"Water And Garri" Movie: What You Need To Know

Water and Garri," the debut movie from Afrobeat superstar Tiwa Savage, has been a subject of much anticipation and scrutiny since its release on May 10, 2024, on Prime Video. Directed by Meji Alabi, the film was expected to be a groundbreaking entry into the world of cinema for Savage, who co-produced the movie through her company, Everything Savage, in collaboration with Unbound Studios. The movie, set against the scenic backdrop of Cape Coast, Ghana, tells the story of Aisha, a young woman returning home from the UK to find that her once-familiar town has drastically changed.

Plot and Themes

The narrative centers around Aisha's return to her homeland, where she is confronted with the stark reality that nothing is as she left it. The movie delves into themes of loss, grief, and the struggle to reconnect with one’s roots after a long absence. Aisha's homecoming is initially motivated by the need to mourn her cousin's death, but as the story progresses, her focus shifts towards rekindling a relationship with an old flame. This shift has sparked some criticism, with viewers feeling that the central theme of grief was not adequately explored or resolved, leading to a disjointed narrative that leaves audiences questioning the film's direction and purpose.

Critical Reception

Despite the high expectations surrounding its release, "Water and Garri" has received mixed to negative reviews. While the film was praised for its stunning cinematography and the beautiful locations it showcased, critics and audiences alike have pointed out several areas where the film could have been improved.

One of the most significant criticisms revolves around the film's character development. Many viewers felt that the characters were not fully fleshed out, leaving them one-dimensional and their motivations unclear. This lack of depth made it challenging for the audience to connect with the characters on an emotional level, which is crucial for a story that deals with themes of loss and grief. For instance, Aisha's cousin's death, which was supposed to be a pivotal point in the film, was only briefly mentioned and then seemingly forgotten, leaving a gap in the narrative that was never adequately addressed.

The film’s direction also came under scrutiny. While Tiwa Savage’s acting was noted for showing promise, especially for a first-time actor, critics felt that the performances could have been more impactful with stronger direction. The chemistry between the actors, particularly in scenes between Savage and her co-star Jemima Osunde, was noted as lacking, which further detracted from the film's emotional resonance.

Visuals and Soundtrack

On a more positive note, "Water and Garri" has been lauded for its visual appeal. The film’s cinematography, set design, and costume choices have been described as impeccable, creating an aesthetically pleasing viewing experience. The choice of Cape Coast, Ghana, as the primary location for the film added a rich cultural texture to the narrative, enhancing the film’s visual storytelling.

The soundtrack, another highlight of the film, has received widespread acclaim. Tiwa Savage, known for her musical prowess, ensured that the music was top-notch, effectively complementing the film's mood and themes. The original soundtrack is a significant achievement, with many praising it as one of the best aspects of the movie.

Conclusion

Overall, "Water and Garri" is a visually stunning film with a captivating soundtrack, but it falls short in its storytelling and character development. The movie serves as a testament to Tiwa Savage's versatility as an artist, though it also highlights the challenges that come with transitioning from music to film. For fans of Tiwa Savage and lovers of African cinema, "Water and Garri" is still worth watching, but with tempered expectations regarding its narrative depth and emotional impact.