In Still Falling, Sharon Ooja shines as Bono Kuku, a woman battling her emotional scars while unexpectedly reuniting with her abusive ex, played by Daniel Etim-Effiong. Here's our in-depth Nollywood review.
If you’re a Nollywood fan who’s been longing for a film with Hollywood-quality storytelling, Still Falling just might be the emotional rollercoaster you’ve been waiting for. Directed with visual flair and packed with emotional intensity, this film blends glossy aesthetics with a raw, unfiltered narrative about trauma, love, and forgiveness.
At the center of Still Falling is Bono Kuku, a wildly successful influencer and entrepreneur, played impeccably by the beautiful Sharon Ooja Nwoke. Bono is fierce, unapologetic, and emotionally detached from men—and for good reason. Her friends and family are puzzled by her icy approach to relationships, but what they don't know is that she carries scars from a deeply traumatic past.
Enter Lagi Gowon, played by the charming Daniel Etim-Effiong—Bono’s ex-lover who now happens to be the pilot of a private jet she and her girlfriends have rented to celebrate a massive business deal. The moment she sees him, Bono nearly passes out. It’s a gripping scene that sets the tone for the emotionally charged film that follows.
What Still Falling Does Well
This movie doesn’t just tell you Bono’s pain—it shows you the consequences of it. Through powerful acting, well-paced storytelling, and nuanced dialogue, we see how Bono’s past shaped the “monster” she’s accused of becoming. The trauma she endured—both physical and emotional—resurfaces as she’s forced to confront the man who hurt her.
Sharon Ooja's performance is both vulnerable and commanding. You feel her pain, her confusion, and her inner war between the past and present. Daniel Etim-Effiong, although limited by a script that doesn’t fully explore his character’s backstory, still brings a grounded presence to Lagi, keeping the audience guessing about his true intentions.
What Could Have Been Better
While the movie brilliantly illustrates Bono’s emotional evolution, it falls short in giving us a full picture of Lagi. We hear about his past abusiveness, but the lack of visual flashbacks or deeper narrative on his journey leaves viewers craving more. Was he truly a changed man, or just another ghost from Bono’s painful past?
Still Falling: Final Verdict
Still Falling isn’t just another love story—it’s a heart-wrenching dive into the long-lasting effects of emotional and physical abuse. It's a film that encourages reflection, conversation, and healing. It’s bold, beautifully shot, and anchored by strong performances from its leads. Most importantly, it addresses a topic many Nollywood films shy away from: how women carry emotional trauma into their success stories, and what happens when the past comes knocking.
Let’s Talk!
What was your favorite moment in Still Falling?
If you were Bono, would you have forgiven Lagi—or walked away forever?
Drop your thoughts in the comment section below and let’s get the conversation started!
