Tiwa Savage, the Afrobeat queen herself, has graced the silver screen with her debut film, "Water and Garri." This highly anticipated drama, released on Prime Video on May 10th, 2024,promises an exploration of ambition, homecoming, and the complexities of life. The film centers around Aisha (played by Tiwa Savage), a thriving fashion designer who returns to Nigeria after a decade in pursuit of her dreams abroad.
"Water and Garri" uses the home dish, a Nigerian staple of garri (cassava flake) simply eaten with water, as a metaphor for both hardship and resilience. Aisha's journey is one of navigating the familiar yet often challenging terrain of home, confronting past relationships, and forging a new path while staying true to her roots.The film's strength lies in its narrative. Director Meji Alabi crafts a story that resonates with themes of cultural identity, personal growth, and the struggles faced by many returning home after an extended absence.
The soundtrack, featuring prominent Afrobeats artists like Ayra Starr, Black Sherif, Olamide, and Young Jonn, adds another layer of depth, perfectly complementing the emotions on screen. While the narrative holds promise, some aspects require further refinement. critical reviews suggest that Tiwa Savage, while undeniably captivating as a musician, might not have fully delivered in her acting debut. Her natural charisma translates well, but some critics felt a need for more nuanced emotional expression on screen.
Despite these shortcomings, "Water and Garri" marks a significant step forward for Tiwa Savage and Nollywood as a whole. Her foray into acting opens doors for other multi-talented artists, while the film itself contributes to the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian cinema. Whether you're a die-hard Tiwa Savage fan or simply looking for a compelling story set against the backdrop of contemporary Nigeria, "Water and Garri" offers an entertaining watch with the potential to spark conversations about ambition, homecoming, and the complexities of navigating cultural identity. "Water and Garri" is an ambitious debut that is visually appealing and features a strong soundtrack. However it is safe to say it needed sugar.
