“Déjà Vu” Is A Simplistic Nollywood Offering with Missed Potential

“Déjà Vu” gracefully finds its way onto the streaming giant Netflix, immersing viewers in the captivating world of Yoruba filmmaking and storytelling. While it may not conform to the conventional standards set by mainstream cinema, this film possesses a distinct charm that draws audiences seeking a taste of the traditional Nollywood experience.

The film delves into the lives of a seemingly content couple whose bond is tested when a shocking revelation threatens to unravel their world. Lateef Adedimeji portrays the husband, who stumbles upon a DNA test revealing that his daughters are not biologically related to him. In the face of this unexpected truth, his wife portrayed by Bimpe Oyebade vehemently denies any wrongdoing, setting the stage for a captivating and emotional rollercoaster of love, betrayal, and self-discovery.

Unlike what its title suggests, “Déjà vu” offers much more than a simple sense of familiarity. While the concept of déjà vu typically refers to the feeling of reliving a past experience, the film presents a refreshing and unpredictable narrative that challenges the expectations associated with its name. The storyline delves into complex themes of trust, fidelity, and the search for identity within the confines of a marriage, taking viewers on a journey that is anything but predictable.

One of the film’s standout qualities lies in its ability to explore the intricacies of modern relationships. It delves into the delicate balance between trust and doubt, revealing the profound impact that revelations and suspicions can have on the foundation of a partnership. Through the lens of the characters’ experiences, “Déjà vu” prompts viewers to reflect on the nature of love, the fragility of trust, and the depths of human emotions.

The film’s strengths extend beyond its exploration of relationships. “Déjà Vu” introduces a fascinating twist by incorporating sleepwalking, a medical condition classified as parasomnia, into the narrative. This unique element, which is an undesirable behavior, adds an intriguing layer of complexity, allowing for a fresh examination of the characters’ actions and motivations. Treating parasomnia as a subject contextualized with the mysteries of the metaphysical realm injects unpredictability and raises questions about the limits of personal responsibility, providing an additional layer of depth to the storytelling.

While “Déjà Vu” boasts compelling elements, it is not without its shortcomings. The film occasionally struggles with pacing and structure, as certain scenes, and subplots meander, adding little value to the overall plot. This can result in a bloated runtime that detracts from the otherwise engaging narrative. Tighter editing and a more streamlined approach would have further heightened the emotional impact and ensured a more immersive viewing experience.

Additionally, the performances of the cast range from commendable to inconsistent. Lateef Adedimeji’s portrayal of the husband’s emotional turmoil displays his acting prowess, although some of his exaggerated gestures and mannerisms occasionally distract from the authenticity of his character. Nevertheless, the ensemble cast delivers commendable performances, with several actors infusing depth and complexity through nuanced facial expressions and compelling chemistry.

From a technical standpoint, “Déjà Vu” exhibits production quality that embraces the aesthetic trends of the past decade. While this may evoke nostalgia for some viewers, others may desire a more contemporary and visually polished experience. This serves as a reminder that Nollywood has the potential to push boundaries and further elevate its production values, enticing a broader international audience.

“Déjà Vu” is an emotional rollercoaster that transcends its title’s conventional meaning. Through its exploration of love, betrayal, and self-discovery, the film challenges expectations and delivers an unpredictable narrative that captivates viewers. While it occasionally falters in terms of pacing, structure, and production values.

“Déjà Vu” serves as a testament to the cultural significance and potential of Nollywood. With a continued focus on creativity and innovation, Nollywood can captivate global audiences and establish itself as a force in the international film industry.

Release Date: 14 July 2023

Runtime: 1 hour 27 minutes

Streaming service; Netflix

Director: Elijah Tolulope Originator

Cast: Lateef Adedimeji, Bimpe Oyebade, Yemi Blaq, Omotunde Adebowale David, and Toyin Alausa