Momiwa Review: Epic Nollywood Family Drama

Here’s our Momiwa review! Momiwa is a family drama film produced in collaboration with Uddy Udoh and Shutterspeed Projects currently streaming on Amazon Prime. A Film Directed by Biodun Stephen, a storyteller at heart, who also boasts the titles of film director, producer, and writer, renowned for notable works including The Visit, Breaded Life, and Sista. The film portrays the tale of an adored housekeeper who brings happiness to a household, only for tension and competition to arise when her employer’s wife reappears. The film’s plot intricately unfolds, beginning with a frantic scene that sets the stage for the emotional rollercoaster ahead.

Plot

Momiwa commences with a scene depicting a man sprinting towards his residence, where it becomes apparent that two children, a toddler and a crying infant, are trapped inside the house with surrounding individuals endeavouring to gain entry to the house in order to rescue them.

The subsequent scene sheds light on Momiwa’s (Chinonso) role as the housekeeper in the household, illustrating her attentive care for Naeto (Dadiwa), the children Vida and Abel, and the rest of the household staff. What initially appeared to be an ordinary day unexpectedly transforms into the catalyst the movie needed to soar when Kiki pays a visit to Dadiwa’s residence.

Kiki, Naeto’s estranged wife who abruptly disappeared and left her husband and two children, suddenly reappears. However, Naeto remains resolute in his stance, repeatedly asserting that he does not desire her return. Despite his resistance, with considerable persuasion and intervention from Momiwa, he eventually relents, allowing Kiki to return home. While Abel warmly embraces her return, Vida and Naeto remain hesitant.

Amid Kiki’s efforts to mend relationships, Momiwa also actively supports her quest to integrate back into the household. Eventually, she manages to engage Naeto in a heartfelt conversation, where she discloses her reasons for leaving: battling postpartum depression and seeking therapy, dispelling rumours of infidelity with the delivering Dr Bamidele. Naeto, shattered and burdened by years of resentment, finally begins to thaw, releasing pent-up anger and sorrow, and ultimately reconciles with Kiki.

Regrettably, the situation takes a negative turn as Kiki perceives Momiwa as a rival, leading to strained relations. Matters escalate when Kiki, having achieved her objectives, ceases to show affection towards Momiwa and demands to be addressed as “Madam.”

Persistently, she endeavours to reclaim her household. During Naeto’s absence on a business trip, she orchestrates Momiwa’s arrest under false pretences of theft. Upon Naeto’s return, he discovers a fabricated letter supposedly authored by Kiki, announcing her voluntary resignation. Unwilling to acknowledge her abrupt departure, Naeto embarks on a determined quest to locate her.

Meanwhile, Kiki’s true nature emerges as she frequently berates the children and refuses to contribute to household tasks. When Vida requests sanitary pads, which were typically restocked by Momiwa, Kiki chastises her for her perceived immaturity. In response, Naeto decides to procure the sanitary pads from a pharmacy, where he unexpectedly encounters the doctor whom Kiki had been consulting. Reluctant to engage with Naeto, Dr Bamidele reveals shocking information: Kiki had eloped with him to Abuja years prior leaving the kids, explaining the first scene and then abandoning him upon discovering Naeto’s newfound wealth.

Upon returning home, Naeto confronts Kiki with anger and disappointment. In the heat of their argument, Kiki unveils her scheme to discredit Momiwa. Enraged by this revelation, Naeto recalls the pain he endured when Kiki abandoned him and acknowledges Momiwa’s pivotal role in nurturing their home and supporting their family’s growth, even accompanying them to Ibadan for the children’s sake. Naeto then issues Kiki an ultimatum: to depart from the household and never return.

As Naeto nearly resigned himself to never finding Momiwa, a delivery arrives for Vida’s prom dress, yet the leads from the address prove fruitless. However, as Vida prepares for the event, Momiwa unexpectedly arrives with a glam team. This heartwarming reunion signals a positive conclusion for both of them, heralding a promising future, possibly including marriage.

Cast

Each character is meticulously portrayed, with standout performances amplifying the narrative’s impact. 

Blessing Jessica Obasi’s skilful acting as Momiwa was a delight to viewers, not overlooking how her accent and vernacular provided comic relief in the movie.

Kiki was played by Iyabo Ojo who truly captured the essence of her character. Uzor Arukwe, known for his consistent and reliable performances, portrayed Dadiwa.

Momiwa also featured  MC Lively, Lilian Afegbai and others.

Language

Momiwa showcased a seamless integration of various languages, including English, Igbo, and Yoruba. Additionally, French, albeit used minimally, was also incorporated into the film by the character of the chef, Phildela Yve.

Summary

Momiwa epitomized scriptwriting and production excellence, unveiling each twist and truth at precisely the right moment, captivating viewers and ensuring the movie’s coherence.

While the satisfying conclusion left viewers content, lingering unanswered questions about Momiwa’s past left a sense of curiosity, provoking contemplation among the audience. Nevertheless, the film stands as a testament to Stephen’s directorial brilliance, reaffirming her status as a maestro of the genre.