‘A Tribe Called Judah’, Funke Akindele’s new movie, premieres amidst glitters, glamour in Lagos

*To hit cinema December 15

*Sky big enough for everyone to fly – Actress

By BASHIR ADEFAKA

In an atmosphere charged with glitters, glamour and excitement, popular actress, Funke Akindele made an electrifying entrance into the red carpet event where her exploits were on display as she premiered her latest movie, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ on Sunday December 10, 2023.

Clad in a gorgeous golden Tinkerbell costume, Akindele walked into the arena at the Filmhouse Cinema IMAX, Lekki Phase 1 area of Lagos State, with a difference and message that the new movie is set to hit the screen on December 15, 2023.

The colourful night filled with familiar faces on the cinema screens, all gorgeously dressed with displays of relatable and appealing costumes on the red carpet, which was also graced by several celebrities cut across all sectors of the entertainment industry, was one best described as a fusion of scents, love, chemistry, class, elegance, tradition, fashion, culture, and music.

The star-studded premiere themed ‘Costume Party Extravaganza’ lived up to expectations while Funke Akindele’s appearance resembling a fairly princess will be the talk of the town for a long time

Funke Akindele, celebrated for her exceptional talent and versatility in the Nigerian entertainment industry, has consistently delivered memorable performances that resonate with audiences far and wide. With A Tribe Called Judah, the actress is set to add another feather to her cap, promising an engaging cinematic experience for fans and movie enthusiasts alike.

The movie, directed by Adeoluwa Owu, popularly known as Captain Degzy, explores the story of a family of boys who decide to rob a small mall with the help of their mother. However, on getting there, they are faced with armed robbers.

The movie cast, includes, Funke Akindele, Boma Akpore, Ebele Okaro-Onyiuke, Etinosa Idemudia, Fathia Balogun, Jide Kene Achufusi, Nse Ikpe Etim, Olayode Juliana, Olumide Oworu, Paschaline Alex, Timini Egbuson, Tobi Makinde, Uzor Arukwe, Yvonne Jegede, and Genovevah Umeh, among others.

The premiere was well attended by popular actors and actresses, and several celebrities in the entertainment industry including, Cute Abiola, Broda Shaggi, Sydney Stalker, Officer Woo, Woli-Agba, Odunlade Adekola, Denrele Edun, Muyiwa Ademola, Ini Edo, Juliana Olayode aka Toyo Baby, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ruth Kadiri, among others.

Speaking to Journalists about the movie, Funke Akindele said, “The story is so dear to my heart. It has a part of my late mum in it, and it represents the struggles faced by many single parents and mothers in society.

“There’s often a stigmatisation surrounding women who have children out of wedlock. They get labelled with unprintable names with the assumption that their children will amount to nothing.

“The film also sheds some focus on rebellious children. When they start out being rebellious, their families tend to give up on them. However, it is important to look for something special in your child; help them nurture their talents, and they will become great with it.”

She said the story revolves around Jedidah Judah, a woman who has five sons from five different men, all belonging to different tribes.

“This fact alone is enough to shock people and lead them to pass judgment. This movie will resonate with people from all walks of life, be it the high-class, middle-class, low-class, or the grassroots. I made sure that everybody was represented in it. It aims to tell our stories, the African way, by showcasing our reality and struggles.”

Speaking on how she ensured she selected the right cast for the movie, she said, “I love to be realistic and objective when casting. Sentiments do not influence my decisions; you have to be talented to work with me, and I admire disciplined actors.

“I had the pleasure of working with an exceptional cast for this movie: Nse Ikpe Etim, Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe and so many others. I set out looking for actors that would give me what I wanted, and I got the best.”

Although Funke refused to disclose her best moment or scene in the movie, even after admitting excitedly to having several favourite scenes, she therefore noted that she faces no pressure, to meet public expectations based on the high standards she had set with her previous movies, such as ‘Omo Ghetto’, ‘Battle on Buka Street’ etc.

According to her, “The sky is big enough for everyone to fly. Just keep doing what is right and promoting your content. Your work will speak for you, and if it’s good, it will sell. I’m just going to keep doing my thing and doing it well.

“To be honest, the pressure does come sometimes, but I self-reflect and remind myself to do my part and leave the rest for God. After all, some people came before me, paving the way for my journey.”