films.
Follow @bapproduction #TheBlingLagosians
Distributed by @filmoneng
]]>Terra Kulture Arena provided a state of the art backdrop for the evenings fundraiser. Opening the event was singer, Precious Emmanuel, with a beautiful rendition of national anthem and a dance performance from ‘Squad 1 productions’. The host for the night, Chigul, kept the audience smiling and laughing throughout the entire show. The energy was high with comedy acts from Basketmouth, Bovi, Buchi and Kenny Blaq. The stage was then electrified with performances from 2Baba, M.I., Falz, MartinFeelz & GreyC. The audience was highly entertained with DJ Obi on the mix and the celebrity date bid featuring Don Jazzy, Falz, Dillish Mathews, Toni Tones, Sharon Ooja, Timini Egbuson, Lynxxx and Cynthia CeeC Nwadiora. It was such a successful part of the evening keeping the audience on their toes with shouting and screams of bids raising over N2 million naira collectively. The winning bidder had a date with the chosen celebrity at the Pearl Lounge in Eko Atlantic sponsored by Moet & Chandon.
In attendance included Shaffy Bello, Annie Idibia, Tola Odunsi, Uru Eke, Debola Williams, Dolapo Oni, Jimmy Odukoya, Michelle Dede, Alexx Ekubo, Kaylah Oniwo, Ebenezer Eno, Lilian Afegbai, Iyke & Florence Okechuckwu, Eniafè Momodu, Tiwa Works, BamBam, Ini Dima-Okojie, Mimi Onalaja, Jimmy the Entertainer, Tomi Odunsi, Kene Okwuosa, Moses Babatope, Melvin Oduah, Deyemi Okanlawon, Erica Okundaye, Regina Giwa, Rekiya Yusuf, Chinyere Adogu, Taje Prest, Olumide Oworu, Kanayo Ebi, Elizabeth Pam, Omowunmi Akinnifesi and many more.
Laughfest 2018 raised over 2 million naira through ticket sales, celebrity date bids and donations. The Joyful Joy Foundation is to have it set to hold the malaria outreaches throughout 2019. We are excited to prepare for ‘Laughfest 2019’ fundraiser event slated for December 19th, 2019 in Lagos, Nigeria.
Laugh Fest symbolizes a variety show with a heart. Guests experienced a great time while knowing that their support will have a long-term impact on saving lives. JJF has been visiting vulnerable communities in Nigeria since 2013, and has positively impacted over 30,000 lives. JJF looks forward to impacting more lives in the coming 2019 year.
Joyful Joy Foundation sends a big thank you to their sponsors Access Bank, Jumia Travel & Moet & Chandon. Many thanks to our supporters and media partners: House of Tara, Angle Villa, MedPlus Pharmacy, Sweet Kiwi, Some Solutions, Link Deeds Company, Girl Hub Africa, Echo it Out, Byrd Lagos, Bailamos Dance Company, Squad 1 Productions, Nolly Nolly Popcorn, HipTV, Accelerate TV, Beat 99.9 FM, Bella Naija, PulseNG, FuzeNG, Ynaija, Aforevo, Africa Movie Channels
Connect with us: info@joyfuljoy.org #JJFLaughFest #SpreadMoreJoy @JoyfulJoyFDN
Photo Credit- @rodofmoses @ajeimages
Link to Video: https://youtu.be/dxy91
]]>
It was a festive, colourful and elegant celebration of achievement, supported by Airtel and Courvoisier Cognac. And also quite unexpected, for a work night, a list celebrities and newsmakers coming in their numbers to join in the fun.Akin Faminu
Onyeka Udechukwu & Ugochi Ihueze
Already number 1 in the United States for 2 consecutive weeks, Crazy Rich Asians is commanding rave reviews from Nigerian film critics, movie buffs and celebrities who attended the screening. The movie officially opens on Friday, August 31st at Filmhouse Cinema’s across Nigeria!
A bit about Crazy Rich Asians
New Yorker Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) accompanies her longtime boyfriend, Nick Young (Henry Golding), to his best friend’s wedding in Singapore. Excited about visiting Asia for the first time but nervous about meeting Nick’s family, Rachel is unprepared to learn that Nick has neglected to mention a few key details about his life. Not only is he the scion of one of the country’s wealthiest families, but also one of its most sought-after bachelors. So, what happens when two completely different worlds collide? Crazy Rich Suspense!
About FilmOne Distribution and Production:
FilmOne Distribution and Production Limited is the leading West African independent distributor of filmed entertainment. Based in Lagos, Nigeria, we distribute a wide-range of mainstream, commercial pictures including international and indigenous titles. Since its foray into production, the company has also become one of the leading production houses releasing crowd pleasing hits such as The Wedding Party Series, My Wife and I, New Money, Lunch Time Heroes and the upcoming Merry Men: The real Yoruba Demons. Further information on FilmOne can be found at www.filmoneng.com
Crazy Rich Asians Hits Cinemas on Friday the 31st August.
]]>
The Joyful Joy Foundation was founded in 2012 by Osas Ighodaro and Sioux Greaux. The foundation is an NGO registered both in the U.S and Nigeria. It was launched in Nigeria to fight against malaria, poverty and HIV/AIDS among children. The Joyful Joy Foundation supports the push for a healthier and malaria free Africa.
The foundation was launched in Nigeria on the 13th of October 2013. The event was hosted by founder Osas’ Ighodaro’s now husband, Gbenro Ajibade and Zimbabwean actress and television personality Vimbai Mutinhiri. The launch also featured performances from various comedians and musicians.
The foundation holds a monthly outreach and this month it was held at Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Nigeria. This month’s outreach/giveback took place on the 12th of August. The reach was very impactful as the foundation was able to test, counsel and provide malaria treatment and long lasting insecticide nets to an estimate of 700+ people, including pregnant women and children.
“The Joyful Joy Foundation is truly a blessing and meeting its mission of “Spreading Joy, one community at a time” says it all. I’m grateful to be able to make an impact, small yet impactful.” The founder, Osas Ighodaro said during the outreach on Saturday.
Special thanks to the ALML group for their support of the initiative. @almlgroup #ALMLgroup .The next Joyful Joy event is to take place in October of this year. If you would like to support in any way possible please visit the foundation’s official website: www.joyfuljoy.org or follow on instagram @JoyfulJoyFdn
]]>