Iyke Bede
Recently, fashionistas stormed the palatial space of the Silverbird Cinema, Victoria Island, for the Lagos premiere of ‘House of Gucci’. The show was accompanied by a fashion runway show put together by fashion house Jurio Luti.
A biographical crime drama, ‘House of Gucci’ stars American singer Stefani Germanotta, aka Lady Gaga in the leading role as Patrizia Reggiani, who meets her doom after orchestrating husband Maurizio Gucci assassination.
Spanning three decades, the film further chronicles how the household business eventually succumbs — influenced by family politics — to the powers of the corporate world.
Inspired by classic pieces from the Gucci line over the years, the fashion brand curated a collection of bespoke evening gowns and men’s suits adopting an eclectic range of colours to resonate sophistication, exuberance, and synergy. The collection was showcased by over a dozen models.
Under the direction of Ojuri Adefunminiyi, the designer explains that he aspires to the greatness of the Gucci brand, hoping that one day, through sheer hard work, he would be able to gain international recognition for his works.
“Gucci is a household name, there have been premieres all over the world, but we thought we can create a fashion ambience that mirrors the spirit of the clothier, right before releasing the movie. That name alone inspired us to come out with the best pieces.
“This runway show is my way of achieving what the Gucci brand has achieved through bespoke pieces while carving a niche for myself. The Gucci brand stands out, and that also inspired me to aspire to attain great status in the fashion industry.
Impressed by the show, the audience applauded the collection. Before the screening, guests were treated to canapes, cocktails and dessert servings. The evening also saw them compete for various prizes in trivia games. ‘House of Gucci’ is currently showing at the cinemas. Having aired over 90 episodes since its inception in January 2020, the reality TV program ‘The Justice Court’ (TJC), has entered the final stages of production for its sixth season.
An alternative dispute resolution (ADR) reality court presided by Judge Funmi Asaolu, TJC offers solutions over real-life small claims civil disputes that have a profound effect on society.
In one of its recordings, a plaintiff, Chinonso Osagie revealed her marital woes that culminated in her husband abandoning her for another woman. Fighting to steer her marriage back on track, she is presented with a doctored divorce letter stating that her marriage had been annulled. A former banker, Chinonso now fights the legal battle of not only saving herself but also securing the future of her children.
So far, the show has absorbed a substantial amount of referred cases from the customary court. According to the judge, the show aims to decongest traditional courts. It provides pro bono services to all its clients, and in special cases like Chinonso’s, assists in its limited capacity. She also reiterated that the rulings are legally binding.
“We noticed the last case that was presided over, and we hear what the lady spoke about: she has been to several places, and right now, it is like ‘justice denied’ for her still. She is still in pain. It is because of people like her that we have ‘The Justice Court’ to make them feel humane, and realise that whatever challenges that they are going through, they can always get justice.”
Citing the conflict resolution and prevention role TJC plays, Executive Producer, Victor Aluko also pointed out the show’s unique style in delivering legal rights education in an entertaining format.
The sixth season is expected to begin airing in the coming weeks.
