From the moment Deza The Great, whose real name is Adekanla Desalu, appears on screen in Peace or Refund, which was released on November 30, 2023, it’s clear that his performance is something special. He plays Seyi, a wealthy CEO, but beneath his stylish suit and success lays a man wrestling with deep emotional struggles.
[ad]
This is not just a story about love; it’s about self-discovery, vulnerability, and the power of facing one’s own imperfections. Deza The Great’s portrayal of Seyi takes the viewers on an emotional journey that feels real, raw, and ultimately redemptive.
His ability to connect with the audience is what makes Peace or Refund stand out, and it’s a performance that will leave viewers thinking long after the film ends.
The movie’s plot revolves around a road trip that becomes a metaphor for Seyi’s transformation.
At the beginning of the film, Seyi is a man defined by control, power, and perfectionism. He is a wealthy CEO, living a life many would envy, but his emotional life is in shambles. His relationships are shallow, his heart is closed off, and he’s stuck in a cycle of detachment that keeps him from facing the pain in his past.
[ad]
Deza The Great’s performance as Seyi is truly captivating.
On the surface, Seyi appears to have it all, a successful career, a beautiful girlfriend, and a life full of material wealth. He’s confident, poised, and in control of every situation. But Deza The Great’s acting reveals that Seyi is a man who is deeply unhappy. Beneath his polished exterior, he is struggling with loneliness, fear, and a profound sense of emotional emptiness. Deza The Great brings these inner conflicts to life with a subtlety that makes Seyi’s emotional journey both believable and relatable.
One of the most striking aspects of Deza’s performance is how he portrays the internal battle that Seyi faces throughout the film. As a CEO, Seyi is used to being in control. He lives a life that appears flawless on the outside, but he is constantly fighting an inner war between his need for control and his fear of vulnerability. This struggle is something many of us can relate to, especially in a world where we are often taught to hide our flaws and project an image of perfection. Deza The Great in his act, reveals that Seyi’s need for control comes from a deep fear of being perceived as weak. It’s a fear that many people in powerful positions share, and Deza portrays this beautifully, making Seyi’s struggles feel authentic and genuine.
[ad]
As the story progresses, Seyi’s emotional walls begin to crack, thanks to his interactions with Tessy, a bold and unapologetic woman who becomes an unexpected travel companion. At first, Seyi is uncomfortable with Tessy’s carefree attitude. He is used to controlling his environment and people, but Tessy challenges him in ways he doesn’t know how to handle. Through their interactions, we begin to see Seyi’s vulnerability slowly emerge. Deza’s performance during these moments is subtle yet powerful.
His discomfort with Tessy’s openness is evident, but so is the gradual shift in his character as he starts to open up to her.
This emotional transformation is at the heart of the film. Seyi’s journey is not just about falling in love; it’s about rediscovering his humanity and learning that true strength comes from embracing imperfection and allowing himself to be vulnerable. Through Deza’s portrayal, Seyi evolve from a man who treats others as mere tools for his own gain to someone who learns to value connection and empathy. The moments where Seyi starts to show his softer side whether it’s a small, genuine laugh or a rare moment of introspection are incredibly moving. Deza’s ability to show Seyi’s gradual transformation is what makes his performance so powerful. He doesn’t rush the process; instead, he allows Seyi’s growth to feel natural and earned.
[ad]
In addition to his personal growth, Seyi’s character arc also highlights the pressures of societal expectations.
As a CEO, Seyi feels the weight of needing to maintain a perfect image. His fear of vulnerability is not just a personal trait, it’s a reflection of the pressures that come with his status and position. Deza captures this conflict beautifully, showing that Seyi’s fear of failure is not just about personal weakness but also about the fear of being judged by others. This aspect of the character adds another layer of depth to Seyi’s story, making it more than just a tale of love and self-discovery.
Deza The Great’s performance elevates Peace or Refund from a simple romantic drama to a profound exploration of personal growth. His portrayal of Seyi is both heartfelt and complex, allowing the audience to connect with a character who is far from perfect but deeply human. Seyi’s journey of emotional healing is something that many of us can relate to, and Deza’s ability to bring this journey to life with such authenticity is a testament to his skill as an actor.
[ad]
Deza The Great’s performance ensures that this message is conveyed with depth and authenticity, making the film a powerful experience for anyone who has ever struggled with the pressure to be perfect.
Deza The Great’s performance in Peace or Refund, which was directed by Morgan Ukaegbu and produced by Ruth Kadiri, is a standout in Nollywood. His portrayal of Seyi is a masterclass in subtlety and emotional depth, making the character’s journey both relatable and inspiring. The film itself is a testament to the power of vulnerability and personal growth, and Deza’s performance is the heart of it all.
[ad]
