“DARA: A Port Harcourt Love Story” brings a compelling youth romance drama to Nigerian cinemas, premiering nationwide on September 5, 2024. This heartfelt story explores the complexities of young love, campus life, and the harsh realities that many Nigerian students face in higher education.
Plot
The film follows Dara, a TikTok sensation who gains admission to university with high hopes for his academic journey. However, campus life proves to be nothing like what he expected. Trapped in a web of toxic love, cultism, and campus violence, Dara finds his only escape through his passion for dance.
As a heartfelt youth drama, the narrative captures Dara’s journey through love and self-discovery as it becomes entangled with the harsh realities of cultism and violence on campus. While news of a dance competition fills him with hope, one dangerous moment threatens everything he holds dear, his freedom, his relationship, and even his life.
Cast
Bless Smile stars as Dara, the protagonist whose journey from TikTok fame to university struggles forms the story’s heart. Tomi Ojo plays Sofia, Dara’s love interest who becomes part of his complicated romantic journey.
The supporting cast features seasoned Nollywood talent including Tina Mba, Riyo David, and Raymond Umenze, each bringing depth to this exploration of contemporary Nigerian campus life.
Behind the Camera
Director: Bobby Rak helms this coming-of-age drama, bringing his vision of modern Nigerian youth culture to the screen.
Production Team: The film is produced by MMAC Company Productions, with Meon Essiet as executive producer and Emmanuel “Smile” Ediong as producer, according to the IMDb credits.
Themes and Social Commentary
The film combines romance with social commentary, using Port Harcourt’s backdrop to highlight the complexities of youth, relationships, and the dangers that often lurk behind campus walls. According to the producers, “DARA: A Port Harcourt Love Story” will resonate with young audiences while addressing broader issues affecting Nigerian campuses, including cultism and campus violence.
With its blend of suspense and social relevance, the movie adds to the growing slate of Nollywood movies tackling youth-centered themes, offering both entertainment and meaningful commentary on contemporary Nigerian university life.
