THEWILL DOWNTOWN, DECEMBER 15, 2024 by THEWILL NEWSPAPER

ADETSHINA

EDITOR’S NOTE

Chidimma Adetshina made history as the first African and Nigerian to finish as the first runner-up at the Miss Universe pageant. This happened at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant, which took place on November 17, 2024. Despite the many challenges she faced, Adetshina won over the hearts of millions of people worldwide, making her an inspiration to many.

Chidimma Adetshina’s interest in beauty pageantry began when she was a little girl watching a show she loved, Toddlers & Tiaras. When South African model and beauty queen, Demi-Leigh Tebow won Miss Universe, it gave Adetshina the confidence she needed to be involved in beauty pageants. She admits she didn’t know what being a beauty queen entailed; it was only until later that she fully understood what it meant to be a beauty queen, which made her want to take it a step further in beauty pageantry.

Read Chidimma Adetshina’s story on pages 8 through 10.

FASHION

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

6 Fashion Tips For The Festive Season

Q is for Quirks

Chidimma Adetshina Beauty • Grace • Resilience

BON APPÉTIT BEAUTY

11 Top Destinations For A White Christmas DÉCOR Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

With Christmas around the corner, we thought it right to bring you some fashion tips for the festive season. Whether you are going to a Christmas party or a simple family outing, we have the right tip for you on pages 4 and 5.

Our beauty page also considers the Christmas season and discusses ways to prep your skin for it. Scroll to page 12 for this enlightening read.

I have heard and read many excellent reviews about the movie Wicked, and I can’t help but wonder if it is as good as the theatre production. Either way, I’m prepared to see it. Have you seen it yet? Do tell me your thoughts.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writer: Johnson Chukwueke

Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

6 Ways to Prep Your Skin For The Festive Season

Christmas Decor Inspirations From Paris

Festive Treats Healthy Snack Options for Children

Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity - Contributing Editor

Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer

Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer

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.

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

- Contributing Writer

Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

6 FASHION TIPS FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Now that the holidays have arrived, it’s time to dress up! Being fashionable doesn’t have to be difficult, whether you’re attending a special event, end-of-year parties, or family get-togethers. The season demands a blend of style, cosiness, and a hint of glitz. Here are six fashion suggestions to keep you looking your best if you’re wondering how to pull off gorgeous looks effortlessly.

2 ADD A TOUCH OF SPARKLE EMBRACE FESTIVE COLOURS

Glitz and elegance are the hallmarks of the holiday season, so don’t be scared to shine! Add metallics, glittering accessories, or sequins to your ensemble. A metallic skirt, a sequined dress, or even a glittering clutch can instantly make you look more put together. If you’re more of a minimalist, go for metallic heels or sparkling earrings. Balance is key—the goal is to shine without going overboard.

Red, green, gold, silver, and white are colours that scream celebration. Use these hues in your attire to keep up with the fashion of the season. This can be achieved with a green jumpsuit, a red dress with gold accessories, or even a traditional white outfit with a splash of colour. For males, a striking green blazer or red tie can provide a festive touch without being overt.

Since festive events frequently last for several hours, it is important to balance comfort and style. Select breathable materials that feel nice on the skin, such as velvet, satin, or cotton, which appear luxurious. Get stylish shoes that won’t hurt your feet after dancing all night. Loafers, block heels, and embellished flats are excellent choices for balancing comfort and style.

3. 5. 6. 4. PRIORITISE COMFORT LAYER SMARTLY DON’T FORGET THE POWER OF SHOES ACCESSORISE TO MAKE A STATEMENT

Choose your accessories carefully because they may make or ruin an ensemble. Bold bracelets, large earrings, or statement necklaces can give your ensemble that extra boost. Additionally, now is the time to experiment with festive headwear, such as headbands or berets with delicate holiday decorations. For men, trendy watches, cufflinks, and pocket squares can all improve a man’s outfit.

The weather might be erratic during the holiday season. In addition to keeping you warm, layering your clothes gives your appearance depth. Consider chic blazers, shawls, or distinctive coats that can add flair to an otherwise basic ensemble. Women look great with an embroidered cardigan or a faux fur coat. To stand out, men can choose overcoats with striking patterns or fitted jackets.

Your shoes are a major component in finishing off your ensemble. Classic loafers, glittery flats, or glitzy heels are perfect for festive occasions. Bold shoes can make a statement when paired with a modest ensemble. However, to counterbalance your already dramatic ensemble, select shoes that are neutral or subtle.

CONCLUSION

Since the holiday season is a time to celebrate, your attire should reflect that. You will look your best in every event by incorporating sparkle, bright hues, and well-chosen accessories while prioritising comfort. Wear every ensemble with a smile and enjoy the season in style because, as they say, confidence is your best accessory.

SALLY CHIWUZIE

@unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

Q IS FOR QUIRKS

KingS boarded her flight from Houston to London, her heart still warm from a week spent with friendships that felt like family.

Her podcast recorder carried echoes of laughter from her lifelong girlfriends. During a spa evening at the Post Oak Hotel, King S noted, ‘You are all like extended siblings.’

The realisation deepened on the plane: these women didn’t just know her — they celebrated her quirks, making her feel truly at home.

King S’s quirk was a fascination with keepsakes — cup coasters, hotel keys, fridge magnets—pieces of moments she loved to preserve. Her friends teased her but often slipped extras into her bag.

She was drawn to others with quirks, such as Maria’s love for eccentric scents, Layla’s thermos of chai, and WaWa’s matching outfits. Together, their quirks created a vibrant mosaic.

‘Quirks are like fingerprints,’ King S thought to herself as the plane began its descent. ‘They’re the little things that make us uniquely ourselves.’ She smiled, recalling a quote she had recently come across: ‘The things that make me different are the things that make me, me.’ A.A. Milne had captured it perfectly in Winnie the Pooh. And King S couldn’t agree more.

Quirks were #Unshakable truths, threads weaving individuality into relationships. Their collective oddities formed a space for unapologetic authenticity.

As her plane touched down, King S reflected on her love for quirky people— their unique energy made life brighter.

It was one thing for her childhood

friends to really know her, but another angle was the fact that she chose her everyday circle of friends according to quirks that aligned with her spirit. On this basis, King S resolved to carry the lessons of the week forward. She would continue to surround herself with people who not only accepted her quirks but celebrated them. These were the people who gave her the courage to embrace her own individuality — to be unshakable in her authenticity. And she, in turn, would cherish their quirks, recognising them as the very essence

of what made each person irreplaceable.

Back home, King S added her latest fridge magnet to her collection—a tiny token of joy, laughter, and connection.

Before heading to bed, she opened her journal and jotted down a final thought for the day:

“Be #unshakable and stay quirky. The world is brighter because of it.”

And with that, she closed her journal, ready to embrace whatever peculiar, wonderful moments life had in store for her next.

Tell me about your quirks.

‘See’ you next week.

CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA

BEAUTY • GRACE • RESILIENCE

From humble beginnings, Nigerian beauty pageantry has developed into a powerful platform for exhibiting beauty, talent, and culture. Numerous Nigerian queens have inspired millions with their grace and tenacity, including Agbani Darego, the first Black African Miss World, and others who have represented the nation internationally. These extraordinary people have broken barriers, impacted their communities, and changed how the world views African beauty. With Chidimma Vanessa Onwe Adetshina at the forefront of this evolution, their legacy has continued to influence upcoming generations of beauty queens. With her poise and tenacity, Chidimma Adetshina has won over millions of hearts around the world. At the 73rd Miss Universe pageant in Mexico, she represented Nigeria and became the first African and Nigerian woman to finish as first runnerup. She was also crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, making her the highest-ranked African competitor in the pageant’s history. Although Chidimma’s path has not been without difficulties, from dealing with prejudice to conquering personal hardships, she has come out stronger and is now an inspiration to people everywhere. Her experience serves as a testament to the value of representation in the beauty pageant industry and the strength of perseverance.

In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, Chidimma Adetshina discusses her historic Miss Universe journey, what it means to represent Nigeria on a global stage, and the challenges she faced along the way.

What inspired you to pursue a career in modelling and beauty pageants?

What inspired me to get involved in beauty pageants was a show called Toddlers & Tiaras. That’s a show that I grew up watching even though I’ve also done beauty pageants even way before then because I always felt like I wanted to be a queen, and when Demi Leigh won Miss Universe, that was also when I got even more inspired to be involved in beauty pageants and at that time I did not

dress, and all the glitz and glamour, and only later I got to understand the whole package of what it means to be a beauty queen, and that is what even made me have that desire to want to take it further in pageantry.

How did you prepare for Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, and what was the most challenging part of the competition?

Preparing for Miss Universe Nigeria was very hard because I just moved from South Africa to Nigeria and seeing the whole different dynamics in the two pageant spaces was so different. So, I struggled a lot because of the time management that I had. I had very limited time to make sure that I got everything ready because in the past pageant that I came from, we had sponsorship and most of the things that we used throughout the whole pageant were sponsored. So, coming to Nigeria, I had to make sure that all the things that I needed for preparation were solely reliable on me. So, that was something that I struggled with at first, but I adapted well, and I had a good support structure.

crowning moment with Miss Denmark is one that has been enshrined in the sands of time.

How did you handle the threats and discrimination that led to your withdrawal from Miss Universe South Africa?

It was overwhelming but in the cruel face of adversity, I chose love over hate and courage above despair.

What message do you have for young women facing similar adversities?

There’s great power in knowing your worth and staying true to your cause because, at the end of the day, that’s all that matters. Never get discouraged in pursuing what sets your soul on fire.

“I always felt like I wanted to be a queen, and when Demi Leigh won Miss Universe, that was also when I got even more inspired to be involved in beauty pageants and at that time I did not understand what it really means to be a beauty queen.”

Can you share some of your earliest experiences as a model and how they shaped your career?

I believe all the 127 girls in the competition had different stories and experiences. My story was just as peculiar as that of the rest of the girls and it got really interesting because acceptance and inclusion are what a lot of people could relate to globally. What sets your journey apart from other beauty queens?

It still feels surreal and it is quite a humbling feat for me. I’m honoured and blessed to have gotten that far, and it’s something I’ll treasure all my life.

How did it feel to make history as the first Nigerian and African woman to become the first runner-up at the 73rd Miss Universe pageant since Agbani Darego’s top 10 finish in 2001?

Incredible I must say. What makes it even more interesting is the amount of love and support I got from Nigerians on this journey.

How did it feel to represent Nigeria on such a global stage and make history? The support I got from Nigerians and Africans as a whole and that burning desire to push for something as huge as the SUEI Initiative.

“There are so many misconceptions about beauty pageants. The most common one is physical attraction. People often focus on how they look on the outside, but a true beauty queen is not just about physical appearance.”

understand what it really means to be a beauty queen. I just thought it was about the crown, being a queen, the walk, the

What do you think contributed most to your success in the Miss Universe 2024 pageant?

I had an amazing time bonding with the girls. It was such an outstanding lineup of stunning and empowered women who are changing the world with their little stories and advocacies. I related with most of the girls and the

What are some misconceptions about the beauty pageant industry that you would like to address?

There are so many misconceptions about beauty pageants. The most common one is physical attraction. People often focus on how they look on the outside, but a true beauty queen is not just about physical appearance. It’s about who she is on the inside, her intelligence, her character, her talent, and the many characteristics that she has within herself and that she can give back.

How do you think the pageant industries can be more inclusive and supportive of contestants?

I feel like every year, we are becoming more inclusive in the pageant space, and it’s a beautiful thing to see because, most times, it’s really difficult to sort of change the narrative, and I feel like the little steps that we take can be a greater impact in the future. So, I feel like we are already doing better by creating spaces for so many people. I mean this year the Miss Universe opened up their spaces to girls who are mothers, girls who are married, we had a girl who was deaf, we had a girl who had vitiligo, we had plus size models, we had so many different characters that we’ve never had or never seen and it’s a beautiful thing to see that we are opening up the spaces and breaking those stereotypes of what a typical beauty queen looks like or what a typical beauty queen is.

Now that you’ve achieved such a remarkable milestone, what’s next for you?

What’s up for me next is just to focus on myself and just focus on becoming a better version of myself. There are so many things that I would like to work on and one of

them is also my education but I feel like every single step that I take I’ll share with people as I have already made such a powerful impact and allowed a lot of people into my space and I will be keeping people up with what is next with me.

Do you plan to use your platform to advocate for any causes or initiatives?

I will use my platform to advocate for unity, and it is such an honour for me to do this not only with my platform but alongside the platform of the Miss Universe because I am Miss Africa and Oceania. I get to use both platforms to spread the word of unity, to spread the word of love, and to show how powerful we can become when we all unite as one. I am really grateful for this title, and I cannot wait to see what else comes out of it.

If you could advise your younger self, what would it be, and why?

The advice that I would give my younger self is not to be afraid to fail because you are stronger than you think.

Top Destinations For

A WHITE CHRISTMAS

Aspen, Colorado, USA

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

It’s that time of year again—the festive season approaches, and as always, many dream of a spectacular white Christmas, complete with snow-covered landscapes, twinkling lights, and festive cheer.

If you’re looking to escape to a winter wonderland this holiday season, here are the top five destinations that promise a magical white Christmas experience.

Aspen is a classic winter destination known for its stunning mountain scenery and worldclass skiing. A snowy haven in the rocky mountains, this charming town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors get to hit the slopes at four major ski areas, enjoy snowboarding, or take a scenic sleigh ride through the snow-laden forests. The town is adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a cosy atmosphere for holiday shopping and après-ski relaxation.

Quebec City, Canada

A magical destination worth mentioning is the city of Quebec in Canada. It is an exciting destination that feels like stepping into a storybook during the winter months. The concrete streets of Old Quebec are lined with festive lights and decorations, creating a charming ambience. The German-inspired Christmas markets offer a delightful array of local crafts, delicious treats, and warm beverages. Visitors can explore the historic architecture, including the iconic Château Frontenac, which looks stunning against a backdrop of snow.

Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Lapland, is famously known as the official hometown of Santa Claus. This enchanting destination is a winter paradise, where visitors can meet Santa, explore Santa Claus Village, and enjoy a variety of winter activities. From reindeer sleigh rides to husky safaris, Rovaniemi offers a unique experience for families and couples alike. The stunning northern lights often illuminate the night sky, adding to the magic of the season.

Switzerland

St. Moritz is synonymous with luxury and winter sports, making it a premier destination for a white Christmas. This upscale resort town is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery and offers some of the best skiing in the world. Visitors can indulge in gourmet dining, high-end shopping, and a variety of winter activities, including ice skating on the frozen lake and attending the annual Christmas market.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a fairy-tale city that becomes even more enchanting during the winter months. The historic architecture, including the iconic Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, is beautifully illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere. The Christmas markets in the Old Town Square are a highlight, offering traditional crafts, delicious Czech pastries, and mulled wine. Visitors can stroll through the snow-covered streets, take in the stunning views, and enjoy the festive decorations throughout the city.

Whatever your preference, these top five destinations offer unforgettable experiences for a white Christmas. Each location provides a unique blend of winter activities, festive traditions, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring that your holiday season is filled with joy and wonder. So pack your bags, grab your warmest coat, and get ready to create lasting memories in these winter wonderland.

Rovaniemi, Finland

St. Moritz,

1. START WITH CLEANSING

In a skincare routine, you need to start with cleansing. It’s necessary to cleanse your skin both in the morning and night, which helps keep your skin fresh and supple. Once you are done cleansing your face, you can move on with other beauty routines.

6 Ways to

Prep Your Skin

For The Festive Season

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

With

Christmas around the corner, there is no better time to prepare your skin for the festive season than now. Prepping your skin should not be seen as complicated or overwhelming, nor does it have to burn a hole in your pocket. The secret to the whole process is to use the right product and be consistent with it. This article will share some simple yet effective tips to prep your skin for the festive season.

4. TARGET SPECIFIC CONCERNS WITH TREATMENTS

While prepping your skin for the festive season, you can use that as a chance to address your skin concerns, such as fine lines, pigmentation, or blemishes. Consider visiting a dermatologist for professional treatment or focusing on using specific beauty products made solely for your skin concerns to ensure your skin is in peak condition for the holidays.

5. PROTECT YOUR SKIN

It is very important to protect your skin from UV rays and other external elements that could negatively affect it. To keep your skin complexion safe and healthy, use a broad-spectrum SPF daily. For convenience, you can also use moisturisers or foundation with built-in SPF.

6.DON’T JOKE WITH YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP 2. EXFOLIATION IS KEY

You can never go wrong with exfoliation, but don’t overdo it. Exfoliating your skin once or twice a week with a mild exfoliant will help remove dead skin cells, revealing a fresh complexion. There are many options available when it comes to exfoliation. You can settle for an exfoliator at home or visit your dermatologist for more in-depth skin rejuvenation.

3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT MOISTURISER

Moisturisers help keep the skin hydrated. Look for moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and aloe vera. This will help your skin look bright, plump, and smooth.

CONCLUSION

While prepping for your skin, do not overlook the importance of sleep for your skin. When you sleep, your skin repairs itself, producing new collagen and regenerating cells. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to wake up with a fresh and glowing complexion. Remember always to use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent wrinkles.

By following these tips, you can rest assured that your skin is ready to radiate and glow throughout the festive period. Remember that consistency is key to getting better results. Get into the prepping process now, and your skin will thank you!

CHRISTMAS DECOR Inspirations From Paris

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

The most wonderful time of the year approaches, and as expected, many of us plan to transform our homes into festive havens. Paris, a city known for its elegance and style, has several inspirations for Christmas décor. This year, why not infuse your home with the enchanting appeal of Parisian décor.

This week in our home décor guide, we will highlight a few commonly adapted Christmas interior décor styling patterns inspired by the city of light, tailored for different rooms in your home.

LIVING ROOM

The living room is usually the heart of holiday gatherings, making it the perfect place to showcase Parisian flair with chic elegance. You will need a neutral colour palette, which includes shades of cream, gold, and soft pastels. For your sofa, go for a beautifully draped faux fur throw pillow and add plush velvet cushions in beautiful tones like emerald green or deep burgundy. Complete the space with a chic coffee table centrepiece, maybe a mix of candles in different heights.

DINING ROOM

Who wouldn’t want to create a festive yet sophisticated atmosphere that boosts the festive atmosphere in the dining room?

That can be made possible at your home, too. All you have to do is get a tablecloth in a rich fabric, such as velvet. Have it deep red or gold, and layer your table settings with fine china, crystal glassware, and polished silverware for that luxury feel.

To further increase the ambience, hang beautiful fairy lights above the dining table, creating a magical glow that will impress your guests.

KITCHEN

To make your kitchen feel cosy and inviting, a little Parisian magic is needed. This can be achieved by infusing natural materials such as wooden cutting boards, woven baskets, and ceramic dishware to create a cosy atmosphere. For a delightful touch, hang a festive wreath made of fresh herbs or dried citrus on the kitchen door.

If you feel like being extra, add a pop of colour with seasonal kitchen towels and oven mitts, and display a bowl of fresh fruits, like apples, on the counter.

BEDROOM

Feel free to transform your bedroom into a serene holiday retreat with soft, calming décor. A colour palette that encourages tranquility and serenity in the atmosphere of your bedroom is highly advised. Palettes such as soft whites, pale blues, and silvers are great options to consider. Next, layer your bedding with plush throws and decorative pillows in luxurious fabrics like silk or cashmere.

A cosy reading nook with a plush chair and a warm blanket can also provide a perfect spot for relaxation during the busy holiday season.

ENTRYWAY

Your entryway sets the tone for your home, so make it inviting with Parisian charm by hanging a stylish wreath on the door, perhaps made of fresh greenery and adorned with ribbons in soft colours.

Embrace the spirit of the season with a touch of Parisian flair, and make your home a beautiful sanctuary for holiday celebrations this period.

Festive Treats

Healthy Snack Options for Children

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Transform ordinary fruit into a festive masterpiece with fruit Christmas trees. It’s quite easy: Just start with a coneshaped piece of cardboard or a small foam cone as the base. Use a variety of fruits, such as grapes, small slices of bananas, apples, and berries, to create the tree. Simply cut the fruits into bite-sized pieces and stick them onto the cone using toothpicks. For added flair, you can use a star-shaped cookie cutter to create a star from pineapple or mango to place on top.

Yoghurt parfaits are delicious and nutritious snacks that can be easily customised for the holiday season. Start with a base of low-fat yoghurt and layer it with granola and seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds, cranberries, or sliced bananas. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to make it festive.

Make healthy eating fun with veggie reindeer. Use a variety of colourful vegetables to create adorable reindeer faces. Start with a round slice of cucumber or a small bell pepper as the face. Use cherry tomatoes for the nose and cut sticks of celery or pretzel rods for the antlers.

The long-awaited season of joy, celebration, and delicious food is finally upon us. With all the festive treats, getting children to enjoy healthy snacks can be difficult, as they prefer the sweet stuff. This Christmas, why not twist it up a little and add some nutritious options that are both festive and fun?

These nut butter and banana snowmen are a delightful and healthy treat that kids will love to assemble. Start by slicing a banana into three equal pieces to form the body of the snowman. Use a toothpick to stack the pieces on top of each other. Spread a layer of almond or peanut butter between the slices for added flavour and nutrition. For decoration, use mini chocolate chips for the eyes and buttons and a small piece of carrot for the nose. This snack is rich in healthy fats, protein, and potassium, making it a great energy booster.

No Christmas is complete without cookies, and you can make them healthier with whole wheat flour. Prepare a batch of gingerbread cookies using whole wheat flour, honey or maple syrup, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut them into festive shapes using cookie cutters, and let your children decorate them with dried fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of dark chocolate. These cookies are delicious and provide fibre and essential nutrients, making them a guilt-free holiday treat.

Let’s make healthy snacking a part of the festive fun this Christmas. These five healthy snack options will ensure your children enjoy delicious treats while fueling their bodies with wholesome ingredients.

Yoghurt Parfaits With A Holiday Twist

Nut Butter And Banana Snowmen

Whole Wheat Gingerbread Cookies

Fruit Christmas Trees

Veggie Reindeer

Different Strokes DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

My life has been nothing short of a surprise, even to me. I can still vividly remember the shock on my mother’s face when she found out from my siblings that I was dating a man old enough to be my father. I felt terrible for her because I knew that was the last thing she was expecting me to do, but who cares?

“Everybody will be alright in the end,” I said to myself. It’s strange how I don’t remember my childhood— no special memories, no childhood friends, and not even a faint understanding of what childlike excitement is all about. My childhood was dull and traumatic, and as if that wasn’t enough, growing up in a violent household made it worse. My father was a drunkard who would beat my mother, lock her, my siblings, and me inside the house, and disappear for days. Most nights, my siblings and I cried ourselves to sleep. On some nights, we slept on empty stomachs. The sleepless nights, poor nutrition, and constant stress affected me physically and emotionally. The whole desire for an older man started when I was 16. Then, my mum already found the courage to leave my dad, so we had to move into another apartment. That was where I met Femi. We lived on the same street, and he was 27 years old. We met when I was in dire need of love and attention. Yeah, he said all the right things to a child who was already traumatised, and that was how the relationship started. We started having sex three months into our relationship. Initially, I hesitated, but he knew all the right words to say, so I

gave in. I leaned into him, wanting him to kiss me, and he did. Before I knew what was happening, I started unbuckling his belt. I wanted to see all of him. Of course, I knew what a male organ looked like from what I saw in my biology textbooks, but I hadn’t seen one in real life, so I was curious about what Femi’s own looked like.

So I unbuckled his trousers, and when I pulled it down, I saw the biggest thing I had ever seen in my life. At first, I was scared to touch it, let alone know what to do with it. It looked so hard and fat, and it leaned slightly to the right. Femi was indeed a grown man. He was looking at me, smiling.

After a while of staring, I knew it was time to have the whole of him. I quickly pulled down my panties, my skirt, and my top. He then moved his hands towards my breast, kneading

my nipples with his thumb while I enjoyed the feeling of his organ pressed against my thigh. He laid me down on the bed, then got on top of me, and our eyes were fixed on each other, feeling each other’s body. Looking at him, I didn’t feel any shame; instead, I felt power, and I think he felt it too. I had my legs wrapped around him, and we held onto each other tight as he thrust into me, making me feel all of him.

He tore through my hymen, and I didn’t feel as much pain, just like he promised me. It felt like a new beginning. He thrust into me over and over, making me receive his love. And I took it. I took it with a smile. I took it with everything in me.

Even though that evening was a memorable one for me, I cried because I had the feeling that I had made a mistake, but it only lasted for that day. We had sex countless times after that, and it was such a sweet experience. It was when my mum discovered that the truth about Femi came out.

He wasn’t 27—he was 40. He wasn’t single—he had a wife and kids in his hometown. And he wasn’t new to this— there were rumours of him preying on young girls in every neighbourhood he’d lived in. It felt like he had ripped me apart and left me empty.

Now that I’m older, I wish I could say I got smarter, but I can’t because I didn’t. I dated several older men, and the cycle continued. Maybe someday I’ll break the cycle. Perhaps I won’t. But for now, I’m not ready to let go of what makes me feel alive.

BY BOLUWATIFE

ADESINA

Acolourful, entertaining movie musical that feels exhaustingly dragged out for reasons tied explicitly to profit and greed, Wicked is a mostly boisterous, often effervescent ride that nonetheless deserves a first-ballot induction into the «Does This Need to Be This Long?» Hall of Fame.

This adaptation of the 2003 musical, loosely adapted from a 1995 novel and based on characters from 1939’s The Wizard of Oz — itself adapted from a 1900 novel — features an unshakably confident, powerful performance from Cynthia Erivo in the lead role, and a winning turn from actress turned pop star Ariana Grande as her sidekick. And it has real whiz-bang visual flair thanks to director Jon M. Chu.

But Wicked runs an excruciating two hours and 41 minutes, which is 12 minutes longer than Pulp Fiction and 15 minutes longer than Goodfellas, two flicks that have nothing to do with Wicked but which both managed to tell full sagas in less time. And this is somehow merely part one of the Wicked story; the second half is due out in theatres a year from now.

That gives us five hours, at least, of a two and a half hour stage show. And deep dives are fine, but this broadly told story of acceptance of others and fear manufactured by the powerful — a timely message, to be sure — doesn’t warrant or justify a series-length treatment.

Thankfully Erivo and Grande go a long way in bringing it to life.

Broadway veteran Erivo plays Elphaba Thropp, the brilliant but misunderstood and picked on young woman who would go on to become the Wicked Witch of the West, and Grande — a stage kid dynamo since her early days at Nickelodeon — plays the bubbly Galinda Upland, who is on her way to becoming Glinda, the Good Witch, the people’s witch of choice.

The pair meets at Shiz University, where they room together, much to the chagrin

of the pampered Galinda. They’re polar opposites — Galinda is a wellmeaning but airheaded do-gooder, while Elphaba is quiet, reserved and chooses to keep to herself — but they come together when Galinda chooses to give Elphaba a makeover and make her “Popular,” the first song where Wicked truly pops.

Elphaba is spotted by Shiz headmistress Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), who sees her abilities and capacity for magic and takes her under her wing. Eventually, Elphaba and Galinda are off to Oz to meet the great and powerful wizard, played by Jeff Goldblum, whose stuttering, Goldblumian charm masks his nefarious intent.

That’s the long and the short of it, although there is plenty of worldbuilding in the script by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox. The rounding up and capturing of talking animals by militarised forces and a strong theme of power’s misappropriation act as political allegories both past and present, giving the story an added resonance and timeliness.

The visual sensibilities of Chu, a veteran of the Step Up series who graduated to Crazy Rich Asians and 2021’s In The Heights, give Wicked a feeling of sparkling whoosh, though his heavy use of special effects takes away from the dazzling production design’s practical elements.

But Wicked’s most valuable asset is undoubtedly Erivo, whose sturdy presence anchors the film. She’s a symbol of resilience and selfassurance, especially when the camera fixes on her in close-ups, and her mighty vocals power the wellknown songs, especially the climactic Defying Gravity

Grande is an excellent foil to Erivo, and she earns her share of laughs as she imbues the Galinda character with a sense of fizzy enchantment. But dividing Wicked up into two parts feels like a corporate decision rather than an artistic one, a way to milk the property for all its worth at a time when studios need sure things to count on at the box office and intellectual property is squeezed until there’s nothing left of it but an empty husk. Turns out there’s always some great and powerful entity behind the curtain pulling the levers, and we’re all subject to their whims. Hmm, that sounds like a movie I saw recently...

Rating:7.5/10

It’s superb in moments, but ultimately just too long

Political thrillers and crime dramas are making a strong comeback, with Prime Video’s Cross and Netflix’s The Diplomat as standouts. The Madness can be added to that list but with a twist. Instead of an entrenched politician or detective, it’s a CNN news anchor at the centre of the winding crime web.

With a stellar cast led by Colman Domingo, The Madness was created and written by Stephen Belber. The series is also written by Katie Swain and VJ Boyd, with Boyd serving as the series showrunner. The kinetic series is directed by Clement Virgo, with each of the seven episodes named after a different character in the series. At its core, The Madness is a boisterous take on political conspiracy, but put simply; it’s one big game of gaslighting.

In The Madness, consultant-turned-media pundit Muncie Daniels (Colman Domingo) must fight for his innocence and his life after he stumbles upon a murder deep in the Poconos woods. Having retreated to a cabin in the wilderness for a much-needed capital that will hopefully help him write the next great American novel, nothing goes as planned. Instead of sitting in the woods, finding inspiration and writing, Muncie finds a dismembered body.

Scared that he’ll be next when the men who did the deed round the corner, Muncie does what he can to stay alive. But the body in the woods isn’t just anyone. Instead, he is the only witness to the murder of a well-known white supremacist, which leaves Muncie as the prime suspect. With his career and life on the line, Muncie Daniels is framed for the murder, which leads him to be chased by both police and the white supremacist’s racist cabal of followers.

Across each of the seven episodes, Domingo brings another layer to Muncie as a father, a husband, and a fugitive. The chase to clear his name is just one aspect. While Muncie pushes to clear his name, he begins to pull at threads that start to unravel a global conspiracy as the clock ticks away on his life.

The ensemble cast that makes up Muncie’s family is utterly fantastic. The Daniels’ children, Demetrius (Thaddeus J. Mixson) and Kallie (Gabrielle Graham), each help their father in ways that expose Muncie’s faults and strengths and how his career has ultimately pushed him to release the ideals of his past.

The way that Muncie argues with his children and how they are constantly there for him speaks more largely about the importance of family bonds in an unexpected way for the genre. Additionally, Elena (Marsha Stephanie Blake), Muncie’s wife, is a force of good in his life and his reason for continually moving forward even as the world tries to convince him that he’s wrong.

Muncie’s relationship with Elena is thoughtful, intimate, and filled with love.

Their mutual respect and dedication to each other are the foundation of one of the best TV relationships I’ve seen on screen this year. Elena and Muncie aren’t perfect. They aren’t happy all the time, but they are there for each other. While Muncie is terrified for himself, it’s his family that keeps him going, and when they come into the line of fire, something different takes hold of him.

The Madness, as a title, is best explained by how the series showcases disinformation, the vehicle for the deep danger that Muncie finds himself in. While Muncie does everything right, he can’t seem to outrun the trail of lies behind him. The core of the series is the way that disinformation is used to try and convince Muncie that he is crazy at best and homicidal at worst.

Muncie has to push past the lies, rely on allies that he genuinely hates -like the wife of the white supremacist (Tamsin Topolski) who started all of this – and somehow take on white supremacist propaganda and law enforcement and keep his family safe, too.

The critique of disinformation isn’t necessarily spot-on or the best. But Colman Domingo’s performance as Muncie makes any quibble that I have with the series’ throughline execution

fall to the wayside. As usual, Domingo brings charisma to his role.

Still, he captures vulnerability and fear as well. Muncie is a dynamic character that never stops developing. While a political thriller and global conspiracy is fun enough, Domingo’s ability always captures Muncie’s humanity, which makes The Madness simply good television.

Propelled by Colman Domingo, The Madness is a series that makes me want to see more of the actors on television. Having discovered Domingo’s work through Fear The Walking Dead, seeing him back on the small screen and playing a character vastly different than he does on that show is excellent. The Madness is good TV in the way that old network series are. It’s because of its lead.