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At first glance, Love and New Notes appears to be the kind of romantic drama you would expect to see during the Valentine season. Soft title, gentle posters, and familiar faces suggest a predictable love story. But once the film begins, it becomes clear that this is not a conventional romance. Produced by Timini Egbuson and Kayode Kasum and released in cinemas on February 13, the movie takes a bold creative turn, blending romance with suspense, emotional tension, and subtle psychological drama.
Set in 1984 Nigeria, Love and New Notes explores love, ambition, betrayal, and survival against the backdrop of a society grappling with economic change and personal uncertainty. Rather than following a straightforward narrative, the film slowly peels back layers, revealing a story that is both intimate and unsettling.
Story Overview
The plot centres on Boma, a young man navigating love and life during a period of currency reform and shifting social realities. As he tries to build a stable future, his emotional journey becomes complicated by secrets, moral dilemmas, and the unpredictable behaviour of those closest to him. What starts as a tender romance gradually evolves into a suspense-driven narrative that questions trust, loyalty, and personal responsibility.
The film’s slow-burning approach allows viewers to become emotionally invested in the characters before introducing twists that subtly alter the tone. This careful pacing creates a sense of unease that lingers throughout, making the story far more gripping than its title initially suggests.
Performances That Stand Out
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its cast. Eniola Badmus delivers a striking performance in a role that challenges her usual screen image. Playing a complex and morally conflicted married woman, she brings restraint, emotional depth, and credibility to her character. Her controlled expressions and calm delivery make her presence quietly powerful, proving her versatility as an actress.
Odunlade Adekola also steps outside his familiar territory, offering a subdued and thoughtful portrayal that adds emotional weight to the story. His calm demeanour and measured performance create a contrast that enhances the tension within the narrative.
Timini Egbuson and Sophia Alakija carry the romantic arc of the film with convincing chemistry. Their interactions feel natural, layered with vulnerability, hope, and uncertainty. Together, they anchor the emotional core of the story, making the romance believable and engaging. Kamo State contributes well-placed humour, providing comic relief that balances the heavier themes without undermining the film’s seriousness.
Visuals and Atmosphere
The production design deserves special recognition. From costumes and hairstyles to interior décor and vintage vehicles, the film successfully recreates the feel of 1980s Nigeria. These details add authenticity, immersing viewers in a nostalgic environment that feels lived-in rather than staged.
Cinematography and sound design further enhance the experience. Thoughtfully composed camera angles reinforce emotional tension, while subtle lighting choices add depth to key scenes. The soundtrack builds suspense gradually, never overpowering the narrative but instead amplifying its emotional and psychological undertones. Together, these elements create an atmosphere that keeps viewers slightly on edge, even during seemingly calm moments.
Narrative Strengths and Shortcomings
Narratively, Love and New Notes benefits from a well-structured storyline that avoids predictability. The gradual unfolding of events keeps audiences engaged, allowing the suspense to build naturally. The direction is confident, with smooth transitions and a cohesive flow that ensures clarity despite the film’s layered structure.
However, certain plot points would have benefited from deeper exploration. Some background details are briefly mentioned but not fully developed, leaving unanswered questions. For example, the origins of Gbolahan’s wealth and the circumstances surrounding Wura’s sudden financial change are not sufficiently explained, reducing the emotional impact of these developments.
Additionally, Moji Afolayan’s character appears briefly to provide crucial exposition, yet her connection to the main storyline remains vague. This lack of context slightly weakens the scene’s significance.
Another minor flaw lies in the dialogue. While engaging, some expressions feel too modern for the 1980s setting, subtly breaking the period illusion. A more era-sensitive script could have strengthened the film’s authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Love and New Notes is a refreshing departure from typical Nollywood romantic dramas. Its fusion of love, suspense, and psychological tension creates a layered narrative that challenges viewers emotionally and intellectually. Strong performances, immersive production design, and thoughtful direction elevate the film, even as minor storytelling gaps prevent it from reaching its full potential.
For audiences seeking a romance with depth and unpredictability, Love and New Notes offers a rewarding cinematic experience that goes beyond surface-level storytelling.
Rating: 7/10
Watch trailer below…
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