THEWILL DOWNTOWN, AUGUST 02, 2026

UZOAMAKA

OSHOGWE

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

Redefining Hospitality

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

PAGE 2

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

CONTENT

EDITOR’S NOTE

13 WELLNESS

Uzoamaka Oshogwe is one of those leaders. With more than three decades of experience spanning banking, real estate, and business transformation, she has built a career centred on growth and value creation. Now, as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc, she is guiding one of Africa’s leading hospitality brands into an exciting new era.

In this week’s cover story, Oshogwe reflects on her transition into hospitality, the opportunities shaping Nigeria’s tourism industry, and the importance of building exceptional teams that deliver world-class guest experiences. Her journey is a reminder that enduring leadership is built not only on strategy, but on inspiring people and embracing change with confidence.

Read Amaka Oshogwe’s story on pages 8 to 10.

A good night's sleep begins long before your head touches the pillow. Beyond healthy bedtime habits, the space you sleep in matters too. This week’s decor page explores five simple bedroom design ideas that create a calming environment, helping you rest better and wake feeling refreshed every day.

Health advice is everywhere, but not all of it deserves our trust. From family traditions to viral social media posts, myths often spread faster than facts. This week’s health article separates fact from fiction, debunking common health misconceptions that still influence the choices many Nigerians make every day.

See page 14.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

15 CULTURE

When Real Doesn't Matter Anymore

14

Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

F

ew industries have evolved as dramatically as hospitality. Today, success is measured not only by elegant buildings or luxury amenities, but by the quality of experiences, meaningful connections, and lasting memories created for every guest. Across Africa, innovation, rising customer expectations, and expanding business and leisure travel are redefining the sector, demanding leaders with vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

HEALTH

Mood Check The Little Things Affecting Your Happiness Healthy Living Myths People Still Believe

04-05 FASHION

07

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

4 Ways to Highlight Your Best Features With Clothing Untold Truths When Love Learns to Let Go

16

DÉCOR

17 CAREER 18 BON APPÉTIT

8-10

Uzoamaka Oshogwe Redefining Hospitality

11 LUXURY

One Box Left Blank

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

12

5 Benefits of Lip Masks

20

COVER

SILK

BEAUTY

19

REVIEW

5 Tips For Designing a Bedroom That Encourages Better Sleep Future Ready Career Skills Worth Learning Today Kids' Kitchen Healthy Lunchbox Ideas

The One Where He Screams My Name The Odyssey

WHAT YOU SAID Boluwatife 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.

Onah

Issue No. 285 • July 26, 2026

FROM FAME to a PINCH OF FORTUNE

Celebrities Building Business Empires

INSTAGRAM

@mballarogatien

@onahluciaa +2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

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.

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Writers:Dorcas Akintoye, Johnson Chukwueke & Evi-Ben Ezaga Design & Layout: Hogan Effiom Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun, Victoria Dairo & Olamide Abolarin Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown 36AA Remi Fani-Kayode Avenue, GRA, Ikeja. Lagos, Nigeria. +234 810 345 2286, +234 913 333 3888

Ada Obiajunwa @aaddaahh - Contributing Writer Ada Obiajunwa writes from Lagos about the big truths tucked inside ordinary moments — friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet revolutions of everyday life. She believes in the power of presence, good banter, and decoding the unsaid. Through her fragrance studio, WhiffWonders, she also crafts scents that weave memory and emotion into experiences that feel like home.

@_adaorah Most beautifu

@nanajukwa Love it

PAGE 3

Issue No. ISSUE NO.286 261••August FEBRUARY 2, 2026 08, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

FASHION

4

WAYS TO HIGHLIGHT YOUR BEST FEATURES WITH CLOTHING

PAGE 4

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

T

he clothes you wear can do more than just cover your body. They can help you feel confident and show off the features you love most about yourself. It could be a slim waist, long legs, beautiful shoulders, or a great smile.

When you understand how clothing works, you can use it to bring attention to those features naturally and stylishly.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

FASHION USE COLOURS TO DRAW ATTENTION

Colour is one of the easie st ways to make certain pa rts of your body stand out.

Bright colours naturally attract the eye, while da rker colours tend to blend into the background. Fo r example, if you love your upper body, you can we ar a bright-coloured top wi th darker trousers or a skirt.

This helps people notic e your face, shoulders, an d upper body first. If you wa nt to highlight your legs, yo u can wear colourful trous ers or a patterned skirt while keeping the top simple.

Choosing the right colou rs can make a big differen ce without changing your entire wardrobe.

CHOOSE STYLES THAT FLATTER YOUR SHAPE Different clothing styles highlight different body features. Knowing what works for your body shape can help you make better fashion choices.

For example,V-neck tops can draw attention to the neck and face.

High-waisted trousers can make the legs look longer. Off-shoulder tops can highlight beautiful shoulders and collarbones.The goal is not to change your body but to choose styles that work with it.When you wear clothes that flatter your shape, your best features become more noticeable without much effort.

WEAR CLOTHES THAT FIT PROPERLY

Many people thin k tight clothes are the be st way to show off their bo dies, but that is not alw ays true.

Clothes that fit prop erly often look better than clo thes that are too tight or too loose.Well-fitted clo thing follows the shape of your body without mak ing you uncomfortable. If yo u have a defined waist, a fit ted dress or a belted outfit ca n help show it off. If you have broad shoulders, wearin g tops that fit well can m ake them look balanced an d stylish.

Good-fitting clothes create a neat appearance and help your best features stand out naturally.

USE ACCESSORIES WISELY

Accessories can help direct attention to specific areas of your body. A statement necklace can draw attention to your face and neckline. A stylish belt can highlight your waist. Eye-catching shoes can bring attention to your legs and overall outfit.The key is to avoid using too many accessories at once. Choose one or two pieces that support the feature you want to highlight.

Fashion is all about confidence. When you use clothing and accessories smartly, you can draw attention to your best features and feel great every time you step out.

PAGE 5

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

PAGE 6

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

SALLY CHIWUZIE

UNTOLD TRUTHS @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

When Love Learns to Let Go

M

y daughter turned twentyone this week, and I found myself thinking about how motherhood changes its job description.

never have made.

There is no warning that the child you spent years guiding, protecting and rescuing has crossed into a life where your permission is no longer required.

The hand that once held hers must eventually stop gripping and remain open instead. The voice that once gave directions must learn to say, “I trust you,” even when every instinct wants to add three paragraphs and a warning.

I am learning that protection has an expiry date in its original form. It does not disappear; it evolves.

One minute, you are choosing schools, signing forms and asking what time she will be home. The next, she is making decisions that belong to her, and your role is no longer to direct the traffic. It is to stand at the side of the road and trust that she knows how to cross.

Perhaps this is where many mothers struggle. We spend so long being necessary that necessity begins to feel like identity. We know who we are when somebody needs collecting, defending, feeding or fixing.

What happens when the child becomes capable? What happens when she no longer needs the same version of you?

Nobody prepares mothers for this.

We talk endlessly about raising independent children as though independence is a prize we hand over at the end of good parenting.

We do not talk enough about the adjustment required when the independence we prayed for arrives and begins behaving independently.

Perhaps raising an independent daughter requires a mother to become independent of the version of motherhood she once needed.

That does not mean withdrawing or pretending not to care. It means allowing the relationship to grow up too. It means understanding that being close to your adult child is not the same as managing her life.

It is one thing to teach your daughter to trust herself. It is another to remain calm when she does.

Immi has always carried pieces of me. I see them in the determination, the running, the boxing and, eventually, the law. I hear them in certain phrases and recognise them in expressions she will probably insist are her own.

Still, resemblance is not ownership.

She is not my second chance, my unfinished business or a younger version of me sent into the world to make better choices. She is herself, which sounds obvious until her choices differ from mine.

That is where motherhood becomes interesting.

When children are small, love is practical. You feed them, collect them, remind them, warn them and solve the problems they cannot solve. Your usefulness is visible. There is always something to organise.

This week, I celebrated twenty-one years of Immi. I celebrated the baby she was, the little girl she became, the boxer, the law graduate and the woman whose life is opening in directions I cannot fully predict.

Then they become adults, and love has to become less busy.

It must learn how to listen without immediately advising, how to ask questions without conducting an interrogation and how to remain close without confusing closeness with access to every detail.

I also acknowledged the mother I must now become: not a smaller mother or a distant one, simply a different one.

This may be the hardest discipline.

A mother can see a mistake coming before her daughter does.

Experience makes us excellent at recognising patterns and terrible at accepting that some lessons cannot be inherited. They must be lived.

There are moments when silence feels irresponsible, even when it is respect. There are times when advice must become an offering rather than an instruction. There are moments when the most loving thing a mother can do is allow her daughter to discover that she can survive a decision her mother would

One who understands that home should feel like somewhere her daughter can return to, not somewhere she must remain. One who knows that letting go is not abandonment and that closeness does not require control.

Perhaps the #Unshakable truth is this: we spend years teaching our daughters to trust themselves, and then motherhood asks the harder question.

Do we trust them too?

‘See’ you next week.

PAGE 7

Issue No. 286 • Auguat August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER

T

he hospitality industry has changed greatly over the years. What was once simply about providing a place to stay has become a business built on creating experiences, building connections, and delivering lasting memories. Across Africa, the industry is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by innovation, changing customer expectations, and growing opportunities in business and leisure travel. At the centre of this transformation are leaders who understand that true hospitality goes beyond buildings and amenities and is about people, vision, and excellence.

One such exemplary leader is Uzoamaka Oshogwe, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels Plc, one of Africa's leading hospitality brands. With more than three decades of experience spanning banking, real estate, business transformation, and strategic leadership, Oshogwe has built a reputation for delivering growth and creating lasting value.

Having successfully transformed Afriland Properties Plc into a major force in Nigeria's real estate sector, she now leads the iconic Transcorp Hilton Abuja and a growing portfolio of hospitality assets. Since assuming office in January 2025, she has continued to drive innovation, strengthen service excellence, expand growth opportunities, and position Transcorp Hotels for an exciting future in Africa's hospitality landscape.

In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN's Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Uzoamaka Oshogwe discusses her transition into hospitality, the realities of leading one of Africa's foremost hotel brands, the opportunities within Nigeria's tourism and hospitality sector, and the importance of building strong teams and exceptional guest experiences.

UZOAMAKA OSHOGWE Redefining Hospitality

PAGE 8

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

COVER You assumed leadership of Transcorp Hotels Plc in January 2025 after building a remarkable career in real estate. What attracted you to the hospitality industry, and what excites you most about leading Transcorp Hotels at this stage of your career?

While real estate and hospitality may appear different on the surface, they are both fundamentally about creating value through places and experiences. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about building businesses, transforming assets, and creating lasting impact, and hospitality offers a unique opportunity to do all three simultaneously. What attracted me to Transcorp Hotels is the strength of the brand, its legacy, and its potential for future growth. This is an institution that has become synonymous with hospitality excellence in Nigeria and increasingly across Africa. The opportunity to lead such a respected organisation at a time when the hospitality sector is evolving rapidly was incredibly compelling. What is particularly exciting is that we are at a transformative point in our journey. Beyond our flagship hospitality offerings, we are expanding the ways we create value for guests, event organisers, businesses, and the wider economy. The completion of the Transcorp Centre Abuja, our 5,000-seat ultramodern event and conference facility, positions us to host larger international conferences, exhibitions, entertainment events, and business gatherings. What makes the facility especially unique is its flexibility; it can accommodate up to 5,000 guests for large-scale events, while its advanced soundproof partitioning allows multiple smaller events to run simultaneously without disruption. This gives us the capacity to serve a broader range of clients and strengthen our position as a leading destination for business and event tourism in Africa.

memorable guest interactions. What they don't always see is the tremendous amount of planning, coordination, and discipline that happens behind the scenes every single day. Hospitality is one of the most operationally intensive industries in the world. It requires managing people, infrastructure, customer expectations, security, supply chain, and financial performance simultaneously. The reality is that excellence in hospitality is the result of thousands of decisions made daily by committed professionals who are passionate about delivering exceptional experiences.

That dedication is what truly defines our industry.

Many people see the glamour associated with luxury hospitality, but what are some of the realities of running one of Africa's leading hotel brands that most people don't see?

What people often see is the final experience: the beautifully prepared rooms, the exceptional dining, the seamless conferences, and the

What are some of the opportunities you believe investors and entrepreneurs are overlooking in Nigeria's hospitality and tourism sector?

I believe there are significant opportunities beyond traditional hotel development. Areas such as experiential tourism, destination development, hospitality technology, short-stay accommodation services, event infrastructure, wellness tourism, and tourismsupport services remain largely underexplored. Nigeria has extraordinary cultural, historical, entertainment, and natural assets. With the right investment and partnerships, these can become major drivers of economic growth and job creation. There are also opportunities to leverage technology to improve guest experiences, operational efficiency, and market access.

Investors who take a long-term view of the sector will find substantial opportunities for value creation.

"What attracted me to Transcorp Hotels is the strength of the brand, its legacy, and its potential for future growth. This is an institution that has become synonymous with hospitality excellence in Nigeria and increasingly across Africa."

What would you say is the biggest misconception people have about the hospitality industry?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that hospitality is simply about providing accommodation or serving food. In reality, hospitality is a sophisticated business that combines customer experience, technology, operations, finance, marketing, talent management, and innovation. Another misconception is that success in hospitality is driven primarily by physical assets. While great facilities are important, the true differentiator is people. Exceptional guest experiences are created by engaged employees who consistently go above and beyond. At its core, hospitality is a people business, and that human element remains our greatest competitive advantage.

"Exceptional guest In your view, what makes Nigeria's market unique compared experiences are created hospitality to other parts of Africa?

How did you hospitality market is uniquely approach by engaged employees Nigeria's dynamic because of the country's stepping who consistently go scale, energy, entrepreneurial spirit, into a role and cultural diversity. Nigeria is home that already above and beyond. to one of Africa's largest economies had strong populations, which creates expectations At its core, hospitality and significant demand across business attached to it?

I approached the is a people business, travel, leisure travel, conferences, entertainment, and events. The Nigerian transition with and that human market is also incredibly resilient. humility, respect, challenges, there is a strong and a clear element remains our Despite culture of innovation and adaptation understanding continues to drive growth. The that leadership greatest competitive that hospitality business in Nigeria is rooted is a continuum in human connection and community, advantage." rather than an individual accomplishment.

Transcorp Hotels has benefited from strong and visionary leadership over the years, and I was fortunate to inherit an organisation built on a solid foundation by leaders like Owen Omogiafo and Dupe Olusola, both of whom played important roles in shaping the company's growth trajectory. I believe every leader has the responsibility to build upon the work that came before them. I spent considerable time listening to our people, our guests, our partners, and our shareholders. Understanding the strengths of the organisation and identifying opportunities for improvement allowed me to shape a clear path forward. Ultimately, leadership is about creating value, empowering people, and ensuring that the organisation continues to thrive.

and communities alike.

as our culture embraces welcoming people, celebrating community, and creating memorable experiences, which gives us a distinctive advantage. Nigeria is increasingly emerging as a destination for major conferences, exhibitions, entertainment events, and business gatherings. We saw this firsthand when Transcorp Hilton Abuja hosted the 2025 Afreximbank Annual Meetings, with the Transcorp Centre providing a world-class platform for many of the event's flagship engagements. As the demand for high-quality event infrastructure continues to rise across the continent, investments in facilities like the Transcorp Centre Abuja position Nigeria to attract larger international events, strengthening the country's tourism sector, boosting economic activity, and creating meaningful opportunities for businesses

Great people build great hospitality brands.

What qualities do you look for when building leadership teams, and how do you foster a culture of excellence within your organisation?

For me, character is just as important as competence. I look for leaders who demonstrate integrity, accountability, resilience, emotional intelligence, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Technical expertise is important, but leadership is ultimately about influencing people and delivering results through collaboration and teamwork. To promote a culture of excellence, we focus on clarity, empowerment, and continuous improvement. People perform at their best when they understand the organisation's vision, feel trusted to contribute meaningfully, and have opportunities to grow. Excellence is not a one-time achievement; it is a culture that must be nurtured consistently through leadership, recognition, shared drive and genuine purpose.

Employee experience often influences customer experience. What strategies are you implementing to ensure that Transcorp Hotels remains a workplace where people feel motivated, valued, and empowered?

I strongly believe that exceptional guest experiences begin with exceptional employee experiences. Our approach focuses on creating an environment where people feel respected, supported, and inspired to perform at their best. This includes investing in learning and development, promoting open communication, recognising outstanding performance, and creating opportunities for career growth. We are also focused on strengthening employee engagement by ensuring that our people understand how their contributions connect to the broader goals of the organisation.

When employees feel valued and empowered, that positive energy naturally translates into better service, stronger teamwork, and more meaningful guest experiences. As our business expands, including through new assets and platforms, our ability to maintain a strong culture becomes even more important because sustainable growth can only

"No matter how much experience you have, there is always something new to learn. Discipline has also been essential. Excellence is the product of consistent habits and intentional effort over time."

PAGE 9

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

COVER happen when our people grow alongside the organisation.

What habits, routines, or personal principles have helped you sustain excellence throughout your career?

Three principles have consistently guided me: continuous learning, discipline, and purpose. I have always believed that growth requires curiosity. No matter how much experience you have, there is always something new to learn. Discipline has also been essential. Excellence is the product of consistent habits and intentional effort over time. Most importantly, I try to remain grounded in purpose.

When your decisions are guided by a desire to create value, serve people, and leave organisations stronger than you found them, it becomes easier to navigate challenges and stay focused on what truly matters.

When you are not leading a major corporation, who is Uzoamaka Oshogwe? What are the passions, interests, or values that keep you grounded?

At my core, I am someone who loves God, values family, relationships, personal growth, and meaningful impact. I enjoy spending time with loved ones, reading, learning, and reflecting. I am deeply

interested in leadership, business transformation, and the role organisations can play in driving societal progress. What keeps me grounded is the understanding that success is ultimately about people. Titles and accomplishments are important, but the real measure of success is the positive impact we have on others and the legacy we leave behind. I am also guided by gratitude.

Every opportunity to lead, contribute, and make a difference is a privilege, and maintaining that perspective helps me stay focused on what truly matters.

PAGE 10

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

LUXURY SILK

ADA OBIAJUNWA @aaddaahh

S

ONE BOX LEFT BLANK

he had reached the front of the queue.

It had taken most of the morning.

Everyone held their papers a little too carefully, as though the documents might be taken from them for the smallest mistake.

She had watched the line thin one person at a time, shifting her folder from one hand to the other, checking twice that everything was in the right order, then opening the folder again anyway.

The young woman behind the counter took the form, glanced down it, and turned it back with one finger.

"You've missed one."

Ada looked.

Near the bottom was one box she'd left empty.

She had read it twice while she was still three people back in the queue. The words didn't mean anything to her, so she had gone on and filled everything else instead.

"I wasn't sure what it wanted."

The young woman leaned over.

"Oh, you just ask. They'll tell you."

She said it the way you'd say the sky was up there.

Then she picked up her stamp again and waited.

Ada looked back at the form.

The queue shifted.

Someone reached the next window only to discover a photocopy was missing. They stepped aside without arguing, still apologising while the person behind quietly moved into their place.

A printer somewhere behind the counter stopped halfway through a page.

Nobody looked up.

After a moment it started again.

A woman behind Ada asked whether passport photographs had to be signed.

"Only if they tell you, "another woman answered

before anyone behind the counter could.

The security guard nudged the yellow barrier back into place with the toe of his shoe.

Ada rubbed the edge of the paper with her thumb.

Something old began reaching for her.

Not a memory.

A sentence.

For a moment she could smell onions.

She was nine.

She hadn't said anything at school. She had copied from the girl beside her, squinted, guessed. By the end of the day her head hurt in a way she didn't yet have words for, and she carried it home the way children carry things they assume are their own fault.

That evening she stood in the kitchen doorway while her mother stirred something on the stove.

"I still can't see properly."

Her mother lowered the heat.

Set the wooden spoon across the pot.

Wiped her hands on the cloth at her waist.

Then she crouched until they were level.

She adjusted the glasses gently with two fingers.

"Anything you can't see," she said, "doesn't want you to see it."

Children trust finished sentences.

Her mother stood.

Picked up the spoon.

The onions had begun catching at the bottom of the pot, and she stirred them loose.

"Go and wash your hands."

"And tell your brother if I have to call him again, let him not ask me for extra meat."

Somewhere outside, a hawker's voice drifted down the street.

Nothing else was said about her eyes.

"Madam?"

The young woman was watching her now.

The sentence had almost reached her.

Anything you can't...

She waited.

Nothing came.

She looked at the box again.

Then, before she had quite decided to, she heard herself speak.

"Sorry."

"Could you help me? I don't know what this one means."

The young woman leaned over, already reaching for her pen.

"It's this one."

She circled a single word with a quick blue line.

"Oh," she said.

"People always leave that one."

The young woman stamped the form without looking up.

Slid it onto the finished pile.

The woman behind Ada was already unfolding her own documents.

"Good afternoon."

Without looking up, the young woman answered, "Afternoon."

Another stamp.

Another form.

"Next."

PAGE 11

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BEAUTY

5

BENEFITS OF LIP MASKS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

H

ealthy lips can make a big difference in your overall appearance and comfort.

However, factors like weather changes, dehydration, and daily exposure to harsh conditions can leave lips dry, rough, and cracked. This is why many people are adding lip masks to their skincare routines.

Unlike regular lip balms, lip masks are designed to provide intensive care and nourishment. In this article, we will show you five benefits of using lip masks regularly.

DEEPLY HYDRATES THE LIPS One of the biggest benefits of lip masks is deep hydration.

They contain moisturising ingredients that help restore lost moisture and keep the lips soft for longer periods. This is especially helpful for people who often struggle with dry or chapped lips.

REPAIRS CRACKED AND DAMAGED LIPS Dry lips can sometimes crack and become painful.

Lip masks help repair this damage by nourishing the lips and supporting the skin's natural healing process. Regular use can reduce irritation and help the lips recover faster.

MAKES LIPS SOFTER AND SMOOTHER

Lip masks help soften rough lips by providing intense moisture. As the lips become hydrated, dry flakes and rough patches gradually improve.

This leaves the lips feeling smoother, healthier, and more comfortable.

IMPROVES LIPSTICK APPLICATION Applying lipstick on dry lips can result in an uneven finish. Lip masks create a smooth surface by hydrating and conditioning the lips. This allows lipstick and other lip products to glide on more easily and look better throughout the day.

PROTECTS AGAINST ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE The lips are constantly exposed to the sun, wind, cold weather, and pollution. Lip masks help strengthen the lips' moisture barrier, making them less likely to dry out or become damaged.

This added protection helps maintain healthy-looking lips over time.

Lip masks are a simple but effective way to care for your lips. They provide deep hydration, help repair damage, improve softness, enhance makeup application, and protect against environmental factors. By adding a lip mask to your routine, you can enjoy smoother, healthier, and more comfortable lips every day.

PAGE 12

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

WELLNESS

Mood Check

THE LITTLE THINGS AFFECTING YOUR HAPPINESS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

M

ajor life events don't always shape happiness. More often than not, it's influenced by the little things we experience every day, many of which we barely notice. A poor night's sleep, skipping breakfast, spending too much time on social media, or constantly rushing from one task to another can quietly chip away at our mood without us realising it. People are navigating a fast-paced world where work, technology, and daily responsibilities leave little room to pause and reflect. The good news is that understanding these subtle mood influencers can help you make small changes that have a surprisingly big impact on your overall wellbeing.

YOUR PHONE CAN BE A MOOD BOOSTER OR A MOOD BREAKER

Smartphones keep us connected, but they can also quietly influence our emotions. Constant notifications, endless scrolling, and comparing your life to carefully curated social media posts can leave you feeling overwhelmed or dissatisfied.

Taking short breaks from your screen, muting unnecessary notifications, and being intentional about the content you consume can make a noticeable difference to your mental wellbeing.

SMALL MOMENTS OF MOVEMENT MATTER YOUR ENVIRONMENT SHAPES YOUR MOOD The space around you affects how you feel more than you might think. A cluttered room, poor lighting, constant noise, or an untidy workspace can increase stress and make it harder to relax or concentrate. On the other hand, opening the curtains, adding a few plants, organising your desk, or simply making your bed can create a calmer atmosphere and instantly lift your mood.

You don't have to complete an intense workout to feel better. A short walk, stretching between meetings, dancing to your favourite song, or taking the stairs instead of the lift can release feelgood hormones that improve your mood. These small bursts of movement also help reduce stress and increase your energy throughout the day.

THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU INFLUENCE YOUR ENERGY

Whether it's family, friends, colleagues, or the people you interact with online, your social environment plays a significant role in your happiness. Spending time with supportive, positive people can leave you feeling encouraged, while constant negativity can be emotionally draining. Protecting your peace sometimes means choosing who has access to your time and energy.

CELEBRATE THE SMALL WINS

Many people postpone happiness until they achieve a major milestone, a promotion, a new house, or a dream vacation. In doing so, they overlook the small victories that happen every day. Completing a difficult task, cooking a good meal, finishing a workout, or simply making it through a challenging week are all achievements worth acknowledging. Learning to celebrate these moments helps cultivate gratitude and creates a more positive outlook on life.

Happiness isn't something that only appears when life is perfect. More often, it's built through small, intentional choices repeated every day. By paying attention to your environment, managing your screen time, moving your body, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and appreciating life's little victories, you can create a stronger foundation for lasting wellbeing.

PAGE 13

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

HEALTH

Healthy Living MYTHS PEOPLE STILL BELIEVE

BY NATO CHIMA

H

ealth advice has never been easier to find. Between social media, family WhatsApp groups, neighbours, and well-meaning relatives, we're constantly hearing tips on what to eat, what to avoid, and how to stay healthy. The problem is that not everything we hear is true. Some health myths have been passed down for generations, while others have gained popularity online despite having little evidence behind them. Believing these misconceptions can lead to poor choices or unnecessary worry. Here are some common health myths many Nigerians still believe, and the facts behind them.

IF YOU SWEAT A LOT, YOU'RE BURNING MORE FAT

Many people assume that the more they sweat during exercise, the more fat they're losing. In reality, sweating is your body's way of cooling itself down. You may sweat more because it's a hot day in Lagos or because you're wearing thick clothing, but that doesn't automatically mean you're burning more fat. Real fat loss comes from consistent physical activity, healthy eating, and maintaining a calorie balance over time, not from the amount of sweat on your shirt.

PAGE 14

HEALTHY FOOD IS ALWAYS EXPENSIVE

This myth discourages many people from eating well. While some imported health foods can be costly, many affordable Nigerian staples are naturally nutritious. Beans, moi moi, sweet potatoes, vegetables like ugu and spinach, garden eggs, oranges, bananas, millet, and local fish all provide essential nutrients without stretching the family budget. Healthy eating is often about making smarter food choices, not spending more money.

SKIPPING MEALS HELPS YOU LOSE WEIGHT FASTER Missing breakfast or lunch may seem like a quick way to reduce calories, but it often has the opposite effect. Many people become extremely hungry later in the day and end up overeating or choosing sugary snacks and fast food. Eating balanced meals at regular intervals helps maintain energy levels and makes it easier to control portions throughout the day.

YOU ONLY NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR WHEN YOU'RE SICK Many Nigerians wait until symptoms become severe before visiting a healthcare professional.

However, regular medical check-ups can help identify issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or elevated cholesterol before they become serious. Preventive care is one of the simplest ways to protect your long-term health and avoid more complicated treatments later.

NATURAL MEANS IT'S ALWAYS SAFE Herbal remedies and natural products have long been part of Nigerian culture, but "natural" doesn't automatically mean harmless. Some herbs can interact with prescription medications, while others may cause side effects or be unsafe if taken in large amounts. Whether a product is natural or manufactured, it's important to use it responsibly and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional when necessary.

Health myths often survive because they've been repeated for years, not because they're accurate. By questioning common misconceptions and relying on trusted medical advice instead of hearsay, we can make better decisions for ourselves and our families. Good health isn't built on popular myths or viral tips; it's built on informed choices, balanced habits, and a willingness to separate fact from fiction.

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

CULTURE

EZAGA EVI-BEN

WHEN REAL DOESN'T MATTER ANYMORE

N

ot long ago, the appeal of social media was its promise of authenticity.

People followed creators because they wanted a glimpse into real lives, from everyday friendships to a dog running through an open field or a silly video posted just for laughs.

Today, that definition is beginning to shift. As artificial intelligence becomes more deeply woven into the internet, some of the fastestgrowing creators online are no longer people. A new generation of creators is emerging that has never lived a single day, online or off.

Virtual influencers are now landing brand partnerships and, in some cases, selling products to people who don't know they're not real. Lifelike videos are becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish from content made by humans, and the internet is gradually becoming a place where being human is no longer a requirement for building an audience.

Unlike traditional creators, artificial influencers do not age, get tired or disappear from social media. They can post around the clock, adapt to trends instantly and maintain carefully crafted online personas. That's a consistency human creators simply cannot match. They're also catching people's interest by doing things humans can't or won't: constantly changing appearances, impossible stunts, content built entirely around ideas rather than the limits of a real body. AI-generated music is also becoming more sophisticated, pushing streaming platforms to introduce measures to identify or flag artificially created tracks.

Real people often direct these projects, but

the personalities audiences interact with are increasingly digital constructs, not lived identities.

The more interesting shift is not that AIgenerated content exists, but how quickly people are embracing it. Millions follow virtual creators, engage with AI-generated videos and listen to music created with artificial

intelligence, often simply because the content is entertaining.

People are becoming comfortable with this because they're asking less about who made something and more about whether it's worth their attention.

For many users, whether the creator is human is becoming secondary to the experience

the content offers.

This shift says as much about internet culture as it does about technology.

Social media has always rewarded creativity, consistency and engagement, and AI simply introduces a new kind of creator into that ecosystem. If a virtual influencer shares fashion inspiration, or an AI musician releases a catchy song, many audiences are willing to interact with them much as they would a human creator.

At the same time, the growing presence of artificial content raises new questions about trust and transparency.

As AI-generated videos, voices and images become increasingly convincing, telling apart what is human-made from what is artificially created may require closer attention than it once did. While many AI accounts openly identify themselves, others are less obvious, blurring the line between reality and digital creation.

This isn't a story about technology replacing people. Human creators still bring lived experiences, emotions and perspectives that artificial intelligence cannot genuinely replicate.

Rather, it is about the internet itself changing, becoming a space where some of the personalities people follow, the music they stream and the content they consume are not rooted in human experience at all.

Every major technological shift has reshaped how people use the internet, from blogs to short-form video and livestreaming.

Artificial intelligence may simply represent the next chapter.

It's still unclear whether people will keep caring about authenticity, or simply get used to creators that aren't real. What is certain is that we are entering an internet where being real is no longer the only path to influence.

PAGE 15

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

DÉCOR

5 Tips For Designing a Bedroom That Encourages Better Sleep CREATE THE RIGHT LIGHTING Lighting plays an important role in preparing the body for sleep. Bright lights can make it harder for your brain to recognise that it is time to rest.

During the day, allow natural light into the room by opening your curtains or blinds. In the evening, switch to softer lighting that creates a warm and relaxing mood. Bedside lamps and warm-toned bulbs can help make the bedroom feel cosy and comfortable, making it easier to unwind before sleeping.

INVEST IN COMFORTABLE BEDDING

Your bed is the most important part of the bedroom. Even a beautifully designed room will not help you sleep well if your mattress or pillows are uncomfortable. Choose bedding that feels soft and comfortable.

Comfortable bedding can improve sleep quality and help you wake up feeling refreshed.

KEEP THE ROOM CLEAN AND ORGANIZED

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE Getting enough sleep is important for both your physical and mental health. While many people focus on bedtime habits, the design of a bedroom can also affect sleep quality. Your bedroom should be a place where you can relax and unwind. In this article, we will show you five ways to design a bedroom that encourages better sleep.

CHOOSE CALM COLOURS Colour has a strong effect on how a room feels. Bright colours can make a space feel energetic and active, which is not ideal when you are trying to relax before bed. Instead, choose soft colours such as light blue, beige, cream, soft grey, or pale green. These shades create a peaceful atmosphere and help make the room feel more comfortable.

A cluttered bedroom can create stress and make it difficult to relax. Piles of clothes, scattered items, and overcrowded surfaces can make the room feel busy and uncomfortable.

Keeping the space tidy helps create a sense of calm. Use storage baskets, shelves, or drawers to keep items organised. A clean and organised bedroom feels more inviting and can help your mind settle down at the end of the day.

REDUCE NOISE AND DISTRACTIONS

A quiet environment is essential for quality sleep.

Noise and distractions can interrupt your rest and make it harder to fall asleep. Consider using curtains, rugs, or upholstered furniture to help reduce noise. It is also a good idea to limit distractions by keeping televisions and other devices out of the bedroom.

Designing a bedroom that encourages better sleep does not require a complete makeover. By creating a space that feels peaceful and comfortable, you can enjoy better sleep and wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

PAGE 16

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

CAREER

FUTURE READY Career Skills Worth Learning Today

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

T

he world of work is changing faster than ever. A university degree is still valuable, but employers today are increasingly looking beyond certificates. They're searching for people who can adapt, solve problems, communicate effectively, and embrace new technologies. In Nigeria, where competition for jobs continues to grow and industries are rapidly evolving, staying relevant means constantly learning. Whether you're a fresh graduate, an entrepreneur, a freelancer, or an experienced professional, developing the right skills can open doors to better opportunities and long-term career success. Here are five career skills that will keep you future-ready in today's workplace.

DIGITAL LITERACY IS NO LONGER OPTIONAL You don't have to be a software developer to thrive in today's workplace, but you do need to be comfortable with technology. From Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint to project management tools, virtual meeting platforms, and AI-powered applications, digital skills are becoming essential across almost every industry. Professionals who confidently use technology often work more efficiently and adapt more quickly to changing business needs.

COMMUNICATION IS YOUR SUPERPOWER Being good at your job isn't enough if you can't communicate your ideas clearly. Whether you're writing emails, pitching a proposal, speaking during meetings, or interacting with clients, strong communication builds credibility. In Nigeria's competitive job market, professionals who can express themselves confidently and professionally often stand out, regardless of their industry.

LEARN TO WORK WITH AI, NOT AGAINST IT Artificial Intelligence is changing how work gets done, but it isn't replacing professionals who know how to use it wisely. Learning how AI tools can help with research, writing, data analysis, presentations, and everyday tasks can significantly improve your productivity.

The goal isn't to let technology do your job; it's to use it to work smarter, save time, and focus on higher-value thinking.

ADAPTABILITY WILL KEEP YOU EMPLOYABLE

Career paths are no longer as predictable as they once were. Industries evolve, companies restructure, and new opportunities emerge every year. Professionals who embrace change, learn new skills, and remain open to different ways of working are more likely to succeed than those who resist change. Flexibility has become one of the most valuable workplace qualities.

BUILD RELATIONSHIPS BEFORE YOU NEED THEM Many opportunities in Nigeria come through referrals, recommendations, and professional networks. Networking isn't about collecting business cards; it's about building genuine relationships with colleagues, mentors, industry peers, and people who inspire you. Attend industry events, engage professionally on LinkedIn, and maintain meaningful connections.

Often, your next opportunity comes from someone who already knows the value you bring.

Building a successful career today requires more than experience alone. It demands curiosity, continuous learning, and the willingness to adapt to an ever-changing world. By strengthening your digital skills, communicating effectively, embracing AI, staying adaptable, and investing in meaningful professional relationships, you'll position yourself for opportunities both in Nigeria and beyond. The future belongs to professionals who never stop learning, and the best time to start preparing for tomorrow is today.

PAGE 17

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

BON APPÉTIT

KIDS' KITCHEN HEALTHY LUNCHBOX IDEAS

P

acking a school lunch can feel like a daily challenge for many parents. One day your child loves sandwiches; the next day they come home untouched. Add the temptation of sugary snacks and processed foods, and creating a lunchbox that's both nutritious and appealing becomes even harder. The good news is that healthy doesn't have to mean boring. With a little creativity and familiar ingredients, you can prepare meals that are colourful, balanced, and exciting enough for your child to look forward to. Here are five lunchbox ideas that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and perfect for Nigerian schoolchildren.

B Y N ATO C H I M A

MINI CHICKEN FRIED RICE WITH VEGETABLES

A small portion of homemade fried rice is always a winner. Prepare it with carrots, green beans, sweet corn, peas, and diced chicken for a balanced meal rich in protein and vitamins. Pack it in an insulated food flask to keep it warm until lunchtime.

Add a few slices of watermelon or orange on the side for a refreshing, naturally sweet finish.

WHOLE WHEAT EGG SANDWICH WITH FRESH FRUIT Swap white bread for whole wheat bread and fill it with boiled eggs mashed with a little mayonnaise or plain yoghurt. Add slices of cucumber or tomatoes for extra crunch. Pair the sandwich with banana slices, apple wedges, or seedless grapes to give your child a healthy mix of fibre, vitamins, and lasting energy throughout the school day.

PLANTAIN PANCAKES WITH YOGHURT

JOLLOF PASTA WITH CHICKEN STRIPS Jollof pasta is a familiar favourite that children rarely refuse. Use wholegrain pasta if possible and prepare it with a rich tomato sauce, colourful vegetables, and grilled chicken strips or fried chicken. The result is a delicious lunch that feels like a treat while still providing the nutrients children need to stay focused and active in class.

MOI MOI WITH EGGS Moi moi is one of Nigeria's most nutritious meals, packed with plantbased protein, iron, and fibre. Pair slices of soft moi moi with boiled eggs for a balanced combination that keeps children full for longer. Feel free to add cucumber sticks or cherry tomatoes for colour, and include a small bottle of water instead of sugary drinks to complete the meal.

Ripe plantains can be transformed into soft, naturally sweet pancakes by blending them with eggs and a little oats before cooking. They require very little added sugar and are filling enough for active children. Pack them with a small container of unsweetened yoghurt for dipping, along with strawberries or blueberries if available or seasonal fruits like pawpaw and pineapple for a more budget-friendly option.

A healthy lunchbox doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. By combining familiar Nigerian favourites with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, parents can prepare meals that children genuinely enjoy while supporting their growth and learning. The goal isn't perfection; it's consistency. Small, nutritious choices made every school day can help build healthy eating habits that last a lifetime, one lunchbox at a time.

PAGE 18

THEWILL DOWNTOWN • www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

s e l c i n o r h c ’s y s s ca

THE ONE WHERE HE SCREAMS MY NAME

him. My lips moved from his mouth down to his neck, tasting the salt on his skin. My hands pulled at his shirt until it was off. I kissed his chest, licked his nipples, and felt him shiver under me.

"Cassy," he whispered.

My hands went lower, unbuckling his belt, pulling down his trousers and boxers. His Johnny was already hard, thick and ready. I wrapped my fingers around it, stroking slowly, as I watched his face change.

I stood up just long enough to pull off my dress.

I climbed back on the bed, straddling him. I rubbed my wet lady bit against Johnny, sliding up and down without letting him inside yet. He groaned, hips lifting, trying to push in.

"Not yet," I said, leaning down to kiss him again. I kept grinding on him, my clit rubbing against his shaft, getting wetter with every move.

When I couldn't wait anymore, I reached down, held Johnny and slowly sank onto it. Inch by inch, feeling myself stretch around him. He filled me completely. I stayed still for a moment, just feeling him deep inside me.

Then I started moving. Up and down, rolling my hips, finding the angle that made both of us moan. His hands grabbed my waist, but I pushed them away.

"Let me do the work, baby. Tonight you just feel."

I lifted until only the head stayed inside, then dropped back down hard. The wet slap of skin filled the room as I moved up and down, up and down, then faster with my breasts bouncing in his face. He reached up and sucked one nipple into his mouth, and I cried out but kept riding.

"Cassy… oh fuck, Cassy…", he mumbled.

The sound of my name on his lips made me clench around him. I leaned forward, hands on his chest, and started bouncing, quick strokes that made his cock hit that sweet spot inside me every time. Sweat ran down my back and my thighs burned, but I didn’t stop.

He was panting now. "Cassy, baby, don’t stop, please don’t stop..."

I sat up straight again, reached behind me, and cupped his balls while I rode him harder. The bed creaked under us. My pussy was dripping down his shaft, making everything slick and noisy. I felt him swell inside me, felt his thighs tense.

I

didn't plan to be this bold. But something his collar, "I want to try something different about the way Segun looked at me that tonight." night, like I was the only thing worth He raised an eyebrow, that small smile looking at in the whole world, made me he does when he's pretending to be calm. brave.

"Different how?"

We'd just come back from Kemi's wedding, both of us a little tipsy on champagne and afrobeats, his hand warm on my back the whole taxi ride home. By the time we got into his flat, my heart was doing something reckless.

"You know," I said, pulling him close by

"I want to be on top," I said, no shaking in my voice at all. "I want to take care of you tonight.

Properly."

He didn't say anything. He just kissed me, slow, like he was memorising my mouth, and let me lead him to the bedroom.

Getting to the bedroom, I didn't wait. I pushed him gently onto the bed and started kissing

"Say my name," I told him, voice shaking. "Say it loud."

"Cassy! Cassy! Oh God, Cassy!" he shouted, voice cracking as he came, deep inside me. I kept riding through it, grinding down until I felt my own orgasm crash over me. My walls fluttered around him, and I moaned his name right back.

When it was over, I collapsed on his chest, both of us breathing hard. He wrapped his arms around me and kissed my forehead.

"Damn, woman," he whispered. "You can be on top anytime you want."

I smiled against his skin, already thinking about next time.

PAGE 19

THEWILL THEWILL DOWNTOWN DOWNTOWN •• www.thewilldowntown.com

Issue No. 286 • August 2, 2026

MOVIE REVIEW:

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Youtube Music)

The Odyssey

I

f 2022’s Oppenheimer was widely regarded as the masterwork of director Christopher Nolan’s massively successful career, then what does that make this year’s already record-breaking The Odyssey? Is it possible to scale even higher commercial and critical heights than a $1 billion box office and 7 Academy Awards, including Best Picture?

well, Odyssey (heh) of the trip home for Odysseus and his men after winning the Trojan War. The film makes sure we are aware that our protagonists are not “good” people in the traditional sense of the word. Odysseus’ men are pillagers and murderers, and in a sense they are getting their just desserts for sacking and rampaging their way across the world.

Their ordeals involve them being eaten by a cyclops, chased and beaten down by the giant Laestrygonians, forced to choose between a whirlpool and a man-eating monster and, in Odysseus’s case, trapped on an island for seven years with the beautiful Calypso (Charlize Theron). Upon his eventual return home, Odysseus finds his home overrun with suitors flocking to take his wife’s hand in marriage and his child now a man who has no recollection of him.

The film has all of Nolan’s now standard hallmarks; the story is told in non-linear If raw numbers are to be believed, fashion, and his framing device for this film is quite similar to Oppenheimer in then clearly. The Odyssey has the sense that nearly every major ordeal is already raked in $322 million as framed as a retelling to another person. It’s at the time of writing against a $255 million budget. It’s already fitting that a film about stories that were handed down by retellings hundreds of a massive hit. IMAX theatres years before the written word should use across the world are booked out a similar framing device to deliver plot. for weeks in advance. He’s done It also has the added benefit of being an it again. unobtrusive way of delivering exposition.

In a sense, Homer’s Iliad and The cast for this movie is incredible. Blink, The Odyssey are two of the and you may miss a cameo. Everyone is prototypical myths of Western putting in work too. Whether it’s Zendaya, Civilisation. Nearly all our tall Benny Safdie, Robert Pattinson or even tales or fantastical stories have at Travis freaking Scott, everyone was on top least some references to these of their game. The sound design and score two tales, and with Nolan’s unwavering dedication to practical of this film are also massive winners. I effects over computer-generated believed there was a cyclops in the theatre, such was the quality of the sound design. images, this film is truly a visual Lüdwig Göransson has fully replaced Hans spectacle to behold.

Zimmer as Nolan’s film score muse, and the highest praise I can give is that I have Shot entirely on IMAX cameras not missed Zimmer in Nolan’s last 3 films for the first time ever, this film is one bit (see you in Dune 3, Hans!). massive in scope and execution.

With a story that spans from the Overall, this movie will be duking it out depths of Odysseus’s Ithacan with Dune 3 for all the Oscars in February palace to the sweeping vistas next year. It’s a fantastically told and of the ocean and its nearly performed story. It’s visceral, beautifully endless horizon, this is a film paced (just like Oppenheimer, it does that will make you feel. You NOT feel like a 3-hour movie), and just a feel the claustrophobia of the thoroughly captivating time at the movies.

Greek warriors packed into For me, after two watches I still prefer the Trojan Horse left on the Oppenheimer as a film, but that does not beach like sardines; you feel mean this isn’t the best film that has been the love and yearning of both released this year thus far.

Odysseus (an effervescent Matt Damon performance) and his It is an incredible achievement and a long-suffering wife, Penelope (played by MVP Anne Hathaway). culmination of Nolan’s life’s work to this point. How does he top this? I said the Most of all though? You feel same in 2022 after Oppenheimer. I don’t Agamemnon’s insane AURA in every scene he’s in. Even in death, know what movie is next for Nolan, but I have lifetime tickets to whatever he’s got that man was radiating it. going on, so I’ll see you at the Movies.

The plot of this story is obviously Rating: 9.5/10 a rather faithful adaptation of The He became a true Auteur with this Odyssey, which is the 20-year, one. Wow.

PAGE 20

Scan this with your camera or click to access the playlist (Spotify)

Jungle - Someday, Somewhere

Soul Legend - SEX IS GOOD BUT HAVE U EVER

Beyoncé - MORNING DEW (DONK)

Tommy Saint - control

Reflection Eternal - Blast

Roxy Layne - SIGNAL

WATCH OF THE WEEK Finally, enough is enough.

Reasoning that business is war

means, Man-soo sets NO OTHER CHOICE byhisother sights on his dream job and

K

orean director Park Chan-wook is probably still best-known internationally for his wild 2003 thriller Oldboy, especially the scene where the vengeful hero swallows a live, squirming octopus while a startled young woman looks on. It’s a fair illustration of what Park’s movies tend to be like: his approach is often lurid, even cartoonish, but he isn’t joking around.

That commitment is evident even in the broadly satirical No Other Choice, which retells a familiar story – the one about how capitalism turns us all into monsters.

More specifically, it’s based on The Ax, a 1997 novel by the US crime writer Donald E. Westlake.

In any language, the basics are the same.

The protagonist, known here as Man-soo (Lee Byung-Hun), is a well-paid middle manager for a paper manufacturing company, happily married and living the suburban dream.

Seafood, a recurring theme for Park since Oldboy, is significant here too: in the family barbeque that opens the film, we learn that the Americans who take over Man-soo’s company have sent him a gift of expensive eels, which proves to be a prelude to making him redundant.

Facing a financially uncertain future, Man-soo and his wife Mi-ri (Son Ye-jin) are forced to get rid of their beloved pet dogs and cancel Netflix, and even struggle to pay for cello lessons for their neurodivergent daughter Ri-one (Choi So Yul).

goes about eliminating the competition, stalking the other possible applicants and killing them one by one.

At least, that’s his plan. Like Walter White in the early episodes of Breaking Bad, Man-soo is what you’d call milquetoast, meek in nature and anything but comfortable with violence. His initial efforts to reinvent himself as a ruthless criminal are played for slapstick, and go about as badly as they possibly could.

But unlike his hero, Park never misses a beat. Man-soo’s sordid bumbling serves as counterpoint to the grace of the storytelling: the smoothly integrated flashbacks, the tracking shots that invite us to guess where they might be headed, the quasi-musical use of motifs (Ri-one’s celloplaying among them), the trick of leaping unexpectedly from one scene to the next.

Park’s gift for widescreen framing is on show throughout, especially in the scenes

where Man-soo is sneaking around observing his potential victims from a distance, as in an inspired scene where he contemplates eliminating a rival by dropping a flowerpot off a rooftop.

No Other Choice is not Park at his most extreme and transgressive, nor can it be considered a step towards maturity, unlike his last film, Decision To Leave.

As social satire, moreover, it may not say anything all that new.

But it’s masterful on its own terms, and for all its relentless pessimism, far from depressing. On the contrary, there’s something exhilarating about a filmmaker willing to go all the way.