Anikulapo – Movie Review
Director: Kunle Afolayan
Writer: Kunle Afolayan, Shola Dada (Screenplay)
Cast
- Kunle Remi
- Sola Sobowale
- Bimbo Ademoye
- Hakeem Kae-Kazim
- Dele Odule
Plot: It tells the story of Saro, a man seeking for greener pasture, but unfolding events and his affair with the king’s wife, he encounters his untimely death and with Akala, a mystical bird believed to give and take life.
Runtime: 2 Hours 22 Minutes
There may be spoilers in the rest of the review
Story: Anikulapo starts when a craftsman Saro (Remi) arrives in the Oyo kingdom. He is looking to start his own craft when he gets welcomed in by one of the King’s wives Arolake. As the two get close, Saro finds himself in a difficult position, one which goes against the king.
When the King learns of the betrayal, he orders the execution of Saro. This is until Akala a mystical bird gives him life again. Saro goes on the run with Arolake, hoping they can start a life together.
Verdict on Anikulapo
Anikulapo is a fantasy drama that dives into Nigerian folklore about the mystical Akala bird. The bird can give or take life depending on whether it sees you need another chance in life. It shows what happens to a man that is selected by Akala to get another chance after he was condemned to death.
This takes its time leading up to the mystical side of everything. This is easily the most interesting side of the film, as it offers up the change in Saro. The build-up to the betrayal takes way too long. Once things start getting into the deeper side of what Saro can now do, we see the change in mindsets welcoming the once outed man.
The performances in the film are strong, with Kunle Remi in the leading role shining the most.
Where to Watch: Anikulapo is available on Netflix
Final Thoughts –Anikulapo is a very ambitious movie with a fascinating story.
