The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later

An unexpected gem from Ghana, The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later made its debut in 2019 and was directed by Shirley Frimpong-Manso - one of Africa's leading female filmmakers. The ensemble cast featured Ghana's finest talents such as Jackie Appiah, Naa Ashorkor Mensa-Doku, and Lydia Forson, who breathed life into their iconic characters. A sequel to the 2009 beloved film The Perfect Picture, this film takes us on another relatable journey that has been fondly embraced by not just Ghanaian cinema-goers, but a global audience as well.

Moving forward a decade, The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later dives back into the lives of its lead characters; Aseye (Jackie Appiah), Dede (Lydia Forson) and Akasi (Naa Ashorkor Mensa-Doku). These three best friends are now facing mid-life crises which are unseen but universally relatable, exploring themes of love, commitment, societal expectations, and ageing all in a weave of dramatic storytelling quilted with bits of comedy.

Jackie Appiah plays Aseye, an accomplished, high-class society woman who seemingly has it all - wealth, love, and two adorable children. Yet, beneath the glamour and achievements, she yearns for a missing puzzle piece that continually eludes her. Appiah’s performance is certainly one of the highlights of the film, a necessary anchor in the midst of the drama.

Dede, portrayed by Lydia Forson, is a fiercely independent police officer who struggles to warmth up to the idea of what society expects of a woman her age. Herein, Forson subtly captures the delicate balance between Dede’s strength as a woman and her humanity’s vulnerabilities, embodying an effective discourse on Afro-feminism and individuality.

Naa Ashorkor Mensa-Doku embraces the role of Akasi, a woman yearning for stability and commitment in a world that often prefers casual dalliances. Regardless of personal trials and tribulations, Akasi remains the glue holding the trio together, showing depth and range in Mensa-Doku's performance.

The city of Accra, Ghana, serves as both a backdrop and a character in its own right in The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later. The vibrant cityscape, filled with enchanting colors and bustling energy, brilliantly contrasts with the film's more intense moments. It depicts a rich, cosmopolitan African city, creating a refreshing vision of the continent. Frimpong-Manso's cinematography highlights this modern African essence, encapsulating beautifully framed shots and well-crafted scenes.

The film does a commendable job of integrating eye-catching fashion ensembles that hint at the character's personalities and the story arc. Combined with an eclectic mix of afro-beats and highlife music, these elements create a testament to the flourishing creativity in Africa’s film and fashion industries.

Moreover, Frimpong-Manso cleverly uses humor to catalyze the movie's more poignant, reflective parts. Originating from the daily banter between the characters, this humor brings a degree of realism to the film's dialogue. It makes one laugh at the familiar, turning everyday moments into delightful sequences that resonate with many viewers on a personal level.

The film also thrives in its exploration of the complications of relationships. Whether it's the struggle to conceive, the pressure to marry, or the hardship of sustaining a marriage while balancing a career, the movie takes us on an emotional roller-coaster ride. It is about love not just in the romantic sense, but also friendships, familial ties, and self-love.

The Perfect Picture: Ten Years Later not only retains the charm of its predecessor but builds upon it. It's a film about the authenticity of life's challenges, the strength and resilience of women, and the enduring power of friendship. It is a visual love letter to Ghana, to the beauty of Africa, and to the never-ending search for the ideal or ‘perfect’ life. Captivating and profoundly real, this cinematic piece stands as a poignant narrative about our shared human experience.