Nollywood actress Osas Ighodaro has revealed how her childhood experiences as a tomboy significantly prepared her for the demanding action role in the new movie 3 Cold Dishes. The film, which tackles the serious issue of human trafficking, features Ighodaro in a character that required both physical prowess and linguistic skills.
From Tomboy to Action Star
In an exclusive interview with our correspondent at a cinema in Ikeja, Lagos, where the movie was screened, Ighodaro opened up about her preparation for the role of Esosa. "It wasn't too hard because, naturally, I'm an athletic person; I grew up as a Tomboy, I did many sports, I ran around, climbed trees and all of that," the actress confessed.
She further explained that many people see her as prim and proper, but there are different layers to her personality that made the action sequences more manageable. The role required her to perform her own stunts without doubles, showcasing the physical capabilities she developed during her tomboy years.
Mastering French for Authentic Performance
One of the significant challenges Ighodaro faced was mastering the French language for her character. "I practised so hard to make sure that the French came off as authentic and genuine as possible," she emphasized during the interview.
Her character, Esosa, was captured at a young age and placed in an environment where only French was spoken, necessitating her to learn the language. Ighodaro's dedication to rehearsing and practicing paid off, creating a believable portrayal that has been well-received by audiences.
A Groundbreaking Production
3 Cold Dishes tells the powerful story of three women who were trafficked as teenagers and forced into prostitution against their will. The film boasts an impressive production team with singer Burna Boy and his mother Bose Ogulu serving as executive producers.
The movie features a diverse cast including:
- Adebodje Wayidi Adeleke
- Taiwo Adeyemi
- Prescilia Ahoue
- Ruby Akubueze
- Mentor Ba
- Bambadjan Bamba
- Fulbert Bayili
- Aldot Bossou
- Fanta Dumbai
- Sourou Gouvoeke
- Maud Guerard
- Osas Ighodaro
- Femi Jacobs
- Wale Ojo
Producer Asurf Oluseyi revealed that the film was shot across multiple African countries including Nigeria, Benin Republic, Ivory Coast, and Mauritania, featuring three or more languages including French, English, and Yoruba.
The Birth of Afrowood?
The production of 3 Cold Dishes represents a significant step toward what might become known as Afrowood - a pan-African film industry that transcends national boundaries. The movie brings together actors from various African countries, telling stories that many may not be aware of about the continent.
Producer Oluseyi acknowledged the challenges of moving between countries to achieve the best picture and story, attributing their success to thorough planning and a "very good preproduction stage." He particularly noted the Mauritania sequence, which was completed in just three days instead of the planned five due to excellent preparation.
The film showcases dangerous-looking action stunts performed by the actors themselves without doubles, adding to the authenticity of the production. "The girls were the ones doing their stunts. Osas was the one shooting, likewise the other girls. We never had doubles on the set," Oluseyi confirmed.
Released on November 14, 2025, 3 Cold Dishes stands as a testament to the growing collaboration within the African film industry and the dedication of actors like Osas Ighodaro who bring their unique life experiences to their roles.
