Like in the first season, Beyond the Veil remains intense and intriguing. Writers Sifa Aani Gowon, Brenda Ogbuka-Garuba (Head writer, 2nd season), and director Nadine Ibrahim have sustained the narrative depth and cinematic structure, effectively highlighting women's conflicts beyond the veil. The series, starring Jemima Osunde, Nora Ego, Maryam Booth, Ame Aiyejina, and Habiba Tanko Zock-Sock with an additional cast, further exposes and enlightens viewers on how (Northern Nigerian) women often must navigate the complexities of religion, tradition, and modernity to assert their individuality.
Badriya ‘Baddie’ (Nora Ego), a blogger with a flashy lifestyle, falls deeply in love with Sadiq (Yakubu Mohammed), only to find out he is already married. Despite his honesty about his marital status and willingness to make her his second wife, she faces abuse and hides her pain out of shame until she can no longer endure it.
Hanifa (Maryam Booth) struggles with her role as a mother and housewife while longing to return to school and pursue a career. Initially hindered by her husband's traditional beliefs, their relationship improves in season two as he becomes more supportive, helping her secure an internship and sponsoring her postgraduate studies in Dubai. Their journey culminates in the birth of their baby boy.
Na’ima (Jemima Osunde), an independent woman focused on her career as a spa and beauty parlour owner, faces family pressure to marry. After a severe accident at the end of season one, she battles psychological stress and addiction, eventually finding solace and recovery through rekindling her relationship with Matthew.
Zainab, aka Zizi (Ame Aiyejina), a determined police officer, has no time for men or marriage. However, Kassim, Naima’s brother, finds his way into her heart just as she loses her beloved grandfather. Despite their different social backgrounds causing their relationship to falter, Zizi moves on and finds new love with Tariq (Yaw Buntin), revealing a softer side as she navigates her need for love and companionship.
Surrayah (Habiba Tanko Zock-Sock), an aromatherapist recovering from a failed marriage, gets a second chance through the support of Baddy’s mum and Naima. However, her inability to change her dreadful ways leads her to squander this opportunity.
Na’ima, Hanifa, Badriya, Zainab, and Surrayah represent the modern African woman, constantly challenged by traditions that prevent them from living as they choose. Their stories are a compelling portrayal of resilience and the quest for self-determination.
The beautiful cinematic structure is matched by commendable casting, especially with Jemima's portrayal of Na’ima. Her interpretation of the role's conflicts and emotions, especially in Naima's decision not to leave with Matthew, is exemplary, reminiscent of her brilliance in the 2018 movie New Money.
Also starring Yakubu Mohammed, Caleb Richards, Rabiu Rikadawa and Ummi Baba Ahmed, it also adds Yaw Bunting (Water & Garri) and Ijapari Ben - Hirki to the brilliant line up
Both seasons of Beyond the Veil on Prime Video are highly recommended.
- Jimi D Baldheaded Guy