“One Night Guests” by Peter Sedufia – Movie review

To a resounding reception, Peter Sedufia’s highly regarded Christmas comedy, One Night Guests, made its debut in theaters around Ghana and Nigeria.

For the highly anticipated release by the renowned Ghanaian director, long lines formed to buy tickets.

Sedufia is known for his skillful narrative, knowledge of the comedy genre, and careful attention to character development and language. These characteristics were evident in his earlier works, such as Keteke, Sidechic Gang, and Aloe Vera. These characteristics attracted viewers to One Night Guests, and they had a great experience in return.

On Christmas Day, I went to see the inaugural night at the Silverbird Cinemas at the Accra Mall with the excited audience. The captivating story of the movie centers on Olumide, a rich father who has a sweet custom of hiring Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and an elf to make his daughter’s Christmas more joyful. But when two distinct trios arrive at Olumide’s house claiming to be the official holiday figures, this year’s party takes a wild turn. What transpires is a heartwarming and humorous examination of privilege, identity, and what family means.

Olumide goes through a metamorphosis as the narrative goes on, discovering the importance of empathy and the delight of surprising connections. Together with a fantastic ensemble and incisive dialogue, Sedufia’s well-written plot produces an experience that fans find incredibly compelling. Before coming to a satisfying conclusion where all the loose ends are wrapped, the story starts slowly and builds in action, humorous mayhem, and emotional depth.

Top Ghanaian and Nigerian actors and actresses Chidi Mokeme, Ini Edo, Yvonne Okoro, Majid Michel, Roselyn Ngissah, James Gardiner, Lasisi Elenu, Warri Pikin, and Akah Nnani are among the film’s outstanding cast. Their combined charisma and talent on screen leave viewers utterly delighted while skillfully conveying the film’s poignant message.

One Night Guests, which was produced by Chris Odey, directed by Peter Sedufia, and distributed by Gravel Road Studios, was shot fully on location in Lagos. It captures the lively energy of the city and heightens the story’s festive appeal. The collaboration of OldFilm Productions (Ghana), Sozo Films (Nigeria), and Gravel Road Studios (South Africa) on this project demonstrates the power of African filmmaking alliances.

On Christmas Day 2024, One Night Guests made its simultaneous debut in theaters in Ghana and Nigeria. It will be shown all holiday season long. The movie offers a universal cinematic experience that transcends audiences and cultural boundaries.

I heartily recommend One Night Guests to Ghanaian families looking for a fun cinema outing during the holidays. It is presently showing at Golden Eagle Cinema (Kumasi City Mall), Royal View Cinema (SG Mall, Kumasi), Ozone Cinemas (Oyarifa Mall), and Silverbird Cinemas (Accra Mall and West Hills Mall). Tickets are GHC 150 and showtimes are at 1 pm, 3 pm, 5 pm, 7 pm, and 9 pm.

Sedufia and his crew have once again produced a masterpiece, and I do not doubt that viewers will adore this most recent creation from his production companies.