Issuu

MIKE AFOLARIN

T h e G o l d e n B o y

EDITOR’S

IPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

f there’s anyone who proves that consistency and sheer talent don’t go unnoticed, it’s Mike Afolarin. Afolarin captured the hearts of a generation in his break-out role as Ishaya Bello in the Netflix movie Far From Home. You might ask how he got so lucky, but it’s not luck; he had been putting in the work before he got noticed, getting involved in short films and indie productions. Mike Afolarin is also a filmmaker, so he wears multiple hats: that of a performer and the other as a creator. He occupies himself behind the camera when not in front of it. He could be on another set just observing and learning when he’s not on set. He has also picked up photography as a new hobby.

Like most people, Afolarin had childhood dreams, one of which was to record music and perform in front of a crowd. He got to do that in his latest movie, A Lagos Love Story

We tell Mike Afolarin’s story on pages 8 to 10.

Downtown Confidential tells the tale of a relationship that has gone sour due to infidelity. Our main character must decide whether she will forgive the past.

Our fashion pages show you ways to wear a particular colour. This colour has a shade for every mood and occasion, ranging from pastel hues to richer shades. I’m referring to the royal hue, purple. Scroll to pages 4 and 5 to learn more.

I had expected Snow White to do well at the box office, but it didn’t. It did so poorly that Disney is reportedly in talks to stop making live-action remakes. I wonder where they got it wrong. There are too many bad reviews; I won’t bother watching this one.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writer: Johnson Chukwueke

Design & Layout: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

Exploring Czech Republic

Mike Afolarin The Golden Boy

Making The Most of The Weekend Fun Activities to Engage in Broken Still LIVING Everything You Need to Know About Eyelash Extensions H is for Healing

Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer

Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer

Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

- Contributing Writer

Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

@accessoriesby_shirin @hadi.zaaliyudogo @ttherealmitchelle_

Boluwatife

6 WAYS TO WEAR PURPLE

Adding basic pieces to your wardrobe allows you to wear purple all year in several ways. A basic purple tank top, a wellfitting purple T-shirt, or a classic purple blouse can be dressed up or down for every season. Having basic purple clothing in your closet guarantees that you will always have something chic and adaptable to wear regardless of the weather. START WITH PURPLE BASICS 1.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Regardless of the season, purple is a classic and versatile colour that can be worn all year. Purple has a shade for every mood and occasion, ranging from light, pastel hues like lavender and lilac to deep, rich shades like plum and eggplant. There are numerous ways to add this royal hue to your wardrobe throughout the year, regardless of your preference for subtle touches or daring fashion choices. Here are six stylish ways to wear purple throughout the year.

MIX AND MATCH PURPLE WITH NEUTRALS 2.

Purple is easy to wear all year round since it goes well with neutral hues like black, white, beige, grey, and brown. If you’ve never worn purple before or don’t want it to take centre stage in your ensemble, try combining it with neutrals for a well-balanced appearance. A purple skirt with a white blouse or a lavender sweater with grey trousers creates a stylish and elegant outfit.

ROCK A PURPLE DRESS FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION

An easy way to stand out at any gathering is with a purple dress. A purple dress will always draw attention, whether for a formal occasion, dinner date, or wedding. Deep, rich hues like royal purple or plum are ideal for evening occasions because they convey grandeur and elegance. Lighter shades like periwinkle or lilac might make you appear more youthful and lively for a daytime event.

FASHION

GO BOLD WITH PURPLE FOOTWEAR 5.

One of the simplest ways to give your ensemble an unexpected yet fashionable twist is to wear purple shoes. Purple shoes, whether sandals, heels, or sneakers, may elevate your style to a new level. When paired with purple heels, an all-black or neutral ensemble will look classy and forward-thinking.

INCORPORATE PURPLE ACCESSORIES

Accessories are ideal for incorporating a touch of purple into your ensemble if you’re not ready to go all out in full-on purple attire. A purple purse, belt, or dramatic earrings can instantly elevate your ensemble without being overpowering. Simple accessories like sunglasses, a scarf, or a purple headband can make a big fashion statement.

EXPERIMENT WITH PURPLE PRINTS AND PATTERNS

Experimenting with purplethemed prints and patterns is one of the finest ways to keep your wardrobe fresh throughout the year. Floral prints, geometric designs, and tie-dye patterns in shades of purple can make your outfit stand out. Purple prints can be balanced while maintaining a chic and fashionable look by combining them with neutral hues like white, beige, or denim.

CONCLUSION

There are countless ways to style purple, which goes well with every season. You can wear purple in ways that suit your style throughout the year, whether you like a dress that makes a big statement or a more subtle look with accessories. This royal hue may easily up your style ante with the right combinations.

H IS FOR HEALING

Lastweek, I shared thoughts on Growth. This week, something unexpected happened.

I sat down with Lisa Quait for a podcast to explore the evolution of #Unshakable. What started as a casual conversation became something deeper — more revealing than I had anticipated. We spoke about King Sally, my alter ego — the woman I created to embody resilience, strength, and command. But as we peeled back layers, something surprising emerged: I wasn’t just performing strength anymore. I was strength. And I had healed.

Lisa asked questions that took me back — way back. To childhood. To silence. To fight. To fragments of a life once shattered and stitched together in private. We went from laughter to depth in a heartbeat, and for the first time in a long time, I saw the full arc of my journey — not just the visible triumphs but the quiet battles I had survived to get here.

Off camera, something happened. I broke.

I sobbed — not because I was hurting, but because I had healed. The kind of healing that feels like exhaling after holding your breath for years. It reminded me of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending broken pottery with gold. The cracks remain visible — but instead of hiding them, they are honoured. The break becomes part of the story. A mark of survival, not shame. That’s what healing felt like in that moment. I saw every crack in me filled with gold.

Healing is not a straight line. It’s a dance. A stumble. A stretch. A sacred undoing. Sometimes, healing looks like therapy or journaling. Other times, it looks like belly laughter. Or choosing not to text back. Sometimes, it looks like silence — the kind that is not lonely but peaceful. It’s crying in a podcast green room when a friend gently holds space. It’s laughing about something that once shattered you.

It’s saying ‘I’m okay’ — and meaning it.

It’s choosing joy without guilt.

It’s rewriting the story you once felt trapped in. Healing is not about erasing the past — it’s about making peace with it.

It’s about turning pain into wisdom, scars into gold, and stories into legacies.

If Forgiveness was the seed and Growth the stem, then Healing is the flower. Not flawless. But blooming — beautifully, courageously, consistently.

A little wild. A little bruised. Still growing. And this time, growing isn’t for survival.

It’s for wholeness. It’s for me.

So many of us wear masks of strength. We keep going. We show up. We push through. But healing asks for something different. It invites us to soften. To stop performing. To allow ourselves to become. It reminds us that there is no gold without the breaking — that every healed part of us deserves celebration.

I don’t know where you are in your healing, but here’s what I’ve learned:

• There is no shame in the cracks.

• Time helps, but intention heals.

• You are not what happened to you.

• You are who you became despite it.

• And you don’t need to rush. Healing (much like grief and growth) honours no clock — only your truth.

So here I am, a woman with a crown that sits gently on a head that once bowed in sorrow.

A woman who thought she needed to be King Sally to survive.

Now knowing that the real strength was in becoming myself again — without apology.

Next week? We’ll take a step inward again. I won’t spoil it all, but let’s just say the letter ‘I’ has always intrigued me. And this time, we will tell a story — not just share a lesson.

A story about Intuition — that soft inner voice that knows the way, even when we don’t.

Until then, breathe deep. Celebrate your scars. You are healing. You are gold. And you are entirely, breathtakingly, #Unshakable.

‘See’ you next week.

COVER MIKE AFOLARIN The Golden Boy

From rising star to a household name, Mike Afolarin is proof that consistency, grit, and sheer talent never go unnoticed. Bursting into mainstream consciousness as Ishaya Bello in Netflix’s Far From Home, Afolarin didn’t just play a character — he captured the hearts of a generation. But long before the glitz of global streaming platforms, he had been putting in the work: short films, indie productions, and an unwavering belief in the art of storytelling.

As both an actor and filmmaker, Afolarin walks the tightrope between performance and creation—and does so with ease. Whether he’s bringing characters to life on screen or crafting narratives behind the camera, his approach is thoughtful, intentional, and rooted in authenticity. His charm, quiet depth, and captivating screen presence mark him as one of Nollywood’s brightest new talents.

But who is Mike Afolarin when the cameras stop rolling? In this exclusive interview, THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Johnson Chukwueke sits down with the man behind the roles to talk about career highlights, artistic growth, and life beyond fame — from his creative process to his go-to way to unwind. Meet Mike Afolarin — the actor, the storyteller, the dreamer.

Far From Home really brought you into the limelight — what was it like stepping into Ishaya’s world, and how has it shaped your journey as an actor?

Far From Home was an interesting experience for me, and I am really grateful for it. Playing Ishaya came to me at a time when I literally was Ishaya. I mean, Ishaya’s reality and my reality were kinda aligned, so it made it work for me. I was at the point where I was trying to build my dream to further my career in acting, so all of that came together to help me embody the character probably, and I am grateful for the success that the show had, so yeah, that’s basically it.

Before the Netflix buzz, you were already putting in the work. What project do you think truly sharpened your acting skills the most?

To be honest, different projects. I remember doing African Magic’s Brethren for one year straight, and that was an interesting experience for me because I had never spent that much time playing a particular character. So, going to the studio every day and putting in a good number of hours at work kinda helped shape me into becoming the kind of actor I am today. Plus, working with amazing directors like Biodun Stephen on several shows, but the most notable one for me would be Penance— a film I did with her. So yeah, that was also another interesting gig for me performancewise.

Many people don’t know you’re also a filmmaker. How do you balance being in front of the camera and behind it?

For me, it’s basically just me expressing my creative side in whatever it is I find my hands doing. When I am not in front of the camera, I try to occupy myself behind with some other activities. Sometimes, I am not on set shooting any projects; I spend time doing some photography, or I could just be on another set just to learn and see what goes on around there.

we can tell globally, we can talk about different cultures when it comes to folklore, and different gods, and even tell superhero movies as well, we can explore that.

Do you have any dream roles or dream directors you’re hoping to work with — locally or internationally?

I am just looking forward to anything more challenging, anything that has more challenge than what I have had to do so far. I would like to play something that has a lot of stunts in it, something that I have to go into training for. International superhero movies, and maybe a biopic that I have to really study someone in order to portray the person, and for dream directors, yeah, there is a long list for that.

“When I am not in front of the camera, I try to occupy myself behind with some other activities. Sometimes, I am not on set shooting any projects; I spend time doing some photography, or I could just be on another set just to learn and see what goes on around there.”

Your performances have a raw, emotional edge to them. What’s your process when preparing for a new role? Mostly, I just try to know the character to the best of my knowledge; I ask as many questions as possible that I need to know about the character, and I try to see if I have any similarities with the characters so I can relate with what the character feels. But most importantly, when I am on set, I just play the truth of what that character is feeling in the moment, that’s how I do it.

As Nollywood grows globally, what kind of stories are you most passionate about telling?

To be honest, I feel like Nollywood has a lot to offer on a global scale. We have a lot of legends we can make biopics about, legends in different fields, not just acting now. You have legends in music, in sports, and even in politics, we have stories we can tell on a global scale. We also have stories of our history that

What would you say is the biggest misconception people have about actors in Nigeria?

“I am just looking forward to anything more challenging, anything that has more challenge than what I have had to do so far. I would like to play something that has a lot of stunts in it, something that I have to go into training for”

I don’t really know, but maybe the fact that a lot of people think actors are terrible people. People think we are divas and are too proud, something like that. That would be the misconception I feel a lot of people have about actors in Nigeria. I feel like a lot of people have a high expectation when they are meeting these actors, and you never know, it just might be a bad day for an actor, and they aren’t having a good time, and unfortunately, it might lead to a fan getting burnt by that, but it doesn’t make the actor a bad person, they are humans too. I have met a lot of actors, and trust me, they are some of the sweetest and most fun people to hang around with. Sometimes, the pressure of the work gets to them and they react in ways that are not so nice, but besides that, they are nice people.

Tell us about a moment on set — funny, frustrating, or powerful — that you’ll never forget.

How do you deal with criticism, especially in such a public-facing profession like acting?

Well, you have to have a thick skin first of all. You also have to be able to dissect or filter the criticism. Some are pure hate, while some are constructive, so you need to be able to filter which one you want because criticism is good. You just need to know where it is coming from and know if it’s meant to build you up or tear you down. There are different ways to look at it. I just feel like when you know what you are doing and you know your craft, you will be able to filter it properly and know when someone is speaking from an informed perspective. Just pick the one that can build you up and ignore the rest.

I kinda always have that on every project that I work on. Let me use A Lagos Love Story as an example. It has always been a childhood dream of mine to make music and perform my music to the crowd, and then I got a character to play an artist in A Lagos Love Story, and I had to record music as well as perform to a crowd in the film. So while on stage, I just had a realisation that this was actually one of my dreams when growing up, when I was much younger, so yeah, that was a very profound moment for me. But there’s always that sort of moment in every project I have worked in, Far From Home, it was when I was in a scene with RMD(Richard Mofe Damijo), and I was like

“Wow, I used to watch this man when I was much younger, and now we are in a scene together.”

When the cameras stop rolling, how does Mike unwind? What’s your ideal chill day?

My ideal chill day is just me being home all day. I don’t do anything outside of my house. When I am not on set, I get up in the morning, go to the gym, come back home, take a nap, watch something, play video games, and have video calls with my family, so that’s pretty much it.

What’s a hobby or creative outlet you enjoy that fans would be surprised to know about?

I would say photography, but I feel like a lot of people know that I already do that now, but yeah, that’s my most fun hobby right now. I am getting more and more into it by the day.

What role has family played in supporting your dreams and keeping you grounded?

My family has always supported my career, and that for me is priceless because it would have been harder for me to do what I am doing right now if they were not in support of it. I know a number of people who don’t have the right support from their families, and that makes it difficult for them to maybe go for auditions or be away for months on set and all that. But my family is very supportive, they cheer me up when needed and always pray for me, so that’s pretty much it.

EYELASH EXTENSIONS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Eyelash extensions have emerged as one of the most popular beauty trends. They provide you with longer, fuller, and more dramatic lashes immediately without the trouble of applying mascara or using lash strips. But before you book your first appointment, you should know some important things. Here are five important things to consider when using eyelash extensions, regardless of your experience with them.

ARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF EXTENSIONS

Not all lash extensions are created the same. They are made from many materials, including mink, silk, and synthetic. Synthetic lashes are the least expensive and best at maintaining their shape, but they can feel a bit stiff. Silk lashes cost more but are more pleasant for daily usage because they are lighter and softer. Mink lashes, which are manufactured from actual mink fur, tend to be expensive and are incredibly smooth and natural-looking.

Eyelash extensions are not a one-time beauty procedure. Because of the growth cycle of your natural lashes, the extensions will also fall out when your natural lashes shed. You’ll need touch-ups, or “fills,” every two to three weeks to maintain the fullness and freshness of your lashes. Uneven, sparse lashes can be the result of skipping your fills. Additionally, you should gently take care of your extensions, refrain from rubbing your eyes, and steer clear of oil-based products as they can break down the adhesive.

4. 5. THERE

THE APPLICATION PROCESS TAKES TIME THEY REQUIRE REGULAR MAINTENANCE

THEY CAN AFFECT YOUR NATURAL LASHES

If lash extensions are not applied or maintained correctly, they might affect your natural lashes and completely change your appearance. Excessive weight or improper application of extensions might lead to premature breakage or loss of your natural lashes. Therefore, it’s essential to see a qualified, experienced lash specialist who uses high-quality products. Taking occasional breaks to allow your natural lashes to heal is also a smart option.

Getting an eyelash extension isn’t a quick in-and-out appointment. The first application may take one to three hours, depending on your selected style. You will lie down with your eyes closed during the procedure, and the technician will use a special glue to apply each lash to your natural lashes delicately. It’s a meticulous process, but the outcome is worth the painstaking work. Make sure you set aside enough time and come with a relaxed mindset.

AFTERCARE IS ESSENTIAL

Your extensions will last longer if you take good care of them. To let the adhesive completely cure, keep them dry for the first 24 to 48 hours following your session. Use a mild, lash-friendly cleanser to clean your face, and stay away from cotton pads and other products that may harm your lashes. Brushing your lashes with a spoolie brush every day keeps them looking tidy and helps avoid tangling. In addition to prolonging the life of your extensions, proper care shields your natural lashes from harm.

CONCLUSION

Your beauty routine can be improved with eyelash extensions, giving you a naturally glamorous appearance day and night. They have advantages and disadvantages, just like any beauty procedure, but you can maximise the benefits of your extensions by being aware of what to anticipate, taking proper care of them, and working with a trusted lash technician. Schedule that appointment now if you want to wake up with stunning, fluttery lashes every morning. Just be sure you’re prepared for the commitment that comes with it.

Exploring Czech Republic

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is known for its mix of medieval charm, baroque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Often referred to as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” Prague is a favourite destination for travellers seeking rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere. The city’s iconic attractions draw millions of visitors annually, offering glimpses into ancient European traditions and contemporary life. Here’s a look at five of Prague’s most visited tourist sites.

Prague Castle Wenceslas Square

Prague Castle is a sprawling complex that has been the historic seat of Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over a millennium. Dating back to the 9th century, the castle houses several historic structures, including the Gothic masterpiece St. Vitus Cathedral, which contains the tombs of numerous Bohemian kings and Holy Roman Emperors. The castle grounds also include the Old Royal Palace, with its famous Vladislav Hall, and Golden Lane, a picturesque street lined with colourful houses that once housed castle guards and goldsmiths.

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge, a symbol of Prague, is a pedestrian-only stone bridge connecting the Old Town and Lesser Town across the Vltava River. Completed in the early 15th century under the reign of King Charles IV, this bridge is adorned with thirty statues of saints, each adding to its historic charm. The bridge provides an iconic photo opportunity, especially at dawn or dusk when the views over the river are mesmerising.

Originally a medieval horse market, Wenceslas Square is now a bustling commercial and cultural hub. Named after Saint Wenceslas, the patron saint of Bohemia, this square has been the site of many significant events in Czech history, including protests and celebrations. At the top of the square stands the grand National Museum, which has recently been renovated and offers an impressive collection of historical artefacts, natural history exhibits, and art.

The Jewish Quarter (Josefov)

The Jewish Quarter, or Josefov, offers a poignant glimpse into Prague’s Jewish history. Visitors can explore the Old Jewish Cemetery, one of the world’s oldest surviving Jewish burial grounds, and several synagogues, including the Old New Synagogue, Europe’s oldest active synagogue. The Jewish Museum in Prague preserves artefacts and documents that tell the story of Jewish life in the city.

Old Town Square And Astronomical Clock

Located in the heart of Prague’s Old Town, the Old Town Square is a central meeting place showcasing architectural styles from Romanesque to Gothic and Baroque. The highlight of this square is the Astronomical Clock, mounted on the Old Town Hall, which dates back to 1410. Visitors gather to watch the clock’s animated figures, including the twelve apostles, that emerge in a procession every hour.

Each site offers a unique window into the past, from royal residences and medieval bridges to the cultural heritage preserved in its museums and quarters. Visiting these highlights provides an unforgettable experience that captures Prague’s spirit and the Czech Republic’s rich legacy.

MAKING THE MOST OF THE WEEKEND

FUN ACTIVITIES TO ENGAGE IN

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

For some people, such as students, office workers, and others, weekdays are full of time-consuming activities, and weekends are the only times they get to take a break and enjoy the best of life. The weekends offer a time to loosen up and have fun after a long week of work or school. Whether you’re going solo, hanging with friends, or spending time with family, there are plenty of exciting activities to make the most of your days off.

Every city has attraction sites that both locals and tourists find enticing. This could be museums, art galleries, zoos, historical landmarks, or malls. Even if you’ve lived in your area for years, there’s always something new to discover.

So, check around your city for new locations worth exploring, or you could visit existing ones and see

An outdoor activity that can never be out of trend. A picnic is a simple yet enjoyable way to spend time outdoors with friends or family. As the weekend draws closer, make your plans, pack a basket with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, and then head to your favourite park or beach. Bring your football, card, or board game to

Many cities in the country host festivals, fairs, or events on the weekends. They could be food festivals, craft fairs, music concerts, and outdoor markets. It’s up to you to look for something happening in your area. Link up with kindred spirits and network while enjoying

This week, we will be sharing top fun activities perfect for your next weekend’s adventure, so let’s get started.

Movie Marathon or Game Night

If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, then hitting the road for a weekend getaway is an ideal option to explore. You don’t have to travel far. A short road trip to a nearby town or natural area can feel like a minivacation.

Staying indoors can be just as entertaining as going out, especially with the right people to enjoy it with.

Plan a movie marathon with your favourite films, or binge-watch a TV series you’ve been meaning to catch up on. If you aren’t big on movies, then you can host a game night with friends or family. Whether it’s board games, card games, or video games, a little friendly competition is always a good time.

Plan your route, make a playlist, get some snacks, whatever you crave, and enjoy the open road while exploring new places and creating memories. Weekends are made for fun, and these activities ensure you make the most of your free time. Embrace the fun, explore new experiences, and recharge for the week ahead.

Broken Still

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

“Whywon’t you stop coming here?”

she asked, arms folded as she leaned against the wall.

“Why won’t you just leave me alone, Jeff? Coming here… it’s pointless.”

He looked at her, eyes soft but desperate. “Because I’m trying to make things right.”

Vera gave a dry laugh, almost bitter.

“Right? There’s no ‘right’ anymore.

We broke up six months ago. You broke us. There’s nothing to fix.”

“I still want you, Vera,” he said, his voice low. “I’ve never stopped wanting you.”

Her eyes flickered, but she quickly looked away. “You think that makes it okay? You think wanting me erases what you did?”

Jeff stepped forward, cautious.

“Can you just… tell me why you can’t forgive me?”

Her expression shifted. She clenched her jaw. “Why?” she repeated, her voice rising.

“You slept with my best friend, Jeff! I walked in on the two of you. I saw you! I saw you inside her!”

He flinched like the memory slapped him in the face all over again. “I didn’t mean to hurt you. I was set up. She... she came on to me. I was drunk and confused. It wasn’t love. It didn’t mean anything.”

“But it meant something to me!” Vera’s eyes shimmered with restrained tears.

“She was like a sister. And you were the only man I ever saw myself with. You two ruined that.”

“I love you,” Jeff said, stepping closer. “I swear I do. Why do you think I’ve never stopped showing up since the day you ended it? Why do you think I keep hoping you’ll open the door and give me more than just anger?”

Vera didn’t respond. Her breath hitched. She looked at him, at his familiar face, the way his lips moved when he said her name. She hated that she still knew every detail of him.

Then suddenly, Jeff reached out and cupped her face. Slowly. Gently.

“I love you, Vera.”

She didn’t move. Her heartbeat was deafening. And before she could stop it, he leaned in. His lips brushed hers, tentative and soft.

She didn’t kiss back.

Not at first.

But then she did.

She pulled him in, fiercely, as if all the pain she’d bottled up needed a way out. Their mouths met in desperate rhythm, his hands finding her waist as hers tangled into his shirt. She had missed this. She had missed him even if she didn’t want to admit it.

He lifted her off the ground in one swift motion, and she wrapped her legs around his waist instinctively.

As he carried her to the room, she let out a faint chuckle between kisses. “You still know your way to my room, huh?”

“I could find it blindfolded,” he said, his voice husky.

He placed her gently on the bed like she was breakable; precious.

They undressed each other like it was muscle memory. Clothes falling to the floor, skin on skin, the air thick with everything unspoken. He made love to her slowly, as if asking for

forgiveness with every touch. And when she climaxed, she whispered his name like a prayer. Afterwards, they lay tangled beneath the sheets. Vera rested her head on his chest, his fingers absently playing with her hair. And that’s when the thoughts came rushing in. She lay there, eyes open, heart beating fast but mind racing even faster. The room smelled like sex and memories. Jeff was still, his breathing calm, his touch tender, but her thoughts weren’t. She still saw it. That night. He and her friend. Skin to skin. Her laughter. His groan. The betrayal. It wasn’t a rumour she had to process. She didn’t hear about it from someone else. She saw it. Live. Raw. Unedited. And as much as her body melted under his touch, her heart remained cautious, scarred. She wondered if what he said was true. That it was a setup. That it didn’t mean anything.

She wanted to believe him. She really did.

Because loving him… that part came easy.

It always had.

But forgiving him?

Trusting him again?

That part was the war she hadn’t won.

She didn’t cry.

She didn’t smile.

She just breathed slowly and deeply and rested her head on his chest like maybe the answers were hidden in the rise and fall of it.

And even though she didn’t know what she would say when he brought the topic up again. She knew that love had made its way back tonight: not fixed, not perfect, but present.

And sometimes, that’s where healing starts.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

Snow White

The first feature film produced with cel animation, Walt Disney’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, remains a visual delight 88 years after its release. And though it’s almost entirely a slapstick comedy—the dwarfs’ madcap adventures in washing up for supper make up a surprisingly large chunk of the film’s 80 minutes—there’s a specificity in the vaudevillian energy that keeps the silliness from ever becoming cloying.

But as far as plot and characterisation go, it’s rather thin (the dwarfs’ names are descriptive adjectives, after all). That, though, is intentional, as the story is merely a picnic blanket for the animators’ feast. And though there are similarly aesthetic joys to be found, along with some charming performances, in Marc Webb’s live-action remake, titled simply Snow White, the original tale proves too skeletal to support the film’s weightier ambitions.

The original Snow White had little on her mind besides escaping her stepmother’s vengeance, pining for the prince she saw exactly once, and keeping things tidy in the dwarfs’ cottage. Our new Snow White (Rachel Zegler), still fleeing the jealous wrath of the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot), wants to be the people’s princess, to restore justice and prosperity to a kingdom ravaged by a virulent evil. She wants to be, Erin Cressida Wilson’s screenplay underscores, the fairest in the land, and she doesn’t mean the most beautiful. But staging a coup is no mean feat when your war company consists of adorable forest animals.

A “Mandela Effect”- level effort has been put into sweeping every dated element of the original 1937 animated film out of sight, such as the word “dwarf” never being spoken. The diminutive seven are magical CGI-generated forest folk who claim to be nearly 300 years old, and a live actor with dwarfism plays a different role that involves a rushed-off romantic subplot to emphasise that he’s a human being and not a fairy-tale creature. A lyric explains that Snow White’s name doesn’t refer to her skin but some

vague long-ago meteorological event in which baby Snow White “braved a bitter storm of snow.” And we even get a clinical diagnosis for Sleepy: “narcoleptic cataplexy,” as one of his companions explains when he starts snoring.

It’s not that Snow White isn’t addressing real concerns about replicating the original film without a makeover (okay, maybe Sleepy’s yawns weren’t offending anyone). But there’s a sense that the clean-up job has diverted too much of the film’s runtime toward somberly justifying the remake’s existence and away from the original’s pleasures. There’s an unresolved tension between paying tribute to the playfulness of a Disney classic and telling a story driven by themes of selfempowerment and revolutionary courage that have little to do with the original tale.

Still, some of Mandy Walker’s loveliest cinematographic work involves the recreations of frames from the original film. The huntsman’s looming shadow joins Snow White’s as he prepares to kill her in the woods. Snow White’s escape through the dark forest receives a nearly shot-for-shot reanimation, including the terrifying enchanted demon tree that lunges out from the darkness. And the iconic image of the dwarfs singing their work song as they cross over a log with Dopey (Andrew Barth Feldman) lagging behind gets a fitting tribute. The production design throughout, especially the striking symmetries outside the palace, is appropriately lavish.

As for Snow White herself, Zegler transforms the Disney film’s pseudo-cypher into a plucky, selfassured leader-in-waiting. She also sings terrifically, lending a redeeming gritty ache to the predictable pop melody of Waiting on a Wish, the princess’s early lament that she doesn’t yet have the guts to save her people.

Unsurprisingly, the classic damsel-in-distress hymn Someday My Prince Will Come hasn’t made the cut. Instead of a generic Prince Charming, Snow falls for Jonathan ( Andrew Burnap), not a prince at all but the leader of a group of politically motivated bandits who’ve turned to crime because they’re—no joke—out of-work actors unable to sustain careers in the arts because of the Evil Queen’s self-serving economic policies.

While Gadot is appropriately chic and menacing as the Evil Queen, she shades in very little besides general malice. It’s strange that there’s been no effort to make her more than a generic villain when everyone else is getting a glow-up. The camera often pans to Gadot at a diagonal from below, which does more to demonstrate the Evil Queen’s warped worldview than Gadot herself does.

But this Snow White, a fairly paint-by-numbers exercise in updating a classic property for modern consumption, is ultimately less interested in investigating the warring forces at play in this kingdom than gesturing broadly at them. The film seems to be political only to prove that it isn’t apolitical. But the poisoned apple and the chirping birds and the true love’s first kiss were never going to integrate into a civic drama.

A climactic scene of would-be revolution in which the townspeople sing a wordless chant, marching behind Snow White as she approaches the palace gates, comes across as, well, quite underwhelming.

Rating:4/10

I’m really not a fan of the Disney remakes.

The premise is utterly, utterly delicious.

The White House is hosting a state dinner for the Australian Prime Minister, the foreign minister, the defence minister and a blowhard industry mogul. Kylie Minogue, in a sparkly purple gown, is performing for almost 200 guests in one of the fancy ballrooms.

But on the third floor, the body of the chief usher lies dead in the billiards room, blood splatter on his shirt, an empty crystal glass on the window sill nearby.

Everyone is a suspect – the president, his chief adviser, his no-good brother, the PM, the capricious chef, the wily dessert master, the well-liked maid, the deputy usher, the mysterious stranger, the alcoholic butler and even our very own Kylie. Who did it? All of them? None of them? Someone else entirely?

The Residence is the latest offering from mega-producer Shonda Rhimes, created by Paul William Davies, who had been a writer on another White Houseset Shondaland show, Scandal

This couldn’t be further from the dramatic soap opera fare of Scandal, although there are plenty of twists and turns.

The mercurial detective is Cordelia Cupp (Uzo Aduba), fashioned after the kooky sleuths of the genre and she even has the Holmesian tweed suits to prove it.

Cordelia’s methods, which often involves staring at her notsuspects (there are no suspects in her investigations, only interesting people) until the uncomfortable silence

forces others to fill it with confessional titbits, frustrate everyone around her, including FBI agent Edwin Park (Randall Park).

The White House’s political staff want this wrapped up so the taint of scandal doesn’t hang around, but Cordelia has her process.

The series has its origins in Davies’ love of Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie and even Rian Johnson’s Knives Out films, as well as a non-fiction book about the history of the White House residence’s non-political staff, the engineers, servers and cooks that allow the functioning of one of the most famous institutions in the world.

The marriage of the two resulted in this admittedly overlong eight-part series, but one which genre fans will delight in.

It’s not perfect – the 50-minute episodes could’ve been a half-hour, it probably could’ve been a movie, there’s a framing story set during a congressional hearing that was probably unnecessary– but it leans heavily into the closed house tropes.

This is a genre that works best when it plays with everything in its toolbox. You can see the influences of The Residence’s predecessors, including the golden age murder mysteries and Alfred Hitchcock.

All the episodes are named after murder mysteries, including Dial M for Murder, The Last of Sheila and The Fall of the House of Usher, so it is definitely a love letter.

With a cast that also includes Giancarlo Esposito, Jane Curtain, Susan Kelechi Watson, Jason Lee, Isiah Whitlock Jr, Bronson Pinchot and Julian McMahon, The Residence is all about indulging in fun. Don’t think too hard, just go with it. The armchair detectives are going to devour it.

The Residence is streaming on Netflix.