Synopsis

Aisha (Tiwa Savage), a driven fashion designer, returns to her Nigerian hometown after a decade in the U.S., spurred by a family tragedy. She finds Eastside transformed by escalating violence and lingering tensions. Reconnecting with family, old friends, and a past love (Mike Afolarin), Aisha navigates guilt, betrayal, and loss on a journey of self-discovery. Set against themes of resilience, corruption, and cultural reconnection, the film—rooted in Tiwa Savage’s EP Water and Garri—weaves an authentic African story of finding oneself in a changed world, blending simplicity and depth like soaking garri in water.

Movie Details

Title: Water and Garri Year: 2024 Genre: Drama Director: Meji Alabi (feature directorial debut; known for music videos) Writers: Meji Alabi, Comfort Emmanuel Runtime: 1 hour 20 minutes Language: English Country: Nigeria (filmed in Cape Coast, Ghana) Release Date: May 10, 2024 (exclusive to Prime Video; original internet release in Nigeria) Production Companies: Everything Savage, Unbound Studios Executive Producers: Tiwa Savage, Vanessa Ogbonna Cinematography: Praised for vivid visuals, reflecting Alabi’s music video expertise IMDb Rating: 5.4/10 (based on early reviews; praised for authenticity, critiqued for pacing and predictable twists) Where to Watch: Streaming on Prime Video with a subscription. No legal free streams or downloads; avoid unauthorized sites to support creators and avoid legal issues. Budget/Box Office: Not publicly disclosed (independent Nollywood production). Cast:

  • Tiwa Savage as Aisha (lead; fashion designer, marking Savage’s acting debut)
  • Mike Afolarin as Aisha’s past love
  • Andrew Yaw Bunting (also credited as Andrew Bunting)
  • Jemima Osunde
  • Supporting: Seth Ahoyo, Godwin Amakye, Francis Amissah

Additional Notes: Tiwa Savage’s first acting role, produced under her Everything Savage banner, draws from her EP Water and Garri. The film explores Nollywood themes of homecoming and redemption with a diaspora perspective, resonating globally. Shot in Ghana for its coastal authenticity, it balances a strong female lead and cultural depth with some criticism for slow pacing.