"Last to Marry" Is No FoolβAnd Thatβs the Lesson Here
Laju Iren Films delivers a faith-based romance that preaches patience, purpose, and the perils of desperation.
Like all the other productions under the Laju Iren Films banner, Last to Marry is also a faith-based movie. Anything different from this production house led by the eponymous creative minister of the gospel would be the real surprise. This one attempts to blend elements of romance, morality, and self-discovery into a narrative about a successful spinster desperately seeking marriage.
Juliana Olayode (of Jenifaβs Diaryβs fame) is in the lead role playing Abidemi, a successful lawyer and dutiful Christian who still has a lesson or two to learn about life and the faith she professes. Her story takes us through the hallway of a didactic lesson, where all the hallmarks of a made-for-YouTube Christian film βheavy dialogue, overt messaging, and clear moral lessonsβ are present.
The film kicks off with a bizarre dream sequence where Abidemi is introduced to the audience. She stands before five men in a scene that is sure to remind you of the likes of Nons Mirajβs popular The Hunt Game Show. Abidemiβs potential suitors are mean to her, hilariously bursting their balloons almost as soon as she surfaces and following their actions with a variety of reasons that may give the devil a run for his money. Something surprising happens next. Abidemi starts to beg them to give her a chance, and she does until she wakes up. Itβs a dream, thank goodness, but a troubling one nonetheless. Abidemi is so desperate to be wedded that her dreams too are about the subject: A conclusion the filmmakers intentionally want us to draw. This theme is further reinforced when she converses with her close friends a few moments later, revealing that she now has her sights set on making a move on her young, charming boss at the office, BA. However, before Abidemi can make that move, she learns BA is engaged to a junior colleague, sending her into an emotional spiral. This moment leads to Olayodeβs most memorable performance in the film, delivering a heartfelt prayer, where she pleads with God for divine intervention.
The film effectively speaks to its target audienceβChristians seeking content that reinforces faith-based values. Laju Iren Films reminds me a lot about Mount Zion Films of my childhood. Even though decades apart, they both reinforce messages rooted in the Bible, using the media to preach the importance of Godβs fruits: love for The Father, patience, and trust in divine timing, to mention but a few. Abidemiβs journey, in particular, highlights the dangers of desperation in relationships, a message that transcends religious audiences and resonates with anyone who has ever felt pressured to settle.
Thereβs a lot to love about Last to Marry when viewed through the lens of religion, and yet, there are things not to like about it when adjudged as a film, which it is at the end of the day. The editing is noticeably choppy, with abrupt transitions that disrupt the viewing experience, the pacing falters, and the acting performances are a mixed bag.
Despite these shortcomings, Last to Marry succeeds in delivering a clear and relevant message. The film poses many important questions, with some like βDo you want to get married now, or do you want to marry well?β lingering in the mind of the viewer after the end credits roll up. Abidemiβs journey of self-discovery, aided by therapy and personal reflection, ultimately leads her to understand that marriage should not be a band-aid for self-worth. It is a poignant lesson for many who find themselves in similar dilemmas.
While the filmβs technical flaws may hinder the viewing experience, its purpose remains evident. As affordable, easy-to-access faith-based cinema continues to evolve in this present day, Last to Marry serves as a reminder that Christian storytelling still has a place in modern Nollywood. For those who can look past the few moments of choppy execution and embrace the core message, this film offers a thought-provoking experience.
Would you watch Last to Marry? Letβs discuss.
Directed by: Famous Odion Iraoya
Written by: Laju Iren
Starring: Juliana Olayode, Ifeanyi Kalu, Bayo Royale, Obafemi Joshua, and others
