The Segun Arinze-led film breathes life back into the murder mystery genre that has long been neglected by Nollywood
“Katangari Goes to Town” Unlocks Your Inner Detective in the Most Pleasing Way Possible
BY Alo Folakemi
January 15, 2025
9:46 pm
Nollywood has officially started the new year with a film genre that has not received the recognition it rightfully deserves: murder mystery. When properly executed, this classic “whodunit” genre can be a real crowd-pleaser. “Katangari Goes to Town does this genre justice with an excellent mix of intrigue, suspense, and humor. The film is an instant leader for one of the best releases in 2025 (yes, the year just commenced).
The story centers around Choji Katangari (Segun Arinze), a retired police officer who is not exactly retired as he spends his old age commanding the vigilante group in his village of Ta-Hoss. He is called back to the city because his cousin, Chief Bello Gyang (Edward Fom), has been murdered. Before he died, Chief Gyang tasked Katangari to find his killer and made his job easier by delineating the suspects-his family and friends. On the list of suspects are trusted personal assistant Mima (Patience Ujah), cantankerous ex-wife Ulan (Ireti Doyle), troublesome current wife Sofia (Munachi Abii), ambitious son Wash (Victor Panwal), over-achieving daughter Chatong (Gbubemi Ejeye), unrighteous pastor Dominion (Bethel Njoku), and shady business partner Audu (Sani Mu’azu).
Everyone has a motive for wanting Chief Gyang dead; in the course of the investigation, Katangari figures out that all the suspects wear masks. He uncovers their darkest secrets, and what seems to be a slam-dunk case turns out to be a twisted, sinister game masterminded by the one person no one would have ever pointed the finger at.
The film’s strength lies in its excellent storytelling ability through the characters’ lives. Director Reuben Reng masterfully ensures that everyone has a story and motive for wanting Chief Gyang dead. From Audu swimming in gambling debt to Ulan’s terrible financial choices, every character’s inner demons are unveiled to reveal the truth.
“Katangari Goes to Town” borders on themes of human greed, self-evaluation, and betrayal, but perhaps the most reflective theme is that of self-evaluation. Katangari is introduced as a man who bases his worth on his achievements as a renowned police officer. He has no interpersonal skills and is a nuisance in his village due to his rash mannerisms. When he takes on his cousin’s case, he has moments of self-reflection and realizes that no man can ever be an island. There can be peace in human relations, and family ties are perhaps the strongest bond. He finds joy amid tragedy- a beautiful sight to behold!
Other characters like Ulan and Audu also have reflective moments. The former has a reality check when she is cut off from Chief Gyang’s will, and the latter is shaken when he can no longer siphon company money to cure his gambling debts. The wake-up calls are no doubt necessary to drive the narrative forward.
The cast delivers stellar performances, with lead actor Segun Arinze bringing his wealth of experience to a peculiar character. Through his physical transformation and exceptional acting, it is easy to decipher his dedication to the character of Katangari.
The film’s unexpected scene stealer is none other than Patience Ujah. She plays Mima so well that it is difficult to believe her character is a serial killer. Her sharp delivery of a devoted and loyal personal assistant, magnetic charm, and deceptive charisma are impossible to miss. Though not the central figure, Ujah ensures that all her scenes are enough to enthrall viewers.
“Katangari Goes to Town” is undeniably gripping; the screenplay is excellently written by Emil Garuba and Paul S. Rowston, so much so that it bears a strong resemblance to the American murder mystery film “Knives Out.” Reng should consider making the film into a franchise on Prime Video. It will undoubtedly be a big hit on the streaming service.
The cinematography is not elaborate but effective enough to highlight pivotal moments in the film. The use of lighting and shadow heightens the suspense, while the haunting score (and peacock shrieks) underlines the film’s emotional beats. Every visual and auditory detail is meticulously crafted to lure viewers into helping Katangari find his cousin’s killer.
“Katangari Goes to Town” is a standout entry in the “whodunit” genre. The film will definitely linger long after the credits roll, inviting reflection and discussion.
If there is one lesson “Katangari Goes to Town” peddles fervently, it is to trust no one and suspect everyone because the devil was once an angel.
Release Date: January 4, 2025
Runtime: 1 hour and 54 minutes
Streaming Service: Prime Video
Director: Reuben Reng
Cast: Segun Arinze, Ireti Doyle, Munachi Abii, Bethel Njoku, Patience Ujah, Gbubemi Ejeye, Victor Panwal, Stephen Angba, Edward Fom, Sani Mu’Azu, Rekiyah Attah, Bala Bamaiyi, Patrick Longpoe, amd Olufemi Ojoye
TNR Scorecard: 4.5/5 stars