THEWILL DOWNTOWN June 02, 2024

TIWA SAVAGE JEMIMA OSUNDE

IN WATER AND GARRI

EDITOR’S NOTE

WPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

hen Tiwa Savage took on her debut role as Aisha for the movie Water & Garri, she knew it would be a challenge, so she worked with an acting coach in London for two weeks.

Much like Savage’s real-life story, it tells the tale of an ambitious fashion designer who leaves home for the U.S. and returns home 10 years later. Tiwa Savage admits the experience was eye-opening, “I didn’t take the opportunity lightly. I worked with an acting coach in London for around two weeks, and that experience was eye-opening.” The movie also starred Jemima Osunde, who played Stephany, Aisha’s cousin. Stephany, as a character, is a bubbly person, and Osunde says she loved the character and wanted to be the one to bring her to life.

I haven’t seen the movie yet but I hear the chemistry between Tiwa Savage and Jemima Osunde is one for the books. Read their interview on pages 8 to 10.

Our Travel page delves into the joy of travelling with friends, amplifying the fun and making for a more memorable trip. Flip to page 7 for this exciting read.

Downtown Confidential highlights some erotic books couples should have on their bookshelf to spice up their relationship. You’ll find that on page 15.

The Beauty page is a treasure trove of beauty hacks that can simplify your routine. These are tips everyone should have up their sleeve. Discover them in 6 Beauty Hacks to Simplify Your Routine on page 12.

Online communities are becoming more popular in this era of technology, so we discuss some rules to guide you in your online community.

Don’t forget to click on the instructions below the QR codes to download the playlist. You’ll love it.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2349088352246

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 Stylish Ways to Wear Mom Jeans

6 Beauty Hacks to Simplify Your Routine

Book

Erotic Literature Recommendations For Couples Adventure Awaits Vacation Ideas with Pals

Tiwa Savage And Jemima Osunde in Water & Garri

Finding Community in The Digital Age

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

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.

6 Stylish Ways to FASHION WEAR MOM JEANS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Over the years, fashion influencers and bloggers have ensured we go gaga over mom jeans. One thing to love about mom jeans is that they make you look gorgeous and comfortable while leaving ample space for your legs. As the name implies, mom jeans were modelled after the pants our mothers used to wear. They are always high-waisted, often medium-washed, slightly off-shaped, and forever lovely. In this article, we will share six stylish ways to wear your mom jeans in the best way possible.

1.

2. GO FOR SWEATERS AND TOPS WITH SOLID COLOURS

BALANCE THE LOOK WITH A FITTED TOP OR BODYSUIT

Bodysuits and fitted tops counterbalance the loose-fitting leg of mom jeans. Mom jeans go well with just about anything, including an oversized hoodie. The warmer months aren’t the only time to wear bodysuits and tight tops. All season long, you can stay warm with a variety of fitting bodysuits, long-sleeved t-shirts, and turtlenecks.

Sweaters with solid colours are more forgiving than ones with bold patterns. To make a sweater look more put together when worn with mom jeans, front-tuck the sweater. This creates a more defined waistline and fitted appearance. Another excellent choice to pair with your mom jeans is a top in a solid hue.

3. WEAR A BLAZER FOR BUSINESS CASUAL

4.

WEAR YOUR JEANS WITH A PRINTED SHIRT AND HAT

Wearing an unbuttoned shirt over your mom jeans can help you look effortlessly stylish and comfy, whether you’re at a festival or visiting a local flea market. Add some bright sunglasses, sneakers, and a small purse to complete the look.

5.

6

ACCESSORISE YOUR MOM JEANS WITH A DAD SNEAKER

Dad sneakers are most appropriate shoes to wear with mom jeans. They make your outfit more comfortable.

ADD EDGE IN A JACKET AND CLOGS

Your blue mom jeans will look more put together when paired with a jacket and matching clogs. A bucket hat and smokey eye makeup will help you stay on theme.

CONCLUSION

Mom jeans come in a versatile range of styles and they have a loose fit. Make sure the mom jeans you choose when you go shopping aren’t too tight around the waist. Mom jeans are really attractive and have a little room, which is one of their best features. You might want to think about going up a size if you notice that they are a touch tight around the waist.

Pair your blue mom jeans with a stylish blazer on a casual Friday at work. Finish the ensemble with loafers.

ADVENTURE AWAITS

Vacation Ideas with Pals

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

WeIf you and your clique are interested in sites and iconic landmarks, then an adventurous time exploring urban areas is an ideal vacation to satisfy your daring urge. There is no shortage of things to see while exploring a new city. New York City, home to landmarks such as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park, remains one of such cities worth exploring and having an urban adventure like no other.

Embarking on a friendship vacation to attend a music festival can be a thrilling experience for music lovers. The excitement of traveling together with the magic music brings to enthusiasts is one experience that will have you yearning for more. Roskilde Music Festival in Denmark is one of the oldest music festivals in Europe, featuring a diverse lineup of local and international acts across various genres.

Who said you can’t take a fun trip and gain more knowledge as you do so? The world offers you lots of destinations to visit and get accustomed to a new custom, tradition, and language. Getting more understanding of the values and norms of a new culture lets you appreciate how diverse the world is. Kyoto, a city in Japan, is an exemplary town in which to begin your quest for cultural knowledge and values.

all take trips for different reasons; it could be for business or pleasure, and in as much as taking these trips alone can be fulfilling, there’s no denying that having your friend group with you can make trips even more memorable. There’s so much you can do, and many places to explore together, so a few of the most popular activities to indulge in will be highlighted in this travel guide. You can choose what type of vacation you and your friends want to experience.

Taking trips to the beach has always been one of the most popular choices for people, and honestly, who could blame them? Having the soothing natural breeze all over you, being surrounded by calming waters, and indulging in fun activities are just what you and your friend group would need for a relaxing time. Spend your days soaking in the sun at a tropical paradise like Kuta Beach, which is located on the southwestern coast of Bali in Indonesia. Enjoy the nightlife scene with beach parties, and thrill your taste buds to exotic cuisines.

An elating adventure of mountain climbing is just the adrenaline-pumping experience your circle of friends needs to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Escape to the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding.

No matter what destination or activities you choose, a friendship group vacation is all about creating cherished memories with your closest friends. So pack your bags, embark on that adventure together, and let good times roll in. Bon voyage.

Beach Retreat

City Exploration

Music Festivals

Cultural Immersion

Daring Mountains

in Water & Garri AND Tiwa Savage Jemima Osunde

Two amazing women, one must-see project. The chemistry of sisterhood between Tiwa Savage and Jemima Osunde in Tiwa’s debut film is a match as classic as the title of the movie itself, Water & Garri. Released on the 10th of May, the movie is available on Prime Video and also features Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and many others. It was inspired by the award-winning singer’s EP, which has the same name and was released in 2021.

The film tells the story of an ambitious fashion designer, Aisha (played by Tiwa Savage), who has been away in the U.S. for 10 years but finally returns to her native home, East Side, after receiving sad news. Stephany (played by Jemima Osunde), Aisha’s cousin, has lost her brother. As the story unfolds, we follow Aisha’s journey as she handles grief, unpleasant memories, and lost romance while familiarising herself with the changes in the now-violent town she once called home.

In this brief interview with Lifestyle Editor and fashion content creator Eki Ogunbor, we speak to both talented ladies to find out what it was like to be on set together and what they hope the audience learns from this movie.

Tiwa Savage

As both the lead actress and a contributor to the film’s music, how did you balance these dual roles, and how did your background as a musician influence your performance? It was definitely a challenge taking on the film’s lead role, being an Executive Producer as well as curating and performing on the film’s soundtrack. There were times that sleep had to take the back burner, but it was totally worth it. I was supported by my incredible team who made the process easier.

What drew you to Water & Garri, and what do you hope audiences will take away from your portrayal of Aisha?

I share a lot of similarities with Aisha. We are both creatives; we both left our homeland to live abroad and eventually returned - although under different circumstances. But we definitely think differently. There are choices Aisha makes that I can’t see myself making.

Can you share any memorable moments or experiences from the filming of Water & Garri that stand out to you?

The stand-out memories whilst filming were the times that we as a crew spent together off camera. We filmed across an intense twoweek period in Cape Coast, Ghana, with not much around, so we would hang out with each other a lot. Having breakfast in the morning with everyone was probably one of my best memories.

As an artist known for your music, how did you approach the vulnerability and emotional depth required for this dramatic role?

I didn’t take the opportunity lightly. I worked with an acting coach in London for around two weeks, and that experience was eye-opening. My coach really helped me tap into a side of myself that I hadn’t explored emotionally and mentally.

What was it like working with Jemima on set?

Jemima was an absolute dream to work with. She made the whole process so much easier for me and was so gracious. She’s a seasoned actor so I got to watch and absorb how she approached her character ‘Stephanie’ and learned so much from her.

How did Jemima bring life to her character? Jemima became Stephanie in every way. She brought her to life so effortlessly.

What’s the funniest thing you learned about Jemima on set?

Omg, Jemima is so hilarious! She was definitely the life of the party. I would simply say that I learned that she is an open, genuine spirit who wants to make everyone around her smile.

Jemima Osunde

What attracted you to the role in Water & Garri, and how did you prepare to portray your character in the film?

I really, really loved the script and my character. When I read the script, I was sold on Stephany. She’s a bubbly, lovely girl, and I wanted to be the one to bring her to life.

How does your experience in previous acting projects compare to your role in Water & Garri, and what challenges did you face in bringing your character to life?

I’ve been really lucky to play a variety of roles. Every new character is a challenge that opens me up to new levels in my abilities as an actor. I’d say every character I’ve played definitely helped me in one way or the other. As an actor, you have to become the character you play and just like anything else, practice makes perfect, or at least better than the last attempt (laughs). Stephany was not too challenging to channel. She’s the typical Nigerian who has faced hard times but chooses to persevere and be happy no matter what.

Can you discuss the dynamic between your character and Tiwa Savage’s

character in the film, and how did you work together to develop your on-screen relationship?

Stephany and Aisha are cousins. More like sisters to be honest. Think of your closest cousin when you were growing up. The one you got up to all the mischief in the world with, spent time and had sleepovers at grandma’s house together, and talked about the future with. That’s Stephany and Aisha. They’re present in each other’s history and hopeful for a better future for one another while trying to navigate their current realities.

“The stand-out memories whilst filming were the times that we as a crew spent together off camera. We filmed across an intense two-week period in Cape Coast, Ghana, with not much around, so we would hang out with each other a lot.”

... Tiwa Savage

What aspects of the storyline or themes of Water & Garri resonated with you personally, and why?

The importance of family and community. Love. I’m a familyoriented person. My mum, my dad,

my siblings, nephews and nieces are my everything! They make my life so beautiful and I cannot imagine doing life without them.

How do you see your role in Water & Garri contributing to the representation of Nigerian cinema on a global stage?

Stephany is a fine girl no doubt but she is very Nigerian. Haha! It showed in her orange tie-dye skirt when we first see her, in her intonation in a few scenes, to even her speaking Yoruba one or two times. She’s a Yoruba girl with swag. She’s a true representation of a modern-day Nigerian woman who’s proud of her culture and loves her home.

“I’d say every character I’ve played definitely helped me in one way or the other. As an actor, you have to become the character you play and just like anything else, practice makes perfect, or at least better than the last attempt”

... Jemima Osunde

FINDING COMMUNITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Nurturing Meaningful Relationships Online

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

In today’s connected society, meaningful connections are not limited to physical spaces. Thanks to the advent of the digital era, you can develop strong relationships with people from all over the world. Here are six tips to help you develop deep connections online and create a welcoming online community.

1.AUTHENTICITY TRUMPS PERFECTION 2.ENGAGE WITH EMPATHY

Online relationships must be sincere, just like in real-world interactions. Share your true self and be sincere. Embrace and appreciate your uniqueness, fragility, and interests. This openness will draw like-minded people who respect you for who you are.

Any relationship must start and end with empathy. Spend some time understanding other people’s viewpoints by listening to them. When communicating online, remember that everyone has feelings and experiences like you.

3.PARTICIPATE ACTIVELY IN COMMUNITIES

Become a member of online forums or communities that share your interests. Take part in discussions, give advice, and share your personal experiences. You can connect with people who share your interests by participating consistently.

MEANINGFUL CONVERSATIONS

Initiate deeper, more meaningful conversations. Ask open-ended questions and show genuine interest in others’ lives. Learn about their dreams, experiences, and stories to build a stronger bond.

Plan online hangouts using chat or video platforms, just like you would in-person meetings. This allows for real-time interactions, making connecting with others and sharing special moments possible.

5.PRACTICE DIGITAL ETIQUETTE

The same respect that you would show in-person conversations should be shown online. Maintain a respectful tone, use good grammar, and abstain from using vulgarity. Do not share personal information without permission to respect the boundaries and privacy of others.

Keep in mind that there are several opportunities to establish sincere interactions online. By being authentically you, exhibiting empathy for others, and actively engaging with them, you can create a healthy online community full of important connections that improve your life in ways you may not have previously imagined.

BEAUTY

Simplify Your Routine 6 Beauty Hacks to

(1) USE HONEY AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO LIP SCRUB

Honey is an all-natural sweetener that has numerous health advantages. Being a humectant, it can draw in and hold onto moisture. Since it can exfoliate and moisturise your lips at the same time, it can be used as a lip scrub. Simply blend some sugar and honey and dab it on your lips. Using a toothbrush or your finger, gently massage your lips, then rinse with water. You’ll have full, smooth, and soft lips that would be perfect for any lipstick.

(2) MIX YOUR FOUNDATION WITH MOISTURISER FOR BOTH COVERAGE AND MOISTURISING BENEFITS

If you’re looking for a little bit of coverage and don’t have any tinted moisturiser or BB cream in hand, simply mix a few drops of your favourite foundation with your preferred moisturiser. This will give the foundation some coverage while still providing your skin with all those hydrating benefits.

OBY DORCAS AKINTOYE

ne good thing about beauty hacks is that they always come in handy on those lazy days or on those days when you are short on time. Apart from that, they help save product and, in most cases, money. In this article, we will show you six beauty hacks that work.

(3) ALOE VERA GEL AS A PRIMER

An excellent plant that can moisturise, calm, and heal skin is aloe vera gel. Since it can produce a uniform and silky foundation for your makeup, it can also be used as a primer. Aloe vera gel helps regulate oil production, filling in pores and fine wrinkles. Along with making your makeup look more natural, it can also help it stay longer. Simply moisten your face with aloe vera gel, then let it sit for a few minutes to dry. Afterwards, you can apply your foundation and the rest of your makeup as usual.

(4) CONDITIONER AS SHAVING CREAM

Conditioners are a perfect substitute for conventional shaving cream. They help give an incredibly smooth shave and, most importantly, help hydrate.

(5) USE BAKING SODA IN PLACE OF DRY SHAMPOO

When you don’t have time to wash your hair or want to extend the life of your hairstyle, dry shampoo has always been a lifesaver. Dry shampoo also helps to absorb the excess oil and dirt from your scalp and hair, adding volume and texture to your hair. But if you are out of dry shampoo or you want to take a break from the chemicals and fragrances in it, you can use baking soda as a natural alternative.

(6) DRYER SHEET FOR FRIZZY HAIR

Use a dryer sheet and run it through your strands, if your hair is frizzy or overrun by static. Doing this eliminates static and also adds a pleasant scent to day-old hair.

CONCLUSION

These beauty hacks can simplify your beauty routine. Remember, do not be afraid to try new things; you will be amazed at the results.

Foods to Eat And Foods to Avoid ULCER DIET

FOODS TO EAT FOODS TO AVOID

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

(1) BROCCOLI AND OTHER HIGH-FIBRE FOODS

(2) FRUITS

Fruits, whether they are frozen or fresh, are a good source of antioxidants and fibre. The greatest fruits for therapeutic polyphenols include pomegranates, apples, grapes, and berries. Avoid citrus fruits and liquids, such as orange or grapefruit, if they cause reflux.

A high-fibre diet has been shown to reduce the risk of ulcer development. Foods high in fibre cover the stomach lining and lessen the harm that gastric acid would otherwise do, diminishing or eliminating the possibility of ulcer development.

(3) LEAN PROTEINS

Good sources of lowfat protein include skinless chicken, fish, eggs, tofu, tempeh, lean beef such as tenderloin or sirloin, dry beans, and peas. Omega-3 fats, found in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, can lower inflammation and possibly even help prevent ulcers from recurring.

(4) FERMENTED DAIRY

Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, are found in products like Greek yoghurt and kefir, which are also high in protein.

Gastric ulcers, another name for stomach ulcers, are somewhat prevalent. While pain, nausea, diarrhoea, or bloating are not common symptoms of stomach ulcers, some people may experience them. Usually, a combination of drugs, including antibiotics, is needed to treat stomach ulcers. Nonetheless, there is mounting evidence that suggests consuming specific foods may help prevent stomach ulcers or at least lessen the symptoms they produce. If you have a stomach ulcer, this article will explain what foods to consume and what to avoid.

CONCLUSION

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is crucial for people with stomach ulcers. Modifying one’s diet in specific ways can help manage symptoms, maintain overall health, and lower the chance of stomach ulcers. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet is one of the greatest strategies to avoid stomach ulcers.

(1) ALCOHOL

The stomach lining might become irritated and inflamed when alcoholcontaining drinks like wine, beer, and liquor are consumed. The symptoms of stomach ulcers are linked to excessive alcohol use.

(2) FRIED FOODS

Foods that are deep-fried in hot oil might worsen stomach ulcers and disrupt the natural barrier that protects the digestive system. They may also include a lot of fat and salt, and if they are prepared outside the house, they may be fried in oil that has been used in the kitchen several times. Fried meals consist of fried chicken, fries, onion rings, potato chips, and doughnuts.

(3) ACIDIC FOODS

On a stomach ulcer diet, it is better to stay away from some naturally acidic foods, even though they may have some health advantages. Certain foods contribute to an acidic environment in the body because they have a high dietary acid load. Certain foods may need to be avoided or consumed in moderation by those who suffer from stomach ulcers, like tomatoes, citrus fruits (lemons, oranges, and grapefruits), refined carbohydrates (white bread, white rice, processed cereals), and carbonated drinks.

(4) SPICY FOODS

Anything that can be considered “hot,” such as sauces and condiments containing horseradish, black pepper, or chili peppers, should be avoided.

TECH TALK

Revolutionizing Entertainment Tech Innovations Shaping the Industry

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Our world today is speedily becoming digitalised in every aspect. We can see technology influencing almost everything we do and every one of our daily activities, from the little things we do at home to our professional lives and even how we relax and entertain ourselves; we use technology to carry out these activities. The same can be said for our entertainment world; technological advancements have reshaped the entertainment landscape and transformed how we create, consume, and experience content. Every aspect of the entertainment world has felt the impact of technological growth and is still experiencing more growth. Let’s talk about some innovations that have propelled the industry forward.

Computer-generated imagery (CGI) has been a major beneficiary of technological advancements. Over the years, CGI and motion capture have seen many improvements in filmmaking and visual effects. If you are a movie enthusiast, you will attest that the image quality of fictional characters and animals has improved from 10 years ago, thanks to sophisticated software applied in the filmmaking process.

MOTION CAPTURE AND CGI ARTIFICIAL

HIGHDEFINITION VIDEO AND AUDIO TECHNOLOGY

Hi-definition video and audio technologies such as 4K Ultra, HDR, and Dolby Atmos have uplifted the listening and viewing experience for the audience. These technologies are the reason you get to experience sound clearly while listening to your favourite music track, and every aspect of the video is crystal clear. Therefore, they elevate your total experience with how content is consumed, be it a movie or just a regular video.

STREAMING PLATFORMS

One of the most popular innovations everyone consumes, streaming Platforms such as Netflix, Prime, and Disney+, have made it easier for movie lovers to access movies on their devices anytime, any day, without the traditional means of getting DVDs or even going to a cinema. These platforms use an enhanced algorithm and personalised items to recommend more shows that users might be interested in. Even shows from decades ago could be enjoyed as producers still upload these vintage works for the new generation to enjoy the best cinematic pieces from the past years.

SOCIAL MEDIA

AI has become a tool that has made life easier for everyone who can use it. AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Blackbox have enabled content creators to conduct their research much better, generating more exciting ideas and creating more content. Such technological advancements have become necessary tools for professionals beyond the entertainment world.

With platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, content creators and entertainment professionals can widen their reach and have their works reach audiences far beyond their own countries. Utilising essential marketing channels, entertainment companies and personnel promote their music, TV shows, and other forms of entertainment.

These tech innovations are just a glimpse of what’s to come. One thing with technology is that it keeps evolving and getting better, so now, we enjoy what we have presently and wait for what the future holds.

Bedroom Book Club

Erotic Literature Recommendations For Couples

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Couples looking to add a spark to their relationship and go further in their love journey frequently seek new ways to deepen their connection. Couples can explore their desires, deepen their understanding of one another, and have more intimate experiences by immersing themselves in erotic books. We’ve compiled a list of six books to help you rekindle passion and communication in your relationship. These books include both sensual novels and instructional sex books.

THE MASTERY OF LOVE BY DON MIGUEL RUIZ

1 2 3 4 5 6

WHY IT’S RECOMMENDED

In contrast to other erotic novels, The Mastery of Love establishes the groundwork for a satisfying and passionate relationship. Ruiz delves into the significance of selfacceptance, comprehension, and dialogue, providing partners with invaluable perspectives for constructing a strong emotional bond. Couples can lay the groundwork for a deeper, more intimate connection by developing the skill of self-love.

THE KISS QUOTIENT BY HELEN HOANG

WHY IT’S RECOMMENDED

This contemporary romance book offers a unique and endearing examination of love, desire, and understanding. It chronicles the journey of an autistic lady navigating the nuances of relationships. Through its portrayal of vulnerability and acceptance, The Kiss Quotient can motivate couples to embrace their unique characteristics and develop a stronger bond through empathy and honest communication.

COME AS YOU ARE BY EMILY NAGOSKI

Come As You Are is a pioneering guide that explores female sexuality science. In addition to dispelling misconceptions about women’s sexual preferences, Dr. Emily Nagoski offers helpful suggestions for improving closeness in relationships. By learning about the nuances of desire and pleasure, couples can set out on a path of self-discovery and mutual fulfilment.

THE CLAIMING OF SLEEPING BEAUTY BY A.N. ROQUELAURE (ANNE RICE)

Boldly and sensually, The Claiming Of Sleeping Beauty reimagines the famous fairy tale for those who prefer a more traditional sexual novel. Under the pen name A.N. Roquelaure, Anne Rice writes a story about passionate exploration and forbidden desires. Intimacy, consent, and playfulness are encouraged in this book for couples.

CONCLUSION

WHY IT’S RECOMMENDED

She

addresses the seldom-spoken topic of female pleasure. With the help of this enlightening and inspiring manual, women may better understand and meet their own needs. Couples can have a more fulfilling and harmonious sexual relationship by placing a higher priority on their shared enjoyment.

WHY IT’S RECOMMENDED

The Rosie Project is a charming romantic comedy that follows the path of an unconventional man looking for love. It’s not overtly sensual, but it does highlight how important it is to accept one another’s uniqueness and communicate and understand one another in relationships. The charming characters can serve as a source of inspiration for couples navigating the highs and lows of romantic relationships.

One enjoyable and enlightening method of exploring intimacy with your spouse is to include erotic literature in your reading list. These six suggestions cover a range of preferences, from sultry desire to insightful guidance. Remember that open communication, understanding, and a willingness to discover new things together are essential components of a healthy partnership. Happy reading, and may your journey of love be ever-exciting.

In

Comes First, Dr. Ian Kerner

SHE COMES FIRST BY LAN KERNER

THE ROSIE PROJECT BY GRAEME SIMSION

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

The Garfield Movie (2024)

Given Garfield’s long history, it’s hard to imagine a film about the corpulent kitty that feels as if it’s made for almost nobody but The Garfield Movie limbos under the bar. Big and loud, with animated action aimed at kids, the film also loads up references to things like Mission: Impossible, Top Gun, and Fargo and still manages to feel as stale as a week-old lasagna left out too long in the summer.

Part heist movie, part family reunion, the film draws upon the most salient characteristics of the flabby feline, but mostly as an excuse to build a story that seems to crawl further from its origins with every passing frame. A bevy of star voices (Chris Pratt leading the way in the title role, along with Samuel L. Jackson) can’t enliven a project that, creatively speaking, exhausts at least four or five of its nine lives.

Peaking during a pre-credit sequence, the film introduces a big-eyed baby, Garfield (those plush toys aren’t going to sell themselves), who gets abandoned by his dad, Vic (Jackson), a resourceful outdoor cat. He is taken home by Jon (Nicholas Hoult), who even adopts Odie, the dog, to keep him company.

cats), using him as bait to lure Vic out of hiding and exact revenge.

Said revenge involves forcing Vic and the resentful Garfield to team up on a milk heist from Lactose Farms, a setup that should make even dairy enthusiasts feel a trifle intolerant. In the process, they encounter a lovelorn bull (Ving Rhames) and a security guard (Cecily Strong) named Marge, who sure sounds a whole lot like her Fargo namesake.

A lot more happens, but it’s all a transparent ploy to keep the audience distracted long enough for Garfield and Vic to engage in family bonding and squabble over their Aristocats-style differences, which proves less heartwarming than intended.

Part of the inherent challenge has to do with the demands of taking the simplicity of the original Garfield comic strip and blowing it up into something that can sustain this kind of enterprise, a task that feels especially thorny in this case.

Parents will be on the lookout for movies they can safely take kids to during the summer, and barring a few mildly racy gags, Garfield meets those modest criteria, at least, until reinforcements like the upcoming Inside Out and Despicable Me sequels arrive.

For anyone with an appetite for more than air conditioning and a PG rating, though, The Garfield Movie is more like a stale snack than a fancy feast.

Flash forward several years, and the grown and well-fed Garfield has his suburban bliss upended when he’s abducted (catnapped?) by Jinx (Hannah Waddingham, in a mini-Ted Lasso reunion with Brett Goldstein as one of her hench

Once you’ve mastered basic Bridgerton, it’s possible to sit back and let each new season predictably wash over you, its level of satisfaction dictated simply by how much one connects with the latest characters to be paired off. Fortunately, the third round (after a Queen Charlotte detour) has the highly sympathetic Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan) at its core, adding some additional sweetness to the formula.

For the uninitiated, poor Penelope has spent two seasons secretly moonlighting as the acid-tongued gossip Lady Whistledown, using her access to the comings and goings and romances among the elite to greatly irritate many (the queen foremost among them) while titillating them at the same time.

Penelope has channelled her creative energies in this direction in part because of her scepticism that she’ll ever find a match for herself, a process made no easier by her infatuation with Colin (Luke Newton), the latest of the seemingly endless parade of dashing Bridgerton progeny to brave the matrimonial dance. (There’s a praying mantis quality to Bridgertons since while mating doesn’t lead to death, they do tend to lose their heads and then mostly disappear.)

As usual, there are complications and hurdles thrown at Colin and Penelope, including the latter finding a new potential suitor after experiencing the disgrace of having Colin’s gallant efforts to help her find a match exposed. The whole interlude prompts him to begin grasping his own complicated feelings, although in keeping with its Jane

Austen-flecked roots, the course of true love never runs smoothly.

To their credit, the producers juggle a few extra balls this time around, including subplots involving Colin’s

Francesca (Hannah Dodd) and even the family matriarch Violet (Ruth Gemmell), which, given the contortions surrounding the central duo, come across as prudent distractions.

Underscoring the show’s value, Netflix has divided the eight-episode season into two drops, emulating its strategy with shows like Stranger Things and The Crown to lengthen its hold on viewers beyond an instant binge.

If the storytelling has already begun to feel a little tired, Coughlan’s vulnerability (and the semi-adorable note that she has asked for an edited version to show her parents) provides a welcome infusion. By sustaining and indeed replenishing those soapopera qualities, the series seems unlikely to exhaust its roster of marriage-eligible Bridgertons anytime soon.

Kids opinions may vary.

sister

Jettin’

IAMDDB; Masego - RASTA PASTA (ft. Masego)

Sleeper