Production of the film took 7 months.[7]Principal photography, which lasted for two weeks,[8] commenced in Lagos around February 2014.[9][10]
Release
Behind the scenes short documentary videos were constantly released on YouTube from August through September 2014. A teaser trailer was released on 3 September 2014, along with promotional posters and photos.[11][12][13] The official theatrical trailer was released online on 19 September 2014.[14][15] It premiered on 16 October 2014, at the Genesis Deluxe Cinema, The Palms in Lekki, Lagos,[16][17] and was generally released in movie theatres on 24 October 2014.[18][19][20]
Reception
Critical reception
The film has been positively received since its release; Bello and Ekpeyong have been generally described as the standout couple in the film. Most critics however noted that Okeke is unable to get out of his Tinsel character, and that the chemistry between Opia and Okeke is almost non-existent (or not harnessed) on screen. Nollywood Reinvented gave it a 41%, mentioning that there is not much more to this than the purest and most basic form of a 'chic flick'.[21]Sodas and Popcorn gave a 4 out of 5 stars and concluded: "When Love Happens is a well-directed movie, with a lovely cast and crew. It delivers a very fun time. If you are a fan of simple, fun and family healthy comedies, you would love this one".[22]Toni Kan commends the scripting and the performances from the actors, concluding that: "Over all, this is a delightful movie that does Nollywood proud".[23] Efeturi Doghudje of 360Nobs praised the picture quality and music, but noted that the film dragged a bit due to presence of unnecessary scenes and long dialogues, which could've been edited. She rated the film 4 out of 10 stars and concluded: "for a first feature film, When Love Happens was something more than an ordinary. It is an easy-going RomCom, with a well thought out cast and a great production".[7]Movie Pencil commended the scripting and production quality. It gave the film 4 out of 5 stars, describing it as a "feel good experience".[24]
Accolades
When Love Happens received nominations at the 2015 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards in three categories, including "Best Actress in a Comedy" for Opia and "Best Supporting Actor" for Ukeje.[25]
