The arrival of Tiwa Savage’s film debut, “Water and Garri,” was highly anticipated. While the title might raise an eyebrow (we’ll get to that later), the concept is intriguing. Aisha, played by Savage herself, is an ambitious fashion designer who returns to her hometown after a decade in the U.S. Upon arrival, she’s confronted with a stark reality – her community is marred by violence and tension, a far cry from the memories of her youth. As Aisha reconnects with family, old friends, and a past love, she’s forced to grapple with painful memories and unresolved guilt.
A Vulnerable Tiwa Savage Takes Center Stage
Filmed in the beautiful Cape Coast, Ghana, the movie boasts a cast including Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and Jemima Osunde. Tiwa, clearly excited about the project, has called it a “dream fulfilled.” She even serves as the film’s Executive Producer, making “Water and Garri” a significant step in her artistic journey.
One of the most exciting aspects of “Water and Garri” is witnessing Tiwa Savage step outside her musical comfort zone and embrace acting. She portrays Aisha with a vulnerability that’s refreshing to see. The film serves as a platform for Savage to showcase a different side of her artistry.
So, How Was the Movie? Sipping on Garri and Diving In
Now, full disclosure, I went into this with zero expectations. After all, anyone can make a movie, but not everyone can make a good one, right? Here’s the thing: “Water and Garri” is hard to categorize. It tackles serious social issues – gang violence, police harassment – mirroring the realities of life in many places. It’s not a blockbuster, but it does hold a mirror to society’s ills.
The movie has its strengths. The use of flashbacks is well-executed, offering glimpses into Aisha’s past. However, the overall plot feels disjointed. There are crucial details missing that leave the audience wanting more. For instance, the film doesn’t go into the circumstances that led Aisha and her brother to live with their grandmother, nor does it explain how she ended up in the U.S. or how she achieved success in fashion design. These details could have enriched the narrative and provided a deeper understanding of Aisha’s character.
A Flat Note in Emotional Delivery
While the cinematography captures the beauty of the Ghanaian landscape, some performances fall flat. The death of a character named Niyi is a pivotal moment, but the film fails to establish an emotional connection with him. Similarly, the character of Stephany, played by Jemima Osunde, doesn’t fully convey the grief of losing a brother.( I’m still a big fan of Jemima Osunde ????).
Justice for Mide!
Then there’s Kay. Let’s just say he got what was coming to him. Keeping the truth about Mide’s death from Aisha for so long? That’s just messed up. Because of his lies, Aisha never got to know who really killed her brother and hated the wrong person. Talk about a betrayal!
Tiwa Savage Shines, But Can the Movie Hold Its Own?
Despite the narrative shortcomings, Tiwa Savage’s acting deserves praise. For a first-time performer, she delivers a convincing portrayal. However, the script doesn’t provide enough opportunities for her to truly shine.
The “Water and Garri” Analogy:
The film’s title, “Water and Garri,” is a metaphor for life’s challenges and triumphs. While the message is clear – life can be tough (like the dryness of garri) but becomes better with something to soften the blow (like water) – it feels a bit too literal. A more subtle approach might have been more impactful.
Look, Water and Garri isn’t a perfect movie. It has its pacing issues and some unanswered questions. But hey, it’s Tiwa Savage’s first film. If you’re a fan of hers or are curious about Nollywood (the Nigerian film industry), then this movie might be worth a watch.
Final note: Just grab a cup of garri, for the ride.
Omo, the title shook me oh. Looking forward to watching the movie.
I so much agree with your point on Tiwa’s acting. It was really good for a first timer but then the dialogue was so shallow that she didn’t get to say much so we may be wrong about the quality of her acting since we never really had the opportunity to see much
The flashbacks were quite confusing and came at unnecessary intervals. I get what they were trying to do-a glimpse into the past but it should have been strategic. They just inserted those scenes anywhere
Also, I have an issue with the setting. Eastside is supposed to be in Ghana, the accent of some of the characters explain that, what then explains the fluent speaking of Yoruba and a different type of pidgin by some actors? They never really explained of Aisha’s family were immigrants or something. And I did notice that Kay’s younger self had a different accent from the older one
The story failed to convey emotions as it was meant to. We never had the time to connect with any of the characters, not one! We were just bored spectators. No character was significant enough to evoke emotions.
As much as I’d like to overlook somethings because it’s a first for Tiwa, it really doesn’t excuse what that movie was in the end. She could have done better
Well done Joan. I enjoy reading your reviews
Exactly I had an issue, with the fact that we weren’t told the story behind Aisha and Mide’s living in Ghana. How did they get to live there with the grandma, what of their parents.
As for the yourba speaking people, Omo e no even shock me, Nigerians that are everywhere????????. E get where Nigerians no dey?