Nnegest Olufunmilayo Likké, the visionary filmmaker behind the 2006 hit movie ‘Phat Girlz’, is celebrating the film’s 19th anniversary.
Released on April 7, 2006, ‘Phat Girlz’ was a groundbreaking film that introduced Afrobeats to Hollywood and marked a significant milestone in the representation of African culture in mainstream cinema.
The romantic comedy, starring Mo’Nique and Jimmy Jean-Louis, follows the story of Jazmin Biltmore, a plus-size woman who struggles with body image and acceptance.
With the help of a Nigerian doctor who loves her for who she is, Jazmin gains confidence and learns to embrace her beauty.
Speaking at the 19th anniversary of ‘Phat Girlz,’ a film she wrote and directed, Nnegest emphasized the importance of self-love and self-care, highlighting the film’s message that women should prioritize their own well-being and not settle for poor treatment in relationships.
Highlighting the importance of maintaining high standards in relationships, Nnegest urged women to prioritize self-love and self-care.
She said “There are lots of important messages in the movie but, perhaps, the most poignant of all is for women to love themselves. You gotta love yourself before you can love a man.
“A man may cheat on you, but you also cheat on yourself when you lower your standards just to be with someone who treats you poorly or offers you less than you deserve in the relationship.
“Phat Girlz” was a trailblazer in many ways, being the first mainstream Hollywood movie written and directed by an African woman, and featuring Afrobeats as a central component of its soundtrack. The film’s theme song, ‘African Queen’ by 2Baba, introduced Afrobeats to a global audience.
Nnegest’s legacy continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers, particularly women and Africans in the film industry. Her recent work on the Netflix Original “A Sunday Affair” further solidifies her position as a leading voice in shaping important cultural narratives through cinema.
