THEWILL DOWNTOWN September 08, 2024 by THEWILL NEWSPAPER

APPLAUDING AFROBEATS HITMAKERS

NPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

igeria’s music industry is the biggest music export out of Africa. However, the artists alone are not solely responsible for this rise. Most of the credit can be given mainly to music producers. These geniuses are responsible for creating the beats that dominate the charts, shaping the sound of Afrobeats, and pushing Nigerian music to new heights worldwide. These producers’ ability to blend African rhythm with modern, international sounds has produced hit songs recognised worldwide. The producers are recognised for fusing elements from electronic music, hip-hop, dancehall, and traditional African genres to create sounds that push the boundaries of creativity. These producers are instrumental in elevating Nigerian music and introducing it to a global audience.

On pages 8 to 10, we spotlight producers like Don Jazzy, Sarz, Legendury Beatz, Pheelz, and Masterkraft, who have played vital roles in transforming Afrobeats from a local genre to a global sensation.

Slip dresses are always in style and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Our fashion pages explore six chic ways to wear a slip dress. Scroll to pages 4 and 5.

Contouring is a vital makeup technique that helps you accentuate your features and achieve a sculpted appearance. Our beauty page walks you through six easy, step-by-step guides for contouring your face to give it a clean, finished look. You’ll find this on page 12.

Romantic relationships demand work, time, and emotional commitment; however, excessive stress can lead to burnout. A relationship burnout can leave you feeling emotionally, psychologically, and physically exhausted. But do not worry; we list ways to overcome burnout on page 15.

As usual, our movie review page has a playlist compiled just for you. To download, click the instructions below the QR codes.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

Onah

@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

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 CHIC WAYS TO WEAR A SLIP DRESS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Aslip dress is an essential piece of clothing that is always in style. Slip dresses may be dressed up or down to suit any event and are comfy and adaptable. A slip dress is the ideal ensemble to look effortlessly stylish, whether you’re going to a formal event, a laid-back brunch, or a night out with friends. Here, we will explore six chic ways to wear a slip dress.

LAYER IT WITH A TURTLENECK OR TEE

Layering your slip dress over a turtleneck or a plain white t-shirt is an excellent way to wear it for cooler weather. This outfit is ideal for a laid-back day at the office or a semicasual gathering. Although the slip dress still steals the show, the turtleneck gives the ensemble warmth and texture. To finish the look with a more relaxed vibe, pair it with sneakers or ankle boots.

ADD A BLAZER FOR A SOPHISTICATED TOUCH

Wearing a jacket with your slip dress can give it a more put-together and elegant look. An expertly tailored jacket can make a basic slip dress appropriate for work, meetings, or more professional settings. For a timeless style, go for a blazer in a neutral hue; alternatively, go for a striking colour to draw attention. You can accessorise your outfit with a structured handbag and simple jewellery and wear it with pointed-toe flats or strappy heels. When you want to look stylish and professional, this outfit is ideal.

3. STYLE WITH A BELT TO DEFINE YOUR WAIST

Although slip dresses are known for their easy, flowy silhouette, adding some shape can sometimes completely change the appearance. A belt is an easy accessory of clothing that can define your silhouette by drawing attention to your waist. You can choose a wide belt to draw attention to yourself or a narrow belt for a more understated look. For a more unified appearance, the belt’s colour can match the dress, or it might contrast with it to draw attention to it. Accessorise this ensemble with bold earrings and high heels or boots. This look is perfect for date nights, dinners, or any other event where you want to draw attention to your curves.

5. GO CASUAL WITH A DENIM JACKET

A denim jacket is an essential element for a carefree, casual vibe. It goes well with a slip dress, making this combo ideal for a laid-back date, a weekend retreat, or even a day trip with friends. If you want to add some edge, go for a black or white denim jacket instead of the traditional blue one. To finish the look, add sunglasses and a crossbody purse as accessories. When you want to seem effortlessly stylish, this look is simple, enjoyable, and ideal.

PAIR WITH AN OVERSIZED SWEATER 4.

Pair your slip dress with an oversized sweater for a cosier, more relaxed vibe. This fashion tip transforms your slip dress into a stylish skirt, making it ideal for a laid-back setting. You can also leave the sweater hanging loose for a more carefree look. Finish the ensemble off with chunky sneakers or kneehigh boots for some extra comfort and style.

6. DRESS IT UP WITH STATEMENT ACCESSORIES

When it comes to a slip dress, accessories have the power to elevate your style beyond what it may otherwise be. Add dynamic accessories like striking jewellery, a distinctive purse, or even a chic hat to liven up an otherwise basic slip dress. Glamour can be added with multiple bracelets, a bold pair of earrings, or a hefty necklace. You can dress for a formal function or a night out by pairing this look with chic sandals or high heels. The idea is to wear something basic and let your accessories speak for you.

CONCLUSION

A slip dress can be your go-to ensemble, whether you’re going for a laid-back, casual vibe or something more formal and elegant. You can create fashionable ensembles that complement your style by layering with t-shirts, adding blazers, accessorising with belts, and combining with jackets. Keep in mind that fashion is all about having fun and experimenting, so don’t be scared to mix and match to get the ideal look that suits you.

TRAVEL

Kids on Board

Safety Tips When Travelling With Children

PLAN

Like everything that needs to be done correctly, you must plan. Choose familyfriendly destinations that offer activities and accommodations suitable for children, as you also want to have the kids engaged. Keep in mind the number of days you will be staying, and if possible, try to map out what you will be doing each day to keep the children occupied and in sight.

Knowing how children can be messy, it’s best to plan for the worst and pack additional clothing items to stay ahead. Also, pack essential items such as medications, first aid kits, snacks, and comfort items like favourite toys or blankets for the younger children.

Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and health insurance details, and ensure they are away from the reach of children.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Travelling alone or with other adults requires lots of planning and attention to detail. However, focus and planning must be done even more when travelling with kids than when travelling alone. Taking children with you on trips is fun when you realise you have made it successfully, but it gets challenging having to plan and watch them while also ensuring you don’t miss a thing during your travel preparations.

Proper planning and preparation are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for the entire family. Our travel guide this week will provide some essential safety guidelines and helpful tips for travelling with children.

PREPARE YOUR CHILD

Talk to your children about the trip and what to expect. Make them understand why they should be at their best in public. They are never too young to make them act right. Doing this also ensures the comfort of other passengers travelling, as no one wants children to make their trip unpleasant.

TERMINAL ARRIVALS

Be it airports, bus stations, train stations, or seaports, whatever means of travelling you will use, always arrive at least an hour before leaving. This gives you time to get settled, unlike arriving late and getting into a frantic race to get out your documents while also trying to watch the children and your luggage to avoid them getting missing.

STAYING CONNECTED

You must equip your children with identification cards that include your contact information at any time. When you are already at your destination, use smartphone apps with GPS tracking tech to keep track of your child’s location and establish a meeting point where they have to be after some minutes in case anyone gets separated.

Travelling with children requires extra care and preparation, but the memories created and experiences shared make it worthwhile. No one wants to have a good time ruined, and by taking these safety guidelines, you are a step closer to having an enjoyable time with your kids.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

It’sno news that Nigeria’s music industry is the biggest music export out of Africa, and it is an energetic force in the entertainment landscape worldwide. But the artists aren’t the only ones responsible for this meteoric rise. A lot of credit for Nigeria’s music industry being largely accepted can be given to a cohort of visionary music producers. These creative masterminds are responsible for creating the beats that dominate the charts, shaping the sound of Afrobeats, and pushing Nigerian music to new heights worldwide. Producers like Don Jazzy, Pheelz, Sarz, Masterkraft, and Legendury Beatz have played vital roles in transforming Afrobeats from a local genre to a global phenomenon. Their ability to blend traditional African rhythms with modern, international sounds has resulted in hit songs that resonate with music fans across the world. Notwithstanding being behind the scenes, these producers are recognised as cultural pioneers for fusing elements from hip-hop, electronic music, dancehall, and traditional African genres to create a groundbreaking sound that continuously pushes the boundaries of creativity. These producers are instrumental in elevating the genre and introducing Nigerian music to a global audience. As they mentor and collaborate with emerging talents, they ensure that Nigeria remains at the forefront of music innovation, keeping the Afrobeats movement alive and growing. Their contributions amplify the Nigerian music industry and continue to shape global music trends.

This week’s issue will spotlight some top producers pushing the boundaries and leading the industry into the future.

Don Jazzy

A major pioneering figure and one of Africa’s most prolific music producers, Michael Collins Ajereh, a.k.a. Don Jazzy, is an iconic producer whose career has shaped the Nigerian music industry and globalised the Afrobeats genre.

His journey began in the early 2000s when he moved to London and formed a close working relationship with D’Banj. In 2004, Don Jazzy and D’Banj co-founded Mo’Hits Records, where he produced several hits that skyrocketed D’Banj’s career. Notable tracks such as Oliver Twist and Fall in Love earned international recognition, marking Don Jazzy as a rising force in music production.

After Mo’Hits was dissolved in 2012, Don Jazzy founded Mavin Records, a label that would become synonymous with hit-making in Africa. Mavin’s debut compilation album, Solar Plexus, was a success, and Don Jazzy continued to produce hits for major artists like Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, and Korede Bello. His production style is known for blending traditional African rhythms with contemporary pop and electronic influences, creating a sound that resonates across different markets. Don Jazzy is known for his ability to

spot talent and develop artists, which has also been instrumental in his success. Under his mentorship, artists such as Rema, Ayra Starr, Johnny Drille, Ladipoe, Crayon, Magixx, Reekado Banks, Bayanni, and many more have risen to prominence, expanding Mavin’s influence globally. Don Jazzy’s career is not just about music production but also about creating opportunities for African artists to thrive on the global stage, solidifying his legacy as a leader in the Afrobeats movement.

Pheelz

Born Phillip Kayode Moses, Pheelz is a Nigerian music producer whose career began in the early 2010s. His love for music was evident from a young age, with his early production experience going back to when he was a teenager in church, but he officially launched his professional career when he started working with Nigerian rapper Olamide. Pheelz’s big break came when he produced multiple tracks on Olamide’s YBNL album in 2012, notably contributing to the hit songs First of All and Durosoke. His

production style is characterised by infectious melodies and rhythmic innovation, which quickly gained attention in the Nigerian music industry. Pheelz soon became one of Nigeria’s go-to producers, crafting hits for several top-tier artists, including Olamide, Tiwa Savage, and Fireboy DML. He became known for his ability to create Afro-pop anthems that combine traditional African sounds with modern pop sounds. His work with Fireboy DML on songs like Jealous and Scatter helped cement his status as a hitmaker and contributed to the growing global popularity of Afrobeats.

In addition to producing for others, Pheelz moved into his own music career, releasing songs like Wayward Girl and Finesse, which became massive hits. His double role as a producer and an artist has increased his standing in the industry, showcasing his versatility and broad musical range. Pheelz continues to be a driving force behind many of the hits coming out of Nigeria, solidifying his position as a critical figure in Afrobeats.

Sarz

Notably one of Nigeria’s most prominent music producers, Osabuohien Osaretin, also known as Sarz, is recognised for his distinctive sound that blends Afrobeats with electronic and futuristic sounds. Sarz began his career in the early 2000s when he was introduced to music production as a teenager. His breakthrough came in 2007 when he produced See Drama for Nigerian rapper Lord of Ajasa. This track helped

him gain attention in the Nigerian music scene, but his giant leap into stardom came when he worked with Wizkid on the chart-topping song Jaiye Jaiye in 2013. The success of this track solidified Sarz’s reputation as a producer capable of crafting global hits.

Sarz became widely known for his versatility, producing for artists across different genres. He has worked with toptier Nigerian artists like Niniola, Reminisce, and Burna Boy, contributing to hits like Niniola’s Maradona and Burna Boy’s On a Low. His unique blend of Afrobeats with house music and electronic influences has made him stand out, earning him international recognition. Beyond producing for others, Sarz ventured into solo projects, including his acclaimed instrumental album Sarz Is Not Your Mate (SINYM) in 2019, where he showcased his ability to create captivating beats without vocals. Sarz’s impact extends beyond just music production; he has mentored emerging artists and producers, contributing to the growth of Afrobeats globally. His rhythmic sound continues to influence the Nigerian music industry, making him a pioneer in modern African music.

Masterkraft

Born Sunday Ginikachukwu Nweke, Masterkraft is one of Nigeria’s most versatile and influential music producers, whose career began in the early 2000s. Growing up with a passion for music, Masterkraft initially built his skills during his time as a church keyboardist. His big break came when he was discovered by the

legendary singer Kennis Music’s CEO, Kenny Ogungbe, and started producing for artists like J. Martins and Banky W. However, his rise to prominence truly began when he started producing for Nigerian rapper Flavour. His work on Flavour’s hit song Kwarikwa showcased his ability to blend Afrobeat with highlife, cementing his status as a top producer. Masterkraft’s production style is diverse, spanning genres such as Afrobeats, highlife, and dancehall. He has worked with many artists, including Wizkid, Davido, Phyno, Timaya, and Tekno. He is known for his melodic touch, rhythmic sophistication, and ability to create catchy, radio-friendly songs that still maintain depth and authenticity. Notable hits produced by Masterkraft include Phyno’s Fada Fada and Flavour’s Ada Ada, all of which have become anthems in the Nigerian music industry. Beyond producing hits for others, Masterkraft has also ventured into his own projects by releasing singles and albums that showcase his talents as both a producer and an artist. His influence in the Nigerian music industry continues to grow, and he remains one of the big names pushing Afrobeats to the global stage.

Legendury Beatz

Brothers Uzezi and Okiemute Oniko are the dynamic duos that make Legendury Beatz. They are highly regarded for their contributions to Afrobeats and Nigerian music. Their careers started in the early 2010s when they caught the attention of the industry with their unique production style, which mixes traditional African rhythms with modern electronic sounds. The duo gained significant recognition when they signed with Wizkid’s Starboy Entertainment and produced some of his biggest hits.

Their breakthrough came with the production of Wizkid’s 2014 global hit Ojuelegba, which became an anthem not just in Nigeria but internationally as it received praise from artists like Drake and Skepta. This track helped put Legendury Beatz on the map as top-tier producers capable of creating timeless hits. Their work with Wizkid continued to flourish, producing songs like Caro and Ginger, further solidifying their place in the Afrobeats genre.

Beyond their collaborations with Wizkid, Legendury Beatz has produced for other major Nigerian artists, including Burna Boy, Maleek Berry, and Yemi Alade. Their versatility allows them to work across various genres, blending elements of Afro-pop, highlife, dancehall, and more, making them a vital part of the evolution of contemporary African music.

The duo also ventured into releasing their own projects, including their 2017 EP Afropop 101, which showcased their range as producers and highlighted their ability to curate cohesive, engaging bodies of work. Legendury Beatz still puts in so much work pushing Afrobeats to the world.

These Nigerian producers are at the forefront of mentoring the next generation of African artists, ensuring that the future of Nigerian music remains bright. From Don Jazzy’s Mavin Records to Sarz’s solo projects, their influence extends beyond production to business ventures and talent development.

They are pioneers in an industry that continues to grow and evolve, bringing African music to global stages and cementing it as a driving force in modern pop culture. With their continued contributions, Nigerian music will undoubtedly remain at the heart of the global music conversation, with producers pushing its progress forward.

The Science Behind

Your Favourite Food Cravings

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Ever find yourself drawn to your go-to comfort foods, like a chocolate cake slice or a bag of potato chips, and unable to resist their irresistible appeal? It turns out that there is actual science underlying our intense eating desires, which go beyond simple weakness of will. This article will delve into the fascinating world of food cravings and explain their six scientific origins.

Within our brains are intricate networks of chemical messengers called neurotransmitters, which certain meals can influence. Releasing the “feel-good” chemical dopamine results from eating foods high in fat and carbs. The craving for these treats is heightened since they give off a gratifying feeling.

2.EVOLUTIONARY HANGOVER

As the human body has changed over thousands of years, we may link some of our appetites to the survival instincts of our ancestors. Energy storage is a fundamental evolutionary necessity, which explains why people crave high-calorie diets, particularly those heavy in fat and sugar. Our bodies desire certain meals that are high in energy, regardless of how our lifestyles have changed.

Emotional cues, such as memories of happy or relaxing times, often cause cravings. Emotions such as stress, happiness, and sadness significantly impact our eating patterns. In addition to being delicious, a scoop of ice cream can also evoke pleasant memories or be a sentimental treat.

4. HORMONAL INFLUENCE

Hormones might greatly influence our cravings. Variations in estrogen levels during the menstrual cycle might result in an increase in the urge for specific meals, for example. Our dietary tastes seem to fluctuate randomly, but understanding these hormonal factors helps to explain why.

Emotions, biology, evolution, and even dietary needs are all intricately woven together to create food cravings inside the complex machinery of our minds and bodies. Gaining knowledge about the science behind our dietary choices enables us to enjoy the meals that genuinely stimulate our taste receptors, balance our consumption, and make informed decisions. Remember that science is present in your food and that there’s more to it than meets the eye the next time you yearn for some pizza or chewing gum. 1.

5. THE POWER OF TEXTURE AND MOUTHFEEL

Have you ever wondered why you desire anything crunchy or creamy? The mouthfeel and texture of food can have a big impact on our desires. Foods that arouse pleasure, like the crunch of chips or the smoothness of chocolate, are alluring because they provide a delightful sensory experience.

CONCLUSION

6.NUTRIENTDEFICIENCIES

Cravings could be our body’s way of telling us when we’re not getting enough nutrition. For example, an unexpected need for red meat may indicate that you need more iron. One can improve overall health and address nutritional imbalances by paying attention to these urges.

BEAUTY

1. START WITH A CLEAN, MOISTURISED FACE

You should start with a clean, wellmoisturised face before applying any makeup. While moisturising keeps your skin nourished and smooth, cleansing removes debris and oil that can interfere with applying makeup. Your contouring will look more natural if your base is smooth and your contour products blend in with your skin. Applying a primer afterwards will help your makeup stay put longer and prevent it from slipping during the day.

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONTOUR PRODUCTS

How to Contour Your Face Like A Pro

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Contouring is a crucial makeup technique that will help you accentuate your features and achieve a sculpted appearance. Even if you’re a newbie, you can contour your face like an expert with the appropriate skills and some practice. This article will walk you through six easy, step-by-step techniques for contouring your face to give it a clean, finished look.

With the appropriate products, you may get a perfect contour. You will require a highlighter that is two shades lighter and a contour product that is about two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Sticks, creams, and powders are just a few of the various forms of contour cosmetics. While powders work well for setting the contour and providing a matte look, creams and sticks are more user-friendly and ideal for novice blending. When choosing makeup, be careful to take into account your skin type. For instance, powder contour may be a better fit for someone with oily skin.

3. MAP OUT YOUR CONTOUR AREAS .BLEND, BLEND, BLEND

The most crucial phase of contouring is blending. After you’ve drawn out the areas you want to highlight, use a blending brush, beauty sponge, or your fingers to blend the contour product into your skin. To prevent sharp edges, blend using tiny, circular movements. The contour should appear to be a natural shadow effect, blending perfectly with your skin. When it comes to contouring, a poorly blended look can leave your makeup looking uneven and unrealistic, so take your time.

When it comes to contouring, you need to map out the part where you want to contour. The general rule is to contour the areas where shadows naturally fall on your face. These areas include the hollows of your cheeks, your jawline, the side of your nose, and lastly, your forehead.

5.HIGHLIGHT THE HIGH POINTS OF YOUR FACE

The opposite of contouring is highlighting. Highlighting accentuates the high points on your face to give the illusion of a more elevated appearance, whereas contouring adds depth and shadows. You can apply a highlighter to the following areas of your face: the top of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the centre of your forehead, and lastly, under your eyes.

6.SET YOUR MAKEUP

Setting your makeup is essential to ensure it stays in place throughout the day after you finish highlighting and contouring. Dust a little amount of translucent setting powder over your face, paying particular attention to the areas you highlighted and contoured. This helps absorb any extra oil and seal the makeup, leaving you with a matte, flawless finish. Setting sprays hold makeup in place without looking overly matte, so if you like a dewy appearance, use them in place of powder.

By following these six steps, you can get a professional-looking contour that highlights your natural features and gives you a polished finish. If you persevere, you’ll become an expert at contouring. Remember that practice makes perfect.

LONG-DISTANCE FRIENDSHIPS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Inour lives, relationships are inevitable. We will come across different people who appeal to us and may have similar values and interests. But then life happens, and sometimes we lose such friendships due to distance. However, there are people in our lives whom we never want to lose no matter the distance, and maintaining and

strengthening a long-distance friendship can be challenging, but with intentional efforts and creative approaches, it can flourish and deepen over time. To ensure your friendship doesn’t lose its connection, here are some practical ways to improve the bond with your longdistance friend.

Maintaining

Bonds

Celebrate Special Occasions

No matter how much people try to downplay special events, it always melts their hearts when they are celebrated at these events. So, remember and celebrate each other’s birthdays, anniversaries, and other significant events. Send gifts, or e-cards, or plan a surprise virtual party. Acknowledging these special moments shows that you value and remember important dates in your friend’s life. Such gestures are bound to get you closer to each other.

Regular Communication Plan Visits

The first is regular communication. As long as you feel comfortable with each other, no detail is too small to share. Consistent communication is vital to keeping the friendship alive. Schedule regular calls, video chats, or text conversations to stay updated on each other’s lives. Use apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, or FaceTime to make communication easier and more personal. Video calls have been known to make long-distance friendships more exciting.

Shared Experiences

Despite the distance, you still have to find ways to share experiences with each other. Whatever hobbies you guys share, take advantage of them and share them. Watch movies or TV shows simultaneously using platforms like Netflix Party while also discussing scenes each one of you finds interesting. Play online games together or join a virtual book club. Engaging in shared activities helps create new memories and keeps the connection strong.

Of course, there is an obvious reason why there is so much distance between you and your friends. It could be work, family, or some other important issue. However, whenever possible, plan visits to see each other, especially if you live in the same country. Having something to look forward to can strengthen your bond and create exciting memories. Even if visits are infrequent, they can really boost your friendship.

Support Each Other

What’s the point of friendship if you can’t count on each other, right? This is why being there for each other during tough times is important. Showing that you’re a reliable and present friend, even from afar, reinforces the strength of your friendship and makes them feel even safer knowing they have you anytime they are at their lowest.

CAREER UNLOCKING PROBLEMSOLVING SKILLS

UTILISING CREATIVITY AND RESOURCEFULNESS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

The corporate world is fast-paced, requiring professionals to constantly be on their toes and upscale their skills as much as possible. New information comes in daily, and as they say, “information is power”; every organisation needs professionals who can get this information and know what to do with it. For that reason, problem-solving skills are one of the highly soughtafter skills one must possess. Having such quality quickly places any professional above their peers and puts them on the radar of superiors. Here, we will give you tips on elevating your problemsolving skills by harnessing creativity and resourcefulness, so let’s dive into it, shall we?

Creativity

Thinking Outside The Box

We all hear this a lot and understand the concept, but understanding and applying are two different things. Cultivate the mindset of generating multiple ideas from different perspectives. We all have a lot around us, and sometimes, seeking a solution just within our comfort zone might not work out. A problem within the world of marketing strategies could be found on the planet of the arts. Don’t restrict yourself physically or mentally.

Embracing Failure

When exploring different options and perspectives, you could have a hundred of them but wouldn’t find your solution till probably the end, and that’s why failure shouldn’t be the reason to quit. Just quitting, especially when there are more options, hinders your creativity. As a professional with expectations to continuously upscale themselves, experimentation and risk-taking must be encouraged. You can’t know your maximum strength if you settle. Recognise that setbacks provide valuable lessons.

Resourcefulness

Adaptability And Versatility

Being able to adapt to whatever way an organisation does its business makes you reliable as a professional. Imagine a scenario whereby you have the qualifications for a role, but your style needs to be switched to suit that of an organisation. Being able to adapt to that new pattern also shows that versatility is one of your strong traits.

Utilise Available Resources

In a sticky situation where you know what you need to fix a problem but the complete means aren’t readily available, you need to exploit every necessary means to either fix the problem or obtain the required items. Available resources could, in different cases, be tools, people, or even information.

Continuous Learning

Keep in mind that being adaptable, versatile, and making use of readily available information requires knowledge of various topics. One could have all the tools to solve a problem, but without knowledge, sorting out the issue could be another problem.

Improving problem-solving skills through creativity and resourcefulness can be a big determinant of one’s career trajectory. Use what’s around you and your imagination to make the most of any situation and give yourself an edge.

And How to Overcome It Relationship Burnout

Romantic or platonic relationships demand time, work, and emotional commitment. But, like in all areas of life, excessive stress can result in burnout. When you experience relationship burnout, it can leave you feeling emotionally, psychologically, and physically exhausted. Anyone can experience it, and it doesn’t always indicate the end of the relationship. Instead, it indicates a need for change. Relationship burnout may occur if you feel exhausted, uninspired, or disconnected from your partner. Let us explore ways to overcome relationship burnout.

1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEELINGS

Accepting and identifying your feelings is the first step in recovering from relationship burnout. It’s simple to dismiss exhaustion or dissatisfaction as passing phases, believing they will pass. However, if they persist, these emotions might be detrimental to you and your spouse. Take some time to reflect on your feelings. Do you find yourself frustrated all the time? Do you lack the desire to be with your partner? It is possible to stop burnout from getting worse by recognising these signs early on. As soon as you accept your emotions, you may begin to deal with them rather than push them aside.

2.COMMUNICATE OPENLY WITH YOUR PARTNER

The next step is to express your feelings to your spouse after you have acknowledged them. The foundation of any successful relationship is honest and open communication. Express your feelings without pointing fingers. To communicate your feelings, use “I” phrases. For example, “I’ve been feeling overwhelmed lately” is a better statement to use than “You make me feel overwhelmed.” This method encourages a less defensive and more understanding exchange of ideas. You can work together with your partner to find answers and make changes to prevent burnout by having open communication.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

3.TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF

Lack of personal time is one of the primary causes of relationship burnout. It’s easy to overlook your needs and interests when spending all your time with your partner. You must give yourself time to recover and rediscover your unique identity. Giving yourself space can help you feel refreshed, whether it’s through a day spent with friends, engaging in a leisure activity, or just taking some time for yourself. To maintain your well-being and the strength of your relationship, never forget that taking care of yourself is not selfish.

4.SETBOUNDARIES

Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries is essential in any relationship. Without them, it’s easy to feel overburdened or undervalued. Setting boundaries enables you to balance your needs with those of your spouse. These can be as easy as scheduling alone time, choosing how you spend your time together, or discussing your communication style. A more positive and long-lasting relationship dynamic emerges when both parties respect one another’s boundaries. If you’re feeling burnt out, reevaluating and reinforcing your boundaries may be necessary.

5.REKINDLE THE SPARK

Relationship burnout can occasionally result from routine or predictability in the relationship. It’s possible to rekindle the spark and regain the thrill and bond you previously shared. This does not imply that you must undertake costly excursions or extravagant gestures; little but meaningful actions can have a significant impact. Organise a romantic evening, show your significant other a kind gesture, or spend time together doing something you both enjoy. The goal is to break up the monotony and remind each other why you fell in love in the first place.

6.SEEKPROFESSIONAL HELP IF NEEDED

If you feel exhausted despite trying everything, it may be time to get therapy from a professional. An impartial third party can assist both partners in identifying and resolving underlying difficulties, as relationship burnout can occasionally have deep roots. A therapist or counsellor can offer strategies and resources to help you reconnect, communicate better, and handle conflict. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a proactive move to preserve and improve your relationship.

Contrary to popular belief, relationship burnout is not always a sign that a relationship is ending. You may avoid burnout and bring your relationship back to health and happiness by identifying your feelings, being honest with each other, taking care of yourself, setting boundaries, and, if necessary, returning to the original purpose. Keep in mind that every relationship experiences highs and lows. However, you can get through difficult moments and emerge stronger on the other side if you put in the work and have understanding.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

Osgood

“Oz” Perkins’s fourth (and best) film as director begins and ends with references to 1970s rock stars. Perkins told his writers that he was interested in what happens when glam rock “rots a little bit.” That’s a uniquely creepy idea—all those awful secrets that came out when the stars of the 70s curdled.

You can see something of that in Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of the eponymous serial killer. Wan and bloated, voice wavering in demented upper registers, Longlegs dwells on the other side of fabulousness. You can imagine a less-heightened version stumbling into court as the case against his venal, sexually abusive manager continues.

The film is, however, very much set in the 1990s. Maika Monroe, never better, plays Lee Harker, an FBI agent tasked with tracking down the perpetrator of linked family slayings. Cinematographer Andrés Arochi shoots in the washedout shades that came into vogue as that decade’s defining uncertainties ramped up.

Of course, more than anything, Longlegs is enjoying its relationship with Silence of the Lambs Expect to see the camera look back at Harker as she moves through glum spaces with her pistol extended. The connection is not overstrained, but there is an enjoyable wallow in shared disquiet across the decades. None of which should detract from the singular oddness of Perkins’s approach. The film offers both a relentless accumulation of gothic perversion and a masterclass in more oblique schools of unease. Few films this year have eased in to their core narrative with greater confidence. Following a

chilling retro throat-clear, we get to see agent Harker driving through a suburban limbo in search of a suspect. She senses a presence behind one of the facades and leads us towards a catastrophe.

Longlegs is not afraid to embrace a touch of the supernatural. Harker’s boss (Blair Underwood, enjoying the grumpy cliches) drags her in to investigate the most mysterious of serial crimes. Seemingly average people have turned on their families and chopped them into mincemeat.

The initial linking factor – extreme violence aside – is a coded letter at the scene signed by the mysterious Longlegs. Perkins and his team have fun working through the conventions of the detective genre. There is a great deal of squinting at stubbornly unyielding scraps of paper in underlit basements. We get more than a few promising breakthroughs.

As the film progresses, it takes a few too many turns towards broader shocks. I refuse to believe that, even so far back as the 1990s, anyone would happily welcome a scary, stary doll into their home. And, much as we love Cage in such things, nobody here is likely to describe his turn as subtle. He has fun. We have fun. But some of that fun is the sort you encounter on a ghost train.

Longlegs really excels in the shadowy passages between more explicit atrocities. The sound design hums and buzzes with subambient threats. Uncertain shapes appear in the deep background. Monroe is first-rate – pecking at her words like a nervous bird pecking at crumbs – as a woman who fears her own abilities almost as much as the larger satanic threat. Perkins’s taste for altering aspect ratios assists the jump from guilty past to awful present.

Yes, the pulpy mythologies sometimes overshadow that carefully maintained mood. But it remains quite a mood. Hokum as high art.

Rating:8/10

The Deliverance is a subpar exorcism movie that’s all the more depressing for being directed by Lee Daniels (Empire), whose distinctive flair is only sporadically spied amidst its shopworn clichés.

The story of a Black single mother whose domestic problems turn out to be of the devilish variety, Daniels’ first film since 2021’s The United States vs. Billie Holiday reunites him with that predecessor’s star Andra Day for horror shenanigans that grow less original by the minute. Save for an outlandish performance by Glenn Close as Day’s biological mother, it’s a third-rate thriller that doesn’t possess a single original idea.

The Deliverance, which hit Netflix on August 30 after a brief theatrical run, claims to be based on “true events” and concludes with photos of the woman and house that inspired its tale. However, nothing resounds as genuine in this conventional affair set in 2011 Pittsburgh, where Ebony (Day) has recently moved into a new place with her kids Nate (Stranger Things’ Caleb McLaughlin), Shante (Demi Singleton), and Andre (Anthony B. Jenkins), as well as her mother Alberta (Close).

In garish low-cut tops, dark eyeliner, red lipstick, and a collection of conspicuous wigs that cover a head turned bald by chemotherapy, Alberta is a hot-to-trot grandmother who both encourages the advances of her medical technician Melvin (Omar Epps) and consistently attends her local Baptist church. Strutting around with a big, nononsense attitude, she’s a character bordering on a caricature, and her brashness is all that enlivens these otherwise BORING proceedings.

Ebony likes to drink and has a habit of smacking her kids around, as she does at the dinner table to young Andre. This makes Nate hate her and causes all of them to pine for the return of their dad, who’s currently serving in Iraq. Ebony has custody of her kids because she’s agreed to allow regular check-ins from Department of Children’s Services caseworker Cynthia (Mo’Nique), and those are unpleasant, given that Ebony didn’t inform Cynthia about her latest relocation and has no good explanation for the bruises dotting her kids’ bodies.

The Deliverance additionally implies that unlike her mother—who’s staying with them on condition that she keep her mouth shut, which she never does—Ebony has no faith. Yet, like so much of this story, details are sketchy at best, with David Coggeshall and Elijah Bynum’s script assuming that shorthand gestures are enough to establish their conceit.

Ebony’s residence has a basement door that constantly opens and is surrounded by flies (shades of Candyman and The Amityville Horror), but neither she nor anyone else ever investigates

it—save for Andre, who’s found at one point at the top of the basement stairs, banging his head against the door.

This is weird, as is Andre’s habit of talking to his imaginary friend Tre. Alas, Ebony is so consumed with her own troubles that she does little about it until all three kids act out simultaneously in school, with Nate laughing at his teacher for having a son who died of AIDS and Nate throwing his faeces at his teacher. The Deliverance later reveals that Nate also ate his own poop, yet as with other revelations about his bizarre conduct, it’s recounted without ever being depicted by the film—a strange situation that speaks to either creative reticence or postproduction editorial deletions.

The pacing of The Deliverance is choppy throughout, including with regards to its characterisation of Ebony, who’s posited as both an outof-control woman and mother, and a sympathetic figure who, deep down, loves her relatives—as evidenced by the fact that she’s secretly paying for Alberta’s chemo and, on her birthday, gets Shante the iPhone she wanted. Daniels wants to have it both ways, but his balancing act doesn’t hold; Ebony vacillates so frequently between victim and victimiser that it feels like the film doesn’t know how it wants to portray her.

That proves especially true once the line begins to blur between Ebony’s mistreatment of her children and the demon’s malevolent conduct, with domestic abuse and supernatural terror intertwined in ways that don’t make coherent sense and, consequently, undercut Day’s performance.

Through a fortuitous turn of events, Ebony

is visited by Reverend Bernice James (Aunjanue EllisTaylor), who announces that she failed to save the house’s prior owners from the demon and wants a shot at redemption.

To achieve this, Bernice proposes a “deliverance,” which she says is different from an exorcism—because it can be performed by any truly pious individual—but proves to be more or less just like one.

Day doesn’t believe in Jesus because of her past trauma involving abuse (courtesy of Alberta and her rapist boyfriend), and The Deliverance is committed to heading in the most predictable direction possible, with Ebony eventually reconnecting with the Lord in time to battle the nefarious spirit that wants to steal her son and destroy her clan. Much growling, thrashing about, and foaming at the mouth ensues, along with zealous prayers and scary faces—the best of which turn out to be from Close, whose late, fanged reappearance almost elicits a genuine chill.

Daniels duplicates his chosen genre’s most tired tropes, from flashbacks to ghoulish visages to people clawing at their bodies, floating in the air, and having their eyes go black as midnight. The Deliverance, however, is too imitative to be scary. Despite recontextualising these horror elements in a Black single-mom household, the director fails to invigorate mayhem that’s been done countless times before, and with a lot more balls-tothe-wall verve than is present here. All he offers up is The Conjuring lite, and since James Wan’s blockbuster is itself a hodgepodge of superior predecessors, that’s anything but high praise.

Only with Close does Daniels seem to follow his vibrant storytelling instincts, and the acclaimed actress repays him with enough scenery chewing to keep things moderately engaging. Flirting with men decades her junior and standing toe-to-toe with the formidable Day (whose intensity deserved a better role than Ebony), Close suggests the more gonzo movie this might have been—if falls short of elevating this above being simply a star-studded B-movie.