The movie excels in its emotion evoking performances, with actors perfectly cast for their roles and delivering appropriately . It features a deep representation of Yoruba culture through language, costumes, and traditions, delivering a rich cinematic experience. Beyond the war narrative, it also explores the bonds of love and friendship, adding emotional depth to the story.
The current wave of Yoruba movies has significantly raised the bar in storytelling, production quality, and performances, setting new standards in the industry. Filmmakers venturing into Yoruba productions must now recognize that the stakes are higher than ever. And it’s with such great enthusiasm that I watched Lisabi . Of course it didn’t disappoint though there were certain exceptions.
PLOT
Lisabi, tells the compelling story of a farmer who, driven by the relentless oppression and dehumanization of his people, transforms into a warrior. The narrative masterfully blends themes of love, friendship, and war. It highlights the struggles of neighboring villages under the Oyo Empire, which exploits them by forcefully collecting farm produce as homage. Any resistance leads to the brutal execution of village leaders. The oppression escalates as women are violated and men are murdered with impunity. In response, Lisabi galvanizes his clansmen to form an army to protect their land and restore their dignity.
THE GOOD
The movie excels in its emotion evoking performances, with actors perfectly cast for their roles and delivering appropriately . It features a deep representation of Yoruba culture through language, costumes, and traditions, delivering a rich cinematic experience. Beyond the war narrative, it also explores the bonds of love and friendship, adding emotional depth to the story.
THE NOT SO GOOD
However, Lisabi is not without flaws. The ending felt unsatisfying, leaving me in anguish and unfulfilled anticipation. Just as the story was building to a climactic showdown with the Oyo Empire, the narrative abruptly concluded with a teaser for a sequel, dashing my expectations . After investing emotionally in the story, the abrupt ending disappointed my eagerness for revenge, I mean matching down to the oyo empire and razing it down. Anyway, it seems the writer had other plans.
Additionally, some of the visual effects fell short, as it seems to be lacking in realism.
IN THE END
Despite these shortcomings, Lisabi remains a remarkable piece that underscores the evolution of Yoruba filmmaking and storytelling.
Mercy Tamara Ingobro