Movie review: ‘Casa De Novia’ will help you while away time with laughter

Anthill Studios has been a pioneer in Nollywood, consistently pushing boundaries with each release. ‘Casa De Novia’ continues this trend, incorporating high-quality visual effects (VFX) and computer-generated imagery (CGI) to enhance the viewing experience. While not reaching the same heights as previous Anthill Studio productions like ‘House Of Secrets,’ the film still offers an enjoyable ride for audiences.

The narrative follows Yoyo as she moves into a new apartment, only to uncover unsettling truths about the property. This sets off a series of comedic and adventurous escapades. Drawing inspiration from similar genre-bending films like Banana Island Ghost, Casa De Novia aims to strike a delicate balance between suspense and humour.

The film’s strengths lie in its attention to detail and the commendable performances of its cast. Anee Icha shines as Yoyo, delivering comedy with effortless charm, supported by a talented ensemble including Taye Arimoro, Efe Irele, and Lillian Esoro. Despite occasional lapses in plausibility and common sense among the characters, the comedic elements remain engaging throughout.

However, ‘Casa De Novia’ falls short in delivering a tightly woven narrative, with some moments feeling disjointed or lacking focus. While the initial premise is intriguing, it takes time for the main plot to fully materialise, leaving audiences wondering about its central theme. Nevertheless, once the story gains momentum, it becomes an entertaining journey filled with laughter and surprises.

One of the film’s notable achievements is the seamless integration of VFX and CGI, which enhance rather than overshadow the narrative. While there are instances where the illusion falters, particularly in scenes featuring digital environments, the overall visual quality is commendable.

Regarding performances, Taye Arimoro deserves praise for his portrayal of dual roles, navigating the complexities of his characters with skill and consistency. Anee Icha’s charisma elevates the film, making her a captivating protagonist whose antics keep audiences hooked from start to finish.

Despite its shortcomings, ‘Casa De Novia’ is a commendable effort from Anthill Studios, offering a lighthearted movie-going experience with plenty of laughs. While it may not reach the same heights as some of the studio’s previous works, it remains a testament to Nollywood’s evolving landscape and the creative talents behind it.

The movie, currently streaming on Prime Video, gets a 5/10 because it is not something you might want to watch when you have your favourite shows in line.