The Love Alphabet: A Nigerian Rom-Com That’ll Make You Swoon (and Maybe Cry a Little)
So, I just finished watching “The Love Alphabet,” a brand-new Nigerian film starring Maurice Sam, Nadia Buari, Chioma Nwosu, and Emmanuella, and let me tell you, it’s a rollercoaster of emotions! This isn’t your typical Nollywood drama; it’s a heartwarming rom-com with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end.
The story centres around Noella, a bright, bookish young girl whose life is thrown into turmoil when her mother dies unexpectedly, leaving her in the care of her rather strict and overprotective father. Enter Mike Tyson (yes, that’s his name!), a charming single father who lives in the same estate and becomes unexpectedly entangled in the lives of Noella and her dad. Their initial encounter is, let’s say, spirited, involving a near-car-crash and a hilarious exchange of angry words. But as they say, opposites attract, and soon they’re finding themselves drawn together through a series of funny and often chaotic events.
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its relatable characters. Noella’s father is endearingly protective, struggling to balance his grief and responsibility. Mike Tyson, despite his initial gruff exterior, is a caring and surprisingly sensitive soul. Their unlikely friendship forms the emotional backbone of the movie, showcasing the power of human connection and the unexpected ways we find family.
The film also touches on deeper themes. The loss of a mother figure, the challenges of single parenthood, and the complexities of family dynamics are explored with sensitivity and humour. We see Noella’s blossoming friendship with Lily Joseph, a famous romance novelist – who could’ve predicted that?! – adding another layer of charm and intrigue.
Meanwhile, the romance between Mike Tyson and Noella’s mother’s friend introduces a sub-plot with its share of misunderstandings and dramatic confrontations. This subplot cleverly highlights the pressures of modern relationships and the challenges of balancing career aspirations with personal life.
But “The Love Alphabet” isn’t just about heavy themes. It’s peppered with laugh-out-loud moments – from the hilarious arguments between Mike Tyson and Noella’s father to the sheer absurdity of some of the situations the characters find themselves in. Emmanuella’s performance as Noella is particularly delightful, bringing a youthful energy and infectious charm to the role.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. The pacing feels a little uneven at times, and some subplots could have been developed further. But these minor imperfections are easily overshadowed by the film’s overall charm and heartwarming message.
Final Verdict: “The Love Alphabet” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a feel-good Nigerian film with heart, humour, and a healthy dose of romance. It’s a delightful blend of familiar Nollywood tropes and fresh, contemporary storytelling. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and maybe even learn a thing or two about the importance of family, forgiveness, and embracing the unexpected turns life throws our way. Highly recommended!
