“Something Like Gold,” directed by Kayode Kasum and produced by Sandra Okunzuwa, was a movie that had everyone reeling with excitement. As someone who enjoys a good romantic tale, I eagerly awaited its release. When it finally dropped on Netflix, I watched it with high hopes, expecting to be swept off my feet by a heartwarming love story. However, while the film offered moments of brilliance, it ultimately fell short of my expectations.
A Promising Yet Underwhelming Plot
Released in cinemas on September 29, this romantic comedy set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos, Nigeria, had all the elements for a captivating story. A collaborative effort between Film Trybe and Greenwealth Production, the film follows the life of Tamara, a character portrayed by Sandra Okunzuwa. Tamara begins as a spoiled, entitled young woman whose world is turned upside down when her father’s wealth is seized, and she is left heartbroken after being abandoned at the altar by her fiancé, played by Timini Egbuson.
Rescued by her maid, Mayowa, played by Mercy Johnson, Tamara finds herself in an unexpected place where she eventually discovers love. The storyline, while cliché, could have been compelling if told differently. Unfortunately, it felt like a recycled narrative that didn’t bring anything new to the table.
The Illusion of Luxury
One of my biggest grievances with the film was its failed attempt to portray luxury. I was eager to see the opulence that was promised, but instead, it fell flat.
The so-called “rich man’s daughter” narrative didn’t deliver the grandeur that one would expect. The settings, from the supposed luxurious house to the wedding scene, lacked the extravagance that Tamara’s character demanded. Even the wedding gown, didn’t scream luxury. It felt like the film missed an opportunity to immerse the audience in the lavish lifestyle it sought to depict.
Exceptional Performances Amidst a Familiar Tale
Despite its shortcomings, the film’s characters delivered standout performances. Sandra Okunzuwa’s portrayal of Tamara was spot on. She convincingly brought to life the character of a wealthy and self-centered young woman, making Tamara’s journey from entitlement to humility believable. Mercy Johnson, a seasoned actress, added depth to her role as Mayowa. Her performance was commendable, as she skillfully steered her character, embodying the strength and resilience of a woman who has faced life’s harsh realities.
Social Class Disparities
“Something Like Gold” did an admirable job of highlighting the stark disparities between social classes in a bustling city like Lagos. Tamara’s fall from affluence forces her to confront the challenges faced by those from less privileged backgrounds. The contrast between her former life of luxury and her new reality in the ghetto was eye-opening. A particularly striking scene was when Tamara had to take a bath in a makeshift bathroom, a far cry from the luxurious life she once knew. This scene, juxtaposed with a couple emerging happily from the same bathroom, highlighted the contentment that can be found in simplicity, a theme that stuck deeply.
Broda Shaggi’s appearance in the film added a much-needed dose of humor. His character, a local tout, was both amusing and insightful, particularly in how he interacted with Mayowa. This scene not only provided comic relief but also shed light on Mayowa’s tough upbringing in the ghetto, explaining her ability to handle difficult situations with ease.
Exploration of Family Dynamics
Beyond its romantic elements, “Something Like Gold” delves into the complexities of family relationships. Tamara’s strained relationship with her estranged mother, played by Mercy Johnson, undergoes significant development throughout the film. The story emphasizes the importance of family bonds and the potential for reconciliation, even after years of misunderstanding. This subplot added an emotional richness to the film, making it more than just a simple love story.
Cinematography and Music: A Mixed Bag
The film’s cinematography was fair but lacked the visual splendor that would have elevated the story. While the incorporation of music, including songs like “Forever Sweet” by Dotti the Dirty, was a nice touch, it didn’t quite manage to evoke the emotional connection that films like “The Wedding Party” or “Isoken” achieved. The romantic elements of the film, while present, didn’t make my heart flutter in the way that I had hoped.
Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
In the end, “Something Like Gold” is a beautifully crafted piece of art that, despite its potential, fails to deliver a truly memorable love story. While it has its moments of brilliance, the film ultimately falls short of the high expectations set by its premise. I would rate it a 7/10, worth watching for its performances and social commentary, but not the romantic masterpiece I was hoping for.
