Editi Effiong’s “The Black Book” Movie Review

 

“The Black Book,” the cinematic masterpiece by Editi Effiong, has reached previously unheard-of heights on the international stage in a momentous accomplishment for Nollywood. It is the first Nollywood production to ever hold the top spot in the global Netflix rankings.

With the popularity of the film, Nollywood has finally overcome one of its long-standing problems: finding money for big productions. “The Black Book” is a shining example of what can be accomplished when inspiration, skill, and willpower are combined. And in this article, our goal is to piece together a review by analyzing the cast and plot of the movie, as well as its general theme and acting delivery.

Cast

The ensemble cast of “The Black Book” is what really distinguishes it, showcasing the enormous talent that Nollywood has to offer. The performances of seasoned actors like Sam Dede, Alex Usifo, Shaffy Bello, Ireti Doyle, Patrick Doyle, and Taiwo Ajayi-Lycett not only improve the movie but also solidify

Nollywood’s status as a major player in the film industry. Femi Branch, Olumide Oworu, Bimbo Manuel, Boki Ofodile, and Nobert Young are a few additional well-known Nollywood figures who made appearances.

Storyline

The plot of the movie centers on Paul Edima, a former military guerilla who is represented by Nollywood legend Richard Mofe Damijo (RMD). Paul, a reputed hitman who disappeared for 24 years, returns to seek retribution for his murdered son. The CEO of the Nigeria Energy & Oil Company, Professor Craig (Bimbo Akintola), first battled tenaciously against corruption in her community, but after stomping on some toes, some people wanted her removed from her position.

This results in the abduction of her husband and child, which is organized by a group under the direction of General Issa (Alex Usifo). They blame Damilola Edima (Olumide Oworu), an innocent guy, for the kidnapping in order to keep the police off their trail. Damilola, who is also Paul’s son, tells the audience that he used to work for General Issa before going underground. Paul quit his previous occupation to become a deacon.

He left everything behind, returning a black book to General Issa in which he had kept track of all their illegal exploits. Although he never looked back, the incident that accidentally murdered his son has forced him to confront his past. When Paul learns that his one and only son has been killed, not only is he dead, but he is also falsely accused of being a kidnapper.

He makes the decision to hunt down his son’s killers on his own and will stop at nothing to do so. Will he be granted the justice he demands?

Theme

“The Black Book” is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful cinematic storytelling since it dives deeply into themes of atonement and the menacing ghost of the past. The action-thriller covers some well-worn ground: official corruption, retaliation, hostages, retired fighters compelled by circumstance to reenter combat, etc.

There are also blatant allusions to other filmmakers that specialize in these types of films. However, the tale develops in ways that action thrillers typically don’t.

Acting Performance

Proper character development is uncommon in Nollywood films, and The Black Book appears to understand the task with its protagonist. We also see a few veteran and new Nollywood names who bring their A-game.

RMD delivered an outstanding performance reminiscent of John Wick. Considering his age, he does an excellent job in the fight scenes. RMD worked hard to fulfill his part as the protagonist of an action thriller.

Movie Trailer

Below is the official trailer to the blockbuster film: