A festive romance: ‘Christmas in Lagos’ brings holiday cheer to Prime Video
A new holiday classic from Jade Osiberu
Prime Video is set to release “Christmas in Lagos” this December, a holiday romantic comedy directed by the multi-talented Jade Osiberu. This film features a star-studded cast, including the Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr, and promises to be a delightful addition to the holiday movie lineup.
A unique take on holiday romance
Inspired by the interwoven stories of “Love Actually”, “Christmas in Lagos” presents a series of interconnected tales set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos’ “Detty December” festivities. The film follows four friends as they navigate the complexities of friendship, love, and loss during the holiday season.
Meet the cast
The ensemble cast includes Teniola A. Aladese, Shalom C. Obiago, Rayxia Ojo, and Shaffy Bello. The film also features appearances from some of the biggest names in Afrobeats, including Ayra Starr and singer-songwriter Adekunle Gold.
The magic of Detty December
Osiberu describes the film as a celebration of the “magical” Nigerian phenomenon of Detty December, a month-long street party and celebration that transforms Lagos into a hub of activity. “There’s a lot of family togetherness during Christmas, but a majority of it is around a culture of having these big parties and concerts and weddings,” she explains. “Every single day there’s a crazy event.”
The plot thickens
The film follows recently heartbroken Fiyin (Aladese), who believes her best friend Elo (Obiago) is the love of her life. Complications arise when Elo returns from New York, ready to propose to his secret girlfriend, Yagazie (Angel Anosike). Meanwhile, 59-year-old Gbemi (Bello) is torn between her boyfriend of two years (Wale Ojo) and an old flame from high school (Richard Mofe Damijo).
Then there’s Ivie (Rayxia Ojo), who returns to Lagos from London with one goal: to have the most unforgettable Detty December. However, she unexpectedly falls in love with Ajani (Ladipo).
The rhythm of Afrobeats
The film pulses to the rhythms of Nigerian Afrobeats, a crucial element for capturing the essence of Detty December. “If you’re making a Detty December movie and you don’t put Afrobeats in it, it just feels very inauthentic,” Osiberu notes. The soundtrack features songs from legendary musician King Sunny Ade, Afrobeats icons Flavour and D’banj, and more.
Securing top talent
Osiberu knew she had to go big to bring the energy of Lagos to the screen. “Christmas films set in Lagos have been made before, but nobody has captured the essence of what it means to come to Lagos in December,” she says. This meant securing top-shelf talent like Ayra Starr, who represents the spirit of being young, female, and fearless. Other artists making cameos in the film include rising stars Wurld and Liya.
A groundbreaking deal
“Christmas in Lagos” is the only title to be released under Osiberu’s three-year output deal with Prime Video, marking a significant chapter in the streaming giant’s foray into the African market. Despite the abrupt end to this partnership, Osiberu remains optimistic about the future of Africa’s screen industries.
The future of African cinema
Osiberu believes that Africa is an exciting market with immense potential. ”I think that the African diaspora is a massive market as well, which Afrobeats has already proven,” she says. She is hopeful that as the industry grows, more distributors and platforms will reconsider their presence in the territory.
The resilience of Nollywood
Osiberu is also confident in the resilience of Nigeria’s homegrown Nollywood industry. “Over the years, it’s had all sorts of seasons, but one thing Nollywood hasn’t done is stop growing,” she says. “Nollywood will survive whatever happens. We will always find a way to make our films and keep growing.”
Watch the trailer
For a sneak peek at “Christmas in Lagos”, check out the trailer.
This holiday season, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Lagos with “Christmas in Lagos” on Prime Video. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, Afrobeats, or simply looking for a new holiday classic, this film promises to deliver a festive experience like no other.