Jagun Jagun sets a new standard for Nigerian epic movies”

Jagun Jagun establishes a groundbreaking standard that Nollywood filmmakers should take into account when embarking on the creation of an epic cinematic masterpiece.

Movie Title: Jagun Jagun

Release Date: 10 August 2023

Director: Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijjani.

Runtime: 2 hours, 14 minutes

Cast: Adebayo Salami, Dele Odule, Yinka Quadri, Muyiwa Ademola, Odunlade Adekola, Fathia Balogun, Lateef Adedimeji, and Femi Adebayo

A discernible pattern emerges when considering the yearly output of Nigerian films. Amidst the multitude of movies released each year, there consistently emerges a standout contender that vies for the title of the year’s best film.

Such a film not only boasts an exceptional cast and production design but also excels in a critical aspect of filmmaking: storytelling.

While it may seem premature to bestow such accolades in 2023, it is undeniable that Jagun Jagun admirably fulfills many prerequisites of a remarkable Nollywood production.

Crafted by Femi Adebayo, Jagun Jagun narrates the saga of Ogundiji, a warlord whose dominion evokes both awe and fear among his people and beyond.

Yet, the entrance of a young man unveils Ogundiji’s vulnerabilities, as he confronts the possibility of his supremacy being challenged.

The pre-release trailer and teaser materials for Jagun Jagun ignited widespread excitement and anticipation among audiences.

The brief two-minute trailer promised an immersive epic action experience that would keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The film’s top position on Netflix Nigeria’s trending list and its noteworthy 4th position on Netflix UK’s trending list provide clear evidence of its considerable impact.

Jagun Jagun pioneers a new standard for Nollywood producers to consider when venturing into the creation of an epic film.

The co-directed collaboration of Tope Adebayo and Adebayo Tijani elevates the execution of stunts, production design, and acting performances, transporting audiences into a fictional realm that they are likely reluctant to depart from, even after the passage of two hours and fourteen minutes.

Nonetheless, the film does exhibit some minor imperfections, particularly underscoring the importance of enhancing visual effects and editing.

The Plot

Before delving further, a spoiler alert is necessary. Gbotija (Lateef Adedimeji), a youthful warrior, arrives at a training camp to prepare for avenging his father’s death. Yet, he swiftly realizes that his journey demands more than he initially bargained for, as the brutal leader, Ogundiji (Femi Adebayo), wields control over the camp’s affairs.

Following a series of training sessions, Gbotija is dispatched to participate in a war. However, the battle takes a grim turn as the inexperienced warriors face adversity on the battlefield. Enraged by the apathy of the commanding officers who shirked their responsibilities during the conflict, Ogundiji dispatches a spiritual assassin, Agemo, and subjects the absent officials to deprivation of sustenance and liberty.

Another warrior, Wehinwo (Adeoye Adeyemi Elesho), defies Ogundiji’s orders by providing nourishment to the officials, resulting in his demise. The news of his death incites the wrath of his betrothed, who conspires with a herbalist to target Ogundiji’s wife (Fathia Balogun).

Fortuitously, Gbotija intervenes and saves her life, thereby earning the respect of his comrades. Gbotija’s fame quickly reaches the ears of Ogundiji, engendering jealousy and prompting him to devise a scheme to eliminate two birds with one stone. After a high-ranking officer, Gbogunmi (Ibrahim Yekini Itele), defies his command, Ogundiji proposes a battle to the death between Gbotija and Gbogunmi. Gbotija emerges from the confrontation with a bitter victory.

Promised a promotion, Gbotija encounters a series of challenges. However, during his final trial, he unravels the deception at play. The revelation leads to a climactic showdown with Ogundiji, where only one can emerge victorious.

The Highlights

Jagun Jagun boasts a commendable script that reflects the meticulous thought, editing, and revision invested in its creation. Every scene and event contributes cohesively to the overarching narrative, and the absence of inconsequential sequences is refreshing. The script’s twists and turns are particularly noteworthy, with many surprises proving to be genuinely unpredictable. Even when the eventual betrayal of Ogundiji by Gbogunmi is anticipated, the specifics of its occurrence remain enigmatic.

The film’s cinematography attains a level of excellence that is hard to overlook. Despite the numerous combat scenes, the film manages to avoid awkward camera angles, demonstrating the directors’ adeptness at maintaining visual coherence. The commitment to constructing an entire set that authentically evokes the ancient era is a testament to the production design’s exceptional quality.

Turning to the acting performances, numerous actors deliver standout portrayals. This is hardly surprising, given the presence of accomplished young talents and seasoned actors. Notable among them is Lateef Adedimeji, who shines as the protagonist, striking a delicate balance between a compassionate and resolute warrior. Femi Adebayo’s portrayal of Ogundiji is equally commendable, eliciting fear in both the characters and the audience.

The inclusion of well-choreographed stunts significantly contributes to the production’s overall impact. Watching a Nigerian film that showcases prolonged fight scenes, devoid of excessive editing cuts, is an emotionally resonant experience.

The Critiques

To begin with, the editing and visual effects warrant scrutiny. While it is understandable that the Nigerian film industry is gradually integrating special effects into its productions, the application of such effects in Jagun Jagun sometimes falls short of seamless integration. An illustrative instance is the initial scene in which Ogundiji severs a man’s hand. The disparity between the hand and its background betrays the artificial nature of the effect.

In terms of editing, there are instances where the transitions feel fluid, while others appear abrupt and disjointed.

Moreover, the portrayal of Ogundiji’s character leaves room for improvement. Throughout the narrative, characters repeatedly refer to Ogundiji as a fearsome and merciless warlord. However, viewers are deprived of witnessing his ferocity until the story’s culmination. Providing earlier glimpses of Ogundiji’s prowess in battle and his ruthless tactics could have enhanced his character’s impact.

Lastly, while it may sound clichéd, a portrayal of Gbotija with initially limited spiritual power might have contributed to a more credible character arc. Instead of bestowing him with overwhelming spiritual capabilities from the outset, Gbotija’s evolution from weakness to strength could have enriched his character development and motivations.

Final Assessment

Watch it. Although Jagun Jagun shares thematic similarities with films like King of Thieves and Orisa, it raises the bar for Nigerian epic cinema.

Jagun Jagun is available for streaming on Netflix.