THEWILL DOWNTOWN MARCH 23, 2025 by THEWILL NEWSPAPER

DIRECTING THE DREAM

Visionary Nigerian Filmmakers

EDITOR’S

NPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

ollywood is the core of Africa’s film industry. It has evolved from humble beginnings to become a global force enchanting audiences with its compelling stories. At the centre of this remarkable growth are movie directors who have metamorphosed Nigerian cinema into a powerhouse of creativity. These gifted individuals are not just making movies; they capture the essence of storytelling with every frame they shoot. In a world where storytelling remains foremost, these directors have shown that they are the best through their fearless commitment to their craft, passion for telling African stories that resonate globally and unique storytelling styles.

Whether it’s Kunle Afolayan, the cinematic maestro born into the Afolayan filmmaking dynasty; Jade Osiberu, the fearless storyteller; Kemi Adetiba, known for her groundbreaking cinematography and audacious narratives; Moses Inwang, with his bold and thought-provoking films; or Izu Ojukwu, with his passion for Nigerian history, these directors have proven over time that they are the best in the business.

We spotlight them on pages 8 to 10. It makes for an entertaining read.

This week, the beauty page has something for men; we discuss receding hairline. As most men age, their hairline starts to recede, which can be challenging to adjust to. Have no fear; on page 12, we show you how to deal with this predicament. Scroll there to read about how to manage receding hairline.

What do you do when your romantic partner disappears without a word to you? No goodbye, nothing; they just up and leave and then six months later, they send you a message saying they are still thinking about you. Do you ignore the message or respond? Find out in this week’s Downtown Confidential on page 15.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2348033239132

6 Ways to Wear Crew Socks Effortlessly 12 04-05 FASHION

E is for Emotion 07

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS DÉCOR

BEAUTY

8-10 15 16 13 14 REVIEW DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL DOWNTOWN ZODIAC COVER BON APPÉTIT

Directing The Dream Visionary Nigerian Filmmakers

11 6 Best Colours to Paint a Kitchen

5 Ways to Deal With Receding Hairline For Men

Famous Comfort Foods in The World

Fearless And Fiery The Aries Spirit Unleashed

Tangled in Yesterday

Megalopolis

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.

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writer: Johnson Chukwueke

Design & Layout: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer

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

Lisa Folawiyo’s vision is pure elegance

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.

6 WAYS TO WEAR CREW SOCKS EFFORTLESSLY FASHION

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

COMPLEMENT A FITNESS SET 1.

Crew socks are your best buddy whether you love working out or just like the overall athleisure vibe. Pair your matching sports bra and leggings with crisp white crew socks and your favourite sneakers. This combination makes you appear deliberate and put together while adding a refined touch to your athletic appearance. Opt for bold, branded socks for added flair, or keep it minimal with solid colours that blend with your set.

Crew socks have evolved beyond being a useful foot care item. They now make a fashion statement by bringing flair and individuality to any ensemble. Crew socks are a simple way to elevate your look, whether you’re dressing up or keeping it casual. This article will examine six simple yet stylish ways to wear crew socks like a pro.

AMPLIFY A SIMPLE OUTFIT 2.

Do you have a plain T-shirt and shorts to pair? Or maybe a sweater and skirt?

Crew socks can instantly make the outfit look more styled and refined. Choose socks with fun prints, stripes, or pastel hues to add interest to your look. For a playful twist, pair them with sneakers or chunky sandals. This might feel like a small change, but it makes a big difference in how complete and trendy your outfit feels.

FASHION

ROCK THEM WITH LOAFERS

This combo is effortlessly cool and works for almost any casual occasion. For a timeless look, choose a pair of cropped jeans that show off your socks and pair it with classic loafers. White or ribbed crew socks add a vintage touch, while colourful or patterned socks can inject some personality. Throw on an oversized blazer or leather jacket, and you’ve got yourself an outfit that screams street style chic.

3. 4. 6.

ROCK THEM FOR A BARBIE LOOK AND JEANS

Wearing pink, glittery, or lacetrimmed crew socks will let you embrace your inner doll as the Barbiecore trend continues to gain popularity. Wear them with chunky sneakers and a beautiful minidress, or layer them with platform heels for a whimsical, feminine look. It’s an enjoyable way to embrace feminine style and give your wardrobe a whimsical touch.

GO BUSINESS CASUAL 5.

Yes, you can wear crew socks to work. Pair them with tailored trousers, loafers, and a crisp button-down shirt. To keep things sleek and professional, stick to neutral colours like black, grey, or navy. The crew socks peek out just enough to add an edge to your outfit without breaking any dress codes. It’s just another way to show off your style while still looking polished and officeready.

TRY SOMETHING

DIFFERENT

Since fashion is about experimenting, why not step out of your comfort zone? Layer your crew socks over fishnet tights, or better still, you can wear them scrunched down with heeled sandals for a bold, runwayinspired look. The best part is mixing patterns or wearing neon socks with monochrome outfits to create a striking contrast. The key is to have fun and not overthink it; just let your socks be the statement piece.

CONCLUSION

Crew socks are the perfect fashion hack since they can instantly change your outfit. Apart from that, they are inexpensive and versatile. You can add them to your outfit in countless ways, whether you want to keep it simple or create a statement. Therefore, don’t be scared to experiment with various styles and let your socks speak for themselves. After all, fashion should be fun, and sometimes, the smallest details make the biggest impact.

SALLY CHIWUZIE

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

E IS FOR EMOTION

Thisweek has had me in a chokehold.

I have endured the kind of grief that sneaks up on you in quiet moments, the kind that turns the air thick and makes the world feel distant and unfamiliar. The sudden death of a childhood friend shook something loose in me, something I thought was stable, #unshakable.

But grief has a way of reminding you that no one is truly prepared for loss. No matter how strong you are, it will throw you off balance, shift your reality, and demand to be felt.

Yet, even in the midst of that pain, life does not pause. I have had to find the energy to execute all the epiphanies that demanded action because that is the brutal irony of life. It doesn’t stop to let you catch your breath. It keeps moving, forcing you to decide whether you will keep up or crumble under the weight of it all.

I have had to embrace change and, in doing so, embrace myself — who I am, my faults, my fears, my shortcomings, my lack of understanding of the way the world works.

I have had to sit with the uncomfortable truth that some questions will never be answered, and some losses will never make sense.

I have been ravaged by empathy, feeling the sorrow of my childhood friend’s family as though it were my own because, in many ways, it is my own. Loss has a way of making us all kin.

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

And through all of this, I have felt lost.

So, earlier today, I did the only thing I know to do when the weight in my chest won’t lift, when the gaps in my mind refuse to close — I went for a run.

I took Emotion and its accompaniments — Energy, Evolution, Endurance, Epiphany, Embrace, Execution, Empathy — and I put them into motion. Step after step, breath after breath, I ran. And as my feet pounded against the pavement, I spoke to God. I asked Him why. Why does grief linger?

Why do some answers never come?

Why does the heart learn to carry what the mind cannot comprehend?

And He said:

‘Because in breaking, you find your becoming. In questions, you find surrender. And in the movement — step after step, breath after breath — you remember that you are still here. And as long as you are still here, purpose remains. Keep going.’

Those words settled into me, deep in the places where grief and exhaustion had taken root. Because if there is one #Unshakable truth, it is this: as long as we are still here, there is still work to do. Life does not wait for us to make sense of it. Destiny does not wait for grief to subside. And so we must carry on, not because it is easy, but because we must.

So today, E is for Emotion. It is for all the things I carried with me on that run, all the things I refuse to suppress:

• E is for Energy because even when life drains you, you must find the strength to move forward.

• E is for Evolution because loss changes you, whether you want it to or not.

• E is for Endurance because some seasons in life require nothing more than your refusal to give up.

• E is for Epiphany because even pain brings revelation if you are willing to listen.

• E is for Embrace because healing begins when we stop running from ourselves.

• E is for Execution because even in grief, there are things that must be done.

• E is for Empathy because loss is never just personal — it ripples through the hearts of many.

And finally, E is for Emotion

For the weight of it. The rawness of it. The way it humbles you, shakes you, empties you—only to reveal what truly remains.

Emotion is not weakness. It is the proof that we are alive, that we have loved, that we have felt deeply. And as painful as that may be, it is also a privilege.

Because as long as we are here, purpose remains Purpose — and submission to the will of God. Even when we don’t understand. Even when the weight of grief and unanswered questions press down on our hearts. Even when the road ahead is unclear.

Because to keep going is not just an act of survival — it is an act of faith.

Faith that there is meaning beyond what we see. Faith that even in breaking, we are being shaped. Faith that in surrendering to God’s will, we find the strength to move forward. So keep going.

‘See’ you next week.

VISIONARY NIGERIAN FILMMAKERS DIRECTING THE DREAM

By Johnson Chukwueke

Nollywood,the beating heart of Africa’s film industry, has grown from its humble beginnings to become a global force, captivating audiences with its compelling stories and raw authenticity. At the core of this phenomenal evolution are visionary movie directors who have transformed Nigerian cinema into a powerhouse of creativity and cultural pride. These talented storytellers are not just making movies; they’re crafting legacies, breaking boundaries, and pushing the envelope of storytelling with every frame they shoot. In a landscape where storytelling reigns supreme, these directors have earned their place at the top through their fearless commitment to their craft, unique visual storytelling styles, and passion for telling authentic African stories that resonate globally. From dramatic epics to lighthearted comedies and socially charged narratives, they have given voice to the dreams, struggles, and triumphs of Nigerians while captivating audiences beyond the continent.

Whether it’s the cinematic genius of Kunle Afolayan, the groundbreaking storytelling of Kemi Adetiba, the masterful vision of Izu Ojukwu, the dynamic creativity of Jade Osiberu, or the thought-provoking narratives of Moses Inwang, these directors have proven time and time again that Nollywood is a force to be reckoned with. Their works not only define modern Nigerian cinema but also challenge traditional norms, paving the way for future generations of filmmakers.

Moses Inwang

Moses Inwang, a visionary director and creative storyteller, has carved a niche for himself in Nollywood with his bold and thought-provoking films. Known for pushing the boundaries of conventional storytelling, Inwang’s works are celebrated for their depth, emotional intensity, and social relevance. With movies like Alter Ego, where he fearlessly tackled mental health and sexuality, and Cold Feet, a gripping tale of love and betrayal, Inwang consistently delivers narratives that linger in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll. His ability to blend drama with moral reflection has earned him accolades and admiration from critics and audiences alike. Inwang’s storytelling style is marked by his unflinching approach to controversial themes, shedding light on societal issues while maintaining entertainment value. This unique blend of thought-provoking content and captivating visuals makes him one of Nigeria’s most respected and daring filmmakers.

Apart from his cinematic achievements, Inwang’s passion for the craft and dedication to excellence is reflected in every project he undertakes. Whether it’s a dramatic exploration of human flaws or a reflection on social justice, his movies resonate with audiences on a deeply personal level. As one of Nollywood’s leading storytellers, Moses Inwang continues to inspire the next generation of filmmakers by proving that cinema can be both a mirror to society and a medium for change.

Jade Osiberu

Jade Osiberu is the fearless storyteller Nollywood didn’t know it needed—bold, daring, and unapologetically dynamic. She’s the creative genius behind some of Nigeria’s most relatable and refreshing films, bringing stories to life with a modern twist while staying true to the essence of Nigerian culture.

Kicking off her career with a bang, Jade made waves with Gidi Up (2013), a web series that captured the hustle, dreams, and heartbreak of young Lagosians. Her ability to weave authentic narratives around everyday struggles and triumphs caught everyone’s attention, making her a filmmaker to watch. But it was Isoken (2017) that truly put Jade on the map, a romantic comedy that hilariously tackled the pressure of being single in your 30s. The film struck a chord with audiences, not just because of its relatable storyline but also for its vibrant portrayal of modern Nigerian women navigating love, culture, and family expectations.

Jade took things up a notch with Sugar Rush (2019), never one to shy away from breaking stereotypes, delivering highenergy action and comedy in one delicious package. And just when you thought she couldn’t surprise us anymore, she dropped Gangs of Lagos (2023), an epic crime thriller that cemented her reputation as a versatile storyteller unafraid to venture into new genres.

Jade Osiberu’s filmmaking journey is nothing short of inspiring. She’s not just making movies—she’s creating cultural touchpoints that resonate with the next generation. As Nollywood continues to evolve, you can bet Jade will be at the forefront, telling the stories we didn’t know we needed.

Izu Ojukwu

Izu Ojukwu is a cinematic genius whose storytelling prowess has cemented his place as one of Nollywood’s most revered directors. Known for his keen eye for detail and passion for Nigerian history, Ojukwu brings the past to life with a vibrancy that captivates audiences worldwide. His films are not just movies; they are immersive experiences that transport viewers to different eras, blending historical authenticity with emotional storytelling. One of his most celebrated works, 76, is a masterclass in historical drama, chronicling the emotional turmoil and political intrigue surrounding Nigeria’s 1976 coup.

The film earned critical acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail and Ojukwu’s ability to humanise history, making it relatable and poignant. He is a storyteller who doesn’t just scratch the surface but dives deep into the essence of Nigeria’s heritage, unearthing stories that resonate across generations. Ojukwu’s passion for preserving and celebrating Nigerian culture is evident in his filmography, which boasts iconic works like Sitanda and Amina. His ability to blend intense drama with cultural pride sets him apart, giving his films a unique flavour that is both enlightening and entertaining. With numerous awards and accolades to his name, Izu Ojukwu remains an unstoppable force in Nollywood. He continues to inspire young filmmakers with his dedication to authenticity and his commitment to telling stories that matter. Whether he’s taking us back in time or challenging societal norms, Ojukwu’s work is a testament to the power of storytelling done right.

Kemi Adetiba

Kemi Adetiba is a powerhouse of storytelling, a queen of the big screen, and a fearless trailblazer in Nollywood. Known for her audacious narratives and groundbreaking cinematography, Adetiba is the genius behind some of Nigeria’s most iconic films. With a knack for turning everyday stories into epic masterpieces, she has revolutionised the way we see Nigerian cinema.

Her meteoric rise began with The Wedding Party (2016), a romantic comedy that shattered box office records and became an instant classic. But Adetiba didn’t stop there— she followed it up with the gritty, unapologetically bold King of Boys (2018), a political crime thriller that took Nollywood by storm. The film’s success cemented her status as one of Nigeria’s most daring directors, and its sequel, King of Boys: The Return of the King (2021), proved that her storytelling brilliance was no fluke. What sets Kemi apart is her fearless approach to tackling bold themes and crafting complex characters, especially strong, resilient women. She masterfully blends drama, action, and emotion while maintaining authenticity and cultural relevance. Whether it’s love, power, or redemption, Adetiba’s stories hit hard and linger on. Beyond film, she’s a celebrated music video director, crafting visual masterpieces for artists like Banky W and Tiwa Savage. Her ability to blend music with storytelling is yet another testament to her creative versatility. With accolades pouring in and fans eagerly awaiting her next move, Kemi Adetiba remains an unstoppable force, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers to dream big and create fearlessly.

Kunle Afolayan

Kunle Afolayan is Nollywood’s cinematic maestro, a visionary director who paints stories with passion, culture, and a touch of magic. Born into the legendary Afolayan filmmaking dynasty, he’s more than just a director—he’s a storyteller who seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, earning him a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated filmmakers.

Kunle burst onto the scene with his debut feature, Irapada (2006), captivating audiences with his storytelling finesse.

But it was The Figurine (2009) that truly cemented his legacy, blending supernatural folklore with a modern twist and bagging multiple awards. From then on, Kunle never looked back, pushing the boundaries of Nollywood cinema with each project. Whether it’s the cultural depth of October 1 (2014), the family dynamics in Phone Swap (2012), or the historical intrigue of Aníkúlápó (2022), Kunle’s films are cinematic masterpieces that celebrate Nigerian heritage while exploring universal themes. His attention to detail and dedication to authenticity are evident in his rich storytelling and breathtaking visuals.

With Netflix hits like Citation (2020) and Swallow (2021), he continues to break new ground, telling stories that resonate globally while staying rooted in African traditions. Kunle’s work ethic and creative genius have garnered him both local and international acclaim, making him a key figure in Nollywood’s evolution.

A filmmaker, producer, and actor all rolled into one, Kunle Afolayan’s passion for storytelling shines through every frame. He inspires a new generation of creatives to embrace their heritage while dreaming big. In Nollywood’s grand tapestry, he’s undeniably the master weaver, stitching tales that endure.

Conclusion

Nigerian cinema continues to soar to new heights, and much of its success can be attributed to the ingenuity and passion of its top directors. These storytellers have reshaped the narrative, breaking stereotypes and offering audiences a richer, more diverse view of Nigerian life. Their creative bravery and relentless pursuit of excellence have inspired a new generation of filmmakers and cemented Nollywood’s place on the global stage.

As Nollywood continues to evolve, these directors remind us of the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and connect. Their works transcend cultural boundaries and speak to the universal human experience, proving that stories matter no matter where you come from. They are not just filmmakers but visionaries whose passion and dedication have solidified their places among the best in African cinema. We celebrate their contributions and look forward to the future they continue to shape with their visionary works.

These five directors are not just filmmakers but visionaries who have reshaped the Nigerian movie industry and influenced global audiences. Their dedication to the craft, relentless pursuit of excellence, and bold storytelling choices have made them legends in their own right. Through their work, they continue to inspire emerging filmmakers and challenge established norms, proving that Nigerian cinema has no bounds.

As Nollywood continues to expand its influence and global reach, these directors stand as trailblazers who dared to dream differently and created works that resonate on a profound level. Their stories are not just entertaining; they reflect the rich, diverse tapestry of Nigerian life and culture. They remind us that when done with passion and purpose, storytelling can move hearts, inspire change, and leave an indelible mark on history.

In the ever-evolving world of cinema, these directors exemplify the spirit of innovation and resilience. Their journey is a testament to the power of storytelling, the importance of cultural representation, and the transformative impact of film. Whether they are preserving tradition, challenging norms, or telling stories that demand to be heard, their contributions are invaluable, and their legacies will undoubtedly shape the future of Nollywood for generations to come.

6 Best Colours TO PAINT A KITCHEN

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Choosing the ideal colour for your kitchen might be difficult since we all want something that adds brightness, warmth, and cohesion to the area while still harmonising with your home’s general style. Since the kitchen is the centre of the house, picking the ideal paint colour might influence the entire room. In this article, we’ll look at six of the best kitchen paint colours.

1. WHITE

White is a timeless colour for kitchens for a good reason. It produces an airy and light atmosphere. White walls may open up a small kitchen, giving it a more spacious, airy vibe. It’s also adaptable and looks good with almost any cabinet, countertop, or appliance colour. White is a great colour choice for comfortable farmhouse décor and sleek modern design.

2. LIGHT GREY

Light grey is a great option if you want a neutral colour that isn’t as bright as white. It appears sleek, serene, and contemporary. Light grey provides versatility when selecting kitchen items like rugs, curtains, and cookware because it goes well with warm and cool accents.

Yellow is the ideal colour for a kitchen because it is believed to infuse a space with warmth and joy. If your kitchen receives little natural light, a gentle yellow colour can make it seem more spacious and airier. It offers a splash of colour without being overpowering or flashy, making the space lively.

Navy blue looks fantastic on its own, and it adds a bold, elegant touch. If combined with brighter accents, this rich, deep hue adds drama to your kitchen without making it appear overly gloomy. Navy blue gives a sleek, fashionable vibe ideal for modern kitchens. Navy blue can create a stunning contrast if your cabinets are white or light-coloured.

6. WARM BEIGE

The bright, airy hue of mint green infuses your kitchen with a relaxing, peaceful vibe. This is an excellent method of using colour without going overboard—the clean, fresh vibe of mint green complements contemporary and traditional kitchen designs.

Warm beige is an excellent option if you’re searching for a warm but neutral hue. It’s a soft hue that gives your kitchen a warm, inviting feeling. Additionally, stronger elements like bright appliances or vivid artwork can be used with beige as a backdrop.

CONCLUSION

Selecting the appropriate colour can drastically alter the design and feel of your kitchen.

All of these colours may contribute to creating a kitchen that seems both practical and welcoming, regardless of whether you prefer the bold, dramatic appeal of navy blue or the clean, crisp vibe of white. When choosing the ideal paint colour for your kitchen, consider its size, lighting, and general design. Don’t be scared to experiment with several shades.

SOFT YELLOW

NAVY BLUE

MINT GREEN

RECEDING HAIRLINE 5 Ways to Deal With For Men

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

For many men, seeing their hairline recede can be a difficult adjustment. Finding out that your hairline has changed can affect your confidence, whether it is slowly creeping back or taking larger strides than you would like. However, you are not alone; there are workable solutions for this problem. You can slow down or even reverse the process through medical therapies or basic lifestyle adjustments. We will show you five comprehensive and simple methods for dealing with a receding hairline.

Your diet greatly influences the condition of your hair. Since keratin, the protein that makes up the hair, is found in foods like eggs, fish, poultry, and beans, consuming enough of these foods is crucial for healthy hair growth. Not only are you providing your body with nourishment by eating a balanced diet, but you are also providing your hair with the nutrients it requires to remain healthy and strong.

Stress can cause hair loss and be detrimental to your body and mind. It causes your body to create more cortisol, a hormone that can interfere with the natural cycle of hair growth and lead to hair loss. To fight this, try adding stressreduction techniques into your everyday routine. Jogging, swimming, or even a quick stroll can help produce “feel-good” hormones that naturally reduce stress. You can also relax by practising yoga, meditation, or basic deep breathing techniques.

5. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY DIET REDUCE STRESS LEVEL USE THE RIGHT HAIR PRODUCTS

Not every hair product is healthy for your hair, particularly if you have a receding hairline. Harsh chemicals in some shampoos, gels, and sprays can harm your hair follicles and worsen hair loss. Choose gentle shampoos that don’t include sulfates because they can deplete your scalp of natural oils, leaving your hair feeling dry and fragile. Keratin and biotin-containing products are excellent since they strengthen and encourage hair growth.

TRY MEDICATIONS OR TOPICAL TREATMENTS

Despite your best efforts, medical treatments may be helpful if your hairline continues to recede. Directly applying over-the-counter medications such as Minoxidil (Rogaine) to the scalp increases blood flow to the hair follicles, stimulating hair growth. A prescription medication called finasteride (Propecia) is an additional choice. It slows down thinning and even helps some hair grow back by lowering levels of a hormone associated with hair loss. See a doctor or dermatologist to determine the best course of action for your condition before beginning any medication or treatment.

CONCLUSION

CONSIDER HAIR TRANSPLANTS OR LASER THERAPY

Professional treatments like hair transplants or laser therapy may be worthwhile for more severe cases of hair loss. Moving hair from a fuller area of your head to your receding hairline is known as a hair transplant. It’s a long-term approach that can produce results that look natural, but it can be costly and may need several sessions. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an additional choice that stimulates hair growth by using light. Although outcomes differ from person to person, some people experience measurable improvement over time with laser combs, helmets, or hats made for home use.

The world doesn’t have to end because of a receding hairline. You can feel good about your appearance with the correct strategy, whether it’s through diet, stress reduction, hair products, treatments, or just accepting the change. Finding what works best for you is crucial, and keep in mind that your hair does not define your value. The best style you can wear is confidence, after all.

Famous Comfort Foods

in The World

Pizza (Italy)

Originating from Italy, and probably the most popular comfort food, pizza has evolved into various forms across different countries. A combination of crispy dough, savoury tomato sauce, melted cheese, and toppings of different types makes it one of the most popular foods worldwide. These toppings can be improvised, depending on what country you are in, but the basic appeal remains universal.

Ramen (Japan)

Possibly Japan’s biggest culinary export, ramen is a comforting noodle soup often served with a rich, savoury broth and topped with ingredients like softboiled eggs, pork, and green onions. It’s a beloved comfort food in Japan and a popular dish internationally. With more countries accepting ramen, the recipe gets improvised according to each location.

Macaroni And Cheese (USA)

Mac and cheese, as it’s fondly called, has its roots in America and is beloved for its creamy, cheesy goodness. A classic dish made with elbow pasta and cheddar cheese, it is a simple yet indulgent, home-cooked meal connected to many adults’ childhood memories. Macaroni and cheese is a dish that has been served as comfort food from one generation to another.

Jollof Rice (West Africa)

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Manytimes, people get emotionally down due to too much stress, a bad day, or just the occasional mood swings. In a bid to feel better, lots of people resort to their comfort foods. These comfort foods are beloved meals or even snacks across the globe that offer warmth, a sense of nostalgia, and soothing relief to one’s emotions. While these dishes may differ due to various cultural backgrounds, certain comfort foods have achieved recognition outside their place of origin due to their emotional connections and satisfying flavours.

For this week’s food exploration, we will be looking at some of the most-eaten comfort foods around the world.

Mashed Potatoes (UK, USA)

Mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food made by boiling potatoes until they’re soft, then mashing them with ingredients like butter, milk, or cream to create a creamy, fluffy texture. It is sometimes seasoned with salt and pepper and can be enhanced with garlic, cheese, herbs, or even sour cream, depending on personal preference.

Jollof rice is a popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices, often including garlic, ginger, and chilli peppers. The rice is cooked in a rich, flavourful tomato sauce, giving it a vibrant red colour. Some countries in West Africa, particularly Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal have their own type of jollof rice, making it a beloved and iconic dish across the region.

Comfort foods, no matter their origin, have the common ability to provide emotional satisfaction, childhood memories, culture, or important moments in life. These dishes are loved not just for their flavours but also for the memories and feelings they evoke

FEARLESS AND FIERY

The Aries Spirit Unleashed

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

ELEMENT: FIRE

RULING PLANET: MARS

SYMBOL: RAM FLOWER: HONEYSUCKLE, THISTLE, TULIPS

BIRTHSTONES: HELIOTROPE, JASPER, SAPPHIRE, AQUAMARINE, TOPAZ, DIAMOND

DATE: MARCH 20 - APRIL 19

Bola Tinubu, March 29th

If you’ve ever met someone who charges through life with unstoppable energy, confidence, and a touch of rebellious flair, chances are you’ve encountered an Aries. Born between March 21 and April 19, Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, and they certainly live up to their role as natural-born trailblazers. Ruled by Mars, the planet of action and ambition, Aries individuals are bold, passionate, and always up for a challenge. They don’t just walk into a room; they storm in, leaving an unforgettable impression wherever they go.

Personality: The Firestarter Aries is a fire sign, and their personality reflects it in every way. They are fiercely independent, always ready to take the lead, and never afraid to speak their minds. Impulsiveness runs in their veins, which means they often dive headfirst into

situations without overthinking—sometimes to their advantage and sometimes… well, not so much. But one thing is certain: Aries don’t believe in half-measures. They’re all in, all the time.

Love And Relationships: Passion Overflows

When it comes to romance, Aries are intense, passionate, and a little unpredictable. They love the thrill of the chase, and they’re drawn to partners who can match their energy and excitement for life. Dating an Aries means being prepared for spontaneous adventures, grand gestures, deep emotional connections, and fiery debates.

Career And Ambition: The Born Leader

Aries thrive in fast-paced environments where they can take charge, innovate, and push

boundaries. They excel in careers that require leadership, creativity, and courage, such as entrepreneurship, sales, sports, entertainment, and anything that allows them to call the shots. Routine jobs that demand patience and slow progress? Not their thing. Aries needs action, excitement, and the freedom to blaze their own trail.

Life with an Aries is never dull—they inspire, they challenge, and they make things happen. They may be impulsive, impatient, and even a little stubborn, but their unshakable belief in themselves and their ability to conquer the world makes them truly unforgettable.

So, if you have an Aries in your life, buckle up; it will be one wild, exhilarating ride.

Ruth Kadiri, March 24th

President

Pharell Williams, 5th April

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

Tangled in Yesterday

Ilay on my bed, bathed in the soft glow of the bedside lamp, my body still humming from the pleasure I had just given myself. My legs were slightly parted, the warmth between them still lingering. My fingers traced lazy circles on my skin as I caught my breath, eyes half-lidded in the afterglow. The silence in the room felt heavier, thick with longing and memories.

I reached over to my nightstand and pulled open the drawer where I kept my collection of toys. My fingers brushed against something unfamiliar, something that didn’t belong to the cool silicone and smooth plastic. I pulled it out. It was a card, slightly worn at the edges, with a faint trace of his cologne still lingering on it.

My heart stuttered as I turned it over, reading the familiar slant of his handwriting.

Tonight, I’m going to take it slow and savour every curve on your sweet body.

My breath hitched. Beneath the note, in bold strokes, was his name: Kelvin.

A sharp pang of desire and heartbreak tangled together inside me. I remembered the night I received this card; it was my last birthday with him. The note had been tucked inside the box of a new toy he had gifted me, a promise of the pleasure we would explore together.

I could still feel his hands on me, firm yet gentle, the way he traced every inch of my skin like he was memorising it. He had a way of making me feel completely bare, even when I was clothed. Kelvin didn’t

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

just touch my body; he knew it, studied it, worshipped it. Every gasp, every arch of my back, every shiver; I never had to tell him what I wanted; he already knew. And God, the way he looked at me right before he lost himself in pleasure. That intense, burning gaze that sent shivers down my spine.

My fingers trembled as I ran them over the card again. It had been six months since he left, six long months of trying to fill a void that no one else could. I had been with other men since then, but none of them came close. Their touches felt empty; their kisses lacked the depth and passion Kelvin had spoiled me with. They didn’t know how to handle me the way he did, how to push me right to the edge and pull me back to do it all over again.

I sighed, rolling onto my back and staring at the ceiling. Why did he leave? He never gave me a reason, never offered an explanation. There is no closure, no goodbye, just silence. And no matter how much I tried to move on, a part of me still belonged to him.

I closed my eyes, letting the memories wash over me. The nights spent wrapped in his arms, the way he’d trail kisses down my spine in the morning, the way he’d pull me onto his lap, his hands exploring, claiming—the way he made me feel seen, desired, cherished. More than the pleasure, more than the way he made my body come alive, it was the connection that haunted me. The feeling of truly being understood and wanted not just for my body but for everything I was.

My fingers traced the hem of my nightshirt absentmindedly, my skin heating at the memory of him. But just as quickly as the pleasure built, the ache of his absence took over. I exhaled sharply, forcing myself to push the thoughts away.

And then, just as I was about to pull myself from the haze of nostalgia, my phone vibrated on the nightstand. The sound sliced through the quiet, pulling me back to the present.

I reached for it, my pulse skittering as I read the name on the screen. Kelvin.

For a moment, I couldn’t breathe. My thumb hovered over the screen, my heart pounding against my ribs. I swallowed hard before opening the message.

I haven’t stopped thinking about you. My breath caught in my throat. I reread the words, my mind racing, my body betraying me as heat pooled low in my stomach. I wanted to be angry, I wanted to ignore the message, but the truth was, I hadn’t stopped thinking about him either.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

Megalopolis

There’snothing quite like Megalopolis, both for better and for worse.

A grand vision of a future world not too far removed from our own, Francis Ford Coppola’s sci-fi drama is ambitious, sprawling and oftentimes nonsensical, a big swing that is mostly admirable because of the bigness of its swing, even if it largely whiffs on its target.

What that target is isn’t always clear, and the pathway getting there is often befuddling. Yet the grandiosity of Coppola’s spectacle is admirable, and there’s real passion bleeding through his filmmaking.

After largely scaling back the last three decades — while he was still making studio films in the latter half of the 1990s, he hasn’t approached anything of this scope since Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1992 — Coppola returns to big-time moviemaking with this singular epic that defies categorisation, and it punctuates the Godfather saga and Apocalypse Now director’s career with both an exclamation point and a question mark. (Megalopolis could justifiably be stylised as Megalopolis!?)

Armed with a self-funded budget of $125 Million, the 85-year-old writer-producer-director-genius sets his story in New Rome, a version of New York that closely parallels ancient Rome. What that mostly means is everybody has bad haircuts, including Cesar Catilina (Adam Driver), an architect who is the creator of a new, highly touted indestructible material, and who also has the ability to stop time at will.

Cesar is carrying on romantically with Julia Cicero (Nathalie Emmanuel), the daughter of New Rome’s mayor Franklyn Cicero (Giancarlo Esposito), who just happens to be Cesar’s arch nemesis. But he’s also romantically linked to scheming TV reporter Wow Platinum (Aubrey Plaza), whose name, Wow Platinum, bears repeating, just in case you think Megalopolis might be grounded in anything resembling reality. (The good news: M. Night Shyamalan, who in Old gave a rapper character the stage name Mid-Sized Sedan, is no longer on the hook for creating the decade’s most ludicrously named on-screen role.)

Shia LaBeouf is on board as the evil Clodio Pulcher (wow, the names roll off the tongue in this one), Cesar’s cousin, who is always hanging around the fray trying to weasel himself into power and whose eyebrows are configured differently in every scene in which he appears. Jon Voight plays Cesar’s power drunk (or maybe just plain drunk) uncle, Hamilton Crassus III, and Laurence Fishburne plays Cesar’s driver, Fundi Romaine (take a shot every time you

laugh at a name in this one), as well as the narrator of the story, who at one point answers himself in his own voiceover.

Dustin Hoffman, Balthazar Getty, Grace VanderWaal, Talia Shire (Coppola’s sister) and Jason Schwartzmann (Coppola’s nephew) also show up in various roles.

The story revolves around the quest for power within the city and Cesar’s vision of a utopia where every adult human is entitled to their own garden, and everyone can ride magic streams to the city’s closest parks. But it’s also about love, truth, sex scandals, pop starlets, greed, lust, legacy, class systems, parents and children, creation and destruction, art deco architecture, destiny and the entirety of humanity, for starters. As befitting a story that has been rattling around inside Coppola’s head for decades, it touches on (or blatantly points toward) the assassination of Julius Caesar, the rise of Adolf Hitler, Elvis Presley, 9/11, Donald Trump, January 6th and Beethoven’s 7th Symphony, to name a few of the film’s historical and cultural touchpoints.

These ideas and concepts are explored by actors who largely seem to be on their own islands, which occasionally slam into each other. Driver plays a big thinker philosophical type, but he also has a head-nodding line about going to the “cluuuub” that qualifies as the most bizarre line reading of his career.

Emmanuel plays the innocent waif, while LaBeouf slinks around edges of the screen so connivingly he might as well be wearing a devil costume from Halloween USA. Plaza, for her part, is the film’s most campy presence (saying a lot here), and at one point, she goes full vixen in a scene whose madcap energy Megalopolis could have used more of.

Characters are forever speaking in big quotes from acclaimed works; Driver’s Cesar at one point quotes most of Hamlet’s “to be or not to be” speech, and there’s also lines cribbed from Marcus Aurelius and Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

The somewhat hazy, gauzy look of the film relies heavily on green screens that aren’t even trying to look real; the scenes inside the Roman Colosseum-ized Madison Square Garden recall the cheap-looking arena scenes from Idiocracy

And yet there’s a texture to everything that reads as wholly sincere like it was made with care and by someone who believes in the good in people and the power of filmmaking to bring out the good in people. There’s nothing cynical about Megalopolis: It’s earnest to a fault and is all in on whatever it is or what it’s trying to be.

Maybe what exactly that thing is remains locked inside Coppola’s head. But there’s nary a dull frame to be found, and going along with him for the journey makes for a wild ride which exists outside traditional notions of what we consider, at a base level, “good” and “bad.” Megalopolis is an experience more than it’s a movie, and as an experience, it’s unforgettable. Wow Platinum, indeed.

Rating : ????/10

This movie is easily the single most confounding thing I have had to review on this page. It is at most a 3/10 now, in 20 years it could be regarded as a 9/10.