NOLLYWOOD filmmakers have always captured the essence of Lagos — whether in crime thrillers showing its murky underside, comedies portraying it as a city of chaos and errors, or romance stories where one can be swept up by passion and desire in the city that never sleeps.
This, Jade Osiberu has done in Christmas in Lagos after her poignant tale in Gangs of Lagos.
Her work in Christmas in Lagos captures what the city feels like at Christmas time.
Premiered on December 20, 2024, on Prime Video, the film is an extension of Detty December (‘detty’ is a playful corruption of ‘dirty’) a triumphant celebration of culture, music and good vibes that has evolved in recent years during the traditional holidays influx of diaspora returnees.
As a Christmas movie, it is an ensemble of light music and dance. The music supports the Christmas narrative.
Cobhams Asuquo as music composer and Waje’s incredible vocals provides the magical feeling that is illuminated by Matthew Yusuf and the highly skilled One House Lighting Crew!
Detty December is a magical time between December and early January when diaspora communities for an unforgettable experience filled with flavourful food, soulful African music and sunshine.
Beach parties, festivals and top-tier performances fuel the energy, while fashion takes centre stage, with everyone dressing to impress.
The importance of lighting in the film cannot be overstated, and in Christmas in Lagos, it plays a starring role.
From the bustling streets decorated with Christmas lights to the intimate family moments that define the season, the lighting design in this film tells its own story.
Yusuf’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that every frame resonates with the emotions of the characters and the vibrancy of Lagos during the holidays.
The success of Christmas in Lagos is not only a reflection of Yusuf’s talent but also the dedication and expertise of the lighting crew.
This dynamic team of highly trained professionals, renowned for their innovative approach to lighting, combines technical precision with artistic creativity.
“We’re incredibly proud to have been part of such a monumental project,” said Yusuf, whose vision and unmatched expertise have earned him a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most sought-after lighting designers.
“This wasn’t just about lighting a set; it was about painting a story with light, immersing audiences in the festive charm and soul of Lagos.”
Every scene in Christmas in Lagos glows with authenticity, a testament to the hours of planning and creative collaboration between the film’s director, producer and lighting crew.
From the soft, golden hues of early morning markets to the dazzling array of lights illuminating Lagos nightlife, Matthew and his team worked tirelessly to ensure that the city itself became a character in the story.
“The crew was exceptional,” said Yusuf. “Each member brought something unique to the table, whether it was their deep technical knowledge, creative problem-solving skills, or sheer passion for the craft. We truly operated as a family, and I’m so proud of what we accomplished together.”
The producer of Christmas in Lagos, Osiberu, also commended the lighting team, noting that its work elevated the film to a new level.
“Lighting is one of those elements that can make or break a film, and Matthew Yusuf’s team delivered beyond our expectations. Their work added layers of depth to the story, making every scene feel alive and emotionally resonant.”
The One House Lighting Crew’s ability to adapt to the challenges of shooting in Lagos—a city known for its vibrant energy but also its unpredictable environment—was crucial to the film’s success.
Whether dealing with sudden changes in weather, managing complex lighting setups, or working long hours to meet tight deadlines, the team remained focused and determined to deliver excellence.
Yusuf, a visionary lighting designer, whose passion for storytelling shines through in his work, brings a unique perspective and innovative techniques to the film.
His ability to blend technical expertise with artistic intuition has made him a sought-after collaborator for directors and producers across the industry.
From romantic dramas to high-energy action films, Matthew has consistently demonstrated his versatility and commitment to excellence.
His journey into lighting design began with a love for visual storytelling. “I’ve always been fascinated by the way light can transform a space or evoke an emotion,” he said.
“In filmmaking, light is everything. It sets the tone, guides the audience’s focus, and creates an atmosphere that makes the story come alive.”
The film tells the story of family, love, and resilience, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Lagos during the most wonderful time of the year.
From the iconic landmarks to the bustling markets and festive celebrations, the city itself becomes a character in the story, thanks in large part to the work of the lighting crew.
Yusuf and the One House Lighting Crew are already looking ahead to their next projects. With a reputation for excellence and a proven track record of success, the team is poised to take on even bigger challenges in the future.
For Yusuf, the journey is far from over. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work on such an incredible film, and I’m excited to see where this path takes us. The future is bright, and we’re ready to keep shining.”
Now streaming on Amazon Prime, Christmas in Lagos is the holiday movie you can’t afford to miss this season. As audiences cozy up to enjoy the magic of Lagos through their screens, the brilliance of One House Lighting Crew will undoubtedly leave an impression.
Whether you’re looking for a feel-good holiday film or a visual masterpiece, Christmas in Lagos delivers on all fronts.
And as the credits roll, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the names of the talented individuals who made it all possible—including the one and only Yusuf.
