Green White Green

Green White Green (And All The Beautiful Colours In My Mosaic Of Madness) is a colourful and sprightly Nigerian comedy-drama film, directed by Abba Makama and released in 2016. It encapsulates the reality, complexity, and the vast dimensional aspect of the Nigerian society, intricately reflecting on societal issues through the lens of fine arts, culture, identity, and individuality.

Boasting a remarkable cast, including Samuel Abiola Robinson, Dabis Christopher, and Erick Didie, this film traces the life of three eccentric and artistic childhood friends, Uzoma, Baba and Segun. The trio, on the brink of adulthood, represents the diverse ethnic groups residing in Nigeria; Uzoma is an Igbo, Baba is a Hausa, while Segun is a Yoruba.

Set against a rapidly changing socio-political backdrop, the movie starts with the friends' high school graduation. The trio is brought together by their common interest in art and their disillusionment with the socio-political aspects shaping their country. As they grapple with their respective realities, their shared journey is infused with humour, pranks, and adventures, painting a picture of their bohemian existence in a rapidly urbanising society.

The narrative unravels as the friends embark on a journey of self-realisation and exploration of their individual identities. The audience gets a glimpse of Nigeria's rich tapestry of cultures intertwined with a gritty and realistic portrayal of Lagos's turbulent cityscape. Each of the three primary characters has a distinct storyline that reflects intricate perspectives of the multifaceted Nigerian culture.

Uzoma, played by Samuel Abiola Robinson, takes on the persona of an imaginative dreamer who attempts to reconcile the legacy of his heritage with his personal desires and ambitions. He embodies a rebel, his character designed to challenge the status quo while engaging in an internal struggle between his artistic calling and societal expectations.

Baba, portrayed by Dabis Christopher, offers a glimpse into the life of an individual stuck in the rut of traditional norms. The character confronts the stereotypes of his dominant ethnicity and strives to transcend them while engaging in humorous banter, making his character endearing yet thought-provoking.

On the other hand, the character of Segun, enacted by Erick Didie, offers a poignant insight into softened rebellion driven by a deep sense of longing for adherence to societal norms. The character resorts to comedic relief to cope with mounting pressures and societal ills.

Throughout the narrative, the filmmaker intricately layers the characters' experiences with socio-political commentary. The film ventures into criticism of the existing socio-cultural dynamics in Nigerian society but does so with an undercurrent of humor and wit, making it a palatable exploration of serious issues.

The film's title, 'Green White Green,' is a direct reference to the Nigerian flag and subtly shows the film's exploration of national identity. The film looks deeply into what it truly means to be Nigerian, beyond the silos of ethnicity, and towards a shared perception and experiences.

The film's cinematography is a colorful spectacle that adds to the narrative's artistic quality. The intricately designed frames and panoramic shots of the city present Lagos in all its vibrant frenzy. And not to mention the unique soundtrack inspired by Nigeria's Afrobeats, delivering a rhythmic pulse to the narrative, amplifying the protagonists’ tales.

'Green White Green' received critical acclaim at the Toronto International Film Festival, marking a noteworthy stride in Nollywood's international recognition. It delivers a fresh and captivating narrative that speaks to the audience about Nigeria's societal intricacies and challenges accompanying the journey towards individuality and beyond ethnic boundaries.

Above all, 'Green White Green' dives into the intricacies of Nigeria's multiculturalism, combining deep introspection with splashes of comedy that expose the joy, resilience, and vibrance that exist alongside socio-political turmoil, ultimately delivering a mosaic of madness and beauty. The film is more than purely entertainment; it is a powerful exploration of identity and solidarity, presenting questions of self and nationhood that resonate beyond the Nigerian context. It is, without a doubt, a bold celebration of Nollywood's ability to tell its own stories in its own animated, uninhibited manner.