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== Plot summary == == Plot summary ==
Jenifa has evolved from her bumbling past into a successful ] and philanthropist, becoming a beloved figure in her community through her impactful ], which provides aid and ] to the less privileged. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when a new neighbor, Lobster, moves into the area. Lobster, a sophisticated and well-connected individual, quickly gains the admiration of the community, overshadowing Jenifa’s efforts and threatening her position as the local favorite. ] has evolved from her bumbling past into a successful ] and philanthropist, becoming a beloved figure in her community through her impactful ], which provides aid and ] to the less privileged. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when a new neighbor, Lobster, moves into the area. Lobster, a sophisticated and well-connected individual, quickly gains the admiration of the community, overshadowing Jenifa’s efforts and threatening her position as the local favorite.


Initially, Jenifa welcomes Lobster with her signature charm and humor, but tension arises when he launches a competing charity initiative. Lobster's organization, more polished and better funded, rapidly attracts sponsors and ]. Feeling threatened and jealous, Jenifa becomes increasingly suspicious of Lobster’s intentions. When she proposes a partnership, Lobster vehemently rejects the idea. Soon, Jenifa finds herself entangled in unexpected betrayals and a drug-related controversy that threatens to unravel her life. Determined to expose the abuse, she confronts Lobster, who proves to be a formidable adversary. Initially, Jenifa welcomes Lobster with her signature charm and humor, but tension arises when he launches a competing charity initiative. Lobster's organization, more polished and better funded, rapidly attracts sponsors and ]. Feeling threatened and jealous, Jenifa becomes increasingly suspicious of Lobster’s intentions. When she proposes a partnership, Lobster vehemently rejects the idea. Soon, Jenifa finds herself entangled in unexpected betrayals and a drug-related controversy that threatens to unravel her life. Determined to expose the abuse, she confronts Lobster, who proves to be a formidable adversary.

Revision as of 09:16, 25 December 2024

2024 Nigerian film
Everybody Loves Jenifa
Directed by
Written by
Story byFunke Akindele
Produced byFunke Akindele
Olayemi Oshodi
Starring
CinematographyJohn Njaga
Production
company		Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network (FAAN)
Distributed byFilmOne Distributions
Nile Entertainment
Release date
  • 13 December 2024 (2024-12-13)
CountriesNigeria, Ghana
LanguagesEnglish, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Nigeria Pidgin
Box office₦511,000,000

Everybody Loves Jenifa is a 2024 Nigerian English-language comedy-drama film directed by Funke Akindele and Tunde Olaoye. It was produced by Filmone Entertainment in association with Funke Akindele Network and Olayemi Oshodi. The film stars Funke Akindele in the titular role, alongside Nancy Isime, Stan Nze, Adedimeji Lateef, Falz, Layi Wasabi, Jackie Appiah, Omowunmi Dada, Chimezie Imo and Patience Ozokwor. As the sixth installment in the Jenifa film series and a sequel to Jenifa on Lockdown (2021), the movie continues the story of Jenifa as she confronts the challenges posed by a new neighbor who threatens to outshine her charity organization, leading to a series of confrontations fueled by jealousy, rivalry, and personal growth.

In April 2024, Funke Akindele announced a spinoff from the Jenifa franchise titled Everybody Loves Jenifa, scheduled to premiere in December 2024. Akindele served as both writer and director, expressing ambitious expectations for the film, setting a target of ₦5 billion in ticket sales. She confidently stated her belief that the movie could surpass this milestone. Shortly after the announcement, returning and new cast members were announced. Tolu Obanro, who composed the score for Jenifa's Diary and A Tribe Called Judah, returned to compose the film's score. Cinematography was handled by John Njaga Demps, while Valentine Chukwuma served as the editor. Filming began in early 2023 in Italy and wrapped in 2024, with additional locations including Amen Estate in Lagos, Nigeria; Kumasi, Ghana; and Accra, Ghana. The film is the third in the series since Jenifa series since The Return of Jenifa (2011), which currently ranks 96th among the highest grossing Nigerian films of all time.

Everybody Loves Jenifa premiered at the Filmhouse Lekki IMAX in Lagos on December 8, 2024, and was theatrically released across Nigeria on December 13, 2024, by Filmone Distribution and Nile Entertainment. The film received generally positive reviews from audiences, and it grossed ₦500 million worldwide within 12 days of its release, making it the fastest Nollywood film to reach this milestone. This impressive performance cemented its status as a Nigerian box-office success.

Plot summary

Jenifa has evolved from her bumbling past into a successful businesswoman and philanthropist, becoming a beloved figure in her community through her impactful charity organization, which provides aid and empowerment programs to the less privileged. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when a new neighbor, Lobster, moves into the area. Lobster, a sophisticated and well-connected individual, quickly gains the admiration of the community, overshadowing Jenifa’s efforts and threatening her position as the local favorite.

Initially, Jenifa welcomes Lobster with her signature charm and humor, but tension arises when he launches a competing charity initiative. Lobster's organization, more polished and better funded, rapidly attracts sponsors and media attention. Feeling threatened and jealous, Jenifa becomes increasingly suspicious of Lobster’s intentions. When she proposes a partnership, Lobster vehemently rejects the idea. Soon, Jenifa finds herself entangled in unexpected betrayals and a drug-related controversy that threatens to unravel her life. Determined to expose the abuse, she confronts Lobster, who proves to be a formidable adversary.

Determined to uncover the truth, Jenifa embarks on a chaotic and comical investigation into Lobster's past, enlisting the help of her loyal friends Toyosi and Adaku. Her escapades lead to a series of hilarious misadventures, including mistaken identities, awkward social situations, and a memorable infiltration of one of Lobster’s high-profile events disguised as a reporter. The investigation takes a dramatic turn when Jenifa and her friends travel to Ghana, only to find themselves inadvertently entangled in the operations of a sinister drug cartel led by the mysterious Bebe.

Amid the rivalry, Jenifa grapples with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, questioning her ability to continue making a difference in the community. Her relationships are also tested, especially with her boyfriend Shege. Despite his encouragement for her to embrace her unique strengths, their relationship faces a turning point when Shege proposes marriage, and Jenifa declines. Events take a dangerous turn in Ghana, putting Jenifa and her friends in direct conflict with the drug cartel.

During a major charity gala, where both Jenifa and Lobster vie for the community's support. A heated confrontation reveals hidden truths about Lobster’s motivations, exposing his deep-seated insecurities and desire for validation. Moved by this revelation, Jenifa chooses to collaborate with Lobster rather than compete, merging their efforts to create a more impactful organization.

In the end, Jenifa’s genuine kindness and resilience shine through. She teaches the community, and herself, the importance of unity and self-acceptance. The film concludes with Jenifa and Lobster hosting a joint charity event, symbolizing their newfound friendship and mutual respect.

Cast

Production

Development and casting

In April 2024, Funke Akindele officially announced the development of Everybody Loves Jenifa, a spinoff from the acclaimed Jenifa franchise. The project was conceived as a continuation of the series' legacy while introducing fresh perspectives and heightened stakes for the titular character. Akindele served as the film’s writer and co-director alongside Tunde Olaoye, aiming to blend humor, drama, and social commentary in a way that resonated with a broad audience.

Akindele expressed her ambition for the film by setting a box-office target of ₦5 billion, a bold declaration that underscored her confidence in the story’s appeal. Shortly after the announcement, returning and new cast members were revealed, including Nancy Isime, Stan Nze, and Patience Ozokwor, alongside long-time collaborators like Falz and Omowunmi Dada.

The casting process combined established names from the Jenifa series with new faces to add fresh dynamics to the narrative. Funke Akindele reprised her iconic role as Jenifa, while Stan Nze joined the cast as Lobster, Jenifa’s rival. The inclusion of Adedimeji Lateef, and Jackie Appiah brought further star power to the ensemble.

Additionally, Akindele's first on-screen kiss in the film, where her character Jenifa kisses Shege, played by Falz, has sparked discussions among her friends and supporters.

Filming

Principal photography commenced in early 2023, with Nigeria serving as the primary filming location . The production involved a team of 100 cast and crew members. Key scenes were filmed at Amen Estate in Lagos, Nigeria, as well as in Kumasi and Accra, Ghana, to capture the film's diverse settings. The cinematography was led by John Njaga Demps, while Valentine Chukwuma handled the editing. Additionally, the team spent two days filming promotional content for the movie and the music video for Everybody Loves Christmas, a song released ahead of the film's premiere.

Music and Score

Main article: Everybody Loves Christmas

Before the release of Everybody Loves Jenifa in cinemas, Funke Akindele and some cast members released a song titled "Everybody Loves Christmas," a theme song for the film. The five-minute video features several cast members, including Falz, Layi Wasabi, Dbanj, Patience Ozokwor, Chimezie Imo, Tope Tedela, Omotunde Adebowale-David, Bisola Aiyeola, Jide Kosoko, Omowunmi Dada, Juliana Olayode, Nancy Isime, and Waje.

Tolu Obanro, who previously worked on Jenifa's Diary and A Tribe Called Judah, returned to compose the film's score. His work blended contemporary Nigerian sounds with cinematic orchestration, enhancing the emotional and comedic beats of the movie.

Release and distribution

Everybody Loves Jenifa premiered at the Filmhouse Lekki IMAX in Lagos on December 8, 2024, and was theatrically released across Nigeria on December 13, 2024, by Filmone Distribution and Nile Entertainment. Akindele also announced premiere of the film in UK on 20 December 2024, however tickets have all sold out in UK just before the premiere date.

Reception

Box office

Following the release of Everybody Loves Jenifa, the film grossed over ₦40 million on its opening day, setting a new record for the biggest opening day for a Nollywood film with ₦45.2 million. Within its first seven days at the cinemas, the movie earned an ₦355.1 million, solidifying its status as a Nigeria box-office hit. By its second weekend, starting on December 23, 2024, Everybody Loves Jenifa had surpassed ₦500 million in total earnings. In just 12 days, the film achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming highest grossing Nigerian films title in revenue.

References

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  3. David, Obed (2024-12-24). "'Everybody Loves Jenifa' sets unprecedented Box Office Record". Premium Times Nigeria. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  4. Mosadioluwa, Adam (2024-12-23). "Everybody Loves Jenifa becomes quickest Nollywood movie to gross N500m". Tribune Online. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  5. Ogungbenle, Oluwadamilola (2024-04-24). "Funke Akindele reintroduces 'Jenifa' with new series 'Everybody loves Jenifa'". The Nation Newspaper. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  6. Eti-Inyene, Brooks (21 November 2024). "'Everybody Loves Jenifa' will make ₦5 Billion- Box Office Queen, Funke Akindele". www.pulse.ng. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
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  9. YNaija (2024-12-09). "Here are the Celebrities at the Premiere of "Everybody Loves Jenifa" » YNaija". YNaija. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  10. Nwafor (2024-12-09). "Funke Akindele shocks fans with first on-screen kiss in upcoming movie 'Everybody Loves Jenifa'". Vanguard News. Retrieved 2024-12-15.
  11. ""Everybody Loves Jenifa": A Messy Yet Charming Festive Crowd-Pleaser". Nollywood Reporter. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  12. "Everything We Know About 'Everybody Loves Jenifa' - What Kept Me Up". 2024-09-25. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  13. "Nigerian Filmmaker Funke Akindele Knows She Can Break Her Own Record | OkayAfrica". www.okayafrica.com. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  14. "Jide Kosoko, Patience Ozokwor turn musicians in 'Everybody Loves Jenifa' soundtrack (VIDEO)". www.premiumtimesng.com.
  15. ADEKUNLE, MUSA (2024-12-10). "Funke Akindele's 'Everybody Loves Jenifa' sells out ahead of UK premiere". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 2024-12-15.
  16. Bolawa, Pelumi (2024-12-14). "'Everybody Loves Jenifa' sets Nollywood's box office record for opening day with N45m". TheCable Lifestyle. Retrieved 2024-12-15.
  17. Peaceman, Pandora (2024-12-15). "'Everybody Loves Jennifa' Shatters Box Office Record With Over N40m". New Telegraph. Retrieved 2024-12-15.
  18. Dan-Awoh, Deborah (2024-12-22). "'Everybody Loves Jenifa' hits N355.1 million in 7 days". Nairametrics. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  19. ADEKUNLE, MUSA (2024-12-23). "Everybody Loves Jenifa sets new Nollywood record with ₦511m in 12 days". The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
  20. Metibogun, Shade (2024-12-16). ""Road to 5bn": Funke Akindele breaks 2 movie records with Everybody Loves Jenifa". Legit.ng - Nigeria news. Retrieved 2024-12-25.
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