‘Obara’M’ Unveils a Musical Tapestry of Redemption with Authenticity

In the mesmerizing world of Obara’M, music transcends boundaries, breathing life into a tale of family, connection, and second chances. Directed by Kayode Kasum, this Nollywood film presents a unique blend of musical enchantment and heartfelt storytelling techniques. While it is not without its imperfections, Obara’M manages to captivate audiences with its vibrant cinematography, impressive performances, and a narration that tugs at the heartstrings.

Obara’M unfolds with a mesmerizing harmony of music and emotion. The film opens to the resounding voices of Oluchi (Nancy Isime) and Ihunaya (Darasimi Nadi), two characters united by a song that traverses physical and emotional boundaries. Oluchi sings from a lively bar in Lagos, while Ihunaya’s voice resonates as she journeys to school. Through this captivating musical introduction, the audience begins to sense the elusive connection that binds these characters, a connection that only becomes apparent as the story unfolds.

The film envelops the viewer in a tapestry of vivid and colourful cinematography. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene landscapes of Enugu, each frame bursts with life, evoking a visual symphony that enhances the film’s narrative. The seamless transitions between locations, coupled with breathtaking aerial shots, transport the audience into the heart of the story. However, while the cinematography shines, the film occasionally struggles to strike a balance between its musical elements and the overall coherence of the storyline.

Obara’M displays a talented ensemble cast, delivering performances that resonate with authenticity and emotion. Nancy Isime, in the role of Oluchi, offers a compelling portrayal of a woman burdened by past mistakes and seeking redemption. Isime’s nuanced performance brings depth to her character, capturing the internal struggle and yearning for forgiveness. The young Darasimi Nadi shines as Ihunaya, effortlessly embodying the spirit of a child caught between longing and resilience. Her talent is undeniable, and she commands the screen with a natural charisma that portends a bright future in the Nollywood industry.

Supporting cast members, including Nkem Owoh and Onyeka Onwenu, bring their seasoned professionalism to their respective roles, infusing the film with an added layer of authenticity. Their performances complement the narrative, enriching the relationships and adding depth to the overall experience. The supporting cast members, with their energy and commitment, ensure that Obara’M remains a captivating ensemble piece.

At its core, Obara’M is a tale of redemption and the enduring power of family bonds. Oluchi’s journey of self-discovery and reconciliation forms the heart of the film, as she confronts her past and tries to mend the fractured relationship with her daughter. The storyline, set against the backdrop of Nigerian life, resonates with audiences through its relatable themes and authentic portrayal of real-life dynamics.

While the narrative manages to engage and immerse the audience, Obara’M occasionally loses its focus and meanders off the main plot. Some scenes feel unnecessary and distract from the central story, diluting the impact of the overall experience. A tighter script could have elevated Obara’M to greater heights and ensured a more cohesive and focused narrative.

One aspect that stands out as a notable flaw is the inconsistency in some of the characters’ aging process. For example, over a considerable time period of eleven years, characters like Oluchi and Fidelis (Deyemi Okanlawon) appear unchanged in appearance and hairstyle. This oversight detracts from the film’s realism and draws attention to the lack of attention to detail. Additionally, certain scenes seem to have been included solely to give some cast members more screen time, rather than serving a meaningful purpose within the story.

However, Obara’M compensates for its shortcomings with its captivating musical elements. The original compositions, comprising comedy, sorrow, love, and jubilation, infuse the film with a range of emotions. While the lip-syncing and autotune effects may be noticeable, the music itself adds depth and substance to the overall experience. It becomes a character in its own right, weaving through the narrative, and enhancing the emotional impact of key moments.

The film’s exploration of family virtues and themes such as paternity fraud adds a layer of depth to the story. It touches upon the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of past actions. The relatability of the plot, with its true-to-life dynamics, resonates with audiences and lends the movie a sense of credibility.

In its most poignant moments, Obara’M tugs at the heartstrings, leaving the audience with numerous smiles and tearful eyes. It beautifully captures the essence of Nigerian life and conveys a genuinely Nigerian story with authenticity and heart. The emotional journey it takes viewers on, from heartbreak to reconciliation, is both poignant and relatable.

Despite its flaws and occasional missteps, Obara’M manages to leave an impression. It is a testament to the power of music in storytelling, as it weaves together the threads of the narrative, captivating and engaging the audience. While it may not reach the pinnacle of perfection, the film’s redeeming qualities, including its strong performances, heartfelt moments, and vibrant visuals, make it a worthwhile watch.

Release Date: June 16, 2023

Runtime: 1 hour, 39 minutes, 44 seconds

Streaming service: Netflix

Director: Kayode Kasum

Cast: Nancy Isime, Deyemi Okanlawon, Onyeka Onwenu, Bolanle Ninalowo, Nkem Owoh, Chizobam Ewuzie, Anosike Angelo, E Plane, William Chinoyenem, Darasimi Nadi, Tolulope Odebunmi, Ikponmwosa Gold, Onyebuchi Ojieh, Rough Koins, Ikekhua Anthonia, Sydney Egere, T-Clef, Preach Bassey, Waje Iruobe and Bolaji Ogunmola