Christmas in Lagos (2024) Movie Script
1
Christmas, all around the world,
it's the most wonderful time of the year.
But in Lagos, it's even more wonderful
because we go big.
My friend, move!
You can mess with a few things
on your Christmas list.
I want a pink dress.
Go and get money from your mommy.
But, you see when it comes to
the Christmas dress, we don't play.
You are welcome back.
She's the one.
That's not possible!
Okay.
You see, in Lagos, we don't have
a white Christmas. Oh, no.
It's giving fun with the family,
the biggest weddings, beach parties,
and the wildest Afro beats concert.
It's giving Detty December.
Chewy popcorn! Buy my popcorn!
Chewy popcorn.
Buy a chicken.
Keep that thing away from me.
- Don't you like this one?
- Keep it away from me.
Fiyin.
It is just a chicken.
What is wrong with you?
Mom, can you imagine?
What are you expecting?
Driving a convertible in Lagos.
They will kill you.
Mommy, I like it like that.
Mommy, it's like everybody is doing
their shopping in traffic.
Mommy Fiyin.
Where are you?
If I tell you, you won't believe me.
Yes, come to the shop.
Yes, come to the shop.
I have all the latest fabric.
The newly arrived fabrics.
You will love them.
Don't you love the Swiss Fabric
I sold to you last time.
Yes, come to the shop...
Mr. Man, what are you doing?
You can't drive?
You don't know how to drive?
Do you know who my madam is?
We will deal with you in Calabar.
Who am I, Clement? Who am I?
Did you see the kind of car that you hit?
Can't you see the car you hit.
Are you blind?
It's a Rolls-Royce.
Madam, he hit me.
Gbemisola Odetunde.
Zach Dolo?
Chief Engineer Zecharia Dolo.
So you ended up on his private jet?
No!
Who will want to fly commercial
when there is a private jet.
Mommy, you like enjoyment too much.
I could obviously get used to this.
Fiyin, I'll call you back.
Hold on. I'll call you back.
Gbemi the B.
Help me!
Someone help, my chicken is running away.
Someone help me.
Sunglasses! Sunglasses!
Bottled water.
Bottled water.
Madam, you cannot park here.
Chairman, what's up?
- Madam, you...
- What's up?
What's up?
Ivie!
Fifi baby!
Oh, my goodness!
Look at you! The fashion is fashioning.
The melanin is melanining.
I'm fabulous every day, darling.
Your confidence is out of this world.
- Is this the new car?
- Well.
So where do we put these? In the boot?
Over there.
And the flight from America has landed.
- I'll go get him soon.
- Mr. Aminu, you're a sure guy.
You're a sure guy.
You know me.
I'm the man for the airport VIP protocol.
When Beyonc came to this country,
it was me.
When, Lupita came...
I know!
- When Cardi B came, it was still you.
- Precisely.
So, I'm wondering, like,
Cardi B and Queen B?
Trust your cousin,
most connected babe in Lagos.
Fiyinfoluwa Odetunde.
The one and only.
Five minutes in Lagos,
you're already causing commotion.
I'm not even about that life. Please.
I came for the sun,
the concert, the party.
But you're in the city of love.
Love?
More like the city
of breakfast and heartbreak.
Please.
No stress, just enjoyment.
Your aura is giving doom
and gloom. What happened?
Have you given up on love?
I thought you would have given up on love
after everything you've been through.
On the contrary, I happen to know
who the love of my life is.
- Wait.
- And I'm going to tell him this Christmas.
What? Who?
- Elo.
- Are you mad?
Madly in love with my best friend? Yes.
This is a recipe for disaster.
That best friend thing
is the biggest romance scam in the world.
It never works.
Well, we are the exception
to the rule, honey.
We exemplify the unity
of agape and romantic love.
That lightning in a bottle
once in a lifetime kind of love.
English.
Books will be written
about our love because...
Lagos!
Your prince has arrived.
- Elo!
- Oh my God.
Filo is back, baby!
I hope you guys
have grown out of that childish...
What? This?
- Fi to the...
- Elo.
Filo.
- So cringe.
- Let's go.
I'm so ready for the wildest Christmas.
It's about to be a crazy December.
Detty December!
Gbems gbems.
- Zach.
- Gbems the B.
Zach, you're the only one
that calls me that.
I know.
It's because you are the bee
that stung my heart.
Zach, you are a very naughty person.
Yes.
And corny too.
But remember it's those corny lines
that made you fall in love with me.
But wait, didn't I just hear people in
the city talking about your third divorce?
So you are keeping tabs.
It means
that you are still in love with me.
Don't flatter yourself.
- You still love me.
- No, Zach.
I have a friend.
Friends are good.
I have plenty of friends.
- Zach.
- Yes?
I have a male friend.
- Okay.
- Yes, I do.
Gbemi.
How many years now have you been a widow?
Maybe, like 20,
and you are still not married.
So who's been keeping tabs now?
Of course. Of course I'm keeping tabs.
Because you're the one that got away
and keep getting away.
- Me?
- Wha...
I messed up.
I know that it was my fault
but this man you are talking about,
I don't see a ring on your finger.
- Gbemi.
- Zach.
So, he can't be serious.
What are you saying?
You know how you girls say it.
Let me put a ring on it.
Good.
- Zach.
- My beans and rice.
Leave me alone.
I won't leave you.
Leave me alone.
- I won't leave you.
- I am happy.
I know, but let me love you.
- Allow you to do what?
- Let me love you
That's what...
Leave me, Zach.
No, I won't leave you.
Looks like Auntie Gbemi
is hot on the market.
I love that she never remarried.
She's just causing small heartbreaks
here and there.
- My mentor.
- You don't need mentorship.
You're a pro at serving breakfast
left, right, and center.
The game is the game, girl.
Serve it or get served.
- Keep your heart on ice.
- Ivie.
If you don't let yourself love,
you're gonna end up alone.
What's wrong with being alone?
Have you seen the stats on accomplished
unmarried women in their 40s and 50s?
They're thriving, love.
Marriage can be beautiful, Ivie.
I want what my parents had
before my dad, you know,
before he died.
They were best friends,
the love of each other's lives.
Well, speaking of marriage,
I have some news.
My goodness, what's all this?
Elo, is this really happening? You have...
Elo, it's gorgeous.
It must have cost a fortune.
It's exactly what Yagazie would want.
- Yaga what?
- Jesus, Fiyin, you almost killed us.
You never said you were dating
anyone seriously enough
to want to get engaged with the person.
Breathe, Fiyin.
Breathe.
We've been dating for eight months,
but I've known her for a few years.
Eight months?
Elo!
Come over.
Agatha, your child is back.
Agatha.
Agatha, your child is home.
Thank you so much
- I'm home.
- My child.
- How are you?
- I'm good.
- How was your trip?
- It was long.
- I see.
- Why didn't he say something before?
Eight months?
What the hell?
Elozonam,
look at your biceps and your chest.
You're so manly now.
I've been working out.
You've been working out?
Since you're home now,
I will be working out with you every day.
Okay. Okay.
Mommy!
Fiyin! That's my girl.
How are you?
My son.
My dear child.
My amazing son.
His mother's pride.
Welcome.
Thank you, mom.
You're welcome.
Did that just happen?
I thought he was about to propose to you.
I was, like... "oh, wow"
At least, this is a two way delusion."
Who the hell is Yagazie?
Let me check IG.
Get out of my way!
Your mother!
- What?
- She's proper fit.
Let me see. Let me see!
Keep your eyes on the road, my friend.
Look, it doesn't even matter anyway.
Eight months?
A secret relationship.
Elo is not proposing to that girl at all.
Impossible.
I mean his parents haven't even met her.
Right?
Uncle Nonso would have asked me, right?
Look. Elo has been through so much.
He's just confused. That's it.
He's the love of my life,
and I'm getting him back.
- Fiyin, this is cra...
- Because if you don't fight for your love,
- what kind of love do you have?
- What kind of love do you have?
Touch.
I think we're going to need to get
a driver because this whole rough rider
whipping it excursion
you're doing ain't it.
Message him to bring her tonight.
Operation Destroy Elo's Relationship
has already begun?
We're in full swing.
Your food is burning.
Ladi, your food is burning.
Ladi.
Damn.
The sun is very hot today,
and the traffic is bad.
I hope it's cold.
I don't care if you drink it or not.
You're giving me hot water in this sun?
This girl, Ladi.
So...
do you want to accept me now
or do you still want to be difficult?
Come on. Go.
Didn't you come here to make a delivery?
Were you paying attention to your work
when you were looking at me
and almost burnt your food?
Leave.
Are you chasing me away?
- Go!
- Should I go?
All right, leave.
- You were saved by the bell.
- Go.
If you won't go to lunch with me,
at least come
to my birthday party this evening.
And before you even think of saying
no, let me tell you this.
James,
Bukky,
Evelyn, Chiamaka,
All of them will be there.
It's like a reunion of sorts.
- Really?
- Yes.
How long has it been? 35 years?
Thirty-nine.
You're trying to reduce your age.
That's your mom's fella's
Rolls-Royce, right?
That actually is my mom's fella.
Live your life, sis.
This is what these men deserve.
- A little drama, competition. You get it?
- You are crazy.
You know you didn't
have to drop me at home.
How will I know where
I will pick you up from later?
Zach, you're relentless.
Of course.
That's what made me a billionaire.
It's from refusing
to take no for an answer.
Well, you're going
to have to take this no.
Why?
That's my friend.
That small boy?
He's not bad.
He's a fine boy.
Now, I'm even more excited.
- Why?
- Because I love competition.
Gosh, Zach! See you.
This small boy, right?
- Yes.
- He's the one making you shiver, right?
Ivie.
It's so good to see you, Auntie.
Auntie, I need all the details.
'Cause how about this tall classic,
dark chocolate, giving sugar daddy vibe.
I was the one who asked him
to open the gate for Uncle Tonye.
Ladi, shut up!
Uncle Tonye, have you been waiting long?
Not at all.
I arrived just in time to see this.
My love, this is for you.
Come on. You brought me my favorite.
You know, I will never come empty-handed.
- You look great.
- Thank you.
Steamy.
So, is this your money miss road guy?
Well, that's an old friend of mine...
- Old friend?
- that I met at the airport today.
You just met him today at the airport?
Elozonam, there is a delivery for you.
Elo is already ordering things.
He just came into Lagos today.
Merry Christmas, sir.
- Same to you.
- Yes, sir.
Okay.
- Let me get that.
- Thank you.
It's a surprise.
He says it's a surprise.
For you.
Boss man.
- All this for me?
- Merry Christmas.
My December will be good.
Thank you.
- What's that?
- Don't ruin the surprise.
Mom, Dad...
I want to bring someone home for dinner.
Who?
A friend?
It's a little bit more than a friend.
She's my girlfriend.
I want to propose.
Good things, good things
Good things have reached us
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things have reached us
Propose?
Mom, you'll love her.
And I want to bring her and her sister
to come meet you all.
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things, good things
Good things have reached us
Where are they?
You'll miss out on all these.
Quit worrying about a man.
Not a man.
Elo.
Even Elo can't compete
with these small chops.
What? I'm having a party
in my mouth right now.
Oh my God. I'm so sorry.
I wasn't...
Fiyin.
Nasir.
Nasir Sanusi.
Babe?
Excuse my manners.
Meet my girlfriend. Aisha.
Aisha meet Fiyin, and...
I'm Ivie, her cousin.
You're the famous Ivie.
Babe, I think I need a drink.
You guys have a wonderful evening.
Earth paging Fiyin?
Are you still alive?
I haven't seen him since we broke up.
That's rough.
Did she have a ring on?
Who? The Aisha girl? I don't know.
I wasn't checking for one.
Five years.
He breaks up with me after five years,
and has the audacity to move on before me?
- Do you still love him?
- No.
I don't know.
No, actually, I do know. I don't love him.
I'm in love with Elo.
Fiyin!
Yagazie, you're even
more stunning in person.
Thank you.
We've heard so much about you.
You're both really pretty.
Elo said you're both friendly and cool,
but I think he might have
underestimated just how friendly you are.
Yeah. We're just really,
really excited to meet you.
Yagazie, how did you guys meet?
What did you find attractive
about that big head?
Wait, what do you do?
That's a lot of questions.
I'll start with the last one.
I'm an epidemiologist.
Epideologist?
Epidemiologist.
I basically study
the outbreak of diseases.
She's being modest.
See, she worked with the team
that brought the first vaccine
to Africa during the pandemic.
She's an actual hero.
Stop.
Fiyin Epidemiologist One, Fiyin zero.
Good evening, ma'am.
Good evening.
Enjoy your evening.
Thank you.
- How are you?
- I am good.
Hey! Gbemisco?
Tejo.
- Is that you?
- Yes, it's me.
But guess who else is here.
- Who?
- Bukky, Chiamaka.
- Really?
- Loveth.
Loveth is here?
Girls. Look who I found.
Gbemisco!
Gbemi.
- Bukky.
- Oh God.
- Bukky.
- Gbemi.
You look exactly the same.
You have not changed.
- Exactly.
- I'm telling you.
You look gorgeous.
Or have you joined the league?
- Loveth.
- What?
- What league?
- The league of Dr. Onukwu's clients.
No. Please.
Don't mind her.
She thinks everyone
has had a facelift like her.
Facelift, botox, tummy tuck.
In fact, I am so proud of it,
unlike some people
who have upped the girls,
and they claim it's exercise.
Loveth!
What?
And you're still a rascal.
Ladies and gentlemen!
A rascal. You can never change.
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Happy birthday
To you
Can you imagine?
Only Zach will have
a peacock at his party.
And black angels.
- And the belly dancers.
- And the belly dancers.
Hello, ladies.
Can I borrow my Gbemi
from this witches' coven for a second?
- Come on.
- Witches' coven?
Witches indeed.
- I'm speechless. Can you imagine?
- Is he calling us witches?
Did you see
how they're laughing like witches?
Enjoying my money?
One, two, three, go
A saggy breast is sagged
What penetrated has entered has...
- Elo, do you remember?
- Of course I remember.
At your 13th birthday.
Baby, baby continue
All the boys are crazy
And they want some
She continues to
- She moves about a lot
- Oh yes
- She is a tricky babe
- Oh yes
- Not a straight forward babe
- Oh yes
- I will tell my mother
- Oh yes
- And I will tell my father
- Oh yes
And I will tell them that
Prostitute, Hausa, Hausa, prostitute
Prostitute, Hausa
Baby, baby
- I can't believe I still remember that.
- It's been what? 15 years?
I haven't danced like that in a long time.
I know.
But you deserve to, so allow yourself.
All right.
I need to take a leak.
You two fall in love
with each other while I'm gone.
Please.
Why do you think it never worked out
between you two?
He told you that?
We tell each other everything.
I see that.
The timing just never seemed to be right.
Elo has talked about you
since I've known him.
He obviously really cares about you.
And it looks like he's crazy about you.
So, how's the long distance going?
We've actually only been
long distance for three months.
I moved back to Lagos three months ago.
And I just got into the PhD program
at Johns Hopkins.
So I'll be going there in a few months.
The Johns Hopkins?
There's only one.
That's really impressive.
We've talked about Elo moving back
to Baltimore with me.
I mean, he works remotely
most of the time anyway.
Yagazie, you've officially snatched
my best friend away, haven't you?
Hopefully we can be friends, too.
I'm sure Elo would love that.
Yeah.
Bro, something strong.
You were great up there.
Thank you.
So, which "I just go back" are you?
- American?
- Wrong.
English, British.
I can hear it now.
I like London.
- Have you been?
- No.
But, I had this uncle
that used to live there.
We used to call him Daddy London.
Of course.
He was a musician.
An amazing guitarist.
- He taught you how to play?
- He did.
And he played for some
really famous people, like
- Elton John.
- Elton John?
Elton John.
- The Beatles.
- The Beatles?
- I swear.
- Really?
Are you sure?
Actually, you know,
Daddy London could pull your leg
like he's pulling the strings
on his guitar, so I'm not too sure.
You know, I'll give it to him.
It's a great story.
He inspired me.
My dream...
My dream is to travel the world
with the greatest musicians.
You know, if I can just,
if I can just play for Beyonc one time.
One time.
Well, with the way you played tonight,
I'm sure it's only a matter of time.
I like you.
Ivie.
Ajani.
See the cute dress.
Red dress.
When you left your house this evening,
you had one intention.
No, no. I came here to wish my childhood...
Childhood friend?
Yes.
Is that how you see me?
The man who almost married you.
That was a million years ago, Zach.
A million years and four proposals,
and you still refuse, Gbemisola.
Proposing to me after every divorce
doesn't make it up to me, Zach.
Those marriages...
They were all rebounds.
Gbemisola...
you are the real deal.
Zach.
Zach.
I will keep proposing to you.
I will keep proposing to you
until you say yes.
Anywhere I see you, I will keep proposing.
Zach.
Gbemisola.
I love you.
I always will.
I have to go.
Wait, don't go. Gbem...
Gbemisola.
Wait.
Elozonam.
What are you doing?
Daddy, please, we need this.
It's been a while.
I know, but this can be the start.
What on earth is going on here?
How dare you?
How dare you?
What do you think you're doing?
Mommy, please.
Take it down.
Take it all down!
Get it all down. Get it down!
Take it down!
Nonso.
Please.
Instead of... You too.
You joined him.
Do you want to kill me?
Forgive me.
Come here.
I didn't...
I didn't mean to hurt her.
I was so uncomfortable.
They've been best friends
since they were kids.
That sounds messy.
I wouldn't let my man
have a female friend,
much less a best friend.
Sis, that's toxic.
Sure, toxic,
but there will be no confusion.
Anyway, he's the one who should be worried
about someone else bagging you.
Have you forgotten whose daughter you are?
Sister of Caroline Okoro.
Daughter of Chibuzor and Agnes Okoro.
Granddaughter of Chibundu.
And great granddaughter
of the first medical doctor in Igboland.
Exactly!
Caroline.
Come.
Let's go.
Peter Adeyemi.
It's such a pleasure
to see you in person, ma'am.
Thank you so much.
And thank you for accepting our invitation
for the Christmas Carol Service.
Please. Come on.
Come on. Let me show you the church.
I can assure you
that you're very welcome here.
Thank you, sir. Thank you.
Ivie, she's perfect
and gorgeous and intelligent.
And you know what?
She's probably a genius.
They're going to live happily
ever after in Baltimore.
- Does anyone live happily in Baltimore?
- I'm serious.
- I think I've lost Elo.
- Great.
So you can give up on this
terrible idea of trying to break them up.
I've always thought of Elo
as the great love of my life.
After we we're both done
sowing our wild oats,
we would marry each other
right before we turn 30.
So you're not really in love with Elo.
He's your backup plan
for a husband, innit?
It's more than that.
I mean, we've seen each other
through everything.
I always say how I've only
ever loved two men in my life.
My dad
and Elo.
That's heavy.
I just always thought...
I don't know what I thought, really.
I mean, he has his life in America,
and she's this amazing epidiologist.
It's epidemiologist, Fiyin.
You see, I can't even pronounce it right.
Fiyin.
I'm here, working at my mom's fabric shop.
I haven't even figured out
what to do with my life yet.
Hey, don't sell yourself short.
Auntie Gbemi
is a phenomenal businesswoman,
and training to succeed is what
intergenerational wealth looks like, okay?
It's fabric. It's not saving the world.
Girl, have you seen the way
you perfectly curate Asoebi?
That's arts. That's culture.
That's a calling.
Continue praising me, okay.
I'm serious, Fiyin.
Yagazie seems amazing,
and she's everything that you said,
but that doesn't diminish you.
You're phenomenal, my darling.
Somewhere deep down, I know that.
It's just... Elo and I have been
doing this dance for years.
I just always thought
that when the time came,
we would choose each other, you know.
I can't believe I'm about to say this,
but maybe it's not too late.
He hasn't proposed yet.
Maybe you should just be honest.
Tell him how you feel.
At least, you won't keep
torturing yourself
with what ifs for the rest of your life.
Speak of the devil.
Hey, I was just talking about...
Elo, are you okay?
I'm on my way.
I have to go.
She's not ready.
Yeah, but we never talk
about what happened
or even about Ijeoma
because we know it will upset Mom.
We've just been frozen in time.
You haven't gotten a chance
to heal as a family,
I get you.
But Elo, you also can't force her
to be merry just because it's Christmas.
I just...
I just thought that if she came down
and saw the tree with the decorations,
the ornaments, and...
Maybe we could talk about her.
Share memories about how things
used to be with all of us.
Elo...
memories can be hard to move on from.
I'm sorry to put it down
on your Christmas.
I'm sure you could be out
having fun with Ivie.
There's nowhere else I'd rather be.
Three years.
Just three years,
and they're already
getting back to normal.
The last time we celebrated Christmas,
there were four of us.
Now we are three.
What is there to celebrate?
"Count it all joy
whenever you face trials of many kinds."
James 1:2...
He was cruel when he wrote that.
My darling Ijeoma will no longer come home
to spend Christmas with her mother
just because a mad, drunken man
decided to run her over.
Is that what I'm supposed to count as joy?
Do you have a picture of Ijeoma here?
I mean, your favorite picture.
Yes. Yes, I do.
One where she's happy, smiling.
Or, maybe one where you're together.
It's not a picture. It's a video.
Oh, my God!
Mother...
I laughed so hard.
She had such a beautiful laugh.
I used to call it the locomotive engine.
I used to tease her a lot.
But now...
I miss the sound of laughter in the house.
I used to be confused by the idea
of counting it all as joy.
And, yes, it felt like a cruel joke.
But, then,
when my younger brother died,
I felt God revealed a new meaning for me.
We are not promised forever
with the ones we love.
And so we must not lose hope,
when they are gone.
We need to find the strength and courage
to hold on to the gift
of time we shared together.
The happiness, the laughter,
the honor of being chosen by God
to be their mother, son, brother, wife.
We have to choose joy
and hope
for the people that are left behind.
So, Sister Agatha,
it is not an insult to her memory
to celebrate.
It is, in fact, in honor of her memory
that you must.
That must be Ajani.
That's my date.
Zach?
Mommy Fiyin, you like drama.
Wait, that's not Ajani?
So where is he?
He came on a motorcycle.
Gbemi the B.
You forgot your purse.
Really, did she forget
these shopping bags, too?
No, no, I am not a man
that brings vegetables to a woman.
I come correct.
- Did you hear that?
- I see.
I wouldn't expect your kind to appreciate
anything without a logo on it.
Classless.
- There you go, my dear.
- Thank you, darling.
Darling.
Gbemi, you know that
flowers will die soon?
Right? It won't last past today
or tomorrow.
But, Herms is forever.
Zach, I'm sorry. I can't accept it.
No, Gbemi.
Go ahead.
Take it. Take the gifts.
Obviously, no one here has taught chairman
that you can't buy people.
- Are you ready? Shall we go?
- Yes.
- Let's go. Let's go, darling.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
Chairman.
Small boy.
Yes, please.
They're getting dragged.
I'm the one about to be dragged
in this dress.
Listen.
Go change before the motorcycle exhaust
burns your hot legs.
See my life.
- How far?
- Hello?
- Ivie, what's up?
- Hi.
Are you ready?
I should probably change.
Yeah.
Ladi, your boyfriend is here.
Ladi, accept him please.
The boy is handsome.
He is a fine boy.
- What is your problem?
- He's handsome.
You people should help me tell her.
I am going. Good night.
Good night. Ladi. Ladi.
Ladi.
Bye, bye our husband.
Hope you heard her?
All right now. Good night.
Good night, our husband.
See how you're enjoying your life.
All these island restaurants...
100k, 200k for spaghetti and lobster.
Is their food as sweet as this?
Are you okay?
Thank you.
So...
what do you do in London?
I work a job that pays the bills.
Nothing as exciting as what you're doing.
We all do what we need to do to survive.
I'm a delivery guy by day,
guitarist by night.
I wish I had the courage
to do what I love.
And that is?
I always wanted to write.
As in books?
Poems actually.
Yeah.
So what's stopping you?
A healthy dose of shame.
I can't go and disgrace myself.
So, break your own heart
before the world has a chance to?
Are you a therapist?
I just think you should do it.
You know.
Who knows?
We can be a poet and guitarist duo.
Sonny and Cher.
I'll be John. You'll be Yoko.
- Ike and Tina...
- You lost me at Ike.
My bad.
I'm just joking.
You took me by surprise.
You're not what I was expecting.
What?
You weren't expected to be falling
for a delivery guy
that moonlights as a guitarist?
Who says I'm falling?
My friend!
Did you see how you
hopped on that motorcycle?
Ivie,
you are falling.
I like you, Ajani.
You're funny.
You're honest in a city
that can be so pretentious.
Your style is kind of clean.
You put it on and whatever.
Don't stop.
- Keep going.
- Your head is swelling, right?
Just a little.
I really like you, Ivie.
My guy... It's Chisom.
He's meeting us here with his babe.
Brother, what's up?
You can't miss me. I'm in that red shirt.
Where are you? Bro!
Come over. I am here.
- Auntie Ivie.
- How are you doing?
- It's me, Ladi.
- Ladi!
Imagine seeing you here.
Girl.
- Hi.
- This is a small world.
I remember seeing you at the house.
I saw you, too, with your motorcycle.
Small world, man.
I'm sorry. Join us.
- Are you guys eating Amala?
- Join us.
Our song.
- The dodo is going to burn.
- Let it burn.
Just relax.
Gbemi.
I'm not gonna wait for you forever,
you know.
Yeah.
I've been asking you
for six months now to marry me.
No answer.
Instead you've just been toying with me
with this clown who is just,
I don't know, some...
I'm not toying with you.
- He's just an old friend.
- Old friend.
An old friend who wants you.
And if you're being honest,
you're enjoying the attention.
I'm... It...
What? No, I'm not worried.
I'm not worried about him.
Not at all. It's you I'm worried about.
Yeah. I know you love me.
I know you love being with me.
You know what?
I can see us growing old together.
- We're already old.
- Exactly.
So why waste the little time we have left?
Gbemi.
What is it?
What are you afraid of?
It's just that I've been
my own woman for so long.
And for the past 20 years,
I've been surviving,
and building a life for my daughter and I.
Yeah.
I just don't know
what it's going to feel like if...
- If?
- If I...
If you started living for yourself,
life will always be like this.
My love.
Look, I know you've been a superwoman.
You've taken on so much
but it's time to ease up.
It's time to let someone else
take care of you.
It's time to enjoy the, you know,
simple, everyday things of life.
Like frying plantain
and dancing in the kitchen.
- The dodo is burning.
- Hey, my God.
Don't want you to pull me, pull me down
So don't stress me, frustrate me
See you later, I say I'll call you later
Baby, don't play with my emotions
I'm too deep and I'm emotional
Boy, you're testing my patience
Can't control me, say it man
Say you love me with no emotion
But I'm loving such devotion
You do me rough now, make me happy
What are we right now, make me happy
Why don't you love me
You know I love you
You do me rough now, make me happy
What are we right now, make me happy
Why don't you love me
You know I love you
Don't stress me, or frustrate me
See you later, I say I call you later
Baby, don't play with my emotions
I'm too deep and I'm emotional
Only in Lagos
Why do I feel like I'm under pressure
Only in Lagos
Everyone I know is under pressure
I don't want you to pull me, pull me down
Auntie Ivie,
I can't believe that you're here.
Ladi, I still can't believe this is you.
This dress is fire.
Thank you, Auntie.
- I made it myself.
- You what?
I've been learning
from my auntie who is a tailor.
But the truth is, I want to be
a fashion designer.
I can see that. Listen, you have to do it.
I will definitely buy from your line.
Auntie Ivie, thank you.
Why do you keep calling me auntie?
We're probably the same age.
And you just saw me stuff my tongue
down that man's throat.
Auntie Ivie.
But do you like him?
He's a good guy.
What about your guy?
Chisom. He's trying, though.
He's currently working as a delivery boy.
But... he wants to own his own
transportation business.
Chisom and sons.
And it's you that would
give him the sons, right?
- Auntie Ivie, stop.
- It is well.
I haven't been honest
with you about something.
Zach.
Zach and I are not just old friends.
We were engaged.
What?
A long time ago.
Before Fiyin's father.
We had just graduated from Unilag
when he asked me to marry him.
He got a government scholarship
and had to move to America.
He asked me to wait for him.
And then he returned
two years later, married.
So he's married?
Not anymore.
He's been divorced three times.
Divorced three times.
He's often asked me
to marry him over the years.
Yeah.
So when he asked me
to marry him the other night...
I don't understand what you mean.
I don't understand.
You wanted to marry him?
No.
That's not what I mean.
So what are you saying?
I don't want to lie to you.
- I want to be honest with you.
- Okay.
I love you, Tonye.
Zach.
Zach is...
He's just someone
I've known for a very long time.
Long time?
Gbemi, listen.
You know, we are...
we're entering into the unknown.
I know. I know. I know it can be hard.
But I am not a child,
and we can't be acting like kids.
I'm going to give you some space.
You know where to find me.
You will always have me.
Okay?
My love,
you are the one after my heart, my own.
And it will never change.
When I was little, I remember my mom used
to wake us all up on Christmas morning.
And we'd run down the stairs
and the whole house
would be smelling of akara.
You had akara for Christmas?
Akara, pap, everything.
I see.
No wonder you're so tall.
All those beans...
If anyone had told me
I'd spend the rest of my life on Christmas
without my mom and dad,
I would...
Sometimes surviving is the hardest.
Feels like every time my mom sees me,
it's just a reminder that IJ
isn't here anymore.
It's okay.
I'm sorry.
What are you saying sorry for?
I weep.
I weep bitterly.
It's okay.
We are all weeping too.
I miss her.
I miss her so much.
Fiyinfoluwa.
What is wrong with you?
How many times have I told you
to not leave your bags and your shoes...
Sorry, Mommy.
I am sorry.
- Fiyin.
- Ma.
What would you say if I...
If what?
If I got married?
- You're getting married?
- I didn't say that.
But, what if?
To Uncle Tonye?
Tonye asked me six months ago.
Zach.
Well, he's been asking me
ever since your father died.
Mommy.
Why didn't you tell me what was going on?
I didn't tell you because
I'm still picking up your shoes
and your bags all over the house.
I'm still cooking your breakfast.
And you're still my baby.
And it's been the two of us
since your father died.
Mommy, I'm not a baby.
Mommy, I'm not a...
Okay, Gbemisola.
If I handle you!
Okay, I am sorry.
Mommy,
I want you to be happy.
And if either of those men
is going to make you happy,
I need you to stop hiding behind me.
- I'm not hiding.
- You are!
You know what I think?
I think you're scared of having your heart
shattered like it did when Daddy died.
But, I am scared.
Don't say that.
Mommy Fiyin,
you're the strongest woman I know.
But you need to allow yourself
to be vulnerable again.
Do you hear me?
- Fiyin.
- Ma.
Look at you giving me advice.
- I hear you.
- Okay.
I hear you.
Okay.
Auntie, you're here?
Ivie, you're back from your date
with the Fuji master Ayinla?
Not Ayinla.
Auntie, it's Ajani.
And it was lovely.
He took me to the shrine.
Shrine?
Okay, keep me out of it.
I am not interested in knowing more.
It really was lovely.
Weren't you the one who said
"no romance this holiday,
no stress, just enjoyment"?
Yeah, I know,
but Ajani is actually really cool.
Really? Okay.
Fiyin, do you think
I should start writing again?
I always wondered why you stopped writing.
I really liked your poetry.
You have such a way with words.
My mom always said it was a pipe dream.
She'd be like, "Ivie, I'm not rich."
"How will you eat?"
That sounds like auntie.
You know, Grandma told me something once.
She said,
"May we not let what we will eat
stop us from achieving our dreams."
Meaning may we not let what we will eat
stop us from becoming who we will be.
I never forgot it.
I love that.
- Fiyin.
- Elo, I need-
I was about to come to yours.
I need your help.
- Come on.
- Okay.
Okay. So, look, I have
this whole idea planned...
I already have it
all planned out in my head.
I just need you to help me make it happen.
You know everyone in Lagos.
You want me to plan
a surprise proposal for your...
I want a view. I want music.
I want roses. Like a million of them.
Look. Look at these.
Look, Elo, you've been through
so much these last three years.
You've only been dating her...
What? Eight months?
Are you sure this isn't about Ijeoma?
You know, I always thought
people were exaggerating
when they say that you lose a piece
of yourself when you lose someone,
but a part of me died
the day that IJ died.
And,
I was lost for what seemed like forever.
But then I met Yagazie,
and it's like we were
meant to be together.
She was meant to be a part of my life.
She's the one...
- You're bleeding.
- No, it's okay. It's just a small cut.
Fiyin, you know I love you.
You're my person.
You always will be.
I'm always gonna be right here like
I've been since we were six years old.
Is it Fifi you're now proposing to?
- What?
- I'm not complaining.
Auntie, no.
He was actually just asking for help
with the proposal.
Don't mind this young man.
They don't recognize something good
even when it's right in front of them.
Mom, you're supposed to be on my side.
Besides Fiyin likes Yagazie.
Right?
Gbemi the B.
At last, I can give you
a personal tour of the Dolo Manor.
Gbemi.
So you want to leave me
to marry that guy, right?
That small man.
Let's just assume that
it's none of your business, Zach.
I came to return the gift
and to tell you in person
whatever it is...
this thing where we run into each other
and rehash a life that,
that could have been, but never was.
It needs to end.
The idea of the two of us...
I mean, being begged
for my hand in marriage
by the first man who broke my heart.
My B.
To be, you know, to be swept in this...
your fairy-tale life.
Don't get me wrong, Zach.
I've actually thought
about what it would feel like
to live this life.
But Zach, the idea of it is actually much
better than the reality it could ever be.
You're not looking for love, Zach.
- I am.
- No, you're not.
Not really.
You're looking for the next conquest,
the next trophy, a notch on your belt.
My sweet heart.
The only woman in my heart.
My one and only.
Zach, no more sweet talk.
We have grown past all these flattery.
And besides, I'm nobody's plaything.
Gbemi.
Gbemi, wait!
Gbemi.
Ivie, I lost.
Fiyin, I can't hear you.
He asked me to plan
a surprise engagement for her.
Me!
Do you know what, Fiyin?
You need time away from Elo and Yagazie.
Go home, get dressed,
and come and meet me.
Ayra Starr is performing in an hour.
Ivie, I'm not in the mood.
I don't want to hear that.
Go home, get changed into something
that Ayra will be proud of, okay?
See you soon. Love you. Bye.
Mommy.
I wanted to surprise you.
Thank you.
You like her, don't you?
I do.
She's the one.
Invite her over with her parents.
I'll cook and I'll...
It's just her and her sister.
Her parents died in a car accident
seven years ago.
Is that how you two started talking?
You were telling her about Ijeoma?
We are both carrying so much pain.
I think we helped each other heal.
Love heals.
In my pain and grief,
I must have forgotten that.
I love you, son.
I love you and your dad
more than anything in the whole world.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
So, you're done thinking?
There really wasn't much to think about.
Forgive me, Tonye.
I've been a coward.
Do you still have that ring?
speaks Yoruba
But, it's your proposal.
So, you should have brought your ring
to propose to me.
I'm an African woman.
We don't propose.
That's who you are.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Now, what kind of life have I not seen?
I believe in God, so I fear nothing
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Original, it's not a parody
It cannot be clear in your memory
Whether it's winter or summer
Ajeh, Barbados, Havana, livin' life
See my fire
What is inside me
Smallish but mighty
They never know, the story is good
Check and balance
Everything inside my mind daily
Trust me, you can't fool me
Wrong energy, I log off
I am friendly and conscious
I'm allergic to opposition
I'm not ready for confusion
They are telling me to show love
Stable and hot
Everything is connection
I'm not ready for confusion
What kind of life have I not seen?
I believe in God, so I fear nothing
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Ayra, we wanna party!
Up next, it's "Rush."
Hurry, she's performing "Rush."
You know that's my tune.
Okay. Okay.
My mom is engaged.
- To which one?
- Way ahead of you.
Mommy, you're engaged?
I think we should
go outside for this gist.
- Let me see.
- Tonye proposed again.
And I said yes.
Yes, so she asked me to propose again.
- What?
- He was my fave though.
He's such a cute little teddy bear.
Am I the one they are calling teddy bear?
Sorry, Uncle. I said cute.
She said cute.
Okay, so we're getting married
Christmas Day.
Sorry, we're not mad, just great news.
Mommy, that's literally a week away.
Yes.
So, we have one week to plan our wedding.
And by we, I mean...
- you, my darling.
- You.
Mommy, I'm so happy for you.
You deserve everything.
Thank you, my dear.
I love it.
We're planning a big, fine Najia wedding.
O holy night
The stars
Are brightly shining
It is the night
Of our dear Savior's birth
Was a holy, was a holy night, was a holy
Long lay the world
In sin and error pining
Till He appeared
And the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder
Yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn
Get a room.
- Go buy your own house.
- Yes.
Fall on your knees
O hear
- The angel's voices
- Hear the angel's voices
O night divine
O night
O night
Divine, O night
O night divine
Was a holy, was a holy night, was a holy
The night when Christ was born
Holy, was a holy night
Was a holy
The night when Christ was born
The king of kings
Lay thus in a lowly manger
In all our trials
Born to be our friend
Fall on your knees
O hear the angel's voices
Hear the angel's voices
O night divine
O night, O night divine
O night divine
O night
O night divine
Was a holy night
Was a holy night, was a holy night
Was a holy, holy night
- Was a holy
- Night
- Was a holy
- O night
- Was a holy, holy night
- Night
Was a holy, was a holy night
Holy night
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
Was a holy, holy night
You. Look how you've set me up, right?
Father Christmas, you are doing well.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
Hey, Ivie.
You were wonderful out there.
Thank you.
- Ivie, Fiyin, let's go.
- Ivie, let's go.
We're running late.
It's like we're holding up the bride.
You're still coming, right?
I'm not sure. It's Christmas Day.
Please come. Please.
I'm so late. Yeah.
Yes, you serve hors d'uvres
as soon as guests arrive in the hall.
- Put it in my room, please.
- Fiyin.
I need the bride for 30 minutes.
Yes. Then you serve dinner
as soon as the bride and groom arrive.
Fiyin, I need to get your interview.
Not now, please.
30 minutes! We have 30 minutes, guys!
Why are you outside?
She sent us out.
Yeah.
Mommy Fiyin, you're going to be late.
They can wait.
speaks Yoruba
Am I the bride?
- We met at the...
- Ikoyi Club.
He went to play tennis.
You went to swim.
- It was love at first sight.
- It was love at first sight.
He really was the big love of your life.
The biggest.
You know, I often wonder
if Elo is the big love of my life.
You love Elo like that?
I think so.
But he's going to propose to Yagazie.
Honey.
You do know that if he's the one,
you wouldn't have to wonder.
You'd know.
My sweet potato
I wanna tell you my mind
I wanna tell you my mind
I don't understand
I can see very well
But they say love is blind
You see as you are
You are the love of my life
The love of my life
I cannot deny it
I wanna make you my wife
Wanna make you my wife
See I never thought
That I'd find someone like you
That will capture my heart
And there's nothing that I can do
I used to brag to my friends
That I'll always be a player
But since I set my eyes on you
You made me fall in love
Please take care of her.
I promise.
My friends ask me
Oh boy, what is the matter
Me, I am telling them that
You confuse my brain
I used to lie to myself
That I'll always be a player
But since I set my eyes on you
I'm in love, I'm in love
We are supposed to marry
Because you've made me fall in love
Fall in love, fall in love
You've made me fall in love
My love
Baby, you've made me fall in love
I'm in love
I'm in love
You've made me fall in love
I'm in love
I'm in love with you
This is everything.
They look so beautiful together.
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today
to join together these two people.
I can't help it
I am in the mood to dance
You look fantastic.
Come out and dance
Let's praise God
Let's praise God I can't help it
This is a lot.
Well, I told Fiyin to plan our wedding,
and I guess she planned
her own dream wedding.
Indeed.
I can't help it
I can't help it
I will dance and praise my lord
Me, I will dance and enjoy
- You'll make such a beautiful Igbo bride.
- I would, wouldn't I?
- I even have my dance moves.
- Yeah?
Show me.
Auntie Fiyin.
What?
What?
- Hors d'uvres?
- Yes.
- Yes, that's it.
- What happened?
- I think something happened.
- Okay, let's go.
What happened?
There's a huge problem.
I sent the hors d'oeuvres ahead of me,
and they are supposed to be here.
Now...
I just called my assistant,
and she has informed me
that they had an accident.
An accident. How?
Can't we just send somebody
to go and get them?
No.
They spilled it all over the floor.
And before I could salvage anything...
What do you call these, these...
area boys?
They appeared and ate everything
off the floor, it's all gone.
Everything is gone. It's over.
There's nothing.
Auntie Fiyin, what's happening?
I don't know.
Can't you just make another batch?
It took two days to prep the ingredients,
and one day to handcraft
the hors d'oeuvres.
I am not magician.
This is not small chops.
Small chops.
Why can't we just make small chops?
Fuck!
- Sorry.
- Sorry!
Auntie Fiyin, I know a woman
that can make small chops.
Let's talk to her. She can come.
Are you sure she'll get here on time?
This is Christmas Day.
I know somebody
that can bring her here quickly.
So where is your sister now?
Won't you go and look for them there?
Hey, my man.
- How is it going?
- I am hungry, my guy.
My guy, come on. Have some.
So won't you go to that party?
Is she looking for my type?
By this time next week,
she'll be back in the UK.
She won't even remember me, bro.
Why are you saying that?
You know what?
You don't know what you will do.
Hello, Ladi. What's up?
I will do it for you. No problem.
I will do it for you.
- What's up?
- Bro.
We are going to the party, my man.
Let's go. Don't worry. We're going.
Do you know what happened?
Ladi called me and was saying...
Thanks for coming to the rescue.
A wedding without small chops
is an atrocity.
That's what I said.
So, London girl,
can you dance?
Okay.
Can you keep up?
So, even after I saved this party,
you can't even kiss me?
My own bride price is more expensive
than small chops.
You are too expensive, Ladi.
Why not?
One second, baby.
You know she's not leaving you, right?
But she is,
and I'm happy for her.
I am.
They are perfect together.
But I just can't shake the feeling
that I'm all alone now.
Ivie is going back to London.
Heck, even Ladi
would probably marry that guy.
And then you,
you're leaving me too.
Fiyin...
I'll never leave you.
You're my best friend.
See, that's just it, though.
Elo, I've been trying
to tell you since you landed,
I don't just want to be your best friend.
Elo, I love you.
I think I've loved you
since we were five years old,
and you used
to let me eat your school lunch.
So no, I don't just want
to be your best friend.
I want to be the woman you want
to spend the rest of your life with.
Fiyin, I can't...
Yaga...
Yagazie!
Babe!
Babe, I know this sounds cliche,
but that that was not what you think.
You're saying I didn't see Fiyin kiss you?
Yes, she did. But...
- But I did not...
- Nothing, Elo.
Since you arrived,
Fiyin has all but screamed
at the top of her lungs
that she's in love with you
and wants to fight for you.
But you've acted oblivious to it.
And I didn't want to be
the insecure girlfriend.
I'm not going to put myself
in this situation,
wondering if I'm your transition
till you realize you've been in love
with your best friend all along?
I'm not.
Just leave me out of it.
That was a messed up thing to do.
Babe.
Babe, please.
Babe.
Elo, I'm so sorry.
You are so fucking selfish.
For years, I was in love with you.
And I told you,
but you chose Nasir.
And even though it broke me,
I still managed to remain your friend.
Your friend!
Through all the years
that you were dating that jackass.
So what? He breaks up with you, and now
you realize you're in love with me?
Elo, it's not like that, I...
No, no.
You need to figure out
how to be happy on your own.
Because I'm not your life raft.
And while I love you,
it's Yagazie that I want to spend
the rest of my life with.
Somehow you managed to mess that up.
Where's my fucking car?
I really messed things up, right?
Yep, you did.
I don't even know what to do.
You've got to put on
your big girl pants and fix it.
How?
They both hate me right now.
Well, you have to go and see Yagazie.
Really?
She'll kill me.
She'd be well within her rights.
Hey.
You have to make this right, Fiyin.
Elo deserves that much.
But you were the one that told me to be
honest with him about my feelings.
I didn't ask you to kiss him,
and in front of his girlfriend, no less.
I was moving with the spirit.
I cast and bind that spirit.
And Elo?
You have to go and see Elo first.
Elo.
Please.
Why are you wasting your time?
They've already been paid, so...
Elo, please give me a chance
to make this right.
She won't even talk to me.
I don't know how you plan
to make this right.
I've taken her name to my native doctor.
Elo, I'm so sorry.
I'm sorry, too.
I said some really cruel things
that I didn't mean.
I was just angry.
- I deserved it.
- No, you didn't.
If this was a few years ago, I would've
been the one trying to stop your wedding.
So you're lucky.
Our friendship...
Our story has been so long and complex,
and everyone has been telling us
we were supposed to be together
since we were kids.
I just thought we'd be together
after we were done sowing our wild oats.
That's what I said.
But I fell in love, Fiyin.
I see that now.
But, I'm sorry.
I'm sorry I didn't give us a chance
to mourn the dream of us.
What could have been.
Can I ask you a question?
Why did you keep Yagazie a secret from me?
I mean, it's hard to just
find out like that in the car.
If I'm being honest,
I knew what me and Yagazie had
was special from the jump.
And...
a part of me wanted to protect that.
I just wanted us to be able to figure
each other out without anyone's thoughts
or voices in my head.
You know?
You really do love her.
Well, yeah, that's...
that's why I want to marry her.
Give me a chance to make this right.
Your sister said
that I could find you here.
You're the last person I wanted to see.
Yagazie, I'm sorry.
Look, you have no reason to listen to me,
but, please...
for Elo.
Well, sit then.
There's no excuse for what I did.
It's just I've been going
through the worst year.
My boyfriend ended our five-year
relationship a few months ago and...
I think that instead
of taking the time to heal,
I just wanted to feel chosen by somebody,
by my best friend.
So when Elo said
he wanted to propose to you...
Wait, Elo wants to propose?
Yeah.
We've actually been
planning it since he arrived.
And you still kissed him?
Yagazie, I'm sorry.
Look, Elo is crazy in love with you.
He told me how you saved each other
after your parents and his sister...
It's you he loves.
It's you he wants as his wife.
It's you he wants to spend
the rest of his life with.
And so if you could just look past the
actions of this crazy, deluded friend...
Yeah, you are a little crazy.
If you could somehow
figure out a way to forgive me.
Do you think she's still gonna come?
I'm sure she will.
I think.
I was really convincing.
But what if she forgives you and not me?
- Another angle?
- Ivie.
I'm sorry. I'm just joking.
Of course she's gonna... There she is.
Let love write you another story
that twists and turns
towards an undeniable truth.
It was always you.
It was always your own heart
beating itself loose
from the cage of your own fears.
In the wilderness of your searching,
answer the call
of the butterflies in your belly.
They have always known
how one end blooms
into a glorious beginning.
Yagazie...
I love you.
I love you too.
Will you marry me?
Yes.
Good morning.
Good morning.
My wife.
New Year's Eve.
It means different things to each of us.
But for all of us,
it is a chance for new beginnings,
new hope.
A clean slate from which to start again.
So when that ten second countdown begins,
I want you to look back
at all the things in your life
that you are grateful for.
And then look forward
to all the opportunities
that life has given you to start again.
10, 9, 8, 7,
6, 5, 4,
3, 2, 1.
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
My in-law, Happy New Year.
Happy New Year, London girl.
Happy New Year, Lagos boy.
So,
am I gonna see you again?
Maybe.
If you come to play in London.
Maybe.
- Fi to the...
- Elo!
- Fi to the...
- Elo!
Hey, hey, hey. Filo.
It's still so cringe.
Hey, it's 2025, people.
2025!
Happy New Year, Fiyinfoluwa.
Christmas, all around the world,
it's the most wonderful time of the year.
But in Lagos, it's even more wonderful
because we go big.
My friend, move!
You can mess with a few things
on your Christmas list.
I want a pink dress.
Go and get money from your mommy.
But, you see when it comes to
the Christmas dress, we don't play.
You are welcome back.
She's the one.
That's not possible!
Okay.
You see, in Lagos, we don't have
a white Christmas. Oh, no.
It's giving fun with the family,
the biggest weddings, beach parties,
and the wildest Afro beats concert.
It's giving Detty December.
Chewy popcorn! Buy my popcorn!
Chewy popcorn.
Buy a chicken.
Keep that thing away from me.
- Don't you like this one?
- Keep it away from me.
Fiyin.
It is just a chicken.
What is wrong with you?
Mom, can you imagine?
What are you expecting?
Driving a convertible in Lagos.
They will kill you.
Mommy, I like it like that.
Mommy, it's like everybody is doing
their shopping in traffic.
Mommy Fiyin.
Where are you?
If I tell you, you won't believe me.
Yes, come to the shop.
Yes, come to the shop.
I have all the latest fabric.
The newly arrived fabrics.
You will love them.
Don't you love the Swiss Fabric
I sold to you last time.
Yes, come to the shop...
Mr. Man, what are you doing?
You can't drive?
You don't know how to drive?
Do you know who my madam is?
We will deal with you in Calabar.
Who am I, Clement? Who am I?
Did you see the kind of car that you hit?
Can't you see the car you hit.
Are you blind?
It's a Rolls-Royce.
Madam, he hit me.
Gbemisola Odetunde.
Zach Dolo?
Chief Engineer Zecharia Dolo.
So you ended up on his private jet?
No!
Who will want to fly commercial
when there is a private jet.
Mommy, you like enjoyment too much.
I could obviously get used to this.
Fiyin, I'll call you back.
Hold on. I'll call you back.
Gbemi the B.
Help me!
Someone help, my chicken is running away.
Someone help me.
Sunglasses! Sunglasses!
Bottled water.
Bottled water.
Madam, you cannot park here.
Chairman, what's up?
- Madam, you...
- What's up?
What's up?
Ivie!
Fifi baby!
Oh, my goodness!
Look at you! The fashion is fashioning.
The melanin is melanining.
I'm fabulous every day, darling.
Your confidence is out of this world.
- Is this the new car?
- Well.
So where do we put these? In the boot?
Over there.
And the flight from America has landed.
- I'll go get him soon.
- Mr. Aminu, you're a sure guy.
You're a sure guy.
You know me.
I'm the man for the airport VIP protocol.
When Beyonc came to this country,
it was me.
When, Lupita came...
I know!
- When Cardi B came, it was still you.
- Precisely.
So, I'm wondering, like,
Cardi B and Queen B?
Trust your cousin,
most connected babe in Lagos.
Fiyinfoluwa Odetunde.
The one and only.
Five minutes in Lagos,
you're already causing commotion.
I'm not even about that life. Please.
I came for the sun,
the concert, the party.
But you're in the city of love.
Love?
More like the city
of breakfast and heartbreak.
Please.
No stress, just enjoyment.
Your aura is giving doom
and gloom. What happened?
Have you given up on love?
I thought you would have given up on love
after everything you've been through.
On the contrary, I happen to know
who the love of my life is.
- Wait.
- And I'm going to tell him this Christmas.
What? Who?
- Elo.
- Are you mad?
Madly in love with my best friend? Yes.
This is a recipe for disaster.
That best friend thing
is the biggest romance scam in the world.
It never works.
Well, we are the exception
to the rule, honey.
We exemplify the unity
of agape and romantic love.
That lightning in a bottle
once in a lifetime kind of love.
English.
Books will be written
about our love because...
Lagos!
Your prince has arrived.
- Elo!
- Oh my God.
Filo is back, baby!
I hope you guys
have grown out of that childish...
What? This?
- Fi to the...
- Elo.
Filo.
- So cringe.
- Let's go.
I'm so ready for the wildest Christmas.
It's about to be a crazy December.
Detty December!
Gbems gbems.
- Zach.
- Gbems the B.
Zach, you're the only one
that calls me that.
I know.
It's because you are the bee
that stung my heart.
Zach, you are a very naughty person.
Yes.
And corny too.
But remember it's those corny lines
that made you fall in love with me.
But wait, didn't I just hear people in
the city talking about your third divorce?
So you are keeping tabs.
It means
that you are still in love with me.
Don't flatter yourself.
- You still love me.
- No, Zach.
I have a friend.
Friends are good.
I have plenty of friends.
- Zach.
- Yes?
I have a male friend.
- Okay.
- Yes, I do.
Gbemi.
How many years now have you been a widow?
Maybe, like 20,
and you are still not married.
So who's been keeping tabs now?
Of course. Of course I'm keeping tabs.
Because you're the one that got away
and keep getting away.
- Me?
- Wha...
I messed up.
I know that it was my fault
but this man you are talking about,
I don't see a ring on your finger.
- Gbemi.
- Zach.
So, he can't be serious.
What are you saying?
You know how you girls say it.
Let me put a ring on it.
Good.
- Zach.
- My beans and rice.
Leave me alone.
I won't leave you.
Leave me alone.
- I won't leave you.
- I am happy.
I know, but let me love you.
- Allow you to do what?
- Let me love you
That's what...
Leave me, Zach.
No, I won't leave you.
Looks like Auntie Gbemi
is hot on the market.
I love that she never remarried.
She's just causing small heartbreaks
here and there.
- My mentor.
- You don't need mentorship.
You're a pro at serving breakfast
left, right, and center.
The game is the game, girl.
Serve it or get served.
- Keep your heart on ice.
- Ivie.
If you don't let yourself love,
you're gonna end up alone.
What's wrong with being alone?
Have you seen the stats on accomplished
unmarried women in their 40s and 50s?
They're thriving, love.
Marriage can be beautiful, Ivie.
I want what my parents had
before my dad, you know,
before he died.
They were best friends,
the love of each other's lives.
Well, speaking of marriage,
I have some news.
My goodness, what's all this?
Elo, is this really happening? You have...
Elo, it's gorgeous.
It must have cost a fortune.
It's exactly what Yagazie would want.
- Yaga what?
- Jesus, Fiyin, you almost killed us.
You never said you were dating
anyone seriously enough
to want to get engaged with the person.
Breathe, Fiyin.
Breathe.
We've been dating for eight months,
but I've known her for a few years.
Eight months?
Elo!
Come over.
Agatha, your child is back.
Agatha.
Agatha, your child is home.
Thank you so much
- I'm home.
- My child.
- How are you?
- I'm good.
- How was your trip?
- It was long.
- I see.
- Why didn't he say something before?
Eight months?
What the hell?
Elozonam,
look at your biceps and your chest.
You're so manly now.
I've been working out.
You've been working out?
Since you're home now,
I will be working out with you every day.
Okay. Okay.
Mommy!
Fiyin! That's my girl.
How are you?
My son.
My dear child.
My amazing son.
His mother's pride.
Welcome.
Thank you, mom.
You're welcome.
Did that just happen?
I thought he was about to propose to you.
I was, like... "oh, wow"
At least, this is a two way delusion."
Who the hell is Yagazie?
Let me check IG.
Get out of my way!
Your mother!
- What?
- She's proper fit.
Let me see. Let me see!
Keep your eyes on the road, my friend.
Look, it doesn't even matter anyway.
Eight months?
A secret relationship.
Elo is not proposing to that girl at all.
Impossible.
I mean his parents haven't even met her.
Right?
Uncle Nonso would have asked me, right?
Look. Elo has been through so much.
He's just confused. That's it.
He's the love of my life,
and I'm getting him back.
- Fiyin, this is cra...
- Because if you don't fight for your love,
- what kind of love do you have?
- What kind of love do you have?
Touch.
I think we're going to need to get
a driver because this whole rough rider
whipping it excursion
you're doing ain't it.
Message him to bring her tonight.
Operation Destroy Elo's Relationship
has already begun?
We're in full swing.
Your food is burning.
Ladi, your food is burning.
Ladi.
Damn.
The sun is very hot today,
and the traffic is bad.
I hope it's cold.
I don't care if you drink it or not.
You're giving me hot water in this sun?
This girl, Ladi.
So...
do you want to accept me now
or do you still want to be difficult?
Come on. Go.
Didn't you come here to make a delivery?
Were you paying attention to your work
when you were looking at me
and almost burnt your food?
Leave.
Are you chasing me away?
- Go!
- Should I go?
All right, leave.
- You were saved by the bell.
- Go.
If you won't go to lunch with me,
at least come
to my birthday party this evening.
And before you even think of saying
no, let me tell you this.
James,
Bukky,
Evelyn, Chiamaka,
All of them will be there.
It's like a reunion of sorts.
- Really?
- Yes.
How long has it been? 35 years?
Thirty-nine.
You're trying to reduce your age.
That's your mom's fella's
Rolls-Royce, right?
That actually is my mom's fella.
Live your life, sis.
This is what these men deserve.
- A little drama, competition. You get it?
- You are crazy.
You know you didn't
have to drop me at home.
How will I know where
I will pick you up from later?
Zach, you're relentless.
Of course.
That's what made me a billionaire.
It's from refusing
to take no for an answer.
Well, you're going
to have to take this no.
Why?
That's my friend.
That small boy?
He's not bad.
He's a fine boy.
Now, I'm even more excited.
- Why?
- Because I love competition.
Gosh, Zach! See you.
This small boy, right?
- Yes.
- He's the one making you shiver, right?
Ivie.
It's so good to see you, Auntie.
Auntie, I need all the details.
'Cause how about this tall classic,
dark chocolate, giving sugar daddy vibe.
I was the one who asked him
to open the gate for Uncle Tonye.
Ladi, shut up!
Uncle Tonye, have you been waiting long?
Not at all.
I arrived just in time to see this.
My love, this is for you.
Come on. You brought me my favorite.
You know, I will never come empty-handed.
- You look great.
- Thank you.
Steamy.
So, is this your money miss road guy?
Well, that's an old friend of mine...
- Old friend?
- that I met at the airport today.
You just met him today at the airport?
Elozonam, there is a delivery for you.
Elo is already ordering things.
He just came into Lagos today.
Merry Christmas, sir.
- Same to you.
- Yes, sir.
Okay.
- Let me get that.
- Thank you.
It's a surprise.
He says it's a surprise.
For you.
Boss man.
- All this for me?
- Merry Christmas.
My December will be good.
Thank you.
- What's that?
- Don't ruin the surprise.
Mom, Dad...
I want to bring someone home for dinner.
Who?
A friend?
It's a little bit more than a friend.
She's my girlfriend.
I want to propose.
Good things, good things
Good things have reached us
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things have reached us
Propose?
Mom, you'll love her.
And I want to bring her and her sister
to come meet you all.
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things, good things
Good things are what we seek
Good things, good things
Good things have reached us
Where are they?
You'll miss out on all these.
Quit worrying about a man.
Not a man.
Elo.
Even Elo can't compete
with these small chops.
What? I'm having a party
in my mouth right now.
Oh my God. I'm so sorry.
I wasn't...
Fiyin.
Nasir.
Nasir Sanusi.
Babe?
Excuse my manners.
Meet my girlfriend. Aisha.
Aisha meet Fiyin, and...
I'm Ivie, her cousin.
You're the famous Ivie.
Babe, I think I need a drink.
You guys have a wonderful evening.
Earth paging Fiyin?
Are you still alive?
I haven't seen him since we broke up.
That's rough.
Did she have a ring on?
Who? The Aisha girl? I don't know.
I wasn't checking for one.
Five years.
He breaks up with me after five years,
and has the audacity to move on before me?
- Do you still love him?
- No.
I don't know.
No, actually, I do know. I don't love him.
I'm in love with Elo.
Fiyin!
Yagazie, you're even
more stunning in person.
Thank you.
We've heard so much about you.
You're both really pretty.
Elo said you're both friendly and cool,
but I think he might have
underestimated just how friendly you are.
Yeah. We're just really,
really excited to meet you.
Yagazie, how did you guys meet?
What did you find attractive
about that big head?
Wait, what do you do?
That's a lot of questions.
I'll start with the last one.
I'm an epidemiologist.
Epideologist?
Epidemiologist.
I basically study
the outbreak of diseases.
She's being modest.
See, she worked with the team
that brought the first vaccine
to Africa during the pandemic.
She's an actual hero.
Stop.
Fiyin Epidemiologist One, Fiyin zero.
Good evening, ma'am.
Good evening.
Enjoy your evening.
Thank you.
- How are you?
- I am good.
Hey! Gbemisco?
Tejo.
- Is that you?
- Yes, it's me.
But guess who else is here.
- Who?
- Bukky, Chiamaka.
- Really?
- Loveth.
Loveth is here?
Girls. Look who I found.
Gbemisco!
Gbemi.
- Bukky.
- Oh God.
- Bukky.
- Gbemi.
You look exactly the same.
You have not changed.
- Exactly.
- I'm telling you.
You look gorgeous.
Or have you joined the league?
- Loveth.
- What?
- What league?
- The league of Dr. Onukwu's clients.
No. Please.
Don't mind her.
She thinks everyone
has had a facelift like her.
Facelift, botox, tummy tuck.
In fact, I am so proud of it,
unlike some people
who have upped the girls,
and they claim it's exercise.
Loveth!
What?
And you're still a rascal.
Ladies and gentlemen!
A rascal. You can never change.
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday to you
Happy birthday, happy birthday
Happy birthday
To you
Can you imagine?
Only Zach will have
a peacock at his party.
And black angels.
- And the belly dancers.
- And the belly dancers.
Hello, ladies.
Can I borrow my Gbemi
from this witches' coven for a second?
- Come on.
- Witches' coven?
Witches indeed.
- I'm speechless. Can you imagine?
- Is he calling us witches?
Did you see
how they're laughing like witches?
Enjoying my money?
One, two, three, go
A saggy breast is sagged
What penetrated has entered has...
- Elo, do you remember?
- Of course I remember.
At your 13th birthday.
Baby, baby continue
All the boys are crazy
And they want some
She continues to
- She moves about a lot
- Oh yes
- She is a tricky babe
- Oh yes
- Not a straight forward babe
- Oh yes
- I will tell my mother
- Oh yes
- And I will tell my father
- Oh yes
And I will tell them that
Prostitute, Hausa, Hausa, prostitute
Prostitute, Hausa
Baby, baby
- I can't believe I still remember that.
- It's been what? 15 years?
I haven't danced like that in a long time.
I know.
But you deserve to, so allow yourself.
All right.
I need to take a leak.
You two fall in love
with each other while I'm gone.
Please.
Why do you think it never worked out
between you two?
He told you that?
We tell each other everything.
I see that.
The timing just never seemed to be right.
Elo has talked about you
since I've known him.
He obviously really cares about you.
And it looks like he's crazy about you.
So, how's the long distance going?
We've actually only been
long distance for three months.
I moved back to Lagos three months ago.
And I just got into the PhD program
at Johns Hopkins.
So I'll be going there in a few months.
The Johns Hopkins?
There's only one.
That's really impressive.
We've talked about Elo moving back
to Baltimore with me.
I mean, he works remotely
most of the time anyway.
Yagazie, you've officially snatched
my best friend away, haven't you?
Hopefully we can be friends, too.
I'm sure Elo would love that.
Yeah.
Bro, something strong.
You were great up there.
Thank you.
So, which "I just go back" are you?
- American?
- Wrong.
English, British.
I can hear it now.
I like London.
- Have you been?
- No.
But, I had this uncle
that used to live there.
We used to call him Daddy London.
Of course.
He was a musician.
An amazing guitarist.
- He taught you how to play?
- He did.
And he played for some
really famous people, like
- Elton John.
- Elton John?
Elton John.
- The Beatles.
- The Beatles?
- I swear.
- Really?
Are you sure?
Actually, you know,
Daddy London could pull your leg
like he's pulling the strings
on his guitar, so I'm not too sure.
You know, I'll give it to him.
It's a great story.
He inspired me.
My dream...
My dream is to travel the world
with the greatest musicians.
You know, if I can just,
if I can just play for Beyonc one time.
One time.
Well, with the way you played tonight,
I'm sure it's only a matter of time.
I like you.
Ivie.
Ajani.
See the cute dress.
Red dress.
When you left your house this evening,
you had one intention.
No, no. I came here to wish my childhood...
Childhood friend?
Yes.
Is that how you see me?
The man who almost married you.
That was a million years ago, Zach.
A million years and four proposals,
and you still refuse, Gbemisola.
Proposing to me after every divorce
doesn't make it up to me, Zach.
Those marriages...
They were all rebounds.
Gbemisola...
you are the real deal.
Zach.
Zach.
I will keep proposing to you.
I will keep proposing to you
until you say yes.
Anywhere I see you, I will keep proposing.
Zach.
Gbemisola.
I love you.
I always will.
I have to go.
Wait, don't go. Gbem...
Gbemisola.
Wait.
Elozonam.
What are you doing?
Daddy, please, we need this.
It's been a while.
I know, but this can be the start.
What on earth is going on here?
How dare you?
How dare you?
What do you think you're doing?
Mommy, please.
Take it down.
Take it all down!
Get it all down. Get it down!
Take it down!
Nonso.
Please.
Instead of... You too.
You joined him.
Do you want to kill me?
Forgive me.
Come here.
I didn't...
I didn't mean to hurt her.
I was so uncomfortable.
They've been best friends
since they were kids.
That sounds messy.
I wouldn't let my man
have a female friend,
much less a best friend.
Sis, that's toxic.
Sure, toxic,
but there will be no confusion.
Anyway, he's the one who should be worried
about someone else bagging you.
Have you forgotten whose daughter you are?
Sister of Caroline Okoro.
Daughter of Chibuzor and Agnes Okoro.
Granddaughter of Chibundu.
And great granddaughter
of the first medical doctor in Igboland.
Exactly!
Caroline.
Come.
Let's go.
Peter Adeyemi.
It's such a pleasure
to see you in person, ma'am.
Thank you so much.
And thank you for accepting our invitation
for the Christmas Carol Service.
Please. Come on.
Come on. Let me show you the church.
I can assure you
that you're very welcome here.
Thank you, sir. Thank you.
Ivie, she's perfect
and gorgeous and intelligent.
And you know what?
She's probably a genius.
They're going to live happily
ever after in Baltimore.
- Does anyone live happily in Baltimore?
- I'm serious.
- I think I've lost Elo.
- Great.
So you can give up on this
terrible idea of trying to break them up.
I've always thought of Elo
as the great love of my life.
After we we're both done
sowing our wild oats,
we would marry each other
right before we turn 30.
So you're not really in love with Elo.
He's your backup plan
for a husband, innit?
It's more than that.
I mean, we've seen each other
through everything.
I always say how I've only
ever loved two men in my life.
My dad
and Elo.
That's heavy.
I just always thought...
I don't know what I thought, really.
I mean, he has his life in America,
and she's this amazing epidiologist.
It's epidemiologist, Fiyin.
You see, I can't even pronounce it right.
Fiyin.
I'm here, working at my mom's fabric shop.
I haven't even figured out
what to do with my life yet.
Hey, don't sell yourself short.
Auntie Gbemi
is a phenomenal businesswoman,
and training to succeed is what
intergenerational wealth looks like, okay?
It's fabric. It's not saving the world.
Girl, have you seen the way
you perfectly curate Asoebi?
That's arts. That's culture.
That's a calling.
Continue praising me, okay.
I'm serious, Fiyin.
Yagazie seems amazing,
and she's everything that you said,
but that doesn't diminish you.
You're phenomenal, my darling.
Somewhere deep down, I know that.
It's just... Elo and I have been
doing this dance for years.
I just always thought
that when the time came,
we would choose each other, you know.
I can't believe I'm about to say this,
but maybe it's not too late.
He hasn't proposed yet.
Maybe you should just be honest.
Tell him how you feel.
At least, you won't keep
torturing yourself
with what ifs for the rest of your life.
Speak of the devil.
Hey, I was just talking about...
Elo, are you okay?
I'm on my way.
I have to go.
She's not ready.
Yeah, but we never talk
about what happened
or even about Ijeoma
because we know it will upset Mom.
We've just been frozen in time.
You haven't gotten a chance
to heal as a family,
I get you.
But Elo, you also can't force her
to be merry just because it's Christmas.
I just...
I just thought that if she came down
and saw the tree with the decorations,
the ornaments, and...
Maybe we could talk about her.
Share memories about how things
used to be with all of us.
Elo...
memories can be hard to move on from.
I'm sorry to put it down
on your Christmas.
I'm sure you could be out
having fun with Ivie.
There's nowhere else I'd rather be.
Three years.
Just three years,
and they're already
getting back to normal.
The last time we celebrated Christmas,
there were four of us.
Now we are three.
What is there to celebrate?
"Count it all joy
whenever you face trials of many kinds."
James 1:2...
He was cruel when he wrote that.
My darling Ijeoma will no longer come home
to spend Christmas with her mother
just because a mad, drunken man
decided to run her over.
Is that what I'm supposed to count as joy?
Do you have a picture of Ijeoma here?
I mean, your favorite picture.
Yes. Yes, I do.
One where she's happy, smiling.
Or, maybe one where you're together.
It's not a picture. It's a video.
Oh, my God!
Mother...
I laughed so hard.
She had such a beautiful laugh.
I used to call it the locomotive engine.
I used to tease her a lot.
But now...
I miss the sound of laughter in the house.
I used to be confused by the idea
of counting it all as joy.
And, yes, it felt like a cruel joke.
But, then,
when my younger brother died,
I felt God revealed a new meaning for me.
We are not promised forever
with the ones we love.
And so we must not lose hope,
when they are gone.
We need to find the strength and courage
to hold on to the gift
of time we shared together.
The happiness, the laughter,
the honor of being chosen by God
to be their mother, son, brother, wife.
We have to choose joy
and hope
for the people that are left behind.
So, Sister Agatha,
it is not an insult to her memory
to celebrate.
It is, in fact, in honor of her memory
that you must.
That must be Ajani.
That's my date.
Zach?
Mommy Fiyin, you like drama.
Wait, that's not Ajani?
So where is he?
He came on a motorcycle.
Gbemi the B.
You forgot your purse.
Really, did she forget
these shopping bags, too?
No, no, I am not a man
that brings vegetables to a woman.
I come correct.
- Did you hear that?
- I see.
I wouldn't expect your kind to appreciate
anything without a logo on it.
Classless.
- There you go, my dear.
- Thank you, darling.
Darling.
Gbemi, you know that
flowers will die soon?
Right? It won't last past today
or tomorrow.
But, Herms is forever.
Zach, I'm sorry. I can't accept it.
No, Gbemi.
Go ahead.
Take it. Take the gifts.
Obviously, no one here has taught chairman
that you can't buy people.
- Are you ready? Shall we go?
- Yes.
- Let's go. Let's go, darling.
- Thank you.
Thank you.
Chairman.
Small boy.
Yes, please.
They're getting dragged.
I'm the one about to be dragged
in this dress.
Listen.
Go change before the motorcycle exhaust
burns your hot legs.
See my life.
- How far?
- Hello?
- Ivie, what's up?
- Hi.
Are you ready?
I should probably change.
Yeah.
Ladi, your boyfriend is here.
Ladi, accept him please.
The boy is handsome.
He is a fine boy.
- What is your problem?
- He's handsome.
You people should help me tell her.
I am going. Good night.
Good night. Ladi. Ladi.
Ladi.
Bye, bye our husband.
Hope you heard her?
All right now. Good night.
Good night, our husband.
See how you're enjoying your life.
All these island restaurants...
100k, 200k for spaghetti and lobster.
Is their food as sweet as this?
Are you okay?
Thank you.
So...
what do you do in London?
I work a job that pays the bills.
Nothing as exciting as what you're doing.
We all do what we need to do to survive.
I'm a delivery guy by day,
guitarist by night.
I wish I had the courage
to do what I love.
And that is?
I always wanted to write.
As in books?
Poems actually.
Yeah.
So what's stopping you?
A healthy dose of shame.
I can't go and disgrace myself.
So, break your own heart
before the world has a chance to?
Are you a therapist?
I just think you should do it.
You know.
Who knows?
We can be a poet and guitarist duo.
Sonny and Cher.
I'll be John. You'll be Yoko.
- Ike and Tina...
- You lost me at Ike.
My bad.
I'm just joking.
You took me by surprise.
You're not what I was expecting.
What?
You weren't expected to be falling
for a delivery guy
that moonlights as a guitarist?
Who says I'm falling?
My friend!
Did you see how you
hopped on that motorcycle?
Ivie,
you are falling.
I like you, Ajani.
You're funny.
You're honest in a city
that can be so pretentious.
Your style is kind of clean.
You put it on and whatever.
Don't stop.
- Keep going.
- Your head is swelling, right?
Just a little.
I really like you, Ivie.
My guy... It's Chisom.
He's meeting us here with his babe.
Brother, what's up?
You can't miss me. I'm in that red shirt.
Where are you? Bro!
Come over. I am here.
- Auntie Ivie.
- How are you doing?
- It's me, Ladi.
- Ladi!
Imagine seeing you here.
Girl.
- Hi.
- This is a small world.
I remember seeing you at the house.
I saw you, too, with your motorcycle.
Small world, man.
I'm sorry. Join us.
- Are you guys eating Amala?
- Join us.
Our song.
- The dodo is going to burn.
- Let it burn.
Just relax.
Gbemi.
I'm not gonna wait for you forever,
you know.
Yeah.
I've been asking you
for six months now to marry me.
No answer.
Instead you've just been toying with me
with this clown who is just,
I don't know, some...
I'm not toying with you.
- He's just an old friend.
- Old friend.
An old friend who wants you.
And if you're being honest,
you're enjoying the attention.
I'm... It...
What? No, I'm not worried.
I'm not worried about him.
Not at all. It's you I'm worried about.
Yeah. I know you love me.
I know you love being with me.
You know what?
I can see us growing old together.
- We're already old.
- Exactly.
So why waste the little time we have left?
Gbemi.
What is it?
What are you afraid of?
It's just that I've been
my own woman for so long.
And for the past 20 years,
I've been surviving,
and building a life for my daughter and I.
Yeah.
I just don't know
what it's going to feel like if...
- If?
- If I...
If you started living for yourself,
life will always be like this.
My love.
Look, I know you've been a superwoman.
You've taken on so much
but it's time to ease up.
It's time to let someone else
take care of you.
It's time to enjoy the, you know,
simple, everyday things of life.
Like frying plantain
and dancing in the kitchen.
- The dodo is burning.
- Hey, my God.
Don't want you to pull me, pull me down
So don't stress me, frustrate me
See you later, I say I'll call you later
Baby, don't play with my emotions
I'm too deep and I'm emotional
Boy, you're testing my patience
Can't control me, say it man
Say you love me with no emotion
But I'm loving such devotion
You do me rough now, make me happy
What are we right now, make me happy
Why don't you love me
You know I love you
You do me rough now, make me happy
What are we right now, make me happy
Why don't you love me
You know I love you
Don't stress me, or frustrate me
See you later, I say I call you later
Baby, don't play with my emotions
I'm too deep and I'm emotional
Only in Lagos
Why do I feel like I'm under pressure
Only in Lagos
Everyone I know is under pressure
I don't want you to pull me, pull me down
Auntie Ivie,
I can't believe that you're here.
Ladi, I still can't believe this is you.
This dress is fire.
Thank you, Auntie.
- I made it myself.
- You what?
I've been learning
from my auntie who is a tailor.
But the truth is, I want to be
a fashion designer.
I can see that. Listen, you have to do it.
I will definitely buy from your line.
Auntie Ivie, thank you.
Why do you keep calling me auntie?
We're probably the same age.
And you just saw me stuff my tongue
down that man's throat.
Auntie Ivie.
But do you like him?
He's a good guy.
What about your guy?
Chisom. He's trying, though.
He's currently working as a delivery boy.
But... he wants to own his own
transportation business.
Chisom and sons.
And it's you that would
give him the sons, right?
- Auntie Ivie, stop.
- It is well.
I haven't been honest
with you about something.
Zach.
Zach and I are not just old friends.
We were engaged.
What?
A long time ago.
Before Fiyin's father.
We had just graduated from Unilag
when he asked me to marry him.
He got a government scholarship
and had to move to America.
He asked me to wait for him.
And then he returned
two years later, married.
So he's married?
Not anymore.
He's been divorced three times.
Divorced three times.
He's often asked me
to marry him over the years.
Yeah.
So when he asked me
to marry him the other night...
I don't understand what you mean.
I don't understand.
You wanted to marry him?
No.
That's not what I mean.
So what are you saying?
I don't want to lie to you.
- I want to be honest with you.
- Okay.
I love you, Tonye.
Zach.
Zach is...
He's just someone
I've known for a very long time.
Long time?
Gbemi, listen.
You know, we are...
we're entering into the unknown.
I know. I know. I know it can be hard.
But I am not a child,
and we can't be acting like kids.
I'm going to give you some space.
You know where to find me.
You will always have me.
Okay?
My love,
you are the one after my heart, my own.
And it will never change.
When I was little, I remember my mom used
to wake us all up on Christmas morning.
And we'd run down the stairs
and the whole house
would be smelling of akara.
You had akara for Christmas?
Akara, pap, everything.
I see.
No wonder you're so tall.
All those beans...
If anyone had told me
I'd spend the rest of my life on Christmas
without my mom and dad,
I would...
Sometimes surviving is the hardest.
Feels like every time my mom sees me,
it's just a reminder that IJ
isn't here anymore.
It's okay.
I'm sorry.
What are you saying sorry for?
I weep.
I weep bitterly.
It's okay.
We are all weeping too.
I miss her.
I miss her so much.
Fiyinfoluwa.
What is wrong with you?
How many times have I told you
to not leave your bags and your shoes...
Sorry, Mommy.
I am sorry.
- Fiyin.
- Ma.
What would you say if I...
If what?
If I got married?
- You're getting married?
- I didn't say that.
But, what if?
To Uncle Tonye?
Tonye asked me six months ago.
Zach.
Well, he's been asking me
ever since your father died.
Mommy.
Why didn't you tell me what was going on?
I didn't tell you because
I'm still picking up your shoes
and your bags all over the house.
I'm still cooking your breakfast.
And you're still my baby.
And it's been the two of us
since your father died.
Mommy, I'm not a baby.
Mommy, I'm not a...
Okay, Gbemisola.
If I handle you!
Okay, I am sorry.
Mommy,
I want you to be happy.
And if either of those men
is going to make you happy,
I need you to stop hiding behind me.
- I'm not hiding.
- You are!
You know what I think?
I think you're scared of having your heart
shattered like it did when Daddy died.
But, I am scared.
Don't say that.
Mommy Fiyin,
you're the strongest woman I know.
But you need to allow yourself
to be vulnerable again.
Do you hear me?
- Fiyin.
- Ma.
Look at you giving me advice.
- I hear you.
- Okay.
I hear you.
Okay.
Auntie, you're here?
Ivie, you're back from your date
with the Fuji master Ayinla?
Not Ayinla.
Auntie, it's Ajani.
And it was lovely.
He took me to the shrine.
Shrine?
Okay, keep me out of it.
I am not interested in knowing more.
It really was lovely.
Weren't you the one who said
"no romance this holiday,
no stress, just enjoyment"?
Yeah, I know,
but Ajani is actually really cool.
Really? Okay.
Fiyin, do you think
I should start writing again?
I always wondered why you stopped writing.
I really liked your poetry.
You have such a way with words.
My mom always said it was a pipe dream.
She'd be like, "Ivie, I'm not rich."
"How will you eat?"
That sounds like auntie.
You know, Grandma told me something once.
She said,
"May we not let what we will eat
stop us from achieving our dreams."
Meaning may we not let what we will eat
stop us from becoming who we will be.
I never forgot it.
I love that.
- Fiyin.
- Elo, I need-
I was about to come to yours.
I need your help.
- Come on.
- Okay.
Okay. So, look, I have
this whole idea planned...
I already have it
all planned out in my head.
I just need you to help me make it happen.
You know everyone in Lagos.
You want me to plan
a surprise proposal for your...
I want a view. I want music.
I want roses. Like a million of them.
Look. Look at these.
Look, Elo, you've been through
so much these last three years.
You've only been dating her...
What? Eight months?
Are you sure this isn't about Ijeoma?
You know, I always thought
people were exaggerating
when they say that you lose a piece
of yourself when you lose someone,
but a part of me died
the day that IJ died.
And,
I was lost for what seemed like forever.
But then I met Yagazie,
and it's like we were
meant to be together.
She was meant to be a part of my life.
She's the one...
- You're bleeding.
- No, it's okay. It's just a small cut.
Fiyin, you know I love you.
You're my person.
You always will be.
I'm always gonna be right here like
I've been since we were six years old.
Is it Fifi you're now proposing to?
- What?
- I'm not complaining.
Auntie, no.
He was actually just asking for help
with the proposal.
Don't mind this young man.
They don't recognize something good
even when it's right in front of them.
Mom, you're supposed to be on my side.
Besides Fiyin likes Yagazie.
Right?
Gbemi the B.
At last, I can give you
a personal tour of the Dolo Manor.
Gbemi.
So you want to leave me
to marry that guy, right?
That small man.
Let's just assume that
it's none of your business, Zach.
I came to return the gift
and to tell you in person
whatever it is...
this thing where we run into each other
and rehash a life that,
that could have been, but never was.
It needs to end.
The idea of the two of us...
I mean, being begged
for my hand in marriage
by the first man who broke my heart.
My B.
To be, you know, to be swept in this...
your fairy-tale life.
Don't get me wrong, Zach.
I've actually thought
about what it would feel like
to live this life.
But Zach, the idea of it is actually much
better than the reality it could ever be.
You're not looking for love, Zach.
- I am.
- No, you're not.
Not really.
You're looking for the next conquest,
the next trophy, a notch on your belt.
My sweet heart.
The only woman in my heart.
My one and only.
Zach, no more sweet talk.
We have grown past all these flattery.
And besides, I'm nobody's plaything.
Gbemi.
Gbemi, wait!
Gbemi.
Ivie, I lost.
Fiyin, I can't hear you.
He asked me to plan
a surprise engagement for her.
Me!
Do you know what, Fiyin?
You need time away from Elo and Yagazie.
Go home, get dressed,
and come and meet me.
Ayra Starr is performing in an hour.
Ivie, I'm not in the mood.
I don't want to hear that.
Go home, get changed into something
that Ayra will be proud of, okay?
See you soon. Love you. Bye.
Mommy.
I wanted to surprise you.
Thank you.
You like her, don't you?
I do.
She's the one.
Invite her over with her parents.
I'll cook and I'll...
It's just her and her sister.
Her parents died in a car accident
seven years ago.
Is that how you two started talking?
You were telling her about Ijeoma?
We are both carrying so much pain.
I think we helped each other heal.
Love heals.
In my pain and grief,
I must have forgotten that.
I love you, son.
I love you and your dad
more than anything in the whole world.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
So, you're done thinking?
There really wasn't much to think about.
Forgive me, Tonye.
I've been a coward.
Do you still have that ring?
speaks Yoruba
But, it's your proposal.
So, you should have brought your ring
to propose to me.
I'm an African woman.
We don't propose.
That's who you are.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Now, what kind of life have I not seen?
I believe in God, so I fear nothing
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Original, it's not a parody
It cannot be clear in your memory
Whether it's winter or summer
Ajeh, Barbados, Havana, livin' life
See my fire
What is inside me
Smallish but mighty
They never know, the story is good
Check and balance
Everything inside my mind daily
Trust me, you can't fool me
Wrong energy, I log off
I am friendly and conscious
I'm allergic to opposition
I'm not ready for confusion
They are telling me to show love
Stable and hot
Everything is connection
I'm not ready for confusion
What kind of life have I not seen?
I believe in God, so I fear nothing
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Steady increasing the commas
Comma, comma, comma
Ayra, we wanna party!
Up next, it's "Rush."
Hurry, she's performing "Rush."
You know that's my tune.
Okay. Okay.
My mom is engaged.
- To which one?
- Way ahead of you.
Mommy, you're engaged?
I think we should
go outside for this gist.
- Let me see.
- Tonye proposed again.
And I said yes.
Yes, so she asked me to propose again.
- What?
- He was my fave though.
He's such a cute little teddy bear.
Am I the one they are calling teddy bear?
Sorry, Uncle. I said cute.
She said cute.
Okay, so we're getting married
Christmas Day.
Sorry, we're not mad, just great news.
Mommy, that's literally a week away.
Yes.
So, we have one week to plan our wedding.
And by we, I mean...
- you, my darling.
- You.
Mommy, I'm so happy for you.
You deserve everything.
Thank you, my dear.
I love it.
We're planning a big, fine Najia wedding.
O holy night
The stars
Are brightly shining
It is the night
Of our dear Savior's birth
Was a holy, was a holy night, was a holy
Long lay the world
In sin and error pining
Till He appeared
And the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope
The weary world rejoices
For yonder
Yonder breaks
A new and glorious morn
Get a room.
- Go buy your own house.
- Yes.
Fall on your knees
O hear
- The angel's voices
- Hear the angel's voices
O night divine
O night
O night
Divine, O night
O night divine
Was a holy, was a holy night, was a holy
The night when Christ was born
Holy, was a holy night
Was a holy
The night when Christ was born
The king of kings
Lay thus in a lowly manger
In all our trials
Born to be our friend
Fall on your knees
O hear the angel's voices
Hear the angel's voices
O night divine
O night, O night divine
O night divine
O night
O night divine
Was a holy night
Was a holy night, was a holy night
Was a holy, holy night
- Was a holy
- Night
- Was a holy
- O night
- Was a holy, holy night
- Night
Was a holy, was a holy night
Holy night
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
- Was a holy
Was a holy, holy night
You. Look how you've set me up, right?
Father Christmas, you are doing well.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
Hey, Ivie.
You were wonderful out there.
Thank you.
- Ivie, Fiyin, let's go.
- Ivie, let's go.
We're running late.
It's like we're holding up the bride.
You're still coming, right?
I'm not sure. It's Christmas Day.
Please come. Please.
I'm so late. Yeah.
Yes, you serve hors d'uvres
as soon as guests arrive in the hall.
- Put it in my room, please.
- Fiyin.
I need the bride for 30 minutes.
Yes. Then you serve dinner
as soon as the bride and groom arrive.
Fiyin, I need to get your interview.
Not now, please.
30 minutes! We have 30 minutes, guys!
Why are you outside?
She sent us out.
Yeah.
Mommy Fiyin, you're going to be late.
They can wait.
speaks Yoruba
Am I the bride?
- We met at the...
- Ikoyi Club.
He went to play tennis.
You went to swim.
- It was love at first sight.
- It was love at first sight.
He really was the big love of your life.
The biggest.
You know, I often wonder
if Elo is the big love of my life.
You love Elo like that?
I think so.
But he's going to propose to Yagazie.
Honey.
You do know that if he's the one,
you wouldn't have to wonder.
You'd know.
My sweet potato
I wanna tell you my mind
I wanna tell you my mind
I don't understand
I can see very well
But they say love is blind
You see as you are
You are the love of my life
The love of my life
I cannot deny it
I wanna make you my wife
Wanna make you my wife
See I never thought
That I'd find someone like you
That will capture my heart
And there's nothing that I can do
I used to brag to my friends
That I'll always be a player
But since I set my eyes on you
You made me fall in love
Please take care of her.
I promise.
My friends ask me
Oh boy, what is the matter
Me, I am telling them that
You confuse my brain
I used to lie to myself
That I'll always be a player
But since I set my eyes on you
I'm in love, I'm in love
We are supposed to marry
Because you've made me fall in love
Fall in love, fall in love
You've made me fall in love
My love
Baby, you've made me fall in love
I'm in love
I'm in love
You've made me fall in love
I'm in love
I'm in love with you
This is everything.
They look so beautiful together.
Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today
to join together these two people.
I can't help it
I am in the mood to dance
You look fantastic.
Come out and dance
Let's praise God
Let's praise God I can't help it
This is a lot.
Well, I told Fiyin to plan our wedding,
and I guess she planned
her own dream wedding.
Indeed.
I can't help it
I can't help it
I will dance and praise my lord
Me, I will dance and enjoy
- You'll make such a beautiful Igbo bride.
- I would, wouldn't I?
- I even have my dance moves.
- Yeah?
Show me.
Auntie Fiyin.
What?
What?
- Hors d'uvres?
- Yes.
- Yes, that's it.
- What happened?
- I think something happened.
- Okay, let's go.
What happened?
There's a huge problem.
I sent the hors d'oeuvres ahead of me,
and they are supposed to be here.
Now...
I just called my assistant,
and she has informed me
that they had an accident.
An accident. How?
Can't we just send somebody
to go and get them?
No.
They spilled it all over the floor.
And before I could salvage anything...
What do you call these, these...
area boys?
They appeared and ate everything
off the floor, it's all gone.
Everything is gone. It's over.
There's nothing.
Auntie Fiyin, what's happening?
I don't know.
Can't you just make another batch?
It took two days to prep the ingredients,
and one day to handcraft
the hors d'oeuvres.
I am not magician.
This is not small chops.
Small chops.
Why can't we just make small chops?
Fuck!
- Sorry.
- Sorry!
Auntie Fiyin, I know a woman
that can make small chops.
Let's talk to her. She can come.
Are you sure she'll get here on time?
This is Christmas Day.
I know somebody
that can bring her here quickly.
So where is your sister now?
Won't you go and look for them there?
Hey, my man.
- How is it going?
- I am hungry, my guy.
My guy, come on. Have some.
So won't you go to that party?
Is she looking for my type?
By this time next week,
she'll be back in the UK.
She won't even remember me, bro.
Why are you saying that?
You know what?
You don't know what you will do.
Hello, Ladi. What's up?
I will do it for you. No problem.
I will do it for you.
- What's up?
- Bro.
We are going to the party, my man.
Let's go. Don't worry. We're going.
Do you know what happened?
Ladi called me and was saying...
Thanks for coming to the rescue.
A wedding without small chops
is an atrocity.
That's what I said.
So, London girl,
can you dance?
Okay.
Can you keep up?
So, even after I saved this party,
you can't even kiss me?
My own bride price is more expensive
than small chops.
You are too expensive, Ladi.
Why not?
One second, baby.
You know she's not leaving you, right?
But she is,
and I'm happy for her.
I am.
They are perfect together.
But I just can't shake the feeling
that I'm all alone now.
Ivie is going back to London.
Heck, even Ladi
would probably marry that guy.
And then you,
you're leaving me too.
Fiyin...
I'll never leave you.
You're my best friend.
See, that's just it, though.
Elo, I've been trying
to tell you since you landed,
I don't just want to be your best friend.
Elo, I love you.
I think I've loved you
since we were five years old,
and you used
to let me eat your school lunch.
So no, I don't just want
to be your best friend.
I want to be the woman you want
to spend the rest of your life with.
Fiyin, I can't...
Yaga...
Yagazie!
Babe!
Babe, I know this sounds cliche,
but that that was not what you think.
You're saying I didn't see Fiyin kiss you?
Yes, she did. But...
- But I did not...
- Nothing, Elo.
Since you arrived,
Fiyin has all but screamed
at the top of her lungs
that she's in love with you
and wants to fight for you.
But you've acted oblivious to it.
And I didn't want to be
the insecure girlfriend.
I'm not going to put myself
in this situation,
wondering if I'm your transition
till you realize you've been in love
with your best friend all along?
I'm not.
Just leave me out of it.
That was a messed up thing to do.
Babe.
Babe, please.
Babe.
Elo, I'm so sorry.
You are so fucking selfish.
For years, I was in love with you.
And I told you,
but you chose Nasir.
And even though it broke me,
I still managed to remain your friend.
Your friend!
Through all the years
that you were dating that jackass.
So what? He breaks up with you, and now
you realize you're in love with me?
Elo, it's not like that, I...
No, no.
You need to figure out
how to be happy on your own.
Because I'm not your life raft.
And while I love you,
it's Yagazie that I want to spend
the rest of my life with.
Somehow you managed to mess that up.
Where's my fucking car?
I really messed things up, right?
Yep, you did.
I don't even know what to do.
You've got to put on
your big girl pants and fix it.
How?
They both hate me right now.
Well, you have to go and see Yagazie.
Really?
She'll kill me.
She'd be well within her rights.
Hey.
You have to make this right, Fiyin.
Elo deserves that much.
But you were the one that told me to be
honest with him about my feelings.
I didn't ask you to kiss him,
and in front of his girlfriend, no less.
I was moving with the spirit.
I cast and bind that spirit.
And Elo?
You have to go and see Elo first.
Elo.
Please.
Why are you wasting your time?
They've already been paid, so...
Elo, please give me a chance
to make this right.
She won't even talk to me.
I don't know how you plan
to make this right.
I've taken her name to my native doctor.
Elo, I'm so sorry.
I'm sorry, too.
I said some really cruel things
that I didn't mean.
I was just angry.
- I deserved it.
- No, you didn't.
If this was a few years ago, I would've
been the one trying to stop your wedding.
So you're lucky.
Our friendship...
Our story has been so long and complex,
and everyone has been telling us
we were supposed to be together
since we were kids.
I just thought we'd be together
after we were done sowing our wild oats.
That's what I said.
But I fell in love, Fiyin.
I see that now.
But, I'm sorry.
I'm sorry I didn't give us a chance
to mourn the dream of us.
What could have been.
Can I ask you a question?
Why did you keep Yagazie a secret from me?
I mean, it's hard to just
find out like that in the car.
If I'm being honest,
I knew what me and Yagazie had
was special from the jump.
And...
a part of me wanted to protect that.
I just wanted us to be able to figure
each other out without anyone's thoughts
or voices in my head.
You know?
You really do love her.
Well, yeah, that's...
that's why I want to marry her.
Give me a chance to make this right.
Your sister said
that I could find you here.
You're the last person I wanted to see.
Yagazie, I'm sorry.
Look, you have no reason to listen to me,
but, please...
for Elo.
Well, sit then.
There's no excuse for what I did.
It's just I've been going
through the worst year.
My boyfriend ended our five-year
relationship a few months ago and...
I think that instead
of taking the time to heal,
I just wanted to feel chosen by somebody,
by my best friend.
So when Elo said
he wanted to propose to you...
Wait, Elo wants to propose?
Yeah.
We've actually been
planning it since he arrived.
And you still kissed him?
Yagazie, I'm sorry.
Look, Elo is crazy in love with you.
He told me how you saved each other
after your parents and his sister...
It's you he loves.
It's you he wants as his wife.
It's you he wants to spend
the rest of his life with.
And so if you could just look past the
actions of this crazy, deluded friend...
Yeah, you are a little crazy.
If you could somehow
figure out a way to forgive me.
Do you think she's still gonna come?
I'm sure she will.
I think.
I was really convincing.
But what if she forgives you and not me?
- Another angle?
- Ivie.
I'm sorry. I'm just joking.
Of course she's gonna... There she is.
Let love write you another story
that twists and turns
towards an undeniable truth.
It was always you.
It was always your own heart
beating itself loose
from the cage of your own fears.
In the wilderness of your searching,
answer the call
of the butterflies in your belly.
They have always known
how one end blooms
into a glorious beginning.
Yagazie...
I love you.
I love you too.
Will you marry me?
Yes.
Good morning.
Good morning.
My wife.
New Year's Eve.
It means different things to each of us.
But for all of us,
it is a chance for new beginnings,
new hope.
A clean slate from which to start again.
So when that ten second countdown begins,
I want you to look back
at all the things in your life
that you are grateful for.
And then look forward
to all the opportunities
that life has given you to start again.
10, 9, 8, 7,
6, 5, 4,
3, 2, 1.
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year!
My in-law, Happy New Year.
Happy New Year, London girl.
Happy New Year, Lagos boy.
So,
am I gonna see you again?
Maybe.
If you come to play in London.
Maybe.
- Fi to the...
- Elo!
- Fi to the...
- Elo!
Hey, hey, hey. Filo.
It's still so cringe.
Hey, it's 2025, people.
2025!
Happy New Year, Fiyinfoluwa.