ÌJỌ̀NGBỌ̀N: Movie review
. . . a folklore that tells an African story of the SWstern people of Nigeria: Our over dependence on religion and prayer in decision making, the extreme quest to seek greener pasture (Japa syndrome) that is raging amongst youths all over, and the religion cum inter-tribal tolerance that characterized the SW as a people.
It of course explains how, as a result of greed, the abundant mineral resources that we are blessed with in Africa, have become a curse for us rather than blessing. How Yorubas hide important events and precious ideas under the guise of stories and tales. How
The lead characters, Ọmọ’ba, Jamiu, Ranti and Obym were excellent. Those dudes outdid themselves. Their youthful exuberance and inexperience marred a lifetime opportunity that could have turned their fortune around. Our inability to reach compromise in crucial times – a thing that has become a bane to our quest for greatness ruined their efforts.
I feel for Ranti, the overbearing attitude of Jamiu in spite of his wittiness is unacceptable. He is selfish. But Ranti is a coward. A typical Yoruba man who is always afraid to take decisions. Igbos are brave. The character of Obim alludes to it. In spite of being a lass, she was able to challenge her male friends and convince them in times of decision making.
Grand screenplay, a complete storyline. Kunle Afolayan is the Ọgá of moviemakers as far as Nollywood is concerned and arguably in Africa. He took us from the realm of epic Yoruba story to a modern narration of African tales. Ijogbon is a step above Anikulapo. But I wouldn’t agree with the title. A more suitable title would have been used instead of ‘Ijogbon’ because the story talks more about Diamond than anything Violence. A ‘Blood Diamond’ kind of…
My Rating : 9/10
