This is one of those adequately budgeted, for-show Nigerian production that's supposed to represent the country in the international market. Unfortunately, this show is below par, maybe by nigerian movie standards it's a masterpiece but still, it is mediocre. The biggest culprit here is the writing, the writing is so poor and unable to produce a coherent storyline and good dialogue. The pacing both moves slow and fast. Characters are cliches almost to the point of caricatures. Most of them lack any depth. But one could say the saving grace here is the performances? But not all tho, Chidi Mokeme as Scar was sublime, inhabiting his character wholly and embracing his eccentricities. He was actually enjoyable to watched but was a bit one dimensional. His character wasn't given much to work with. Ini Edo is up for the task but more often than not she overacts and her character is also quite predictable. Nse Ikpe-Etim as Ene was one of the better performers, she was understated with her performance and played quite a bit complex character. An awful performance, however, comes from Peter Okoye who played Femi. Peter can't act to save his life, good singer but terrible actor! As for the technical aspects, I thought the cinematography was good; the lighting was well done but the editing could be better, at some point I thought I was a watching a music video; scenes jumped from one scene to other with no explanation. People sometimes magically appear in places they shouldn't be. There was an attempt for fight choreography which was partially enjoyable but also somewhat embarassing to watch given how poorly done it was. The practical effects in the opening sequence was however excellent and praiseworthy. The story was predictable and formulaic, there's also the incorporation of supernatural elements which was random and out-of-place for the realistic tone the show is going for. Some of the nudity and violence were gratuitous and serve no purpose to the story. The ending could be better, it tidied up quickly but also make sure to tease the audience of a second season. My advice? For the second season; hire good writers, a director that can be able to put everything together well, and a coherent storyline.
Reviews
712 Reviews
Black Adam
(2022)
flawed movie but an entertaining one.
24 October 2022
I went into the movie expecting a 6-7/10 superhero movie with some entertainment value and that's exactly what I got! Despite the negative reactions from critics, I would say I disagree but understand where some might be coming from. Dwayne Johnson wasn't nearly half as bad as people expect him to be, he's clearly having a blast, throwing out badass one liners and displaying an astronomical level of destruction. The JSA are handled well overall, despite a lack of backstory for the team members. Kent Nelson/Dr. Fate had to be one of the coolest characters in the DCEU. The human characters are serviceable, and while they're the least interesting part of the film, they work as walking talking vessels to further the narrative and connect with viewers. The villain is major letdown and is incredibly generic. The writing in whole is a bit hit-and-miss. However, the action sequences were fantastic and the visuals, dazzling. Overall, this feature might be a let down by its uninspired script and its predictable and overly familiar feeling plot points, thin characters but there's more than enough to make up for them with the grand scale action setpieces, good performances, some cool characters and entertainment value. It's fun and enjoyable sometimes that's what matters..
The Vault
(2021)
Just the usual
10 October 2022
The vault is a fairly good movie. The story beats are quite familiar and the plot predictable. It's not perfect by any means and there are a few holes in the plot that could have been filled in some more or worked out, but as a heist adventure, it is good. Kinda predictable but exciting in parts, it's a heist film that relies more on coding and planning rather then high action, which was amusing to watch. The characters have their own personalities and each gets to showcase their skills. The performance is reliably good; Freddie highmore played his usual self and he nailed it. The supporting cast also does a good job. Overall, it's your typical heist movie, but nevertheless light and entertaining to watch.
Well done
10 October 2022
A really well-done finale, although it ends In a predictable fashion. Yelena and Kate's banters were amusing to watch. Her revenge against Clint also has a fitting emotional conclusion. Maya's conflicts were also properly tidied up. It felt like it starts to get confusing and jumbled but the finale manages to conclude each subplot in a satisfying manner. This episode also sees the return Kingpin with boosted strength and invulnerability, the only downside is that we didn't get to see him do as much considering all the build up. This episode offers a ton of action and they were really entertaining. One particular sequence I enjoyed the most involves Clint and Kate shooting different kinds of arrow with different powers. It was well done. I also like the tone of show, it's good mix of family drama with crime thriller. On the whole, I enjoyed this show for its storytelling and entertaining character dynamics. I liked how refreshingly downscaled and grounded it is as well as enriching Hawkeye character journey.
Nice chemistry
10 October 2022
A more grounded episode which further amplifies the relationship between Hawkeye and Kate and foreshadows some new interesting characters. This episode also featured an entertaining action sequence towards the end. The dynamic between Hawkeye and Kate Bishop is awesome, Kate is much more eager and enthusiastic about being caught up in dangerous situation but Clint is reserved and inclined to deal with it alone, just like something between Peter and Tony. The two actors have a nice chemistry. This episode also sees Clint grieving over Natasha which was touching. The episode concluded with tease and was intriguing. The next episode should be exciting.
Charm City Kings
(2020)
A good character-driven story
10 October 2022
Charm city kings follows a young fourteen year old boy who goes by the name Mouse, from the inner city of Baltimore, Maryland, who is simply enamored by the streetbike culture he's been influenced by since he was barely old enough to walk. The movie's biggest strength is its technical elements and the performance. The cinematography in this film is beautiful with some interesting camera work. The music is good too. The film relies on the lead actor to do most of the heavy lifting and for the most parts he does a good job, although there are some instances where he could be better. The supporting cast also helps keep this film together. As for the story and characters, I thought they were both predictable and cliched. There are many places that the story could go to make this feature a standout but it plays it safe and chose the predictable direction. Moreover, the pacing slows down a lot in the middle act which kinda hurts the experience. On the whole, a solid coming of age film with some good performance and technical elements but the script could have been more gripping.
So-so
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
A somewhat indifferent finale that's awfully similar to the ending of Season 4. The new "freedom" the team archeived felt unearned and underwhelming. The season overall starts to struggle when Michael and co leave Yemen. Most of the dramatic tension is gone and we are left with some half-baked family drama. The first four episodes are good as they have much in common with S1 and S3 in terms of tone and plot but as the season progresses, it starts to move to the conspiracy territory and becomes similar to s4. Poseidon is an okay villain, who talks much and do less. The central conflict which involves him trying to take over Michael's family is a bit corny and automatically renders the story predictable. Although, I did like how he and Michael trying to outsmart one another. There's one scene in the finale in which Michael frames him in the same manner he did to him, it was really good. And although T-bag didn't have much to do, I liked the subplot involving Whip being his son.
On the whole, I liked the first half of the season more than the second half. The overall story lacks novelty, it just feels like the reset of S4 with this ending the same way as it but with Michael alive. Some side characters were also wasted. But overall, I had a good time, and while it isn't a top-notch season, it's still a good addition to the show.
On the whole, I liked the first half of the season more than the second half. The overall story lacks novelty, it just feels like the reset of S4 with this ending the same way as it but with Michael alive. Some side characters were also wasted. But overall, I had a good time, and while it isn't a top-notch season, it's still a good addition to the show.
Mild
24 September 2022
A somewhat mild pre-finale episode. It opens with Michael and his team miraculously surviving the blast from the previous episode and sees their to the US. Jacob further make his bold move on Michael and the intensity of their rivalry has reached a new height. But what doesn't stick with me, is the predictable direction that this show takes especially now that it's coming to an end. The family kidnapping angle is incredibly tedious. The characters, aside from Jacob, lack complexity. But the subplot involving T-bag and the revelation was interesting and the ending ends with a cliffhanger which makes me curious for the finale.
Decent enough
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This episode features one of the many obstacles Michael and his friends faced on their way out of the country. Breaking out of prison is one thing, and surviving the war-prone Yemen is quite another. Majority of the episode, we see the characters trying to travel across the desert to a small isolated town all while being chase by armed terrorists. One particular character called Cyclops impressed me. His devotion and obsession to bring down Michael and co was amusing. He's almost like an arc enemy to them. And at the end, he made sure he didn't die out without leaving a mark. What I also like about the episode is that it's almost entirely shot in desert. The cinematography combine with the on-set location was really good to look, although it must have been a hell to the cast and crew to film under such conditions. Overall, good episode albeit a bit slow and doesn't contribute much to the story but hopefully the next episode will pick up the pace.
No sign of slowing down!
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Season 5 of prison break shows no sign of slowing down. The plot is moving at a good pace. The episode sees the escape of Michael and his associate, but not in a planned out fashion, it's more of a improvisation this time. The breakout sequences were darn intense and chaotic and on top of that our characters are not only trying to get out but looking to it in one piece. There are many convenient coincidences that favour the protagonists though. There are also some inconsistencies, that thankfully weren't hard to overlook. Another segment, involves T-bag trying to find out the mastermind behind of it and we get a glimpse of who that might be. I have to say it was unexpected and hopefully will about something to the table.
So far, so good
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
After all the introduction and pleasantries in the previous episodes, this one delves right into the plot and offers some really thrilling action and suspense. We are able to know more about Michael's motivations and his reasons for being in prison. This episode further adds depth to the story. Much like the previous seasons which involves Michael being in prison, there's always an episode which features an escape but ends up failing, This pseudo-escape has all the stakes and put the characters in dearing situations but ends playing safe at the end. Even though, it's predictable, it doesn't take away the excitement for me. There's also a mention of a mysterious figure called Poseidon who could be the mastermind behind of it. Overall, a solid, entertaining and thrilling episode with some development in the plot.
On the right track
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The second episode is tense, adrenaline-filled. While the previous episode is about Linc, Sarah, T-bag etc,, here it's more about Michael himself and the current situation he's in. We find out more about Michael's backstory after the events of the last season. The Michael here is somewhat different from the one we know, he's more cold and mischievous than ever. And the way the plot unfolds in the sense that, we didn't follow Michael to prison but rather he's already an established inmate and even planning to escape, which kinda make the audience feel left out. The sense of unfamiliarity we get from Michael is great, it's like audience doesn't know him anymore. The prison environment is somewhat similar to Sona but the atmosphere is much more dreadful. The vast majority of the episode features Linc and C-note trying to track one of Michael's associate with the help Sheba. In this part, there are some intense action sequences that were very enjoyable as a lot is at stake. Overall, I like the Yemeni wars and political unrest in the backdrop of the story. In a more calming aspect of the episode, we see Sarah perplexed with Michael's news as she tries to make meaning of Michael's actions. There is also the return of Kellerman which was surprising but I like it. Overall, I'm hooked up with what I'm watching so far and I like direction the show is taking.
Prison Break is back
24 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This is more like a legacy sequel or season in this case. I initially thought this wasn't gonna live up to expectations but I like the narrative here. The major work is gonna be to reintroduce the characters after seven years to the audience in the way that doesn't feel out-of-place and organic. I think this premiere succeeded in that case for the most parts. It puts them, the characters where you'd expect them to be after all those years. I like that it doesn't tries too hard to be convincing but rather just play it on the surface and doesn't waste time in bringing the characters together. Linc is back to his old self as expected, he is more shocked than anyone to find out about Micheal, but the downside is that there's no mention of Tara or his son which is kinda of a bummer as the finale of season 4 indicates that they're going to have their little family unit. We see T-bag out of prison and plays quite a pivotal role in the plot of this episode it's good to see he hasn't lost his charms and wit after those years. His presence is always captivating. C-note has found a new faith and Sucre well, is just being Sucre. Now perhaps, the most interesting and the realistic in terms of character development is that of Sarah who after losing Micheal, gets married, raise her son and lead a peaceful suburban life. The situation of her character is one which you'd expect someone to be after those years realistically. What's also surprising is that Sarah hasn't aged a day, it's as if she shot her scenes immediately after season 4 seven years back. She looks fantastic, infact all of the returning cast looks great. Plot is interesting, even though it's somewhat similar to the previous seasons, I think it's going to be great. I like the new prison they put Michael, it's going to be tough and hopefully will bring some fresh dynamics to the table. The production value is also praiseworthy. The technical elements are okay though. On the whole, it's good to see these interesting characters back, once again. I hope the season won't botch it or disappoint.
Turning Red
(2022)
Pixar at its low
22 September 2022
Turning Red is another movie that examines the relationship between mother and child. It tries to blend serious with disney fantasy but winds up confused. It's a coming of age story centering around Meilin, a 13 year old Chinese girl who tries to spread her time between being a free-spirit and adhering to the large expectations of her mother. But things are changing for her; she's more into boys, concerts, and concerts concerning boys. At its heart is a strained mother-daughter relationship: one sadly based on the old Chinese cliche of the Tiger mom who will tolerate nothing more from her daughter than to live by family custom. It's a caricature played to overbearing effect here. But that's nothing compared with trying to connect with this story. For a film meant to open up a dialogue between mothers and daughters, it doesn't really give you much place to start. It's obviously not as top-notch as some other Pixar films. Probably the most aggregious issue is that the heart and emotion of the feature doesn't hit nearly as hard as it was trying to. The choice to be more cartoonish ends up draining the impact in some heartfelt moments. In all, while the film deserves praise for talking about puberty in such depth but its styling choices, predictable plot, and occasionally cringey dialogue are a turn-off for me.
Orphan: First Kill
(2022)
Solid
22 September 2022
When this flick is first announced I was curious as to how they were going to do it considering the big surprise from the first film is already out in the open. But I enjoyed the film more than I would have anticipated, the majority of time, the film follows almost the same pattern as the original, it is not until halfway through that a game changer twist is revealed and really enhances the experience, giving it sense of freshness. The performance is good especially the leading performance from Isabelle furhman. Couple of negatives, the third act gets really silly and some supporting characters become almost cartoonish. Visually the film looks murky and unappealing. On the whole, Orphan first kill, is new enough to be refreshing, while also consistent enough to be a solid prequel to the first movie. Nothing special but still enjoyable.
Password
(IV) (2019)
Atrocious
22 September 2022
While this film has lot of potential with its cybercrime plot mix with revenge. The film often features scenes that has no tie to the main story and it tries way too hard (and almost failed) to fully connect the plot involving the protagonist and the antagonists. The first half was really boring as it devoid of concrete plot and filled with pointless characters with no motives. It is not until the second half that even the baddies were given some sort of backstory. There's simply nothing much to keep one's attention. And the way the film concludes is questionable and left more questions than answers. Overall, a poorly written film with uninteresting characters and unengaging story.
Singam 3
(2017)
Same old same old
22 September 2022
The film offers a lot to enjoy. The action sequences were surprisingly hardcore and well-done especially the stunts involving cars. The fight choreography wasn't too realistic but nevertheless entertaining. The cinematography was good too, I particularly like the fish eye lens and some interesting camera angles. The performance was serviceable. The script does offers some dramatic tension especially between the protagonist and the main antagonist. However, it goes places that underwhelm, the second and last act drags on forever. The climax came way too early but it keeps pushing it until I almost lose interest. Some side characters were terribly written and the attempt on comedy woefully failed. On the whole, a third instalment that offers similar story and direction as its predecessors and brings nothing new to the table, although I did appreciate it entertainment value.
Bharath Ane Nenu
(2018)
Well made
22 September 2022
This film is one of my favorite with Mahesh Babu as the lead. The story and characters are somewhat grounded with distinct personalities and nothing overly exaggerated. The film offers a unique perspective of how will it be if (and that's a big IF) a young, educated conscientious man were to be a high-rank government official. The film works with that concept and brilliantly showcase all the insights and the reality of politics. The film is engaging and well-paced. I liked the performance of Mahesh Babu as he played the character with such charisma and maturity therefore coming across as likable and welcoming. Opposite of him is ...... Who also played a seasoned, strategic, morally flexible politician. The character contrasts that of Mahesh Babu and I enjoyed the dynamic between them. I also liked how the film is devoid of over-the-top fighting scenes, although a few were featured. There are also a few twists and turns that further amplifies the experience. The technical department also deserves praise as the film looked really good with stylish production design. Overall, a well scripted and directed film with solid acting and nice production.
Good start
16 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Episodes picks with the stand off between Grace and inspector Campbell. I think writers might have screwed up that ending in the last season and had a hard time coming up with a solution here. They decided Grace shoots Campbell in the leg? Grace had to raise her purse and shoots him while he already had a gun pointed at her for God's sake. It didn't make that much sense to me but it's the best situation as both characters came out alive. This episode starts with the funeral of Frank, an established character from the last season and there's no even explanation as to what happens to him. Grumbling aside, this episode is solid. It foreshadows what's coming and also introduced fresh dynamics amongst the characters. The production value is still top-notch and is the acting.
Setting the stage well for the finale
16 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This episode sees the Peaky blinders at their rock bottom. It's the first time we see Tommy doesn't have a control of a situation. And inspector Campbell finally gets the upper hand. The rivalry between him and Tommy has reached a new heights and it's glorious. The episode also sees the return of Grace, who I thought was terribly out-of-place this season. Her place in the story doesn't feel organic as the last season and they have back only to feature her in some potential love triangle? She deserves better. Overall, my favorite part of the episode is inspector Campbell and his dominance of the Peaky blinders, which I assume it will short-live, nevertheless I doesn't take away my excitement. Hope the finale will be amazing.
Good albeit flawed season overall
16 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
After watching this finale, I took a moment to contemplate whether or not I like this season, I finally come to the conclusion that this season while good and has some impressive elements, is nowhere as good as the previous season. Normally, shows improve on their premiere season but I'm disappointed to say that this, however doesn't improve and keeps only struggling to impress or give its characters something worthwhile to do. One major problem I noticed is that this season needed a fresh dynamic between Tommy/Peaky blinders and the antagonist. And Inspector Campbell while, excellent as the baddie in the first season, totally lacks the conviction that his character has Initially. The rivalry between him and Tommy feels dragged out. And just isn't absorbing enough to keep things interesting. And not to talk how atrocious is the manner they killed off the character. Another frustrating segment that didn't work for me this season is that of Polly and her long lost son Michael. Polly is an amazing character serving as a mother figure and also the voice of season to Peaky blinders in the first season. But it seemed like she's relegated in this season and feature in some half-baked mother-son relationship, what also didn't help is that Michael is an annoying character with terrible character development. He's totally unbelievable, he's supposed to be a sweet school-going teenager but he came across as cold and callous as though he's been a member of the gang for years. Another disappointment in terms of character is that of Grace. I dislike the direction they took her character here. In the previous season, she's an integral part of the plot and come across as intelligent, independent and dutiful but here after a long absence, she came back only to tell Tommy she loves him even though he's low-key not interested. And have her featured in a really sappy love triangle angle. This show's redeeming quality is its main character and Tommy still maintains that likability and charisma to keep things together. Also introduction of Tom Hardy's character is a big plus. The main plot involving the intermittent rise and fall of the Peaky blinders was engaging enough. On the whole, This show is impressive in terms acting, technical elements but the story and characters sometimes fall short. I hope the next season will bounce back.
F3: Fun and Frustration
(2022)
More frustrating than fun
16 September 2022
While this film has definitely some funny parts, majority time of the time I was left with blank face watching the screen. The first half is majorly about introducing the characters and the unfortunate situations they find themselves. In the first half, the film has a lot of potential to be interesting. There are some funny parts here and there. A certain subplot which involves two characters thinking they're conning the other but end up both being con artists was refreshing and hilarious. Right until the conclusion of that storyline I was invested in the movie. Soon after that the movie went downhill but not too down though. Another subplot involves a honest police officer and his corrupt higher officer was also a bit engaging and hilarious. The conclusion of that plotline see the convergence of the characters from the first half and the officer who would go on to plan a scam on a wealthy business man inorder to settle their debts. Now, perhaps the most distinct and honestly the best part of the feature is Murali Sharma and his character Anand Prasad, I like the character in a way that he contrasts all the insanity of the plot and the other characters, he almost seem like he belongs in another movie. He is calmness, wisdom and charisma radiates through the screen and almost overshadows every character and actor in any scene he's featured. The second half of the film mostly involves these dimwitted characters trying to convince and win over Anand's his son. This part did get a few laughs out of me, but I feel as though some of the comedy was way overdone and it often takes itself seriously. Also the climax ran a bit too long and the scenes were very clunky, there was just so much to take in. On the whole, F3: Fun and frustration, is more often than not, more frustrating than fun. Too many subplots, thin main plot, uninspiring and underdeveloped characters, exaggerated dramatic acting, cheesy dialogue, lengthy runtime, are some of factors that keep this film far away from excellence.
The Matrix Resurrections
(I) (2021)
Way too confusing and boring to sit through
14 September 2022
To begin with the positives. This feature's visual effects and the sound design were really good. There's a supporting character called Bugs, played by Jessica Henwick. Her performance was the only one in the entire movie that was even close to being interesting. The two main problems with 'The Matrix Resurrections' is that it was boring and confusing. Yes, there are action sequences, but action only works if there are stakes and you actually care about the characters involved. This movie is extremely slow and jam-packed full of scene after scene of characters blandly delivering tons of convoluted exposition. The film has no interest in simplifying the story for anyone who may be struggling to follow. Both Neo and Trinity were dull and often looked like they had no interest in being there. There are a couple of familiar characters from the trilogy who were replaced in this film by different actors. Neither of these actors felt like they were playing the same characters that had been established in the trilogy. Overall, a mostly confusing, convulated movie with little or nothing to offer.
Godse
(2022)
Could be better
14 September 2022
This film can be dissected in two parts. The first half, which is ultimately my favorite, is more of a dark thriller about hostage-negotiation scenario. Also the mystery elements presented in this part is a big plus. We are dealing with hostage situation and we basically don't know anything about the figure's motives or what they want. And that certainly keeps your attention. Bit by bit we are provided information as to why the character does what he does. The second half deals with this. It is almost entirely flashback sequences which is, where this film loses its magic and momentum. The flashback scenes did provide some context but they went overboard with them to the point where you'd think you're watching a different film. After the hour-long flashbacks, you'd totally lose interest in whatever's going on. This film surely has a lot to say about the elites. It addresses the corruption and bribery in the higher government and how it affects the common people. The film made its message clear enough but fails to justify its lengthy runtime, and despite some flashbacks, the feature suffers from many inconsistencies. Overall, this movie could use a trim here and there, a polished script and a more focused direction. A decent watch though.
Varudu Kaavalenu
(2021)
So-so
14 September 2022
Varudu kaavalenu is a decent romantic comedy and it knows that. The plot is undeniably predictable and has been done before. But what really works for me here is the female lead character, who has a distinct personality, and is portrayed as self-reliant and hardworking, which is rare in these flicks where it's the female characters who are throwing themselves at the male lead. I'm not fully invested in their romance though or the story for that matter but i thought the film does well in terms of showcasing the both the characters flaws. The acting is decent. The film is visual pleasing which is a plus. Overall, a good enough romantic comedy to pass the time.
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