‘Banana Island Ghost’ – The Supernatural Comedy With Lots Of Humour And Heart

In Nigeria, comedy is the sure fire way to guarantee a hit, just ask AY. Movies like 30 Days In Atlanta and even The Wedding Party have proved that comedy, with just a bit of romance, will make Nigerians leave their houses and spend all their money.

So this explains why Biola Alabi, was keen to work with filmmaker, BB Sasore once she read the script for his quirky supernatural romantic comedy, Banana Island Ghost (B.I.G)

Granted, we called the trailer a confusing mess when we watched it a few months ago, but when we attended the premiere last Sunday, most of the things we initially found confusing actually had us laughing out loud (especially the random Indian Ninja).

So let’s talk about them:

Chigul (Chioma Omeruah) is Nigeria’s very own Melissa McCarthy

While some may have underestimated her comedic chops in the past, Chigul’s first major movie role in B.I.G proves she’s got comedic and dramatic skills that most actors can only wish for.

Without giving too much away, Chigul carries the already impressive B.I.G across the finish line with her witty line deliveries and her ability to switch from comedy to drama like a pro. Basically, she’ll have you laughing one minute then teary-eyed the next.

A stellar supporting cast

From her co-lead Patrick Diabuah to Saidi Balogun, as the creepy but sweet Banana Island DPO, each actor reminded us that there is actually a lot of talent in Nigeria, they just need the right script and director. In fact, the villain and ‘Sargent’, played by Ali Nuhu and Akah Nnani, gave the best performances we’ve ever seen from them.

Cinematography, score and visual effects

These three technical aspects are usually the downfall of Nollywood movies, but this is where B.I.Gshines, particularly the cinematography. Even from the confusing trailer, you can tell B.I.G is an incredibly well-shot movie.

The way the colours and tone come together gives the movie a dreamlike feel that works perfectly with the supernatural theme. Hell, Lagos looked so beautiful you couldn’t see the potholes and floating garbage we’re accustomed to.

The soundtrack was the best we’ve ever heard in a Nollywood movie, every song added to the emotions of the accompanying scene beautifully. However, the visual effects while very impressive still faltered in some parts. But not enough to take away from the movie. So a very well done to the team.

BB Sasore: A filmmaker to watch

We really have to say a massive thank you to BB Sasore, the director and writer of B.I.G, for creating a complex, plus-size, female lead character… something Nollywood NEVER does. For once, an unconventional, imperfect character that isn’t trying to be likeable (as most women are forced to be) was given room to shine in the funniest of ways. Now let’s hope he’s allowed to make more movies that go against the norm.

Writing: A mixed bag, like sweet & salty popcorn

While most of the characters are well-written and developed with their intentions pretty clear, the lines of dialogue some of them are made to say are a little ridiculous, even for a slapstick comedy. Case in point, Uche Jombo’s scene as the dying mother (ghost mama) to the male lead. In addition, some scenes and characters didn’t move the narrative forward in any way. We won’t give any spoilers away, but the Chigul singing scene and Damilola Adegbite’s scenes weren’t needed, and this is probably why the trailer was so damn confusing.

Rating

Dami – 7.5/10

Daniel – 7/10

We’ll definitely be watching Banana Island Ghost again and you should too when it hits cinemas on August 4.