Tokunboh, directed by Ramsey Nouah and starring Gideon Okeke and Funlola Aofiyebi, alongside Chidi Mokeme, Adunni Ade, and child star actor Darasimi Nadi, is an action thriller that begins with a compelling emotional premise but ultimately falls short in delivering the excitement typically expected from the genre
Written by Todimu Adegoke and Thecla Uzozie, the film centres on a former car smuggler, Tokunboh (Okeke) who is forced back into the criminal world when his 18-month-old son falls gravely ill. With the child on life support and the need to raise money for an urgent operation, Tokunboh turns to his former employer, Gaza, who spitefully refuses to help. In a twist of fate, Tokunboh stumbles upon a trafficker's mobile phone, which provides him with an opportunity to secure the necessary funds. However, this new venture takes a dark turn when Tokunboh is blackmailed into delivering a kidnapped girl, Nike (Nadi), within three hours. Unknown to him, Nike happens to be the daughter of Folashade Balogun (Aofiyebi), the newly appointed Central Bank Governor, whose tough new monetary policies have angered corrupt officials. With his wife and dying son held hostage by the kidnappers, Tokunboh has no choice but to comply.
The film opens with a strong and engaging first 15 minutes, but as the story progresses, it struggles to maintain momentum. Despite Nouah's commendable use of innovative shot angles and some impressive cinematography provided by Mohammed Atta Ahmed, the film's overall execution falls flat. The plot becomes convoluted, and the action sequences fail to deliver the necessary intensity.
The cast, however, shines in their respective roles. Gideon Okeke and Darasimi Nadi share some particularly touching moments, and Funlola Aofiyebi delivers a standout performance as the no-nonsense Central Bank Governor, a role that further cements her reputation as a versatile actress. Chidi Mokeme, reprising a familiar tough-guy role, may not surprise those who have seen his work in Shanty Town, but he remains solid in his portrayal of Gaza. Unfortunately, Ivie Okujaiye, as the Governor's PA, is underutilized despite her character's potential significance to the plot. Adunni Ade's role as Iya Mulika, while well-acted, feels unnecessary and could have been omitted without affecting the story. But after hearing her Nollywood journey on the Nollywood On Radio podcast, casting her makes sense.
Ultimately, Tokunboh is a film with a promising premise and a talented cast, but it lacks the thrills and cohesive narrative needed to elevate it into a memorable action thriller. The writers did a good job in fusing a creative twist to this familiar plot - remember John Q, but it struggles to develop these ideas into a dark, gritty, and convincing narrative. Although it may be worth a watch on Netflix, the poorly choreographed stunts, unnecessary scenes and characters make Tokunboh a missed opportunity that leaves viewers wondering what could have been.
- Jimi D Baldhead Guy