Producer: Jadesola Osiberu
Writers: Kay I. Jegede, Jadesola Osiberu
Cast: Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi-Wellington, Iyabo Ojo, Toyin Abraham, Debo Mr. Macaroni Adedayo, Bimbo Ademoye, Wasiu Pasuma Alabi, Pamilerin Ayodeji, Eniola Badmus, Chike, Chioma Akpotha.
We wouldn’t be Xplorenollywood if we didn’t cook up our yummy review of the movie that’s got everyone talking: Gangs of Lagos. While the major thematic preoccupations of this movie feel like what we have seen from the Nollywood industry on our screens over and over again, right from the beginning of the movie, Jadesola Osiberu, the producer and co-writer makes us see that this isn’t just another Shanty Town, or another King of Boys.
It’s more!
While the movie addresses the predominant themes in Nollywood- corruption, godfatherism, dirty politics and thug violence, amongst others, it comes at these themes from a unique perspective of truth and rawness, the allusions to real life situations and personalities not so hidden from our view. The cinematography is brilliant, the language colourful and descriptive, with the storytelling compelling and irresistible.
The movie tells the story of a young boy born into thuggery and dangerous living. Even at his young age, Akande, more popularly referred to as Obalola has a saying that never leaves his tongue- “Omo Aiye for life,” hinting at the fact that he really is a child of the streets. Although his mother tries to save him through unconventional, almost abusive means, from the claws of “Aye” and the forces that killed his father, he is taken in by the streets and would probably have become the tech bro he wanted to be if tragedy had not struck.
“Gangs of Lagos” is a revelation of all Nollywood can be, yet a telltale sign that we are yet to arrive there. It is a revelation because of the perfect cinematography, creative dialogue and stunning characters, yet a tell-tale sign because this isn’t a plot we have not seen before. It’s a story we have heard told over and over again.
While the movie tells a story of betrayal, of love or lust, of friendship, of brotherhood, and finally, of revolution, we can not resist Jade Osiberu’s loud whispers, calling Nigerians to take a stand together for revolution.
Have you watched “Gangs of Lagos” yet?
Let us know your thoughts!
