Through the eyes of the lead character (Zara, played by Tomi Ojo), we are made aware that our deepest inventions exist in honing our personal experiences through genuine self-introspection. And who better to help us arrive at the path of self-actualisation than family, friends or romantic partners? The sub themes of friendship, romance and familial support ensure that we leave the movie appreciating the value of the support systems we have in our personal lives.

Also, Makemation highlights the subject of disability in a delicate, but firm manner. Through the lens of one of the characters (a tutor), we see that any form of disability, whether physical or mental, is a barrier that can be overcome in the pursuit of aspirations. Furthermore, it provides much needed inclusivity in a way that has previously been frequently omitted in filmmaking in Nigeria.

Essentially, other than the obvious delight we feel as we journey with the cast through the obstacles they face to attain their goals, it allows us to contemplate the real-life efforts of organisations like Microsoft, Altschool Africa, Stutern, and ALX etc., in providing resources for tech education across the continent through scholarships and peer to peer mentoring.

In a way, Zara is all of us – young people; finding our place in the grand scheme of things while juggling the anxiety of youth, love, family ties, friendship, and loss. It goes without saying that this movie holds something for everyone; whether you like romance, you are a tech hothead, random cinephile or some other description, the themes of innovation, friendship, romance and familial support all wrapped around the necessity of tech in today’s world provides that everyone’s taste is accounted for.

So, make it a date to see it Makemation, which hit the cinemas on April 18.