MOVIE REVIEW: JAGUN JAGUN (2023)
This epic action movie produced by seasoned Nigerian actor Femi Adebayo , tells the tale of a famed warlord’s rivalry with a young warrior whose desire is to avenge the annihilation of his hometown.
The movie had splendid cinematography with panoramic drone shots, stunning visuals, spectacular props, remarkable costumes, excellent make – up, impressive special effects, amazing direction, captivating musical score and remarkable acting with every member of the cast delivering their roles wonderfully. The battle scenes were poorly captured despite the awesome choreography, the sound editing was clumsy and the transitions were below par.
The story was brilliantly written, with very interesting twists that came full circle, such as Kitan being Agemo and Ogundiji being the warlord that sacked Gbotija’s hometown. The dialogue was a literary fest, laced with fascinating proverbs and intriguing alliterations.
I like the fact that the movie equally emphasized both physical strength (skills) and metaphysical strength (charms). The power of the spoken word was highlighted in the sense that most of the spiritual powers wielded were vocally activated.
I find it interesting that Gbotija’s ability to communicate with trees was not classified as a charm but an inherited gift by virtue of being a wood carver, which saved him time and time again. Unfortunately, it was also a curse as it enabled him kill the two people he loved the most.
The realization that the movie was a commentary on the sociopolitical state of our nation dawned on me when Gbotija yelled “Youths arise” during his rousing tirade before the final battle and the last scene teased a sequel which I am eagerly looking forward to seeing.
I recommend JAGUN JAGUN (2023) to every lover of epic and action movies.
RATING: 8/10.
Credit – Chukwudi Nwokoma
