The Royal Hibiscus, the new romantic comedy from EbonyLife Films, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 9, with additional public screenings on the 11th and 17th, at the Scotia Bank Theatre.
Executive producer, Mo Abudu, will be joined by director, Ishaya Bako and cast members, Zainab Balogun, Kenneth Okolie, Rachel Oniga, Jide Kosoko, Deyemi Okanlawon, OC Ukeje, Kemi ‘Lala’ Akindoju and Toni Tones.
Long-time partner of EbonyLife Films, Johnnie Walker, sponsored the movie and has been instrumental in ensuring that both cast and crew make it to Toronto.
“It is humbling to have such a world-renowned brand identify with us and reward our hard work. Telling the story of The Royal Hibiscus Hotel and being able to attend the opening at TIFF would have been difficult without their partnership,” Abudu said.
Set in Lagos and London, The Royal Hibiscus Hotel tells the story of a disillusioned London chef, ‘Ope’, who returns to Nigeria and discovers that going home can bring unexpected surprises. Universal themes of love, family and following your passion are sure to resonate with audiences who attend the festival.
This is the second EbonyLife Film to premiere at TIFF, the world’s most important publicly attended film festival. The Wedding Party received a standing ovation on opening night at TIFF 2016 and went on to become the highest-grossing Nigerian movie of all time.
The 2017 edition of The Toronto International Film Festival will take place from September 7-17.
The Royal Hibiscus Hotel is scheduled for release in February 2018.
