The Digest:
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Bolaji Ogunmola has fired back at a social media critic who questioned her on-screen chemistry with co-star Daniel Etim Effiong in the film 'The Bloom After.' The critic, under the handle "I hate lies," insinuated that the pair's intense kissing scenes were "excessive" and drew parallels to the early relationship of Yul Edochie and Judy Austin. In a strongly worded response, Ogunmola accused the critic of "stupidity" and a lack of professionalism, stating: "Some of us have plenty of dignity and self-respect." She urged audiences to look beyond the romance and recognise the film's deeper message about a woman's journey of self-discovery and reclaiming identity. Ogunmola hinted at considering a social media break to focus on her craft.
Key Points:
- The backlash reflects a persistent tendency among some Nigerian audiences to conflate on-screen performances with actors' personal lives.
- It underscores the unique professional hazard Nollywood actors face when portraying romantic relationships convincingly.
- Ogunmola defends her artistic integrity, while the critic faces public counter-criticism for overstepping boundaries.
- Her defence of the film's thematic depth shifts focus from sensationalism to substantive storytelling.
- The timing, amid similar scrutiny of other Nollywood couples, suggests a broader public conversation about acting versus reality.
Sources: Pulse Sports, Bolaji Ogunmola/Social Media
