Charge and Bail (2021), directed by Uyoyou Adia, tells the story of Boma Ossai (Balogun), a foreign-trained lawyer from a wealthy family who unexpectedly finds herself at a Charge & Bail law firm in Nigeria due to the mandatory National Youth Service. She was banking on being rejected, a common practice that allows a corper to choose a preferred workplace or state. Boma wasn’t successful and had to serve there. The crux of the story is the clash between Bona's privileged background and the down-to-earth nature of her new workplace.
Directed by Tope Oshin Up North (2019), explores the challenges of Bassey Otuekong, also from a wealthy background, being compelled by his father to undergo his National Youth Service in Bauchi, a northern region of Nigeria. Bassey's journey unfolds against cultural and religious differences and the challenges of adapting to a new lifestyle.
In both movies, the protagonists face the daunting task of adjusting to environments vastly different from their accustomed settings. Despite their initial discomfort, Bona and Bassey gradually fit into their new surroundings, leading to personal growth and eventual triumph.
While Bona grapples with the quirks of local law practices and ends up in class act with her father, Bassey, an engineering graduate, resolved to teach Physical Education and even went as far as coaching a group of female athletes, challenging the religious beliefs for a regional sporting event.
Charge and Bail, written by Naz Onuzo and Zulumoke Oyibo and Up North, by Bunmi Ajakaiye and Naz Onuzo, offer viewers a captivating exploration of characters thrust into unfamiliar territories. Zainab Balogun and Banky W delivered commendable performances, breathing life into stories that resonate with themes of adaptation, growth, and triumph.
Charge and Bail streams on Prime Video. Up North on Netflix
Curated by Jimi D Baldheaded Guy.