Anikulapo: The Rise of the Sceptre, directed by Kunle Afolayan and starring a stellar cast including Kunle Remi, Bimbo Adeyemo, Sola Sobowale and Owobo Ogunde, offers a nearly flawless cinematic experience. This gripping drama series, sequenced from the 2022 feature film of the same title, continues the compelling saga of Saro (Remi) and Arolake (Ademoye). Saro undertakes a challenging mission to alter a seemingly inevitable fate in the town of Oyo, while Arolake, presumed dead, navigates the wilderness to survive.
The series unfolds with visually captivating scenes, providing newcomers insights into the narrative. Saro's quest to cheat death reveals the truth about him and Arolake, triggering a search for the duo. Unexpected twists occur as Awarun (Sobowale) receives a guest who connects her with Saro, and the King collaborates on addressing a mysterious lady's predicament. Saro mysteriously disappears, leading to turmoil in Oyo. The series concludes with Kuranga's demise, Bashorun (Ogunde) facing the consequences, and Saro returning to the realm of the dead.
Anikulapo Rise of the Spectre blends visually stunning sequences with a complex narrative, delivering an engaging epic drama series that captivates audiences until the final episode. The stellar cast, led by Kunle Remi, brings characters to life, creating a captivating journey through the mystical town of Oyo. Unexpected twists and exploration of themes like fate and love contribute to the series' appeal, making it a must-watch for epic drama enthusiasts.
The well-crafted dialogue enhances the film's authenticity, complemented by meticulously chosen costumes and locations that offer an immersive experience. Sound design and music add a beautiful layer to the storytelling. Cinematography by Johnathan Kovel emerges as the game-changer, contributing to striking visuals. Despite some prolonged scenes affecting pacing, the series satisfactorily addresses lingering questions from its first part, such as Awarun's marital journey. Anikulapo: Rise of the Sceptre is a testament to Nollywood's potential dominance in global filmmaking.
- Precious Ndumanya