The black book really is a very interesting movie. The graphics, story and the combats though were near to perfect… I love it.

I was eager to watch the scenes that were filmed in kaduna, and I am glad I did. But, it’s the same narrative all over again; North=Hausa.

Specific Aspects:

Mise en Scène: The attention to detail in the mise en scène is commendable. Every element on camera serves a purpose, from the portrayal of Lagos streets to the dry landscapes of Kaduna. My face lit up every time i saw locations in Kaduna i have worked at. From The Kaduna Textile to the hills in Kujama, Fifth Chucker and Mraban Jos.Show more

Acting: The cast, including veteran actors like Alex Osifo and RMD, alongside new talents, delivers strong performances. The blend of old and new actors adds depth to the movie. Denola Grey’s nonspeaking role was not really necessary. It had potential but was rushed.

Themes: While the film excels in many aspects, it occasionally deviates from its core theme, leading to moments that feel disconnected. The focus on recovering Damilola’s son’s body should have been emphasized over side missions.

Special Effects: The use of explosions and VFX is well-executed, enhancing the movie’s intensity. However, caution should have been exercised during shooting scenes to ensure safety.

Audience Appeal: “The Black Book” will resonate with Millennials who appreciate the growth of the Nigerian film industry. However, Gen Z viewers may not fully grasp the effort invested in reaching this point. Despite some shortcomings, the film effectively showcases the careful allocation of its budget.

Rating: Overall, “The Black Book” deserves a 8/10 rating. It shines in various aspects like cinematography, casting, lighting, location selection, and execution. However, it loses points due to inconsistencies in RMD’s character and occasional deviations from its main theme.

Winning Points: The film’s strengths lie in its exceptional cinematography, well-chosen cast, outstanding lighting, location choices, and overall execution.