Tiwa Savage And Jemima Osunde in Water & Garri
-
- June 2, 2024
Two amazing women, one must-see project. The chemistry of sisterhood between Tiwa Savage and Jemima Osunde in Tiwa’s debut film is a match as classic as the title of the movie itself, Water & Garri. Released on the 10th of May, the movie is available on Prime Video and also features Mike Afolarin, Andrew Bunting, and many others. It was inspired by the award-winning singer’s EP, which has the same name and was released in 2021.
The film tells the story of an ambitious fashion designer, Aisha (played by Tiwa Savage), who has been away in the U.S. for 10 years but finally returns to her native home, East Side, after receiving sad news. Stephany (played by Jemima Osunde), Aisha’s cousin, has lost her brother. As the story unfolds, we follow Aisha’s journey as she handles grief, unpleasant memories, and lost romance while familiarising herself with the changes in the now-violent town she once called home.
In this brief interview with Lifestyle Editor and fashion content creator Eki Ogunbor, we speak to both talented ladies to find out what it was like to be on set together and what they hope the audience learns from this movie.
Tiwa Savage
As both the lead actress and a contributor to the film’s music, how did you balance these dual roles, and how did your background as a musician influence your performance?
It was definitely a challenge taking on the film’s lead role, being an Executive Producer as well as curating and performing on the film’s soundtrack. There were times that sleep had to take the back burner, but it was totally worth it. I was supported by my incredible team who made the process easier.
What drew you to Water & Garri, and what do you hope audiences will take away from your portrayal of Aisha?
I share a lot of similarities with Aisha. We are both creatives; we both left our homeland to live abroad and eventually returned – although under different circumstances. But we definitely think differently. There are choices Aisha makes that I can’t see myself making.
Can you share any memorable moments or experiences from the filming of Water & Garri that stand out to you?
The stand-out memories whilst filming were the times that we as a crew spent together off camera. We filmed across an intense two-week period in Cape Coast, Ghana, with not much around, so we would hang out with each other a lot. Having breakfast in the morning with everyone was probably one of my best memories.
As an artist known for your music, how did you approach the vulnerability and emotional depth required for this dramatic role?
I didn’t take the opportunity lightly. I worked with an acting coach in London for around two weeks, and that experience was eye-opening. My coach really helped me tap into a side of myself that I hadn’t explored emotionally and mentally.
What was it like working with Jemima on set?
Jemima was an absolute dream to work with. She made the whole process so much easier for me and was so gracious. She’s a seasoned actor so I got to watch and absorb how she approached her character ‘Stephanie’ and learned so much from her.
How did Jemima bring life to her character?
Jemima became Stephanie in every way. She brought her to life so effortlessly.
What’s the funniest thing you learned about Jemima on set?
Omg, Jemima is so hilarious! She was definitely the life of the party. I would simply say that I learned that she is an open, genuine spirit who wants to make everyone around her smile.
Jemima Osunde
What attracted you to the role in Water & Garri, and how did you prepare to portray your character in the film?
I really, really loved the script and my character. When I read the script, I was sold on Stephany. She’s a bubbly, lovely girl, and I wanted to be the one to bring her to life.
How does your experience in previous acting projects compare to your role in Water & Garri, and what challenges did you face in bringing your character to life?
I’ve been really lucky to play a variety of roles. Every new character is a challenge that opens me up to new levels in my abilities as an actor. I’d say every character I’ve played definitely helped me in one way or the other. As an actor, you have to become the character you play and just like anything else, practice makes perfect, or at least better than the last attempt (laughs).
Stephany was not too challenging to channel. She’s the typical Nigerian who has faced hard times but chooses to persevere and be happy no matter what.
Can you discuss the dynamic between your character and Tiwa Savage’s character in the film, and how did you work together to develop your on-screen relationship?
Stephany and Aisha are cousins. More like sisters to be honest. Think of your closest cousin when you were growing up. The one you got up to all the mischief in the world with, spent time and had sleepovers at grandma’s house together, and talked about the future with. That’s Stephany and Aisha. They’re present in each other’s history and hopeful for a better future for one another while trying to navigate their current realities.
What aspects of the storyline or themes of Water & Garri resonated with you personally, and why?
The importance of family and community. Love. I’m a family-oriented person. My mum, my dad, my siblings, nephews and nieces are my everything! They make my life so beautiful and I cannot imagine doing life without them.
How do you see your role in Water & Garri contributing to the representation of Nigerian cinema on a global stage?
Stephany is a fine girl no doubt but she is very Nigerian. Haha! It showed in her orange tie-dye skirt when we first see her, in her intonation in a few scenes, to even her speaking Yoruba one or two times. She’s a Yoruba girl with swag. She’s a true representation of a modern-day Nigerian woman who’s proud of her culture and loves her home.
Eki Ogunbor has a Vogue Fashion Certificate from Conde Nast College of Fashion & Design and also attended Central Saint Martins, London College of Fashion and the University of Kent. Eki headed the Design Operations at a top Nigerian womenswear fashion brand before developing her own brand, KISARA. She is the Editor-At-Large at THEWILL DOWNTOWN.
