Reviews

Coz ov Moni | Pidgin Musical | Film Review

Coz ov Moni (2010)
Cast: Wanlov The Kubolor, M3NSA, Reggie Rockstone, Samini, Panji Anoff, Mutombo Da Poet
Director: King Luu

Coz ov Moni

Described as the world’s first pidgin musical, Coz ov Moni was exactly what the Ghanaian movie industry needed when it was released in 2010. The movie, directed by King Luu, written by the FOKN Bois and produced by Panji Anoff stars Wanlov The Kubolor and M3NSA (FOKN Bois).

The FOKN Bois duo have contributed immensely to arts, entertainment and culture in Ghana with their thought-provoking music, unexpected style and carefree kubolor attitude.

What drew me to the movie is that it is different from many Ghanaian movies I have seen. The choice of locations and the plot build up to a strong presentation of authenticity. I found myself admiring how much effort was put into an attempt at adequately representing the Ghanaian experience.

Coz ov Moni is not only entertaining, it comments on social issues in Ghana through a strong satirical, musical voice. It provides an exposition on issues like sakawa (cyber fraud), the struggles of the working class, night life in Accra etc.

I believe one of the strengths of the film is its use of Ghanaian Pidgin English. The flexibility of Ghanaian Pidgin English comes with many affordances that enable speakers to use it to self-express in a way that captures concepts that may be difficult to describe or explain while preserving the essence of the concept. Wanlov The Kubolor and M3NSA in writing this movie, make very good use of these affordances.

The acting is not only consistent throughout the film; it is to some extent consistent with the FOKN Bois brand on the musical scene. They dedicate a whole scene to discussing their biographical information; from their time in high school to their growth in Ghana’s music industry.

Camera work, sound and lighting are consistent with the aura, mood and effect the director seeks to create in the various scenes.

Coz ov Moni is a film I will recommend if you are looking to watch something that is long enough to sustain your interest but not so long that you slip into boredom.