Criminal, starring Funmi Aofiyebi and Uzor Arukwe, could have been an outstanding film. But the Anthill production, written by Niyi Akinmolayan and directed by his unseasoned protege, Dolapo Adigun, fails to meet the mark on every standard of quality filmmaking, resulting in a disappointing mess.
Despite the impressive performances by Uzor Arukwe as the hardened criminal Uzor, who is desperate to save his brother shot at gunpoint in an overwhelmed specialist hospital run by surgeon Amara Nwachukwu (Aofiyebi), the film is let down by a poorly written screenplay and direction that lacks cohesion and depth. These shortcomings fail to provide a solid foundation for the story.
Funmi Aofiyebi, known for her work with Akinmolayan in the 2023 thriller House of Secrets, brings her character, Dr. Amara, to life with her trademark stern expressions and powerful presence, infusing depth and authenticity into her role. Uzor Arukwe’s performance is equally commendable, showcasing his versatility and command over the screen. Their chemistry and individual talents elevate every scene, making their portrayals memorable and compelling.
And some moments hint at the narrative’s potential, sparking hope and intrigue. Unfortunately, these glimpses of brilliance are quickly overshadowed by Adigun’s poor directing skills, resulting in inconsistent storytelling, lacklustre execution, and poor editing. Despite co-writing the 2023 thriller House of Secrets with Akinmolayan, Adigun fails to fully harness the script’s potential and guide the film to a satisfying conclusion, leaving audiences with a disappointing experience.
In conclusion, and more importantly, regarding Nollywood’s dynamic development, it’s high time that producers and investors start prioritising the recruitment of skilled professionals to handle the various aspects of film production. This is particularly critical in the areas of screenwriting, directing, cinematography, and editing. The industry is currently saturated with mediocre productions, largely due to the influx of untrained individuals eager to venture into filmmaking without acquiring the necessary skills or dedicating adequate time to learn the craft.
Nollywood's potential is undeniable, with talented actors like Aofiyebi and Arukwe proving they can deliver world-class performances. However, their efforts are frequently undermined by weak screenplays and poor direction. To elevate Nollywood's standards and produce films that meet global benchmarks, a concerted effort to improve the quality of its productions is essential. This involves not only recognising and nurturing local talent but also investing in comprehensive education and training across all filmmaking roles.
Ultimately, producers and investors must demand and cultivate excellence in every aspect of film production. This approach will not only enhance the quality of Nollywood films but also help build a sustainable industry capable of standing tall on the world stage. Embracing these changes is crucial for the industry’s success and longevity as it continues to evolve.
- Jimi D Baldheaded Guy