Starring: Majid Michel, Christabel Ekeh, Eddie Watson, Kalsoume Sinare, Kofi Adjorlolo, Kafui Danku, Roselyn Ngissah

Synopsis:

What was supposed to be a day of wedding bliss for two newlyweds turned into an upset when family secrets were revealed on their special day.

Review:

Congratulations was in order for Opera (Christabel Ekeh) as she joined Josiah (Eddie Watson) in holy matrimony. As they arrived at their wedding reception there was a host of family and friends waiting to celebrate the occasion.  

The couple was welcomed with cheers and love but as hundreds of guests honored their new partnership, the party actually camouflaged the chaos that transpired during the evening.   

Kwame (Deji Olowu) was a mysterious man that planted himself among the crowd and slyly watched the joyous festivities from a distance. Leslie (Jose Tolbert) arrived with his fiancée only to bump into another girlfriend that was unaware that he was newly engaged.

Greg (Majid Michel) was Opera’s brother and he geared up the camera for the family photo. He got a great shot for the album but not before he witnessed a forbidden affair and confessed his crush on Opera’s best friend. 

It certainly wasn’t a dull night for Opera and Josiah by any means and in less than twenty-four hours of marriage, they were forced to question the motive of their union. 

Let’s Talk. Wine or champagne? This is an onscreen party that everyone was invited to. The first forty-five minutes was used to set up the story and it successfully engaged the audience in the celebration. It was a lively party that commenced in more ways than one. 

During the bash secret affairs and shameful lies were uncovered while new romances developed. The movie consisted of typical storylines – infidelity, stale marriages, and even a homosexual relationship which, was thrown in as a surprise element. 

In terms of the story, it wasn’t believable that characters that were having secret affairs would be frolicking outdoors and thus, busted. Also, it was pretty predictable that two characters that shared an attraction used their animosity as a veil. 

As for direction, the story set up took a long time and the movie began to feel like a music video. Although there were glimpses of what was to come, the actual drama should have started a little sooner. 

What’s attractive about the movie is its appeal. The African garb and music exquisitely exuded the spirit of the occasion. It made the audience feel like an invited guest. The festivities were warming, inviting, and infectious. The dancing, dining, and socializing left a sense of camaraderie that reminded us of what life is really all about. 

What’s also commendable was the inclusion of the older generation. It wasn’t just about popular actors as older folks and lesser-known talent were given ample screen time. 

Performances? On par. Christabel Ekeh and Eddie Watson played newlyweds with hidden agendas. They made a great couple, there was lots of spark between them, and they were believable in their roles. The balance of the cast sufficed as well. 

“Family Album” is a movie that one may have to be in the mood for. Not every movie entails intense drama, shoot-outs, and royalty.

Director, Pascal Amanfo switched gears and offered a theme that promoted unity and the love of family. If you can get past the run of the mill storylines, the core message of the movie shines through. RECOMMEND