Jade Osiberu’s A Christmas in Lagos debuted on Prime Video on December 20th, and if you’ve had a chaotic yet memorable year, this movie might just be the perfect way to end it. But beware, singles—this film might press your neck a little harder than 2024 already has. A Christmas in Lagos offers a rich, colourful escape, even if it caters more to the affluent side of Lagos life.
The story centers on Fiyin, a woman nursing a broken heart and secretly in love with her best friend, Elo. Problems arise when Elo, fresh from New York, is ready to propose—to someone else. His secret girlfriend, Yagazie, throws a cold water in Fiyin’s dreams of a perfect Christmas romance. Meanwhile, Fiyin’s mother, Gbemi, finds herself caught between her charming boyfriend of two years and a long-lost high school sweetheart, Zack. Then there’s Ivie, an energetic Londoner who returns to Lagos for a “Detty December,” only to unexpectedly fall for Ajani, a man worlds apart from her posh lifestyle.
A Christmas for the Rich and Colorful
Let’s get one thing straight: A Christmas in Lagos isn’t about the average Nigerian Christmas. This is a film dripping in luxury, from lavish parties to extravagant houses and flashy cars. Zack’s party alone could rival any scene from Crazy Rich Asians (just kidding). And that proposal between Elo and Yagazie? Simply breathtaking. Jade Osiberu clearly knows how to dazzle with colours, creating a visual treat that screams class!
Casting That Delivers
Shaffy Bello, playing Gbemi, is effortlessly captivating. She embodies the single, successful widow navigating love with grace, and her chemistry with Wale Ojo is a highlight. While RMD as Zack delivered a solid performance, his role didn’t demand the spotlight.Teniola Aladese (Fiyin) delivers a spirited performance, perfectly capturing her character’s emotional journey. Her on-screen chemistry with Shaffy Bello as mother and daughter is heartwarming and realistic. Although Fiyin’s schemes to win Elo back didn’t elicit much pity, her eventual acceptance of reality and efforts to make amends were commendable.
Rayxia Ojo (Ivie) and Ladipoe (Ajani) brought a fresh twist to the rich-girl-meets-not-so-rich-boy trope. While Ladipoe’s acting wasn’t entirely smooth, Rayxia shone in her role, adding depth to their unlikely romance. Shalom Chibuiken Obiago (Elo) is undeniably handsome but doesn’t quite steal the show. However, Angel Anosike’s portrayal of Yagazie is captivating, her beauty and poise are unforgettable.
A Symphony of Colors and Sounds
The visual appeal of A Christmas in Lagos is undeniable. From vibrant costumes to impeccable set designs, the film is a masterclass in aesthetics. Osiberu and her crew left no stone unturned in creating a Christmas fantasy. The musical performances by Adekunle Gold, Bright Chimezie, Ayra Starr, and Waje added an extra layer of magic to the film.
Criticisms
While the film shines in many areas, it does have its weak points. Some acting performances fell short, and a few scenes felt jittery. Additionally, the movie leans heavily on Lagos’s elite lifestyle, which might alienate viewers looking for a more relatable Christmas story.
Jade Osiberu has set a high bar for Nigerian Christmas films, and the story’s ending leaves room for a sequel. As Fiyin sighs “Happy New Year,” viewers can’t help but hope for a continuation of her journey.
Rating: 8.5/10 – A colorful, heartwarming film that celebrates love, family, and the magic of Christmas in Lagos.
