Where do I even begin? From Seven Doors to Everybody Loves Jenifa and Squid Games 2: This is the most raw and honest review I’ll be giving on any film I’ve seen to date. It is on Seven Doors, a Nigerian drama created by Femi Adebayo for the streaming platform Netflix. It’s exhilarating to witness Nollywood’s evolution in storytelling, particularly with narratives deeply rooted in our culture. Seven doors by Adebayo typifies the point being made.

I must commend Yoruba filmmakers for utilising film as a medium to challenge and address societal issues. They consistently weave in thought-provoking lines that remind viewers of the dos and don’ts in present-day Nigeria. The Yoruba philosophy of scapegoatism, where one person bears the burden of the community, is beautifully exemplified in this film.

This concept is reminiscent of Wole Soyinka’s “Death and the King’s Horseman.” The proverb “Heavy is the head that wears the crown” takes on a deeper meaning, extending beyond the physical weight of the crown. This film masterfully illustrates the emotional toll of leadership.

Watching the palace scenes, I felt the frustration and discomfort alongside the characters. It prompted me to reflect on whether I would abandon the throne or persevere in the face of adversity. The sacrifices made by the King, his children, and his wife were poignant reminders of the consequences of power. The love between the King and his wife was palpable, leaving me emotional. It was so real!

On a broader level, this story resonates with every individual. We all wear our unique crowns, each carrying its weight. As humans, we face an endless series of battles. When we overcome one challenge (the past), another emerges (the present), fueling our drive and resilience for the future.

This narrative also raises questions about fate and its role in our lives. Was the King destined to rule and atone for the mistakes of his ancestors? Or was his fate to experience hardship, ultimately allowing him to share stories of redemption and cautionary tales with future generations? I believe it’s the latter. This story is a masterpiece.

If only we could see the truth in the eyes of man, most especially when they speak, the world could be a better place. Let’s give a round of applause for beautiful and captivating storytelling. The filmmaker has mastered the art of comedy, showcasing expertise in this genre. The use of colors to make viewing appealing is also commendable, a trend noticeable in recent movies.

Next is Everybody Loves Jenifa, a 2024 Nigerian comedy drama film directed by Funke Akindele, Tunde Olaoye and produced by Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network. This film tackles feminism and Marxism, addressing societal ills like marginalization and oppression. The actors delivered outstanding performances, merging the two conflicts seamlessly. The costuming was beautiful, and the pacing was well-executed.

On a deeper level, this story reminds us that the roots of our problems often lie nearby, and vigilance is crucial. The film highlights the importance of discernment, cautioning against deceit and superficiality.  Not everyone dressed in white clothing is clean. The line “It’s all for the gram”, and “who be that/this” which was said couple of times in the film emphasizes also on it. Deceit is one vice present in the community we live in and without proper discerning it would be hard to notice and get rid of. One thing will always come forth in the end–the truth—and it is what is advised we live by. The truth will always prevail, and living by it is essential.

Asides having resources and means to save yourself, going out of your place to help others also speak volume about you as an individual. As everyone loves Jenifa, I’m sure you’ll love this film.

Lastly, a take on the Squid Game 2 created by Korean television producer and writer, Hwang Dong-hyuk. It was released on Netflix on December 26, 2024. To start with, I’m at a loss for words. This is one thriller franchise I’d like to dine with over and over.

The attention to details is one thing in this series I always like to commend. You could already tell what might happen at the end with the bits of foreshadow painted on the walls. Also, like the previous season the distinct characterisation helped elevate the story.

Once bitten twice shy, is a saying that shouldn’t just be said but understood. Your first experience should help build your second attempt, and with that you’d be correcting the major mistakes you made. Anyways let’s observe a minute silence for those who lost their lives in the struggle.

It can’t be overemphasised that this series serves as a poignant metaphor for societal ills. This season, as gone to prove further that many people do not think about how their decision could affect others. Fueled by their selfish desires, greed and interest, they do not mind putting one of their kind through harsh measures. The game could have been stopped after seeing how bad it could be, but majority chose to continue.

Yes, we all are liable to our choices but, there are choices you don’t make for people, there are decisions that are inexcusable. One of it is to withdraw their right to freedom. This theme echoes in our daily lives, where we see people forced to work in inhumane conditions, all for the sake of profit.

The game’s controllers can be seen as a manifestation of our governments, toying, manipulating and pitting us against each other. Rather than work hand in hand to fight the real problem we fight ourselves instead, all the time and blame it on desperation not greed.

While watching the series, I could not but see myself as one of the big men who is paying to watch these players play games and die, for my amusement. Afterall, one of the aims of a work of art is to entertain, or is it not or are we nothing but puppets? It’s just a film, I enjoyed it and I know you would too.
•Samuel read Theatre Arts at the Lagos State University.