Nigerian singer and songwriter Tiwa Savage’s foray into filmmaking has hit a rough patch, with prominent movie critic Daniel Regha taking to his social media platform to deliver a scathing review of her directorial debut, “Queen Tiwa.” Regha, known for his no-holds-barred critiques, awarded the film a measly 1.5 out of 10 rating, sparking a firestorm of reactions online.
The Review that Started it All
The news broke on Saturday, May 11th, 2024, when Regha posted his review on his Instagram page. His critique, titled “Review: Queen Tiwa (A Royal Disappointment),” outlined a series of shortcomings he identified in the film. Regha pointed out a weak storyline, lackluster performances, and questionable directing choices.
“The plot of ‘Queen Tiwa’ is predictable and derivative,” Regha wrote. “It fails to capture the audience’s attention and relies heavily on clichés. The supposed dramatic moments fall flat, leaving the viewer feeling emotionally uninvested.” He further criticized the acting, claiming that “several cast members appear wooden and unconvincing in their roles.”
Harsh Words for the Debut Director
Regha’s harshest criticism, however, was reserved for Savage’s directing. “As a directorial debut, ‘Queen Tiwa’ leaves much to be desired,” he stated. “The pacing is uneven, the camerawork is uninspired, and the editing feels choppy. There’s a clear lack of experience behind the camera, resulting in a film that feels amateurish at best.”
A Firestorm of Reactions
Regha’s review quickly went viral, igniting a heated debate among fans and industry professionals alike. Savage’s supporters rushed to defend her, arguing that Regha’s criticism was overly harsh and targeted an artist venturing into a new creative space. Some fans pointed to Savage’s musical success as evidence of her artistic talent, suggesting that directing might simply require more time and experience to hone.
However, others echoed Regha’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of constructive criticism in artistic growth. They argued that while Savage deserves credit for venturing into directing, the quality of the final product should still be subject to scrutiny.
A Recurring Pattern
This is not the first time a prominent Nigerian celebrity’s directorial debut has received negative reviews. In the past, there have been instances of established actors or musicians venturing behind the camera, only to be met with critical disapproval. These experiences raise questions about the complexities of filmmaking and the specific skillset required for success in that field.
Criticism as a Learning Opportunity
While some might argue that negative reviews can be discouraging, others see them as an opportunity for growth. Regha himself, in a follow-up post, clarified his stance. “My criticism is meant to be constructive,” he wrote. “I believe Tiwa Savage has the potential to be a good director, but ‘Queen Tiwa’ falls short. I hope she uses this experience as a learning opportunity and comes back stronger next time.”
The Future Awaits
Only time will tell how Savage will respond to the criticism. Perhaps she will address it publicly, or maybe she will choose to focus on future projects, letting her work speak for itself. One thing is certain: the controversy surrounding “Queen Tiwa” has sparked a necessary dialogue about artistic exploration, film criticism, and the ever-evolving Nigerian entertainment landscape.
