THEWILL DOWNTOWN August 06, 2023

RICHARD MOFE-DAMIJO

In the entertainment industry, there are certain names that we are familiar with. One such name is Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD. I don’t think any Nigerian, both home and abroad, don’t know this name, seeing as he has graced our screens for about four decades.

I often wonder what it must be like for movie stars and celebrities to live their lives. It’s like a goldfish in an aquarium; everyone is watching you. Boy, that must be a lot of pressure to constantly be in the eye of the public, putting your best foot forward all the time. With many people looking up to them, I was curious to know what keeps our cover personality going; what drives him, and his answer was sincere. Fear of failure and not wanting to let yourself or people looking up to you down. “I think it’s more like a fear of failure, that feeling of not being acceptable, and also, there is always this feeling of not wanting to let yourself down and those who depend on or look up to you. So that’s a major driving force.”

This shouldn’t come as a surprise because he is, after all, human, and most humans are scared of failing at what they do.

Read his heart-warming interview on pages 8 through 10.

Different regions are known for particular spices. Nigeria, for instance, has diverse spices for different areas. We highlight six spices common in various African countries and how they are used in Bon Appetit.

Don’t forget to scan the QR codes on page 16. Until next week, enjoy your read.

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Editor-at-Large: Danielle Loth

Senior Writer: Kehindé Fagbule

Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

Dorcas Akintoye

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.

Onwumere Churchill Ikenna

- Contributing Writer

Onwumere Churchill Ikenna is a writer, poet, digital and social media content strategist. An Afro gen z clan member of kenga media. He is a movie critic who was amongst those who birthed the first movie brand; Feeem house brand. A full fledged member of the writers space Africa, Nigeria district and was part of the editing team of the second anthology issue by the writers space Nigeria.

He has written so many articles, stories and e books. An avid reader and a freelancer. You can check out his literary editing page @coidencreatives on Instagram and twitter.

His personal socials for both Instagram and twitter are : @ikennachurchill

It’s all beautiful and romantic

FASHION AS A POLITICAL STATEMENT

How Clothing Can Convey Powerful Messages

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Although it extends beyond simple aesthetics, fashion has always been a potent means of self-expression. Through fashion, we can effectively communicate messages, values, and even the spark of societal change. Let us go into the world of fashion as a political statement, looking at how clothing can convey important messages and foster a sense of identity and belonging.

1. DRESSING FOR EQUALITYBREAKING GENDER NORMS

By breaking conventional gender standards, clothing can make a powerful statement. People can express their belief in equality and rebel against society’s norms by embracing gender-neutral or androgynous clothing. Everyone deserves respect and equitable treatment, and embracing silhouettes and styles that cross gender lines communicates that message.

2. FASHION ACTIVISM - CLOTHING FOR SOCIAL CHANGE

Fashion and activism are closely related. People can act as walking billboards for change by donning clothing with slogans, symbols, or messages that support particular causes. Clothes can act as a visible expression of one’s principles and a starting point for significant talks, whether those ideals favour environmental sustainability, body positivity, or the defence of human rights.

3. CULTURAL PRIDE - CELEBRATING IDENTITY THROUGH TRADITIONAL ATTIRE

Culture and heritage are closely entwined with clothing. People can celebrate their cultural identity and show pride in their ancestry by dressing traditionally. Historical importance and a reminder of rich traditions, rituals, and ideals can be found in traditional attire. It can help people feel like they belong and connect with those from similar backgrounds.

5. FASHION WITH A CONSCIENCEETHICAL AND SUSTAINABLE CHOICES

Making ethical and sustainable decisions can be reflected in one’s wardrobe. You can show that you are committed to minimising your influence on the environment and fostering social responsibility by choosing eco-friendly materials, endorsing fair-trade apparel, or adopting secondhand and upcycled clothing. By dressing ethically, we demonstrate that fashion can be both lovely and responsible at the same time.

4. RESISTANCE THROUGH FASHION SUBVERSIVE STYLES

Rebellion and subversion have long been a part of fashion. Clothing has been a tool utilised by subcultures and anti-establishment movements to question and defy social mores. Punk, goth, and other rebellious styles have acted as visual protests against conformity, showcasing uniqueness and challenging established power systems. Individuals can express their rejection of adhering to societal norms by dressing in an unusual or anti-establishment manner.

6. EMBRACING BODY POSITIVITY CELEBRATING ALL SHAPES AND SIZES CONCLUSION

Clothing can encourage body positivity and subvert social norms of attractiveness. Individuals send a strong message of inclusivity and self-acceptance when they dress in a way that promotes different body types and sizes. People can encourage people to embrace their beauty and reject damaging beauty norms by dressing in ways that accentuate and energise their bodies.

Fashion is more than simply clothes; it is a potent vehicle for individual expression and social change.

Clothes have the power to communicate strong messages, question social norms, and initiate significant dialogues. Fashion allows people to express themselves and engage in a visual conversation, whether that statement is about breaking down gender barriers, promoting causes, expressing cultural identity, rejecting uniformity, or embracing sustainability. The next time you dress, consider how your choices may represent your values, beliefs, and aspirations. Allow your wardrobe to speak volumes about the world you want to create by embracing the power of fashion as a political statement.

H.E.
Wamkele
Mene Secretary-General,
AfCFTA
 Secretariat

Mr.
Wale
Edun Special
Adviser
to
the
President
 on
Monetary
Policy

Mr.
Mohammed
Bello
Koko MD,
Nigerian
Ports
Authority

Dr.
Ezra
Yakusak Executive
Director/CEO,
 NEPC

Dr.
Nnaji
Ozoemena
 Director,
Trade
and
Exchange
 Department,
CBN

Mr.
Jason
Njoku CEO,
iROKOtv

Mr.
Akeem
Lawal Divisional
CEO,
Interswitch
Group

Mr.
Binu
Nanda CEO,
WACOT
Group

Mr.
Murthada
Adeyemi
Adeniji MD/CEO,
Starlink
Global
&
 Ideal
Limited

Mr.
Moses
Babatope Founder/Managing
Director,
 Film
One
Entertainment

Dr.
Ebenezer
Onyeagwu

Founder
&
Chairman, Zenith
Bank
Plc Host

Mr.
Olusegun
Awolowo,
 Secretary,
National
Action
 Committee
on
AfCFTA

Mr.
Olugbenga
Agboola,
OON CEO,
Flutterwave

Mr.
Satya
Gopal MD,
Century
Mining
Company

Mr.
Bashir
Adeniyi
Adewale Ag.
Comptroller-General
 of
Customs

Mr.
Folashodun
Adebisi
Shonubi Acting
Governor,
 Central
Bank
of
Nigeria

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Pornography is more accessible than ever in the digital era, changing attitudes and expectations about sex and relationships. Its extensive consumption can significantly affect people and their close relationships, while it can be a source of enjoyment and exploration for some. Here we examine pornography’s impact and identify six ways it may affect sexual expectations and relationships. By highlighting these effects, we hope to generate a real conversation that fosters critical thinking and encourages positive attitudes toward sex and intimacy.

The Influence of

Pornography

Unveiling Its Effects on Sexual Expectations And Relationships

5.

Pornography can create misunderstandings about boundaries and permission by fusing the distinctions between imagination and reality. What defines healthy and consensual sexual interactions can be misunderstood because of the lack of clear dialogue and negotiation shown in pornography. In sexual interactions, it is vital to put open communication, active consent, and respect for limits first. Forging trust and encouraging positive sexual experiences, it’s essential to recognize and respect each other’s comfort zones and actively seek enthusiastic consent.

3.

Pornography consumption could lead to performance anxiety in close relationships. People could feel pressured into imitating sexual activities they witness on television or other media, even if they don’t necessarily want to or feel comfortable doing so. Emphasis on performance rather than connection and even feelings of inadequacy can result from this. To reduce performance pressure and promote a healthier sexual dynamic, open communication, consent, and placing mutual pleasure first are all important.

Pornography has the unintended consequence of raising people’s expectations for sexual experiences. Pornographic performances are frequently elaborately choreographed and scripted, offering an idealized view of sex that is far different from reality. When real-life events differ from what is depicted on film, this can cause discontent and frustration. Remember that real intimacy doesn’t follow scripted situations; it involves connection, communication, and mutual agreement.

4.

Since only a small variety of body types are frequently shown in porn, it creates erroneous ideals of beauty and attractiveness. These idealized images might cause concerns with self-esteem and body image if they are constantly viewed. Unrealistic physical standards may cause people to feel under pressure to meet them, which can undermine their self-esteem and harm their romantic relationships. Promoting body positivity and embracing the range of beauty outside of what is portrayed in pornography is vital.

Excessive pornographic viewing can cause relationships to become emotionally distant. Intimacy’s emotional and interpersonal components are frequently overlooked in porn because of the focus on physical pleasure. As a result, people could have trouble creating and maintaining strong emotional bonds with their spouses. A happy and pleasant sexual relationship must be nurtured by establishing emotional intimacy through communication, trust, and understanding.

CONCLUSION

Relationship pleasure can be greatly impacted by pornography in a variety of ways. Sharing and discussing pornography can deepen intimacy and provide conversation starters for some couples. Others, however, could have disputes, fears, and feelings of betrayal due to it. It’s crucial to acknowledge and deal with the potential effects of pornography on interpersonal dynamics. Couples can negotiate difficulties and keep a healthy and meaningful relationship by being open and honest with one another, setting boundaries, and getting professional treatment when necessary.

It is impossible to ignore the impact of pornography on sexual expectations and relationships. While it can occasionally be enjoyable and adventurous, it is essential to approach it with caution and mindfulness. We may actively seek to create a healthier and more rewarding sexual environment by being aware of the potential consequences of pornography on irrational expectations, body image, performance pressure, emotional disengagement, boundaries and consent, and relationship satisfaction. The foundations of a fulfilling sexual relationship are clear communication, permission, and a sincere emotional connection.

1. UNREALISTIC EXPECTATIONS - CHALLENGING AUTHENTICITY

2. BODY IMAGE ISSUES - DISTORTING PERCEPTIONS OF BEAUTY

BOUNDARIES AND CONSENT - REDEFINING HEALTHY SEXUAL DYNAMICS

EMOTIONAL DISCONNECTUNDERMINING INTIMACY

6. RELATIONSHIP SATISFACTION - NAVIGATING THE IMPACT

PERFORMANCE PRESSURE - STRAINING INTIMACY IMPACT

Richard Mofe-Damijo, widely known by his initials RMD, is a legendary Nigerian actor and lawyer whose influence goes beyond the screen. RMD’s acting career started in the late 1980s when he debuted on the widely watched Nigerian television show, Ripples. He rapidly attracted worldwide recognition and admiration from fans thanks to his alluring personality on television.

Mofe-Damijo has played various roles throughout his career, showcasing his flexibility and capacity to bring life to any role he takes on. Whether serious or humorous, he regularly wows audiences and critics alike. Among his well-known films are Oloibiri, King of Boys: The Return of The King, Diamond Ring, and Out of Bounds, among others. In addition to his acting skills, he has a legal degree, which gives his artistic endeavours a unique perspective. Along with his professional accomplishments, RMD is renowned for his slick appearance and charm.

Richard Mofe-Damijo continues to enthral audiences and make an enduring impression on the storytelling industry thanks to his enduring talent, endearing demeanour, and devotion to his profession.

In this chat with TheWill DOWNTOWN, he discusses the heart and soul of his remarkable journey, the indomitable spirit of Nollywood, and the profound love for his craft that fuels the flames of his enduring impact.

You’ve had an incredible journey. How do you manage to balance these different aspects of your career? What drives you to excel?

I think it’s more like a fear of failure, that feeling of not being acceptable, and also, there is always this feeling of not wanting to let yourself down and those who depend on or look up to you. So that’s a major driving force. In terms of balance, you don’t realise how much work you’re putting in or what you’re doing when you are in it. I just put in work always for what I’m doing. I get an out-of-body experience when I’m sitting down at a function, and my CV is being read; that’s when it hits you that, yeah, maybe I have put in some work.

Looking back at your earliest days in Nollywood, what was the most memorable experience that shaped your passion for acting and convinced you that this is what you should be doing?

My acting predates Nollywood. I studied theatre during my university days and graduated 40 years ago, so it has nothing to do with Nollywood. Acting has always been something that I always wanted to do. Before Nollywood, I was already in it. You know, we just seamlessly drove into Nollywood. I’m happy I’ve been a part of its growth and development.

Throughout your career, you’ve portrayed diverse characters. Is there any particular role that challenged you the most, and how could you go past it?

Every role comes with its challenge; I take them

in bit sizes, it depends on what they come with. Some of the more challenging ones are the ones that I probably have to alter my body physically, and I’ve done that a couple of times, physically altering my body to fit specific roles. I’m in the process of going through that again. I did it for a film called Oloibiri. I had to lose a lot of weight. I also did it for a film yet to be released called The Black Book. So it depends. I have a film in October that I’m trying to lose weight for again, so it depends sometimes. It’s a lot more challenging when you have to alter your shape physically.

Nollywood has evolved significantly. What changes have you observed in the industry, and how do you think that these changes have influenced storytelling and representation in Nigeria?  I think one of the biggest differences now is the streaming platforms. It’s a global practice. So, standards have improved. It has also affected our storytelling. Our screenplay is much more improved because you have to tick the boxes the stream has provided, which has changed the game. It has also provided good data for watchers of the industry to be able to calculate, in financial terms, how much the industry is worth. So, it has given Nollywood a new purpose to compete with other cinematic cultures in the world. So, that has helped. So, we’re looking at more collaborations in the future.

Nollywood has also seen its fair share of challenges and criticisms. Can the industry continue to grow and improve its global reputation while preserving its unique identity?

I think it’s already doing that. Every sector of the economy goes through that stage. It will be a struggle, of course, but I think we’re doing what we must do.

You are always looking very stylish. So, style and fashion are synonymous with your image. How has your style evolved over the years? Do you have any memorable fashion choices or fashion regrets from your earlier days in the limelight?

Absolutely no regrets. My mother sold clothing for a living. So, I was influenced rather very strongly by my mother’s sense of style. My father was also a very stylish man. So, I grew up being very watchful and mindful of whatever I wore and also being neat. My mother was a stickler for neatness. So, I grew up with all of those traits. My philosophy is to keep it simple. For me, keep it simple. Simple never goes out of fashion. It never goes out of fashion when it’s simple, stylish, and classy.

Throughout your career, you’ve collaborated with many talented actors and filmmakers. Is there a particular co-star or director who you had a profound influence on? And what valuable lessons did you learn from the collaborations?

I have worked with a lot of directors. In the early days, I worked with the likes of Tade Ogidan, Chico Ejiro, Zeb Ejiro, and of course, Amaka Igwe. Those early days formed what we are going through today. One of the most important directors that I’ve worked with is Tade Ogidan. He’s been an amazing guy. He drove me when I was younger and just got into the business. Tade was probably the most influential director in my life because his standards were very high and also, because I was a willing tool and a willing collaborator, he would drive me to the highest points. He usually would get the best performances from me. I love to work with directors who understand the craft and would drive an actor to that point. I also enjoy working with younger directors that I’ve worked with over the years.

Your consistency in the industry is commendable. What habits or routines have you developed over the years that have contributed to your longevity and relevance?

It’s absolute dedication to my craft. I’ve never taken the audience for granted. Once you do that, consistency becomes a lifestyle. For me, it is the fact that I don’t take my craft for granted. I will be the first to show up when I’m asked to show up, and when I show up, I don’t just show up; I show up ready.

Beyond your professional achievements, what are some of the most significant life lessons you’ve learned along the way? How has it shaped your perspective on success?

Love for family. I think that I subscribe to giving a hand. When a candle lights other candles, it doesn’t diminish the one providing the light source. For me, being your neighbour’s keeper is an abiding philosophy of mine.

Many aspiring actors look up to you as a role model. What advice would you give young up-and-coming actors who aspire to have a long-lasting and sparking career in the entertainment industry, just as you’ve had?  Know your craft and be dedicated to it like your life depends on it. As I said, don’t ever take your audience for granted, especially; people who validate your craft. That’s my advice.

What’s the most underrated aspect of filmmaking, and why do you believe it deserves more recognition?

They’re all moving parts of a train. I don’t think any is more important than the other. Everything is important. It is in the ensemble that true art comes to life. It is in the pulling together that true art comes to life. It’s not about one aspect taking the shine. It is in the fact that everybody pulls together. That’s when there is a win, but when you isolate anyone in one department, you lose the plot.

Nollywood has the potential to influence perceptions of Africa globally. How can the industry play a pivotal role in shaping more accurate and diverse representations of Africa?

I think that is already in the process. I mean, we’ve been doing that. I have met people from all over Africa who tell me how they’ve been watching our films from when they were children. Nollywood’s influence on African countries and the rest of the world is so immense that it is the result that we are reaping today. The onus is on us to now constantly own that narrative and push whatever African agenda we want to push. Just making sure that we rewrite and let people unlearn what images they have of Africa as poor, starving people that need to be rescued by the rest of the Western world.

“I love to work with directors who understand the craft and would drive an actor to that point. ”

“Nollywood’s influence on African countries and the rest of the world is so immense that it is the result that we are reaping today ”

“My acting predates Nollywood. I studied theatre during my university days and graduated 40 years ago, so it has nothing to do with Nollywood. ”

COVER

As an accomplished individual with multiple talents, you’re a lawyer. What personal goals and creative projects do you still hope to accomplish in the future?

Well, you are only as good as your last job. I still want to do more films. I’m retreating more to behind the camera now. I want to do a lot more work producing. I will still be in front of the camera, but I want to do a lot more work behind the camera. Write more books and collaborate with many people to do socially impact things. I also want to be a voice for something important: women, children, and family values, among others.

Throughout your career, you’ve embodied various characters with unique traits and personalities. If you were to describe yourself as a character in a movie, how would you portray Richard Mofe-Damijo, the actor, lawyer, and author?

Well, flawed, but with a good heart and will always fight for justice and equity. He won’t walk away from oppression.

As an author, what inspired you to write, and how does the creative process of writing differ from preparing for a role in a movie?  I don’t think that they are different. For anything that you have to do, you have to prepare. If you spend a lot more time preparing, it’s easier to accomplish the task. I’m a subscriber that if you have a tree to cut down, it’s better to sharpen your axe or cutlass or whatever you want to use to hack that tree down. It’s better to spend more time sharpening so that you spend less time pulling down that tree than going on that tree with a blunt axe or cutlass. So that’s what the process is. When you do prepare, then it’s easier to accomplish your goals. A lot of people underrate the preparation process.

Exploring Traditional Beauty Remedies

Ancient Wisdom For Modern Skin Concerns

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

We frequently overlook the ageless lessons handed down through generations in our pursuit of glowing and healthy skin. We can effectively address modern skin problems by using traditional cosmetic treatments rooted in ancient methods. In this article, we set out to uncover old beauty secrets and learn about five traditional remedies for various skin problems, including acne and sunburn. Let’s harness the strength of these natural cures and incorporate ancient knowledge into our contemporary skincare regimens.

(1) TEA TREE OIL FOR ACNE

Acne has traditionally been treated naturally with tea tree oil, which is made from the leaves of the melaleuca alternifolia plant. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities aid in reducing inflammation and fending off microorganisms that cause acne. Apply diluted tea tree oil to the afflicted areas using a cotton swab. Before rinsing it off, let it absorb into the skin. Tea tree oil can be a useful addition to your skincare regimen for acne prevention and treatment.

(2) ALOE VERA FOR SUNBURN

Since ancient times, sunburn relief and skin healing have been aided by aloe vera, which is well-known for its calming and therapeutic characteristics. Take the gel out of a fresh aloe vera leaf by cutting it open. To have a cooling effect, apply the gel directly to the sunburned skin and allow it to penetrate. Aloe vera relieves sunburn pain by reducing redness and swelling and accelerating healing.

(3) CUCUMBER FOR SKIN HYDRATION

Cucumber is a well-known natural cure for moisturising and reviving the skin because of its high water content and cooling effects. Slice a cold cucumber and apply the slices to your face for ten to fifteen minutes. The skin will feel hydrated and revitalised due to the cucumber’s wetness. Regular application helps improve skin moisture and maintain a clear complexion.

(4) TURMERIC FOR HYPERPIGMENTATION

Since ancient times, hyperpigmentation has been treated with turmeric, a colourful spice with many advantages. Curcumin, one of its active ingredients, has been discovered to have brightening qualities. Apply turmeric powder paste to troublesome regions by combining it with honey or yoghurt. The appearance of black spots can be diminished, and the skin tone can be evened out with regular application.

(5) SANDALWOOD FOR SOOTHING IRRITATION

For centuries, people have valued sandalwood for its calming effects and capacity to soothe sensitive skin. Apply sandalwood powder paste to irritated regions by mixing it with milk or rosewater, or both. Sandalwood has cooling and anti-inflammatory qualities that can help soothe sensitive skin by reducing irritation, itching, and redness.

CONCLUSION

Modern skin issues can be addressed naturally with many traditional beauty remedies. These age-old cures have stood the test of time, from the power of tea tree oil to treat acne to the calming relief of aloe vera for sunburn. We may draw on the old knowledge and harness the power of nature to treat common skin disorders by including tea tree oil, aloe vera, cucumber, turmeric, and oats into our skincare regimens. Adopt these time-tested beauty tips and find the hidden gems of the past to make your skincare regimen holistic and natural for beautiful, healthy skin.

The Art of Slow Travel TRAVEL

Savouring Moments And Cultures at A Relaxed Pace

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Thepractice of slow travel gives a novel viewpoint on globetrotting in a world characterised by haste and constant movement. Slow travel encourages us to take our time, immerse ourselves in the cultures we encounter, and forge deep bonds as we travel rather than hurrying from one place to the next.

(3) REDUCED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Slowing down and visiting fewer places has a good effect on the environment. Slow travellers help make tourism more environmentally friendly by reducing the time spent on the air and the road. Supporting regional companies and ecofriendly lodgings also fits with responsible travel strategies, conserving the beauty of destinations for future generations.

(4) IMMERSED IN NATURE

Slowing down allows you to appreciate nature’s beauty more fully. Slow travellers have the luxury of thoroughly engaging with nature; it doesn’t matter whether they are strolling through peaceful forests, relaxing on a calm beach, or seeing the night sky. The soul is revitalised, and this profound interaction with nature sparks a sense of wonder.

(6) A DEEPER APPRECIATION FOR LIFE

The simplicity of cherishing life’s priceless moments makes slow travel so beautiful. Travellers who practice slowing down develop a greater appreciation for the moment, letting go of outside distractions, and embracing the pleasures of the journey. Everyday experiences, memories, and chance meetings accumulate into a treasure trove that fosters gratitude and a fresh outlook.

(1) DEEP CULTURAL IMMERSION

Immersing oneself in a place’s culture entirely is one of the most appreciated benefits of slow travel. Travellers can explore deeper and see the daily rhythms of local life by staying longer in one location. To get a deep grasp of the destination’s rich history, engage in talks with people, attend cultural events, and enjoy local cuisine.

(2) AUTHENTIC CONNECTIONS

Genuine connections are developed with the people you meet on your journey when you travel slowly. Engaging with locals allows for authentic experiences that might not be available to hurried tourists and insight into their way of life. These interactions generate friendships and long-lasting memories that enhance the trip experience.

(5) ENHANCED WELLBEING

Relaxation and mindfulness are essential components of the art of slow travel. Travellers who go more slowly can unwind, recharge, and notice the finer features of their environment. With no time limitations, one can take the time to reflect and learn about oneself, which promotes tranquillity and well-being.

CONCLUSION

The practice of slow travel stands out as a significant and life-changing method to travel in a world where speed frequently takes precedence. By immersing us in local cultures, fostering genuine connections, and giving us time to appreciate the beauty of nature, slow travel offers a rich tapestry of experiences that nourish the spirit. Slowing down helps us realise the true purpose of travelling: slowly taking in the sights, sounds, and flavours of many cultures while leaving a lasting imprint on ourselves and the world we live in.

BON APPÉTIT

Spice Trails of Africa Unveiling Exotic Flavors And Culinary Delights

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Atreasure trove of unique flavours waiting to charm your taste buds as you set off on a spellbinding adventure via the spice routes of Africa. From the humming markets of Nigeria to the fragrant spice bazaars of Ghana and Kenya, this article takes you on a gastronomic adventure to discover six magnificent African spices and their versatile usage in regional cuisines. Every meal will celebrate the vibrant culinary diversity of the continent as you learn about the essence of African culture and heritage embedded into each dish.

A pungent spice used to enhance the flavour of Ethiopian stews and sauces is Korerima, also known as Ethiopian cardamom. Infusing meals like Doro Wat (chicken stew) and Misir Wat (lentil stew) with a seductive depth of flavour, Korerima, with its warm, lemony undertones, is a crucial part of the well-known Berbere spice blend.

Kenyan coriander has a vivacious zesty scent and flavour that set it apart from regular coriander. It is a key ingredient in Kenyan cooking, flavouring meals like chapatis, sukuma wiki (collard greens), and biryanis made in the country.

Guinea pepper, sometimes known as grains of paradise, is a West African spice with a spicy, peppery flavour and notes of citrus and ginger. This versatile spice enhances savoury and sweet meals, from substantial West African soups to flavorful desserts like gingerbread cookies.

Selim grains have a smokey, earthy flavour with citrus undertones; they are referred to as Hwentia in Ghana and Kimba in Nigeria. These dried pods are used whole or crushed to season soups, stews, and grilled meats. They give traditional West African dishes like Nigerian suya and Ghanaian groundnut soup a new flavour.

CONCLUSION (3)

Known for their nutty and bittersweet flavour, Njansang seeds are a cherished spice in Cameroonian cooking. The traditional Cameroonian cuisine Ndole, a substantial stew cooked with bitter leaves, peanuts, and palm oil, has ground Njansang as one of its main ingredients.

A staple of Nigerian street food is suya spice, a hot mixture of peanuts, chilli peppers, ginger, and other aromatic spices. The popular and adored Nigerian dish, suya, is made by marinating and grilling skewered meats with this delectable spice blend.

Each spice, from the mellow tones of Ethiopian cardamom to the smoky taste of Grains of Selim, captures the spirit of its locale and tells stories about its people, culture, and culinary legacy. As we travel through these flavourful roads, we celebrate the rich and varied tapestry of African food, where spices play a key part in crafting culturally and deeply gratifying dishes. So let’s embrace the enchantment of African spices, enjoy the flavours of the continent, and experience the gastronomic treats that await us on the spice routes of Africa. Bon appétit!

(2) GRAINS OF SELIM (WEST AFRICA)

(4) GRAINS OF PARADISE (WEST AFRICA)

(5) KENYAN CORIANDER (KENYA)

(6) SUYA SPICE (NIGERIA)

NJANSANG (CAMEROON)

(1) KORERIMA (ETHIOPIA)

of South Africa Wines Grand Tasting

BY TOHEEBAT KAZEEM

An exclusive wine tasting and trade show event curated by South African Wine Producers, Wines of South Africa (WOSA), held its 9th edition recently at the Marriott Hotel Ikeja.

The two-day event involved the organisers giving free training on the first day on how to open a bottle of wine, how to taste wine, and the different glasses to be used for wines, after which certificates of completion were handed to participants.

The next day was the grand event, with various wine merchants displaying their products while guests went around tasting different wines.

Bobby Moroe(R)

Uti Nwachukwu

Game Changer Celebrating Iconic Video Games And Their Impact On Pop Culture

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Overthe past few years, innovation and originality in video games have exploded. These interactive experiences have entertained gamers and left a lasting influence on pop culture. They span from fascinating storylines to cuttingedge aesthetics and gameplay. To understand how these legendary video games released between 2017 and 2023 altered the entertainment landscape and developed into something more significant, let’s take a deeper look at each one.

1)

Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a groundbreaking actionadventure game, in March 2017. The game takes place in a vast open environment. The game completely altered open-world exploration with its captivating gameplay and stunning visuals. Players were thrilled by the beautiful environment, tricky challenges, and freedom to select their path. Breath of the Wild not only revived the Zelda series but also transformed the possibility of open-world gaming. Its influence on pop culture is visible in fan art, cosplay, and even how it inspires a new generation of game developers to push the boundaries.

3) CYBERPUNK 2077 (2020)

Gamers embarked on an epic journey through the American Wild West with Red Dead Redemption 2 by Rockstar Games. The meticulous attention to detail, gripping plot, and vibrant game characters captivated players and nonplayers alike. It sparked discussions on the value of storytelling in video games as a true art form and how they might rival blockbuster movies in terms of narrative complexity. In addition to strengthening Rockstar Games’ reputation as a master storyteller, Red Dead Redemption 2 solidified the Western genre as a dominant force in gaming.

The muchawaited video game Cyberpunk 2077 from CD Projekt Red transported players to the dystopian Night City, where high-tech and lowlife coexist. With Keanu Reeves portraying the renowned character Johnny Silverhand and the game’s futuristic open-world scenario, there was a lot of hype. Despite significant technical difficulties during its initial release, Cyberpunk 2077 prompted extensive debates on the promise of interactive storytelling and the future of gaming. Its cyberpunk aesthetics and challenging issues have a long-lasting influence on pop culture, influencing fashion trends and how futuristic worlds are portrayed in various media.

Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons provided a soothing virtual haven as the world struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic. The game’s realistic recreation of living on a deserted island gave gamers everywhere a sense of camaraderie and inventiveness. Players took comfort in building their lovely islands, engaging with cute animal inhabitants, and discussing their experiences with friends and family during the social distancing era. The game became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring in-game activities, viral challenges, and celebrity appearances. Animal Crossing: New Horizons evolved into something more than just a game; it became a representation of community through trying times.

Players were transported back to the terrifying world of survival horror in Capcom’s Resident Evil Village. The game introduced players to the mysterious and frightful Lady Dimitrescu, who soon gained notoriety online as the long-running franchise’s eighth main chapter. Thanks to her towering presence and striking design, she inspired many fan art, cosplay, and even fan-made mods for other video games. In addition to revitalising the survival horror subgenre, Resident Evil Village demonstrated the influence that a welldesigned character could have on pop culture by moving beyond the gaming industry to become a worldwide phenomenon.

6) FORTNITE (2021

Even though Fortnite was first released in 2017, its influence on pop culture persisted well into 2020 and beyond. With live in-game events, concerts, and exclusive partnerships with celebrities like Travis Scott and Ariana Grande, Epic Games’ battle royale juggernaut has developed into a gigantic social platform. Millions of players and spectators worldwide were drawn to Fortnite because it blurred the barriers between gaming, music, and entertainment. Its characters, emotes, and dances have influenced many memes, dances, and even professional athletes who use in-game emotes to celebrate their successes. Its characters have also become a mainstay of online culture.

CONCLUSION

Over the years, many renowned video games have been released, and they’ve all significantly influenced popular culture. These games entertained players and encouraged creativity, friendship, and debates about various parts of the gaming industry. These games have shown that video games are more than just interactive entertainment; they are potent forces that radically alter and bind our civilisation. They do this through simple yet compelling gameplay and thought-provoking themes. Let’s enthusiastically anticipate the subsequent wave of ground-breaking experiences that will have a lasting impact on the dynamic world of pop culture as we continue to celebrate and appreciate these gamechangers.

“THE LEGEND OF ZELDABREATH OF THE WILD” (2017)

5) RESIDENT EVIL VILLAGE (2021)

2) RED DEAD REDEMPTION 2 (2018)

4) ANIMAL CROSSING - NEW HORIZONS (2020)

- ONGOING)

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

Oppenheimer

Christopher Nolan’s brand as our foremost maker of high-line, prestige blockbusters precedes him, and “Oppenheimer” is his plunge inside the mind and world of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who headed up the team that created the atomic bomb.

You come expecting a certain level of technical mastery, and Nolan delivers. Oppenheimer is a slick, sturdy, overwhelmingly grand film with a storytelling approach that ebbs and flows like the swells in composer Ludwig Göransson’s undulating score.

Cillian Murphy turns in a searing performance as Oppenheimer, known as Oppy, to his close friends and colleagues. He’s a genius of the troubled variety, at one point injecting his college professor’s green apple with potassium cyanide after an in-class slight.

He’s soon on to much bigger things than poisoned apples and hand-picked to head up the team that will race against Germany to build the world’s first atomic bomb. It’s World War II, and someone’s going to get there first, and Russia might be throwing its hat in the ring as well. With the annihilation of the world on the line, there’s so much emphasis on the completion of the project that the ethics behind the bomb are back-burnered so far as not to even weigh into the scientific equation.

Well, it’s no secret that the big bombs are dropped, and Nolan follows Oppy before, during and after the mushroom clouds, tracking the political and personal fallout of his work as the father of the atomic bomb, as he came to be known. It also follows his pushback on the hydrogen bomb and the political hot water it landed him in, and the communist fears that ruled the political agendas of 1950s America, as well as attempts to railroad Oppenheimer and his reputation.

Oppenheimer stars so many recognizable faces that keeping track of them all is dizzying. There’s Matt Damon as a hard-headed (but humorous) lieutenant general, Robert Downey Jr. as a political lifer seeking a cabinet appointment and Kenneth Branagh as Nobel Prize-winning physicist Niels Bohr. Florence Pugh and Emily Blunt are on board as Oppenheimer’s love interests. Three recent Best Actor Oscar winners, Casey Affleck, Gary Oldman and Rami Malek, show up for a combined, oh, seven minutes of screen time. Hey, is that Josh Peck? Oh wow, Benny Safdie’s in this too? Dane DeHaan is here for 3 minutes!! And that’s not mentioning roughly a dozen others.

The screenplay by Nolan is disorienting by design, as it unfolds in at least three parallel

timelines at different times in Oppenheimer’s life, shifting from black and white to colour all the while. (Editor Jennifer Lame practically conducts a symphony.)

We see Oppy working with a team of physicists in a large room with formulas scrawled out on chalkboards during the Manhattan Project sessions and answering heated questions from a group of sweaty inquisitors in an enclosed office space. There are also scenes of Downey Jr.’s character’s confirmation hearings, and none of these truly come into context until well into the movie, after an A-bomb test that acts as the explosive centrepiece of the film. (The attacks themselves, alas, are left off-screen.)

Some of these threads feel like they’re taken from separate movies altogether, particularly Pugh’s storyline, and her troubled character is reduced to a manic sex bomb in the overstuffed script. One high-profile character emerges as a villain in the late stages of the story, as Nolan searches for a sense of comeuppance, and a particular name drop at a key moment feels like a cheap bit of audience bait in a story searching for grounded emotional notes.

But where Oppenheimer excels is in Murphy’s performance and the heavy, heavy themes of military, man (and men, for that matter) and the, er, moral implications of nuclear destruction. The most effective scene has Oppenheimer speaking at a rally after the bomb was dropped on Japan, as he looks out at a crowd wildly cheering the deaths of hundreds of thousands in the name of nationalism and patriotism. Up until that point, he’s been a loyal soldier, preaching science first, with his blinders on toward the vast global implications of his work. But a bomb can change a man, and the scene unfolds as a grim commentary on politics, propaganda and human nature, and it cuts to the core of the man better than any scene in the film.

Nolan’s mistrust of the government and its silencing, all-reaching power is evident. He could have arrived there with a more succinct presentation, but then big subject matter calls for a big canvas, and Nolan isn’t interested in scaling down or tidying up. Heck, no one expects a bomb to go off cleanly, and there’s plenty to sift through in Oppenheimer’s shrapnel. People will likely be going through it for years.

In truth, as Oppenheimer commandingly reminds us, the blood is on all our hands. Global nuclear war, most recently threatened by Russian leader Vladimir Putin in his assault on Ukraine, stopped being unthinkable the moment the first A-bomb exploded, cheered on by the man and his enablers who stole fire from the gods.

WATCH OF THE WEEK

THE WITCHER SEASON 3 PART 2

The Witcher Season 3 starts strong with its premiere episode, “Shaerrawedd,” and the first part ends with a fascinating showcase. Yet, unfortunately, the last three episodes are narratively questionable, convoluted, and inadequately paced. The series shines best when it ventures toward quiet character excavations amidst the lore. Though the last three episodes feature this to a degree, the narrative loses itself entirely by tying up loose ends in all the wrong ways.

Earlier this year, it was announced that Henry Cavill would depart as Geralt of Rivia, with Liam Hemsworth set to replace him in Season 4. However, with very little information on the transition, the season’s last episode gives the audience nothing substantial to hold onto. Cavill’s arc as Geralt feels woefully reduced in the final few episodes, making it the most perplexing send-off after a few episodes of solid character work. The Witcher Season 3 could’ve been one of the show’s strongest seasons—it starts as so, but the trenches we fall through don’t do enough to merit further investment.

For a series based on video games, it’s been challenging to follow from day one, differing it from the monumental success that HBO’s The Last of Us achieved earlier this

year. Still, even if we save the show from unfair comparisons, it remains unclear what The Witcher wants to be. Is it a series about monsters and those hunting them, or is it an exploration of a found family cloaked in a fantasy spectacle? Perhaps those who prefer the former will argue about the latter, but The Witcher is as great as it is because of the characters and their dynamics with one another—lose that, and it’s weeding through one blight after another trying to get by.

The first half of the season succeeds entirely because of the small family’s loyalty to one another and everything they achieve in their short time together. Cavill and Anya Chalotra’s dynamic chemistry will be hard to replicate because when the series’ romantic arcs are good, they’re great. What we see in the first episode and later in the fifth is nothing short of warm and intimate in the best way, creating a labyrinth

of storytelling that’s easy to stay in.

Yet the odd changes from Season 3, Episode 5 to all that transpires in the finale are clunky, deviant, and all over the place. It completely loses the familial intimacy that Episode 6 cements (with beautifully enamouring performances), and it bounces from one plot to another without ever showing the audience why or how they got here in the first place. Sure, one can argue that there are more stories to tell in Season 4, but cliffhangers that exist solely to propel viewers toward returning don’t feel earned or necessary. The end leaves too many unanswered questions from rushing important beats and overstuffing narratives. Where The Witcher Season 3 could’ve been an excellent send-off for Cavill, it’s a cluttered, questionable wreckage instead. Still, there are certainly highlights and the quiet familial moments between Geralt, Yennefer, Ciri, and even Jeskier are moments fans will hold onto. It’s unfortunate that peculiar plot devices camouflage stunning and picturesque moments. It’s also regrettable that the costume department’s fumbling this season makes it very unclear what period we’re in—based on which episode you show someone entirely unfamiliar with the series; they’ll have different responses, to be sure.

The Witcher Season 3 is now streaming on Netflix.