The Blood Covenant movie downplays trendy societal ills
Nollywood’s typical storyline plays out in this mystic movie, The Blood Covenant, which begs the question: Is voodoo real or fake?
It’s often said that religious and spiritual practices are fueled by the belief in them. Outside faith and belief, these practices can be interpreted as anything by anyone and at any time. The movie, directed by Fiyin Gambo, presents a money ritual story. This movie, however, does not make it clear if they are debunking the efficacy of juju or reinforcing it. Perhaps, this loophole is to be filled by public or personal opinions just like what you’re getting in this review.
A movie trailer of Blood Covenant movie. Credit: YouTube
The cast and characterisation are applaudable. The roles of the four brothers are played by Shawn Faqua (Osiano), Uzor Arukwe (Jite), Alex Ekubo (Obi), and Tobi Bakre (Eddie). This Lagos set movie reinforces the detriments of living the fast life built on vanity. This is a typical case of more haste, less speed. Obi gets rich overnight and this sparks the curiosity of many, especially Jite’s wife Erica Nwedilim (Adaugo). Obi, after a long time of drifting from his brothers, shows up in extravagance and glamour at a party that his other brothers have almost been bounced from. The incidents surrounding their reunion become intense and usher in the rising action of the plot.
The first ritual/occultic scene foreshadows the many others that constitute the message of the movie. Blood covenants may merely be a social construct that can be broken if not fueled by faith. But it is a device for the diabolic to leverage when seeking thirsty and greedy souls to ruin. This captivating tale is integrated with lessons on the many choices that we make blindly. They come back biting and only the strong or lucky can break free; though, not without repercussions.
The event of Obi’s death ushers in a new phase of trouble. The brothers have realised that they must continue doing rituals to enjoy the benefits of being debt-free and escaping embarrassment. Now, the big question! Were the rituals effective, or merely a placebo effect? Personally, I opine that the collective belief in those rituals made them seem effective.
On the subject of greed, Jite is a typical representation of how fast this virus spreads. Unable to manage his wife’s company, we cannot help but notice his insatiable quest for funds, neglecting his incapacity to maintain them. Over-ambition and indiscipline is a bad combo for a greedy person. Every hustle involves pain and struggle. Choose your pain and struggle as the end justifies the means. Though, some struggles never end, especially if you’re on the wrong side of the hustle.
The bond between the three brothers is commendable, leaving the audience wondering who stands out as the hero of the plot. Nevertheless, they are bonded by the wrong circumstances. Though the message of the movie is didactic and interesting, it involves haphazardly placed irrelevant scenes. Almost like it focuses on length over quality.
Also, the role of the justice system under Inspector Ufuoma McDermott is not clear. Her scenes are merely wordy with very little strategic action. In a nutshell, her efforts do not amount to anything or create a plausible solution. However, the movie ends with the message that there is punishment for wrongdoing. And the devil does not give gifts.
Relationships/transparency constitute a great part of this narrative. Most love/marriage relationships in this movie are built on lies and deceit. Meanwhile, Erica’s acting in the ritual scene is courageous and mind-blowing. This scene facilitates the tragic ending while keeping you suspenseful and on edge till the denouement.
Despite a few technical issues (a few very dark scenes and poor audio), it is a great watch. With an emphasis on making well-informed decisions, I leave you with the fascinating message of this movie.
Clara Gaiya, an entrepreneur, writes from 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.
