Title: LONELY HEARTS (1 & 2)

Sequel:  None

Starring:  Ini Edo, Desmond Elliott, Uche Jombo, Belinda Effah, Kenneth Okolie

Synopsis:

A young journalist finds herself in a tug-of-war when her co-worker and his roommate shamelessly compete for her attention.

Review:

This is a “dramedy” with several layers. At center stage is Charles (Kenneth Okolie) and Yemi (Okey Uzoeshi) who compete for Aima’s attention. At first they pretend they’re gay but when Aima (Belinda Effah) learns the truth, it’s on. It’s cute but doesn’t come off as funny as probably intended.

Aima happens to be a writer for a magazine. She interviewed “Tiana,” who is some sort of celebrity. Tiana (Barbara Soki) discussed an affair she had with a younger man that ultimately ruined her marriage and revealed all of the details except the identity of the man.

When Aima returned to the office her boss ordered her to not only investigate but to also print a picture of Tiana’s mysterious lover with the story. This presented a challenge for Aima because 1) she didn’t know who the man was and 2) she wanted to keep her job and her integrity as a journalist. 

Aima also coped with her sister’s drug abuse. Lizzy (Uche Jombo) only called when she needed money and she wound up leaving town owing her dealer and landlord.

Another story line focused on Debbie (Ini Edo) who is a movie director married to an abusive husband. Many women in this situation struggle with whether to leave or not but after one hit too many, Debbie made a powerful move and left. Shortly after, new love appeared at her door.

Let’s Talk. The stories here are weaved together effortlessly but at the end of the day “Lonely Hearts” is not boring nor especially engaging. It’s the kind of movie you watch when you’re bored or if you have a particular interest in any of the actors.

As for acting, Uche Jombo brought the heat playing a desperate druggie but she wasn’t in a leading role. Belinda Effah is a fine actress with potential and she basically carried the movie.

Overall it is a decent movie with fine performances. RECOMMEND

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