Zainab Balogun, Kenneth Okolie star in ‘Royal Hibiscus Hotel’ movie

Fresh from the stables of EbonyLife Films is a Romcom, the romantic comedy, which stars Zainab Balogun and Kenneth Okolie will be screened for the very first time at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2017.

It is the only Nigerian movie and one of just three African features in the world cinema.

Set in Lagos and London, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, tells the story of a passionate Nigerian chef, ‘Ope’ trying to follow her dream of opening a restaurant in London.

Frustrated by her lack of progress, she returns to Nigeria and discovers that going home can have unexpected rewards.

Directed by Ishaya Bako, the cast includes, Zainab Balogun (Ope), Kenneth Okolie, Deyemi Okanlawon and O.C.Ukeje,with veteran actors Rachel Oniga, Jide Kosoko, Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva, many of whom are expected to join the director in Toronto, Canada for the screening.

“The Royal Hibiscus Hotel has been a passion project for me.

“The chance to tell an intimate story that has heart and soul and explores romantic love in the older and younger generations.

“The film addresses some of the challenges around communication in relationships, while managing to be funny, warm and entertaining.

“It is the second time an EbonyLife Film has been chosen for TIFF, the world’s most important publicly attended film festival. The first was for the blockbuster, The Wedding Party, which went on to become the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time,” said Abudu, the Executive Producer

The TIFF premiere of The Royal Hibiscus Hotel is good news for filmmakers in Nigeria and the continent.

It provides further confirmation that positive African stories are attaining global recognition, which is indicative of improved scripting and higher production values.

The 2017 edition of The Toronto International Film Festival will take place between September 7 and 17.The Royal Hibiscus Hotel is scheduled for release in February 2018.