“Criminal”: Uzor’s Violent Ways Can’t Be Caged in

The film, set against the backdrop of a bustling Lagos hospital, examines the depths of human emotions, challenging our perceptions of morality and the lengths we might go to protect our loved ones.

At the heart of the story lies Amara Nwachukwu (Funlola Aofiyebi), a brilliantly portrayed medical doctor. Her commanding yet empathetic performance as a principled medical professional is a standout, adding depth and nuance to the character.

The film’s opening sequences immediately establish the high-stakes atmosphere as the doctor and her team are swamped with an influx of patients from a devastating road accident.

Just when the tension seems insurmountable, Uzor (Uzor Arukwe) and his criminal gang burst onto the scene, demanding immediate medical attention for Uzor’s gravely injured brother, Chima. Arukwe’s performance is nothing short of captivating. His imposing presence and unwavering determination to save his brother’s life, even at the cost of holding innocent people hostage, add layers of complexity to his morally ambiguous character.

What follows is an exploration of the depths of familial love and the extreme measures one might take to protect their kin. Uzor’s desperation to ensure his brother receives lifesaving treatment from the renowned physician drives him to commit increasingly extreme acts, blurring the lines between right and wrong. This clash of moral compasses between Uzor and the doctor creates a compelling dynamic that keeps viewers engrossed in the unfolding drama.

Notably, Uzor’s actions are rooted in a complex history with his brother Chima. In a series of revealing flashbacks, we learn that Uzor had always been fiercely protective of Chima since their earliest days, their bond forged by harsh realities. However, this loyalty took a dark turn when Uzor, fresh out of jail and seeking redemption with Chima’s help, found himself unable to escape the allure of his criminal past. Despite Chima’s supportive efforts to help Uzor start anew through legitimate business ventures, Uzor’s violent tendencies resurfaced, leading him to double-cross Chima in a shocking confrontation that left his brother accidentally shot.

This sequence not only adds depth to the characters’ motivations but also reinforces the film’s central theme – that the violent nature ingrained in those who have lived a life of crime is not easily shed, no matter how genuine the desire for change may be. Uzor’s actions, driven by desperation to save the brother he once betrayed, take on a profoundly tragic dimension, highlighting the inescapable cycles of violence that can consume even the closest of bonds.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a sense of tension throughout its runtime. Dolapo Adigun’s direction, coupled with the talented ensemble cast’s performances, creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The use of visual cues and a masterful sound design further amplifies the sense of dread and urgency, immersing the audience in the heart-stopping events unfolding on screen.

However, the film’s tension can also be a double-edged sword. Uzor’s repeated threats, while initially effective in building suspense, become somewhat predictable over time. This predictability, while deepening the audience’s understanding of his character, also stretches the thin narrative. The use of flashbacks to provide backstory is effective, though the prolonged suspense regarding Chima’s fate can feel excessive, risking viewer fatigue.

While the central conflict between Uzor and the physician is worthy of watching, the supporting cast deserves equal praise for their contributions. Segun Arinze and Chuks Joseph deliver solid performances that complement the central narrative, adding depth and complexity to the hostage situation. However, it is Funlola Aofiyebi’s portrayal of the doctor that truly shines, as her character’s unwavering composure and ethical fortitude provide a powerful counterpoint to Uzor’s desperate actions, maintaining her “steeze” in the face of immense pressure, as the current lingo would put it.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its nuanced exploration of the themes of love, desperation, and moral ambiguity. Uzor’s actions, while extreme, are driven by an unwavering devotion to his brother, challenging viewers to consider their own moral boundaries in similar situations. This contrast with the physician’s steadfast adherence to her principles creates a compelling dynamic that drives the narrative forward, forcing audiences to grapple with complex ethical dilemmas.

While the film’s pacing occasionally stumbles, with some scenes feeling overly drawn out or lacking in necessary context, the overall technical execution is impressive. The deliberate use of visual cues and masterful sound design work in tandem to create an immersive and tension-filled atmosphere that resonates with the audience long after the credits roll.

“Criminal” is a well-crafted and thought-provoking film that tackles complex emotional and ethical issues with nuance and depth. Its exploration of love, desperation, and the lengths one might go to protect their family makes it a standout in Nollywood cinema. While the film’s pacing occasionally stumbles, with some scenes feeling overly drawn out or lacking in necessary context, the overall technical execution is impressive. The deliberate use of visual cues and masterful sound design work hand in hand to create an immersive and tension-filled atmosphere that resonates with the audience long after the credits roll.

Crafting an engaging narrative set primarily within the confines of a single location can be a delicate balancing act for filmmakers. However, Nollywood has demonstrated a proficiency in mastering this challenging format, as evidenced by recent successes like Biodun Stephen’s “A Simple Lie” in 2022. Dolapo Adigun’s “Criminal” deftly joins this esteemed company, proving that a major single location, when handled with skill and precision, can serve as a potent backdrop for exploring complex themes and characters.

Release Date: May 31, 2024

Runtime: 2 hours

Streaming service: Cinematic Release

Directed by: Dolapo Adigun

Cast: Funlola Aofiyebi, Uzor Arukwe, Gbubemi Ejeye, Obehi Aburime, Og Tega, Bryan Okoye, Chuks Joseph, Segun Arinze, Austine Stynno Onuoha, Taye Arimoro and Miriam Peters