LAGOS, Nigeria – A star-studded cast lit up the red carpet at the private screening of First Chronicles of the Island on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Blue Pictures Cinema in Onikan, Lagos.
Featuring an ensemble cast including veteran actor Bimbo Manuel, Gregory Ojefua, McPashun, and Gaji Samuel, the highly anticipated comic mockumentary, produced by Irims Starglazzers and WeeAdd Productions, delves into societal flaws with a blend of satire and unique narrative style.
Produced by Darlene Cobham, Alberta Irimagha, and Inyingi Irimagha, First Chronicles of the Island tackles key societal issues such as global warming, poor customer service, and political power abuse.
Director Austine Lordlaz crafts a film that blends documentary elements with humanoid animation to deliver these messages innovatively, promising a fresh cinematic experience for Nollywood audiences.
The film’s premise takes aim at issues of power, religion, and everyday human behaviours, all through the lens of a sharp and often humourous mockumentary format.
According to Lordlaz, the film is “a journey with unbelievable hanging-characters and a series of unrelated events,” yet creatively woven into an indivisible whole. It’s an experimental narrative style that challenges conventional storytelling in Nigerian cinema.
An All-Star Cast
On the red carpet, Bimbo Manuel expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the personal significance of working with former colleagues and juniors in the industry.
“Everybody is extremely important, and this one in particular is interesting for me to play because some of my schoolmates, my juniors, put this together. I am hoping that people will watch it and learn valuable lessons,” Manuel remarked.
Gregory Ojefua, who portrays the Chairman of the Island Local Government, revealed that his character’s role was meant to provoke.
“The Chairman is an illiterate who abuses power, jumps due process, and faces no consequences,” Ojefua said.
“You’ll recognise some real-life figures in him, and I hope it annoys you enough to demand better leadership,” he added as he explained that film’s boldness lies in its ability to “speak truth to power” with a mix of documentary-style realism and biting satire.
McPashun, known for his comedic talents, shared insights into his character, Mr. Dumba, a disorganised man trying to fit into society.
“He’s given a job out of pity because he just can’t seem to fit in with all the intelligent people around him. But Dumba thinks he has solutions to everything – even global warming!” McPashun joked, reflecting on the absurdity of his character.
He also encouraged actors to remain consistent in their craft. “Consistency is key. I’ve evolved in my work, and actors will grow if they keep at it,” he added.
The Director’s Vision
Austine Lordlaz, the film’s director, spoke passionately about his experimental approach, noting that First Chronicles of the Island intentionally strayed from traditional storytelling.
“This is not a conventional movie. We explored what some might call daring—tackling human behaviours, and addressing issues like global warming and poor customer service through satire,” Lordlaz explained.
“It’s a mockumentary that mocks its characters and reflects society in a way that’s both humourous and thought-provoking.”
The film’s use of humanoid animation to further its satire is one of the elements that sets it apart. Lordlaz added, “The injection and blend of humanoid animation into the work gives the project a different flair while lending a voice to the fight against global warming.”
Lordlaz was effusive in his praise for the film’s seasoned actors. “Working with veterans like Bimbo Manuel and Segun Arinze was an amazing experience. They are senior men—highly professional, punctual, and incredibly talented. It was an interesting ride working with them,” the director shared.
Audience Reception and Industry Buzz
With a diverse cast of Nollywood heavyweights, including Afeez Oyetoro (Saka), Linda Osifo, Bishop Imeh (Okon Lagos), Kiki Omeili, and Jude Orhorha, First Chronicles of the Island is generating significant industry buzz ahead of its wider release.
Gaji Samuel, who plays a comical landlord in the film, guaranteed audiences an unforgettable experience.
“If you don’t enjoy this movie, come to my DM, and I’ll refund your money!” Samuel quipped, adding, “It’s hilarious from the first scene to the last, and it was an honour to be part of this project.”
The film’s unique blend of humour and social commentary has positioned it as a must-watch in the Nigerian cinema landscape.
As the private screening wrapped up, early reactions from critics and attendees alike indicated that First Chronicles of the Island could be a game-changer, not just for its unconventional style but for the important issues it addresses.
The Bottom Line
First Chronicles of the Island offers a fresh and daring take on societal issues, presenting them with humour and depth through its mockumentary format.
In a sea of conventional films, Lordlaz’s creation stands out for its boldness and authenticity, while the performances of Nollywood’s finest promise to leave a lasting impression.
Whether it’s the film’s commentary on global warming or its humourous take on poor leadership, First Chronicles of the Island is poised to resonate with audiences far beyond its Lagos premiere.
