Ajoke (Toyin Abraham), a local prophetess finds herself entrapped in the world of sports betting after a bogus prediction on a football game finds fruition. This ensues a chain of events that spiral out of control and threatens her life. Having no one to turn to, she seeks the help of her twin sister.
If there’s one thing Nollywood always gets right, it is the cinematography. Prophetess did not disappoint. Director Niyi Akinmolayan ensures the aesthetics of the movie comes out just right. The location manager deserves some accolades too. The location for the movie is a big plus. It is so refreshing to see the city of Ibadan, the largest city in West Africa being showcased in all its beauty, the landmarks, the local meals, the sights, and sounds; it’s a beauty to behold.
Prophetess allowed actors to use languages they are fluent in to express themselves. The fine mix of languages gives the movie a natural feel. It adds authenticity to the narrative. The movie does not fail to exhibit one of its biggest selling points, humour. Usually, slapstick can fall a bit flat and feel more than a little juvenile, but this movie is genuinely funny in an over-the-top way. If there is one thing this movie is sure to have you do, it’s laugh. It doesn’t take itself too seriously.
There is a certain realness to Toyin Abraham’s acting in the movie. It can be seen in her smooth switch from Ajoke the prophetess, to Ajoke the baby sister. Uzo Arukwe, who has been impressing a lot lately and was one of the finer points of Glamour Girls. As the owner of a Betting Company, it might just actually be one of the best Nollywood screen depictions of a Diva. Kehinde Bankole impressed as usual, too.
Although Prophetess is a likable movie, it has some noticeable flaws. The plot appears to be all over the place and even in the end, it does not quite come together as seamlessly as it ought to.
Though humour is a major plus for the movie, a lot of logic seems to have been put aside towards the end for it, which makes it come off as a tad overbearing. At some point the humour and conversations are predictable.
Stan Nze’s (Buntus) constant switch in language and demeanour does not quite play smoothly.
Overall, Prophetess is an easy and enjoyable watch. It’s an over-the-top peek into the madness that is football mingled with the most unscrupulous aspects of religion Nigeria is known for.
Watch it on Netflix if you love the general ridiculousness of Nollywood comedies.
Didi Dan-Asisah is an art enthusiast and critic. She lives in Lagos.
Ayodelé is a Lagos-based journalist and the Content and Editorial Coordinator at Meiza. All around the megacity, I am steering diverse lifestyle magazine audiences with ingenious hacks and insights that spur fast, informed decisions in their busy lives.
