There’s no denying that 2024 has been a remarkable year for Nollywood. Movie after movie, the industry has proven its strength and creativity, delivering one hit after another. Among these releases is “Roses and Ivy,” a drama series directed by the talented Biodun Stephens, renowned for turning simple concepts into powerful narratives. Did she succeed with this one? Let’s dive in.
A Story of Sisters and Sacrifices
The series follows the lives of two sisters, Evelyn (Munachi Abii) and Roselyn (Uche Montana). Evelyn, the elder sister, embodies responsibility and sacrifice, while Roselyn lives a freer, less burdened life. Life dealt Evelyn a tough hand when their father (Kalu Ikeagwu) suffered a stroke, leaving her to shoulder the family’s responsibilities. Despite her dedication and hard work, Evelyn’s life was full of struggles.
Enter Lanre (Taye Arimoro), Evelyn’s first love. But as fate would have it, Lanre leaves for his studies abroad, breaking Evelyn’s heart. Eventually, Evelyn makes it to university, accompanied by her younger sister, Roselyn.
The Web of Love
When Lanre returns, he falls head over heels for Roselyn, much to Evelyn’s heartbreak. Lanre sponsors Roselyn’s graduate program abroad, and upon her return, they get married. However, their seemingly perfect life takes a dark turn when Roselyn is unable to conceive. Desperation drives Roselyn to make an unthinkable request, she begs Evelyn to sleep with her husband, Lanre, in hopes of conceiving a child.
Here’s where the African proverb “Don’t put a yam beside a goat” comes into play. Evelyn gives in to temptation and starts an affair with Lanre, which Roselyn eventually discovers. This betrayal brought about alot of emotions, leaving us to question: who is truly to blame?
Stellar Performances
The cast deserves a round of applause for their outstanding performances. Uche Montana is phenomenal as Roselyn, capturing her character’s desperation and turmoil with striking facial expressions. Munachi Abii brings depth to Evelyn’s character, portraying her pain and internal conflict beautifully. Taye Arimoro as Lanre delivers a commendable performance, while Kalu Ikeagwu and Jaiye Kuti round off the cast with their solid portrayals.
A Mix of Old and New
While the story carries elements of old Nollywood dramas, love triangles, betrayal, and sibling rivalry it also introduces a fresh perspective on familial and marital challenges. However, some scenes were downright unrealistic. For example, Evelyn and Lanre having an affair in the kitchen while Roselyn was home? Highly improbable. And Roselyn asking her sister to sleep with her husband? That was pushing the boundaries of believability.
One of the most striking moments of the film is when Roselyn catches Evelyn in the act with her husband. Evelyn’s response? Iconic. She turns to Roselyn and says, “Are you mad? I’m asking, are you mad? Don’t you yell at me again. I will be damned if I don’t do it in the most easiest and pleasurable possible way.” Honestly, someone needed to speak some sense into baby sister Rose!
Themes and Lessons
At its core, Roses and Ivy is a tale of selfishness, desperation, and misplaced trust. Roselyn’s obsessive desire for a child leads her to emotionally manipulate both her husband and sister. Evelyn, on the other hand, succumbs to her long-held feelings for Lanre, breaking the bonds of sisterhood. And Lanre? He lacks the moral strength to say no to such an absurd arrangement.
Despite its flaws, Roses and Ivy holds its own as an engaging drama. The cinematography and locations were decent, though nothing exceptional. While the series revisits familiar themes, it still manages to captivate viewers.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a drama filled with emotions, betrayal, and moral dilemmas, Roses and Ivy won’t disappoint. The performances alone make it worth watching, though you’ll have to overlook some plot holes and clichés. My rating? A solid 7/10.
Who do you think was most at fault—Roselyn, Evelyn, or Lanre? Let me know in the comments!
