“On the Edge” Explores Power, Obsession, and Tragic Consequences

At the center of the narrative is Korede Williams (Uzor Arukwe), an aspiring politician whose ambitions are inextricably linked to the whims of his influential godfather, Hon. George (Patrick Doyle). Korede’s personal life is in disarray, with his wife Lola (Zainab Balogun) engaged in an affair with Hon. George as a means of securing Korede’s political future. Seeking solace, Korede becomes obsessed with Mira (Oluchi Amajuoyi), the longtime girlfriend of the naive Tomisin (Olumide Oworu).

Arukwe’s performance as Korede is a highlight, capturing the character’s gradual descent into villainy with nuanced restraint. His portrayal of a man struggling with conflicting emotions while clinging to control is a masterclass in understated acting. Amajuoyi’s Mira is equally compelling, her journey highlighting the often-illusory nature of free will and the sacrifices demanded by societal hierarchies.

The supporting cast, including Oworu, Charles Born as the resilient Jolomi, and Chimezie Imo as the hardened Abe, inject authenticity and empathy into their roles, serving as a stark contrast to the corruption and decadence of the elite.

Bolade-Akinbode’s direction is commendable for its restraint, avoiding the temptation of melodramatic excess. Amarachukwu Udoezika’s cinematography and Ovie Agbani’s haunting score elevate the emotional resonance of each scene, though at times the latter feels overbearing, trying too hard to manufacture tension.

Where “On The Edge” falters is in its pacing. While the first two acts build tension meticulously, the third act feels rushed, wrapping up narrative threads too hastily and denying the audience the satisfying resolution for which they’ve been primed. Additionally, certain plot points, such as the introduction of a pivotal gun, feel underdeveloped and inconsistent with the film’s otherwise grounded approach.

The film also falls short of being a truly compelling cinematic experience, while it attempts to navigate complex themes of power, obsession, and moral decay, its execution leaves much to be desired, resulting in a disjointed and unsatisfying viewing experience.

The performances, while generally solid, are hampered by inconsistent writing and character development. Uzor Arukwe’s portrayal of Korede Williams is a standout, capturing the character’s descent into villainy with nuanced restraint. However, other characters, such as Lola (Zainab Balogun) and Tomisin (Olumide Oworu), suffer from underdeveloped backstories and motivations that fail to resonate fully.

The film’s handling of its central themes also leaves much to be desired. While exploring the corrosive nature of power and obsession, “On The Edge” often feels heavy-handed and lacking in subtlety. The portrayal of class struggles and societal inequalities, while well-intentioned, borders on caricature at times, undermining the film’s attempt at social commentary.

Perhaps the most significant flaw in “On The Edge” is its lack of cohesion and focus. The film attempts to juggle too many subplots and narrative threads, resulting in a convoluted and unfocused experience. Certain characters, such as Jolomi (Charles Born) and Abe (Chimezie Imo), feel superfluous to the central narrative, serving as mere distractions from the more compelling storylines.

Despite these flaws, “On The Edge” remains a commendable achievement, deftly exploring themes of power, obsession, and the corrosive nature of ambition. The film’s unflinching portrayal of class struggle and societal inequalities is particularly poignant, painting a stark picture of the futility of seeking justice when the scales are tipped in favor of the powerful.

Comparisons to psychological thrillers are inevitable, but “On The Edge” carves out a distinct identity rooted in the Nigerian experience. Its ability to navigate complex emotional terrain without descending into melodrama is a testament to Bolade-Akinbode’s storytelling prowess and the ensemble cast’s commitment to their craft.

While not without its flaws, in the end, “On The Edge” is a film that squanders its promising premise and talented cast on a disjointed and unsatisfying narrative. While it attempts to tackle weighty themes and offer a unique perspective on the Nigerian experience, its execution falls woefully short, leaving audiences with a sense of unfulfilled potential.

Date of Release: February 15,2024

Runtime: 2 hours, 47 minutes

Streaming Service: Prime video

Director: Temitope Bolade-Akinbode

Cast: Samuel Idiake, Temitope Tanpe Aje, Oluchi Amajuoyi, Charles Ugochukwu Born, Darasimi Nadi, Funsho Adeolu, Patrick Doyle, Olumide Oworu, Chisom Nwobodo, Fathia Balogun Williams, Jide JBlaze Oyegbile, Femi Branch, Chioma Nwosu, Chimezie Imo, Uzor Arukwe and Zainab Balogun