When I first heard the title of this movie, I honestly felt it was going to be just another Nollywood movie, that would be a cheap and terrible knock-off the British franchise “Gangs of London”…
I am quite glad to announce that, I was wrong. The Gangs of Lagos is not only well executed but also very relatable to our clime, with little or no westernization. It feels very original, albeit being probably inspired by a foreign show.
Jade Osiberu – the director and co-producer of this movie – is fast becoming a force to be reckoned with. It’s rare to see a Nollywood director who keeps evolving after making one or two blockbuster movies. But it’s quite evident that her movies keep getting better. From giving us “Isoken” to “Sugar rush” down to “Brotherhood” and now “Gangs of Lagos”, which I can confidently call the Best Nigerian action movie made till date.
As much as I’d love to keep praising the film, it isn’t one without fault. Hence, the systematic review of its Pros and Cons.
The Plot
PROs
Isale Eko is generally considered the heart of Lagos. From its streets hailed the 3 featured young and fatherless children, who ended up growing into criminal underworld of the city. It’s a story we’ve heard before, one filled with love, as much as it is with violence. An emotional roller coaster with fun filled yet adrenaline pumping scenes.
The action scenes were nicely choreographed mostly and certainly the best I’ve seen in Nollywood in a long while.
However, it’s the little or subtle details for me. Those tiny attention to details are what makes this movie quite original. There was a scene where the protagonist had difficulty closing his fridge (many Lagosians would be able to relate to this). Or some of the interesting Easter eggs hidden in the news subheadings (my favourite was the one that informed us, the president has travelled again).
Overall, it’s the core message of the movie – that addressed the issues currently being faced by our country, from the political brouhaha to the criminal elements of the society – that makes Gangs of Lagos outstanding.
CONs
As with most movies, there were some notable plot loopholes I’m choosing to ignore because of my bias. The action scenes became somewhat repetitive and some of the editing felt rushed post production.
The Cast
PROs
Tobi Bakre is currently making a good trend for himself as the action figure of Nigerian movies (I see him transcending into Hollywood in the nearest future). Casted as the protagonist “Oba”, Tobi played his role with much charisma. But it was “Gift” played by Adesua Etomi-Wellington I found more artistically engaging. Chike also gave us a good debut in his fresh acting career.
The film also stared Olarotimi Fakunle, Chioma Chukwuka (who stole her scenes as expected from a veteran), Bimbo Ademoye, Iyabo Ojo, Zlatan, Debo “Mr Maraconi” Adedayo, Yhemolee, Pasuma, Toyin Abraham, Tayo Faniran, Damilola Ogunsi, and Funke Williams (a fellow Medilag Alumnus, and YES, I have the bragging right).
Black Kamoru’s “terrible” is one of my favourite characters though… he brought some sort of dark humour to his presence.
CONs
Some of the casts were not given enough screen time for them to shine nor be memorable.
The Dialogue
For the Dialogue, PROs = CONs. To be honest, the dialogues were not great, and they weren’t terrible… They were generally suited for the movie. However, I personally don’t have any one-liner that stuck with me. So, no “Trivia’s” for this article.
The Cinematography
To the best of my cinephile knowledge, this aspect was mostly Superb. However, I’d point out again that the post production probably needed more time for cuts editing.
In Summary, Gangs of Lagos was – and still is – a good watch. Good enough to bring me out of my movie review hiatus (of over 1 year) or better put, ending my writer’s block.
Verdict – A Solid 7.8/10 rating from me.
About Author:
Dr. Ayinde Tegzi Olawale is a Medical Officer who actively DJs, writes and interested in Mental Health.
