Former Big Brother Naija reality show star and actor Tobi Bakre has admitted that he drank strong alcohol to get into character for the new crime film *Gangs of Lagos*. In the movie, Bakre plays Obalola, a street king whose childhood is marked by hardship and scars. He noted that this was his first time playing a lead role and the first time he truly let himself become the character.
Bakre discussed his experience on the recent episode of Menisms’ audiovisual podcast hosted by Olumurewa and Michael Sonariwo. He explained, “For *Gangs of Lagos* it was challenging because, for the first time, we build so many walls to protect ourselves from possible sad outcomes in life. I was playing a strong guy, but the same movie required moments of vulnerability. I had the toughest time; I had to tear my walls down.” He recalled drinking two plastic herbal‑bitters drinks within five minutes, saying, “I felt like I was drinking water because I didn’t feel anything. I was listening to the saddest music.”
Bakre also mentioned the emotional impact of Tiwa Savage’s song “Celia,” which he associates with the film. “I wasn’t trying to fake it. I needed to be actually sad, to be there. I was putting myself in the scenario of this character,” he said. While shooting a scene near a graveyard, he found his thoughts drifting. After the take, the director called “cut,” and the set fell silent; people in the background were sobbing, as if they had forgotten they were acting.
*Gangs of Lagos*, produced and directed by Jade Osiberu, is the first African Original for Amazon Prime Video. Released on April 7, 2023, the film follows three friends—Obalola (Tobi Bakre), Gift (Adesua Etomi‑Wellington) and Ify (Chike‑Ezekpeazu Osebuka)—as they navigate their destinies on the rough, bustling streets of Isale Eko, Lagos.
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