THEWILL DOWNTOWN April 23, 2023

TOBI BAKRE

On Becoming Obalola For Gangs of Lagos

Growing up, we had a couple of paintings in our home. One that stood out was The Mona Lisa (not the original, obviously). It was my dad’s favourite and a pretty good version. It still sits hanging in our family home. I, however, never got comfortable with the painting. My dad, on the other hand, loved it. Well, obviously, he bought it. While it is listed as one of the greatest works of art, I found it disturbing. It seemed she was staring at me with a strange smile from any angle of the living room. And no matter how much my dad tried to explain the painting and its beauty and concept, it still made me unconformable. That was over thirty years ago. I have slowly come to appreciate The Mona Lisa and gotten over the way she seemed to look at me as a child, so I urge you to read pages fourteen through fifteen as we list the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) paintings.

The fashion pages suggest that we may have someone from the Afrobeats genre of music score a ticket (invite) to the Met Gala this year, analyzing those likely to get an invite to the ultimate Fashion event and the designers they’d wear. It makes for an exciting read.

Our personalities change as we grow older, and with each phase comes different things; the way we dress, the house we live in and even the cars we drive—interestingly, it is said that you can tell a person’s personality from the vehicle they drive. Although some factors such as flooding may also play in part in deciding your choice of cars in this clime, it’s more accurate than not that we know your personality based on your car. From SUVs to hatchbacks, sports cars and sedans, they all tell us exactly who you were at that time in your life when you bought the car. Would you agree?

Until next week, enjoy your read.

AUSTYN OGANNAH PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Editor-at-Large: Chalya Shagaya

Writer: Kehindé Fagbule

Graphic Design: Oludemilade Aremu

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘ SunZA’

Dorcas Akintoye

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.

Onwumere Churchill Ikenna

- Contributing Writer

Onwumere Churchill Ikenna is a writer, poet, digital and social media content strategist. An Afro gen z clan member of kenga media. He is a movie critic who was amongst those who birthed the first movie brand; Feeem house brand. A full fledged member of the writers space Africa, Nigeria district and was part of the editing team of the second anthology issue by the writers space Nigeria.

He has written so many articles, stories and e books. An avid reader and a freelancer. You can check out his literary editing page @coidencreatives on Instagram and twitter.

His personal socials for both Instagram and twitter are : @ikennachurchill

@kunleremiofficial article! He is a true professional, a pleasure to work and a true gentleman! Thanks for featuring him and allowing others to hear directly from him

@polop_das

Nice

Afrobeats Tickets To TheMet Gala?

Most Likely For The First Time

BY ONWUMERE IKENNA CHURCHILL

The“Met Gala” is an annual fundraising gala held by Vogue to benefit the Metropolitan Museum of Arts and Costume Institute in New York City. It is one of the most significant fashion events in the world, and the invitations are sought after by celebrities and highly prominent people from different spheres, from actors to models, artists, footballers, sportsmen and women, businessmen and women, etc.

The Met Gala is an old but growing event that has pushed fashion to a higher sense, and it is done every year. Last year was a shutdown, and

many celebrities turned up. We witnessed so many stars in different outfits by big fashion brands. The best costume was by Blake Lively. She was a force to reckon with and came prepared like Katniss Everdeen did in the Hunger Games

This year’s Met Gala will hold on May 1st(it is customary to have it every first Monday in May), and most likely, Afrobeats A-list of celebrities and artists will be in the limelight. It will be the most iconic moment to witness in history. The theme of this year’s Met Gala is: “Karl Lagerfeld: A Line of Beauty.” This theme

Denola Grey

honours Karl Lagerfeld, a regular attendee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute. It will be a great time to showcase Afrobeats to the world. We are rooted in our African culture, and thanks to Tems for showing that at the academy award night.

The Met Gala is one of the most prominent events in the fashion industry, and an invitation would represent a significant milestone for the Afrobeats movement and its cultural impact. If Afrobeats stars were to be invited to the Met Gala, it would be an exciting and significant moment for the genre and its global recognition. It would also showcase the genre’s diverse range of styles, sounds, and aesthetics to a broader audience, potentially leading to more opportunities for Afrobeats artists and creatives in the future.

We are keen on wishing this happens. Africa is enriched with talented fashion icons and designers who will move mountains in different styles. We have fashion royalties such as Toyin Lawani of Tiannah Empire, Mai Atafo, Ugo Monye, Orange culture, etc. The Lagos fashion week showed us the outstanding talents in

our fashion culture. Moving to other parts of Africa as well: Thebe Magugu (South Africa), Christie Brown (Ghana), Imane Ayissi (Cameroon), etc.

We mustn’t forget the others who make everything come together quite nicely, from the hair stylist, makeup artist, nails technician and the jewellery plugs— all rooted in African culture.

It would be nice to see our people walk that red carpet on May 1st. It will be iconic, and the trend tables will be on fire. Afrobeats to the world!

Tems

Bimbo Ademoye

Autism Awareness Part 4

BY IFUEKO KARIBI-WHYTE

ADULTHOOD

Whathappens to Autistic children when they grow up? They become Autistic Adults

Once your child approaches adulthood, you will notice a gradual reduction of resources and available therapies. Finding specialist schools, private teachers, and therapists will become difficult because most professionals in the neurodivergence community are trained to work with children and not adults. This greatly affects over 30% of autistic people who will require support throughout their lifetime. This predicament presents itself worldwide. It almost suggests that by adulthood, your child’s autism should have disappeared.

Your autistic child in higher education will do well with an assigned guidance counsellor that understands their idiosyncrasies and can navigate them through their academic pursuits. Here in Nigeria, I await the first tertiary institution for neurodivergent persons to be established.

ESSENTIAL PREPARATION FOR ADULTHOOD

Just like neurotypical people, every autistic person craves their independence. Their independence must be on par with their physical and mental capabilities. Be deliberate about teaching self-care and independence.

Is your Autistic Adult ‘legally independent’?

If by the age of 16, you know that your child cannot be termed legally independent, depending upon the specifics of their capacity, you may need to apply to the Courts to be able to continue managing their welfare (i.e. Healthcare, education) and finances. In the United Kingdom, you would seek a lasting Power of Attorney or Welfare and, or Property & Financial Deputyship from the Court of Protection, a special court for adults with reduced capacity. Consider it a form of protection for young adults that cannot be held to the same legal standard and responsibility as a typical adult. Seek legal advice.

Succession Planning

If your child, though an adult, is not a legally independent adult, it’s best to start to think about who and how your child will be cared for when you are too old to do the same or when you are dead.

General Wellness

Autistic adults often face social isolation and struggle to form meaningful relationships. Anxiety and depression often come in tandem, so it is important to be consistently deliberate about your child’s wellbeing.

Inclusion, socialisation, and physical exercise regime are crucial. Create a tribe for your

child.

Autistics Make Great Employees

Autistic adults possess unique skills and traits that facilitate aptitude and employability in certain industries. Autistic traits such as; attention to detail, excellent memory, strong problem-solving skills, persistence, ability to focus, integrity, dependability and dedication are just a few. Nevertheless, many may struggle with work due to difficulties with social communication, sensory processing and excessive functioning. Overall, autistic adults can bring unique skills and perspectives to the workplace, bringing valuable contributions to society through the industry. Employers can help by providing clear instructions, accommodations for sensory sensitivities, opportunities for communication, and continuous feedback. Coaching and mentorship at work are often very beneficial.

Autistic And Proud, by Miss Chiji Abili, Age 21

Recently, I came across an essay I wrote concerning autism some years ago. It was about how I learned to accept and love the fact that I’m autistic. My journey of autism acceptance was long and arduous but also a necessity. I grew up exposed to the stigma the autism spectrum disorder has faced from its conception. It was treated as an absolute joke at best; a disease at worst. In addition, stories of “people

with autism” finding success in life were treated as a victory over autism— their success was in spite of their condition. In every respect, autism was only perceived as a derailing aspect of one’s identity. Even organisations dedicated to researching autism spectrum disorder often portrayed autism in a negative light, as something to be isolated and destroyed as one might do with a fungus. Seeing autism depicted in such a way caused me a great deal of stress: I relentlessly pursued academic success but did so out of fear that being autistic doomed me to failure as if the world were owed my intellect merely for being autistic. I was desperate to defeat autism in the same way the people in those “inspirational” stories did. Success stories were often intellectual, high-functioning, or the butt of the joke – see Mr. Bean. It only became clear to me recently that autistic people were only worthy of praise if of any capitalistic use to broader society. It was through finding autism-friendly organisations and speaking with other autistic people that I finally found self-acceptance. Organisations like the Autism Self-Advocacy Network had a different, more positive view of autism. I was able to hear fellow autistic people talk about their experiences without shame or indignation. They were proud of who they were and were truly happy. After hearing these stories, I concluded that it was the stigma surrounding autism, rather than autism itself, that caused me such grief.

With that, I started to accept and love myself. Life as an autistic person is not without its struggles, but it’s also nothing to be ashamed of. Autism is not a destroyer of dreams. It’s not a disease in need of eradication. It’s a different and unique perception of the world. It’s something to be happy about. It’s something to accept and be proud of.

EXPERT TIPS FOR FINDING LOVE IN THE DIGITAL AGE

DO’S & DON’TS

of ONLINE DATING

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Overthe years, the popularity of online dating has increased such that millions of people worldwide have been using these platforms to find true love and companionship. Online dating comes with many benefits, including the ability to connect with people who share similar interests and values and the ability to increase your access to potential partners; despite all these benefits, online dating has its drawback, such as the potential for deception or fraud.

You need to exercise caution at the same time and use common sense while using online dating platforms. Exercising caution includes doing thorough research on the people you meet online, being careful of anyone who asks for personal or financial information, meeting in public places for the first time, and so on. The list goes on and on. You should know that when it comes to online dating, you must trust your instincts and gut feeling. In online dating, there are some dos and don’ts you should keep in mind to ensure that your online dating experience is positive.

DO’S DON’TS

1. BE HONEST ABOUT WHO YOU ARE

In your online dating profile, you mwust be truthful about every detail you include there. Never try to be someone you are not or post pictures that do not accurately represent you.

2. USE CURRENT PHOTOS

You need to use your recent picture for your profile, to show what you currently look like. Putting an old picture of yourself on your profile can mislead anyone or even create false expectations.

1. LIE or MISINTERPRET YOURSELF

Honesty is the key to any relationship, including online dating. Do not lie about your age, height, or other important details.

2. SHARE TOO MUCH PERSONAL INFORMATION

QUICKLY

When sharing your personal information online, you need to be very careful. Do not share your address, phone number, or other sensitive information about you with anyone unless you’ve gotten to know them better.

4. GNORE RED FLAGS

3. BE SPECIFIC ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR

If you are in search of a serious relationship, make it clear in your profile, and if it is the other way around, be upfront about that as well.

4. BE RESPECTFUL

Even if you are not interested in dating someone who comes for you, you must treat them respectfully and kindly. Don’t be rude to them because you aren’t interested in them; remember that a real person is on the other end of the conversation.

5. TAKE YOUR TIME

Take time getting to know someone before agreeing to meet them physically. Try not to rush into anything.

3. DON’T BASE YOUR CHOICES ON ATTRACTIVE PROFILE PHOTOS

Many people are guilty of choosing the most attractive profiles when it comes to online dating. Even though it is one of the criteria for choosing a partner online, it is also important to consider the person’s personality, traits, and interests, most especially when you are looking for something serious.

If someone’s behaviour or language raises red flags, you must pay attention to your instincts and proceed cautiously. Take every little detail seriously, and never overlook any.

5. GET TOO ATTACHED EASILY

An online connection can be fleeting, which is why you need to take things slowly and not get emotionally invested too soon.

TOBI BAKRE

On Becoming Obalola for Gangs of Lagos

CREATIVE DIRECTOR: GODSON UKAEGBU PHOTOGRAPHER: SEYE

The star of the hottest movie in Nollywood right now is Tobi Bakre, whose remarkable journey has taken him from the world of finance to the pinnacle of Nigeria’s entertainment industry. In this exclusive interview with DOWNTOWN’s Bolu Adesina, we delve into his captivating portrayal of the character Obalola in the highly acclaimed film, Gangs of Lagos

As Tobi takes us behind the scenes of the production, he reveals the arduous process of character development and the challenges of portraying a character with raw, unfiltered emotions. We gain insight into the meticulous preparation required for his roles, which involves vetting his own persona and imbuing his performances with the essence of the character’s backstory, life, and experiences.

With his wealth of experience in both reality TV and acting, Tobi draws comparisons between the two and shares his unique approach to bringing his characters to life. He also sheds light on the ways in which Gangs of Lagos. is contributing to the evolution of Nollywood by merging old and new elements and tells us what he hopes audiences will take away from the film.

With his star on the rise, Tobi reminisces on his journey from investment banking to the world of entertainment, sharing his experiences of making a name for himself and landing his first major acting role. We also get his take on the most poignant issue addressed in Gangs of Lagos and gain a deeper understanding of the message behind the film.

So, join us as we explore the world of Tobi Bakre, whose passion and talent have taken him from the boardroom to the red carpet.

Getting the role in such a big production as Gangs of Lagos was a significant milestone for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Gangs of Lagos is a project of many firsts for me, being my first time playing a lead character and having the best cast lineup possible. I had to stay true to the character’s background and story, embodying the character day in and day out

Can you tell us about your experience portraying Obalola in Gangs of Lagos?

Thecharacter development for Obalola started immediately. I delved into the script. I started building the character in my head. I also was able to go deeper into the creation process when I took lessons with the producer Lala Akindoju and also shared notes with the Director Jade Osiberu. This character was who he was because of his background, and life experiences. Everything he did meant something or came from an exact place. I could really relate to this character so much that we became one all through the time of shooting. The problem then became unbecoming the character after we finished the shoot. I really enjoyed being Oba, and I hope I get to play that character again in the future.

What was the most challenging part of playing Obalola in Gangs of Lagos?

The most challenging part of playing Obalola in Gangs of Lagos was when we really had to see the vulnerable parts of the character. In my personal life I have had to build walls to be able to withstand whatever life brings my way. Becoming Oba allowed me to become a really strong and powerful character, but part of that power was also being open to raw unfiltered emotions. I had to tear my personal walls to tell the character’s reality perfectly.

living the life of someone else and telling their stories.

Gangs of Lagos is a project that aims to merge old and new Nollywood. How do you see this project contributing to the evolution of Nollywood as a whole, and what do you hope audiences will take away from it? Every part of this story is relatable to every Nigerian, home and abroad. It’s a story where everyone can find a bit of themselves or someone they know in all of the characters. The cast is also very dynamic, you have pioneers in the industry such as Chioma Chukwuka and Ola Rotimi - who is a powerhouse in the theatre space and then there’s me - Banker turned Reality TV Star turned No 1. Action Movie Star Out of Africa. Gangs of Lagos is a Nigerian story being told by Nigerians. The struggles we all face in the country, our hopes, our dreams. This project, though shot in 2021, will be very relevant and not lose its touch even if it was released 10 or 20 years down the line. It takes Nollywood to a whole new level in terms of having a beautiful story and merging that with superb acting, a strong cast, great picture or technical quality and great marketing.

How did you get your start in the Nollywood film industry?

Every part of this story is relatable to every Nigerian, home and abroad. It’s a story where everyone can find a bit of themselves or someone they know in all of the characters. The cast is also very dynamic, you have pioneers in the industry such as Chioma Chukwuka and Ola Rotimi - who is a powerhouse in the theatre space and then there’s me - Banker turned Reality TV Star turned No 1. Action Movie Star Out of Africa

You have acted in various Nollywood films before, what sets Gangs of Lagos apart from the other projects you have worked on, and what was your favourite part of being involved in this project?

Unlike other characters I have had to play in my movie career, Gangs of Lagos at the time was my first time playing a lead character. This was a big project and I was being trusted by Jade and my fellow experienced cast members to deliver. It was a good challenge and I loved every bit of it. No part stands out as my most favourite. I enjoyed the uniqueness of every single day on set. No days were the same. Everyday comes with its own different beautiful twist both on and off the camera.

As someone who has experience in both reality TV and acting, how do you approach preparing for a role versus being yourself on camera?

I am very comfortable being myself on camera, I hear action and I am on GO mode immediately. But contrary to playing a character, I have to vet parts of me that fit well with the character and also bring on a lot of other things that express the background, habits, life and story of the character. Prior to this project, I will leverage parts of me to deliver on every character, but Gangs of Lagos required me to go in depth into

My journey to the Nollywood film industry started after I left my job as an investment banker. Despite having a successful career in the banking sector, I realised that I wanted to explore other passions, starting with photography. My stint in the Big Brother Naija reality show helped to boost my profile and made me more visible in the entertainment industry. After the show, I received several offers from producers who were interested in working with me. I was able to land a role in the Jade Osiberu production, Sugar Rush, which was my first major acting role and have been cast in two other Jade Osiberu productions - Gangs of Lagos and Brotherhood, where I play the lead character. My performance in these films have so far been well received by fans, topped with being nominated for Best Lead Actor at the upcoming AMVCA awards, I can say it’s going well so far. Grateful and excited for what the future holds.

Gangs of Lagos is a film that covers a number of issues plaguing Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. What was the most poignant issue the film took a look at in your opinion?

Through the character of Obalola, we see the struggles of a young man trying to define his own path, in a system that is stacked against him. He is forced to make difficult choices that ultimately lead him down a dangerous path. The film does not shy away from the harsh realities of poverty, but it also shows the humanity and resilience of the characters who are struggling to survive. It is a powerful and poignant portrayal of family and friendship.

What was it like getting the role for such a big production as Gangs of Lagos? How did that process play out

Getting the role in such a big production as Gangs of Lagos was a significant milestone for me, and I am grateful for the opportunity. Gangs of Lagos is a project of many firsts for me, being my first time playing a lead character and having the best cast lineup possible. I had to stay true to the character’s background and story, embodying the character day in and day out. The project was very physically and emotionally tasking.

Working with Jade Osiberu must have been a learning experience. How did collaborating with her improve your craft?

Working with Jade Osiberu was an amazing experience. She is a perfectionist in so many ways and I learned a lot from her direction and guidance. She has a way of bringing out the best in her actors and helping them to fully embody their characters. I also learned a lot from the other actors on set, who were some of the best in the industry.

What advice would you give to young actors who are just starting in the industry?

One of the biggest pieces of advice I would give is to be patient and persistent. This industry is tough and you might face a lot of rejection and disappointment along the way. But if you’re passionate about acting, don’t give up. Keep working on your craft, take classes, audition for as many roles as possible, and build relationships with people in the industry. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. You never know what opportunities might come your way if you’re open to new experiences.

What’s your take on the current state of Nollywood, and where do you see it heading in the future?

I believe the current state of Nollywood is quite promising, and we have come a long way from where we started. However, there is still a lot of work to be done, particularly in the areas of funding and distribution. With the advent of streaming platforms like Prime Video, we have seen a growing interest in Nollywood content, and I believe this will continue in the future. We have the talent and the stories, and with the right investment and support, the sky’s the limit for Nollywood.

What have been your biggest challenges in your career thus far and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I have faced was leaving my job as an investment banker to pursue a career in acting. While I enjoyed working in the corporate world and had amazing colleagues, after four years without any promotions and with the economic climate in the country becoming less interesting, I decided to take a risk and pursue other life adventures. Another challenge I faced was finding my own path and journey in the acting industry after my stint on Big Brother. While being on the show helped me get initial opportunities, I’ve had to work hard to establish myself as a serious actor and not just a reality TV star.

What are your goals for your acting career in the future?

I want to continue taking on challenging roles that allow me to stretch my artistic abilities and push me out of my comfort zone. I am particularly interested in roles that allow me to explore different aspects of Nigerian culture and highlight stories that are not often told. I would also want to continue collaborating with talented and passionate filmmakers like Jadesola Osiberu and Kemi Akindoju, who share my vision and dedication to creating authentic and impactful stories that resonate with audiences around the world. Overall, I desire to use my platform and talent to contribute to the growth and development of the Nigerian film industry,

My journey to the Nollywood film industry started after I left my job as an investment banker. Despite having a successful career in the banking sector, I realised that I wanted to explore other passions, starting with photography. My stint in the Big Brother Naija reality show helped to boost my profile and made me more visible in the entertainment industry

while also inspiring and entertaining audiences both at home and abroad.

What are your future plans for your acting career, and are there any upcoming projects you can tell us about?

I’m excited about the opportunities that are coming my way. Gangs of Lagos was a game-changer for me, and I learned a lot from that experience. I’m open to exploring more challenging roles that will allow me to showcase my versatility as an actor. As for upcoming projects, I’m always looking for projects that align with my values and beliefs, and that will make a positive impact on society. So, watch this space!”

I decided to take a risk and pursue other life adventures.Another challenge I faced was finding my own path and journey in the acting industry after my stint on Big Brother. While being on the show helped me get initial opportunities, I’ve had to work hard to establish myself as a serious actor and not just a reality TV star

HOW A FACIAL ROLLER Can Enhance Your Skincare Routine

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Forthose who are versatile about the beauty industry and trends, you would have likely come across this low-tech yet highly effective tool - the face roller. Apart from the fact that they can be helpful for a relaxing facial massage, they can also be added to your daily routine to reduce puffiness, increase blood circulation and, most importantly, drain lymph nodes.

A face roller typically consists of a handle and a roller made of various smoothly polished stones, including jade, rose quartz, metal, and amethyst. These stones, especially jade stone, are naturally cool to the touch and provide instant soothing to tired and inflamed skin. Over the years, facial rollers have been formulated to include sonic vibrations and metal rollers to help sculpt the face and provide longer-lasting cooling power. Adding facial rollers to your daily skincare routine can provide numerous benefits for your skin.

REDUCE PUFFINESS

Face roller helps reduce inflammation and puffiness by promoting lymphatic drainage. Rolling it consistently on your face helps move excess fluid out of the face tissue, resulting in a more defined and contoured appearance.

BRIGHTER SKIN

Facial rollers can be used to brighten your skin at the same time, restore your natural glow. Using a face roller on your face increases blood circulation. Also, it allows free movement of some other essential fluids and oxygenated blood around the face, decreasing dullness and giving you a warmer glow.

ENHANCE PRODUCT ABSORPTION

Using a facial roller after applying your skincare products can help enhance their absorption into the skin. The roller helps massage the products into the skin, allowing them to penetrate more deeply and effectively.

GENTLE MASSAGE

The motion of the face roller can also provide a therapeutic massage for the face, assisting in reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. One important thing to consider when choosing a face roller is the materials it’s made from. Jade and rose quartz are popular choices among people because many believe they have healing properties and help balance the body’s energy. However, face rollers can also be made using materials like stainless steel or plastic.

FACIAL ROLLERS How To Use

The first thing to do is to wash your face with your everyday cleanser and pat dry. Then, apply your facial oil, serum, and moisturiser directly to the face, ensuring you don’t rub it in. Make sure of your face roller to spread the products to all the areas of your face, which includes the cheeks, forehead, nose, temples, under eyes, and so on. Once you are sure you’ve gotten the products in the right places, starting at the neck or jawline, begin making light upward strokes toward the outer edge of your face. To move excess fluid away from your face, it is necessary to roll the tool upward and outward instead of up and down.

Since it is a facial massage, there is no need to apply a lot of pressure; simply roll gently over your face. Continue rolling for as long as you can or until you feel all products have been absorbed into all areas of your face.

Product Review

CLARINS DOUBLE SERUM LIGHT TEXTURE (FACE AND NECK)

The bottle is a petit capsule with two compartments containing a lightweight gel and an emulsion. Upon pumping the bottle, both textures are released—you will need to mix the textures with your finger tips before applying.

This lightweight serum is non-greasy and much lighter than the first formula. So light it is that it gives a barely there feel while sinking deep into the different layers of the skin to work it’s magic.

Upon contact with the skin, it feels super light, and refreshing. Your skin gets to breathe, indicating that it doesn’t clog the pores. After applying the Double serum Light Texture, your skin is visibly smoother, and firmed. However, it took about seven days to notice a somewhat permanent difference on the skin. You will need to apply this product on your face and neck morning and evening for best results.

I think it also smells heavenly!

WHAT IS YOUR CAR-SONALITY?

Here is What Your Automobile Says About Who You Are BY KEHINDÉ

FAGBULE

SUVs are some of the most powerful cars in the world. They are large, take up a lot of parking space, and offer poor mileage. However, SUVs convey power. If you like to drive SUVs, you are self-assured and dominant. You like to be in authority and love to command other people. Your car is another way of showing off your power. SUVs are also more secure and have better road visibility. If you choose it for that reason, it shows that you don’t like unnecessary risks and are concerned about the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

Most people have a dream car. Like our choice of fashion or home decor, the cars we end up with hint at our personality. A family man with a wife and kids is likelier to drive an SUV than a bachelor in his 20s who would rather be found in a sports car. Consumer choice and motivation to buy cars and other goods are driven by two major factors: hedonic considerations and practical considerations. Sports cars and convertibles, for example, are based primarily on hedonic factors: shape, price, speed, handling, and prestige. On the other hand, a minivan or medium-sized crossover is based primarily on practical considerations: gas mileage, safety rating, cargo space, and the number of available seats. Do you prioritise safety or prefer cars that excite you when you hear the engine roar? Do you value social status and seek luxury vehicles like those from BMW or Mercedes-Benz? If you like the great outdoors, a Subaru or Jeep might be parked in your garage. These two factors – hedonic and utilitarian considerations – are always present when we make a big purchase, offering a window into our priorities and personality.

HATCHBACKS

Hatchbacks and smaller cars are among the most common vehicles on the road. Their small size is convenient for parking and slipping through traffic jams, and they offer better mileage. Hatchback drivers consider all the above factors, indicating that they are sensible and practical. If you also prefer a hatchback car over others, it means you don’t care about others’ opinions and are content with your life. You’d rather drive a lowkey yet efficient car than show off an expensive one. The same holds true for your life as well. You spend to buy rather than buying to spend. You are composed, cool-headed, and optimistic. You are also carefree and friendly.

LIFESTYLE SPORTS CAR

Sports cars that speed out of your sight moments after starting symbolise an adrenaline junkie driver. If you have a sports car, you love challenges and risks. You like to live your life to the fullest, as if each day is your last. You are also an extrovert and love meeting new people, attending parties and travelling. You bask in the attention. However, your risk-taking behaviour leaves a bad impression on others. You are considered reckless and even insane by people. But on the contrary, you have natural people skills and are a good leader.

MUSCLE CAR

If you like speed and power but not sleek designs, chances are you drive a muscle car. But unexpectedly, muscle cars are preferred by introverts. If you like muscle cars, chances are you find comfort alone and aren’t a people person. You are reserved and quiet, which sometimes rub people the wrong way. You are perceived as rude, but you are highly supportive and loyal. You also have high levels of creativity.

SEDANS VINTAGE

Sedans are the most sold cars in the world and for a good reason. They are fast, luxurious and spacious. They have a bit of everything and are best suited for professionals. If you like sedans, you are a rational and logical person. You rarely give in to your feelings and remain stoic most of the time. However, in your personal life, especially in relationships, you are caring, kind, and loyal. You are outgoing and extroverted. You also have great leadership and managerial skills, which enable you to succeed quickly in your career.

If you like and drive vintage cars, you are a rare breed. It indicates your compassion and loyalty. You’d rather maintain and drive a 50-year-old car than buy something modern. You probably aren’t too environmentally conscious but are otherwise quite caring and empathetic. You have a passion for the arts, and your go-to hangout place is probably an art gallery or a museum. You are also easy to work with and have an unconventional outlook on life.

GOAT Art THE MONA LISA

AND 5 OF THE WORLD’S GREATEST PAINTINGS

BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE

Thesubjective experience of art, its power to mean different things to different people across cultures and eras, is what makes it an interesting phenomenon. Visual art has remained an integral part of humanity dating back to the beginning of time regardless of the medium. From slates to canvases, the ability of artists to give life to some of our wildest imaginations as human remains undefeated. With billions of artworks to have been painted in time, a few have stood the test of time, maintaining their relevance through generations, some of them worth trillions of Naira. Here are five of the world’s greatest art paintings.

1. MONA LISA

Artist: Leonardo da Vinci

Estimated date: 1503 to 1519

Where to see it: Louvre Museum (Paris)

There is no doubt that the most famous painting in the world depicts a mysterious woman with an enigmatic smile, but that is one of the few things we know for sure about it. Although experts are unsure of the sitter’s identity, she is thought to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of Florence merchant Francesco del Giocondo. The painting represented an innovation in art as the earliest known Italian portrait to focus so closely on the sitter in a half-length portrait according to the Louvre where it was first installed in 1804.

Fun fact: Historians say the Mona Lisa was little known outside art circles before the 20th century. However, in 1911, an ex-Louvre employee pilfered the portrait and hid it for two years. That theft helped cement the painting’s place in pop culture ever since and exposed millions to Renaissance art.

2. GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING

Artist: Johannes Vermeer

Estimated date: 1665

Where to see it: Mauritshuis (The Hague, Netherlands)

Johannes Vermeer’s 1665 study of a young woman is startlingly real and startlingly modern, almost as if it were a photograph. This gets into the debate over whether or not Vermeer employed a pre-photographic device called a camera obscura to create the image. Leaving that aside, the sitter is unknown, though it’s been speculated that she might have been Vermeer’s maid. He portrays her looking over her shoulder, locking her eyes with the viewer as if attempting to establish an intimate connection across the centuries. Technically speaking, Girl isn’t a portrait, but rather an example of the Dutch genre called a tronie—a headshot meant more as still life of facial features than as an attempt to capture a likeness.

Fun fact: While the Mauritshuis underwent a renovation from 2012 to 2014, “Girl With a Pearl Earring” went on tour in the United States, Italy and Japan. It drew huge crowds, further bolstering its status as one of the world’s most famous works of art as people often compare it to the Mona Lisa.

3. THE KISS

Artist: Gustav Klimt

Estimated date: 1907 to 1908 Where to see it: Upper Belvedere Museum (Vienna, Austria) Opulently gilded and extravagantly patterned, The Kiss, Gustav Klimt’s fin-desiècle portrayal of intimacy, is a highpoint of the artist’s Golden Phase between 1899 and 1910 when he often used gold leaf—a technique inspired by a 1903 trip to the Basilica di San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy, where he saw the church’s famed Byzantine mosaics. He depicts his subjects as mythical figures made modern by luxuriant surfaces of up-to-the-moment graphic motifs. The Upper Belvedere says that with The Kiss, Klimt makes a “general allegorical statement about love being at the heart of human existence.” Given its magnetic appeal, it seems people agree.

Fun fact: While The Kiss isn’t for sale, other works by Klimt are bought and sold for huge sums. In 2016, Oprah Winfrey offloaded the 1907 artwork “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer II” for $150 million—for a cool $60 million profit.

4. THE STARRY NIGHT

Artist: Vincent van Gogh

Date: 1889

Where to see it: Museum of Modern Art (New York City)

Van Gogh’s Starry Night is one of the most famous paintings in postimpressionist culture. Unlike most of the Dutch artist’s works, the comparatively abstract painting is the signature example of his innovative and bold use of thick brushstrokes. The Starry Night seems to reflect his turbulent state of mind at the time, as the night sky comes alive with swirls and orbs of frenetically applied brush marks springing from the yin and yang of his personal demons and his awe of nature.

Fun fact: Van Gogh was living in an asylum in Saint-Rémy, France, being treated for mental illness, when he painted The Starry Night. He was inspired by the view from the window of his room.

5. GUERNICA

Artist: Pablo Picasso

Date: 1937

Where to see it: Museo Reina Sofía (Madrid)

Widely regarded as Picasso’s most famous work, Guernica presents the tragedy of war in an effort to draw attention to the aerial bombing of Guernica, a town in the Basque region of Spain, by the Germans during the Spanish Civil War. With a height of 11 feet, the enormous painting is an unflinching examination of the horrors of war, making it an essential part of 20th-century culture and history.

Fun fact: Guernica was moved to the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art in New York during World War II for safekeeping. Picasso requested that the stay be extended until democracy returned to Spain. It finally went back to Madrid in 1981, six years after the death of longtime Spanish dictator General Francisco Franco.

6. CREATION OF ADAM

Artist: Michelangelo

Date: 1508 to 1512

Where to see it: Sistine Chapel (Vatican City) Renowned artist, Michelangelo’s most famous work covers a section of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling—you have to look up to view it. The scene depicts God and His first creation, Adam, with outstretched arms, their fingers nearly touching. In addition to depicting ideal human forms, the fresco is one of the first attempts in the history of art to depict God Himself. It is one of the most replicated images in history.

Fun fact: The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel had been dulled by centuries of exposure to candle smoke, among much else. After a long, extensive cleaning that ended in 1989, people were shocked to see the bright, vibrant colours Michelangelo originally used.

HONOURARY MENTIONS

2. TUTU BY BEN ENWONWU

Printmaker, painter, and sculptor, Bruce Onobrakpeya, engraved his name in art history with this true masterpiece. Perfectly engraved in wood with an immaculate detailing, each part of the board tells a story and a message so divine as you inevitably interpret it in line with the biblical account of the last supper.

Known as the African Mona Lisa, this long lost portrait of the Ife royal Princess Adetutu Ademiluyi, was missing for more than twenty years until it was discovered in a London flat in 2017. The painting, which was eventually sold for a record fee of almost $2m in 2018, is one of three depictions of the princess painted in 1973. It became a symbol of Nigerian reconciliation after the war for Biafran independence painted by perhaps Nigeria’s most renowned contemporary artist, Ben Enwonwu.

1. THE LAST SUPPER BY BRUCE ONOBRAKPEYA

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

Domiitilla: The Reboot

doesn’t shy away from that aspect of things. The girls in the story get put through an emotional wringer, and the movie is much better for it.

WATCH OF THE WEEK

CUNK ON EARTH

Formany “older” generations, the name “Domitilla” will ring a very familiar bell. Anytime I ask about it, faces light up once they remember the film that had the nascent movie-watching public in 1996. Frequently mentioned among Nollywood classics, it was only a matter of time before the recent trend of remaking or rebooting archetypal Nollywood films revived this flick.

Co-produced by Zeb Ejiro Productions , FilmOne Entertainment and Dion Visions, this film is more of a reboot than a sequel, but it does have the same steady hand of Zeb

Ejiro returning to direct. Armed with a nearly brand new cast and free rein on where to take the story, he guides viewers into the sleazy underworld of prostitution in Nigeria.

The film follows a young lady, played by Oyinye Odokoro and her descent into the sordid underbelly of the Lagos prostitution scene. Her slide is gradual, well paced and interspersed with other stories to keep the plot moving smoothly. The cinematography is quite good as well. The MVP of the film, though, are the performance. Elvina Ibru is a clear standout as the menacing, almost treacly Madam V. Her slow drawl, fashion sense and captivating catchphrase (Delicioussssss) definitely was my favourite part of the movie.

The film is a harrowing eye-opener into the sex-work industry in Nigeria, where young women are bought and sold, made to perform demeaning sex acts and eventually killed and harvested for parts. I quite like that the film

What prevents this movie from being a true standout are mostly technical issues. At multiple points in the movie, the soundtrack (I like how the soundtrack was reminiscent of early 2000s Nollywood, with songs detailing the entire plot of the film) was louder than the dialogue, rendering the scene without meaning. The final 30 minutes are quite a mess, both plotwise and technically. The audio began running faster than the actor’s mouths on more than one occasion, completely pulling me out of the film. Plotwise, what had been a fairly gradual slide into debauchery suddenly devolved into an action flick and a rush to snip off any dangling plot threads. The film could’ve left some threads hanging for a potential sequel, but it’s hard to see that being the case now.

Overall, I really wanted to like Domitilla: The Reboot. The film does have a lot of good going for it. Again, Elvina Ibru’s performance is worth the ticket price alone. She’s on a different level from the other cast members, and that’s not an insult to them at all. She was simply sizzling. At the end of the day, I did feel the last 30 minutes didn’t do the rest of the film justice and left a poor taste in my mouth. I’d say go see it just to hear Madam Vee slither out her trademark “Delicioussss”, but not for much more than that.

Thegenius is in its stupidity. By seeming to take everything and nothing too seriously, the mockumentary Cunk on Earth is one of the smartest shows on streaming. You’ll actually learn things! About the world! While laughing!

Created by Charlie Brooker, of Black Mirror fame, Cunk on Earth features actor Diane Morgan playing a documentary host named Philomena Cunk. Over five episodes, the witless Cunk will traverse the history of civilisation, and she’ll impart wisdom about the Greeks inventing democracy and olives, the Crusades and Galileo Galilei.

Like any other earnest TV personality, she stares down the camera, preferably against a sweeping backdrop which showcases the vastness of this planet and addresses the viewer.

“This is our planet, planet Earth. It’s a planet I’m literally on right now. And unless you’re watching this on a long-haul flight or falling off a building, chances are, you are too.”

It’s hard to argue with that point. By commandeering the style of the documentary, Cunk on Earth rattles through a list of the major touchpoints in Western history with a surprising finesse, considering it is ultimately a comedy series. Her hapless curiosity leads her to ask, “Why are pyramids that shape? Is it to stop homeless people sleeping on them?”

Or comparing the fate of Marie Curie to Bruce Banner. “He gets to be a superhero, and he gets his own comic book and movie franchise; Marie Curie just gets killed. He

got to be the Hulk. That’s not fair, is it?

Is it the fault of the patriarchy? Also, what is a patriarchy?”

She’s not just asking the audience. Cunk is asking questions of experts, including professors in science, global politics, Ancient Greek language and literature, history, classics, military history, music and more.

The set-up is the familiar banter of question and answer, except the bemused scholars are being quizzed, “Why don’t bicycles have toilets?”

As brilliantly deadpan as Morgan is as Cunk, it’s these real-life experts who steal the show. According to the filmmakers, none of their responses is scripted – they’re directed to answer as earnestly as possible as if being asked a dumb question by a child.

The show wouldn’t work if the academics weren’t such good sports and talents. Brooker and his team of writers could come up with the best zingers, but if the experts hadn’t turned up to play, it would all fall apart.

So, thank God for smart people because even the intentionally idiotic can be redeemed by the brainy.

Cunk On Earth is streaming now on Netflix.

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