Before we delve into this review, I must take a moment to request a sequel from the producers of Brotherhood because this movie left me with unanswered questions. When I first heard the buzz about ‘Brotherhood’ on Twitter, I was sceptical, thinking it might be just another overhyped, mundane film. But after watching it in the cinema, I was pleasantly surprised to be proven wrong.
A Breath of Fresh Air in Nollywood Jade Osiberu, the creative mind behind ‘Brotherhood,’ has previously delivered blockbusters such as ‘Ayinla,’ ‘Isoken,’ and ‘Sugar Rush.’ While the film has its flaws, it stands out from the cliches and tropes often seen in Nollywood films. Directed by Ugandan filmmaker Loukman Ali, ‘Brotherhood’ bears resemblance to the 2004 Nollywood classic drama thriller, ‘Dangerous Twins,’ starring Ramsey Nouah. The story revolves around twin brothers, Akin and Wale, who find themselves on opposite sides of the law and morality.
The Plot (The Tea)
As mentioned earlier, ‘Brotherhood’ centers on Akin (Tobi Bakre) and Wale (Falz), twin brothers who lost their parents at a young age. While Wale becomes a detective, Akin turns to a life of crime, landing him in prison multiple times. Upon his release from jail, Akin learns that Wale has joined the anti-crime unit, SWAT. It is evident from their strained relationship, as seen in their interaction with their aunt (Ronke Oshodi), that the two brothers do not get along.
Ignoring the opportunity to start afresh, Akin joins an armed robbery gang called the Ojuju Boys. His intelligence and connections help the gang to step up their robbery game, and he falls in love with a fellow team member named Goldie (Toni Tones). Meanwhile, an incident leads Wale to investigate the identity of the Ojuju Boys.
Things seem to be going smoothly for both brothers until Akin unexpectedly shows up at Wale’s wedding party, flaunting his newfound wealth. This arouses Wale’s suspicions, and he begins to suspect Akin’s involvement with the notorious robbery squad. As the story progresses, both brothers find themselves in a tense standoff during the gang’s final heist, where only one of them can legally survive.
The Highlights
The cinematography in ‘Brotherhood’ is commendable, with well-executed camera movements and lighting that enhance the mood of each scene. One particularly noteworthy scene in terms of cinematography is the SWAT office, where the rays of sunlight streaming through the windows add a sense of realism to the film. The locations were chosen for the film also contribute to its success, with the third mainland bridge and the Ojuju Boys’ hideout adding believability and excitement to the action sequences.
The performances of the cast are also praiseworthy. OC Ukeje shines in his role as Izzie, transforming from a Nollywood heartthrob to a greedy villain convincingly. Tobi Bakare impresses with his portrayal of Akin, showcasing his talent as a serious actor, and Falz goes beyond his usual comedic roles, proving his versatility. Additionally, the storyline of ‘Brotherhood’ feels refreshing, deviating from the typical narrative of twin brothers who are unaware of each other’s existence until the end.
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The film also challenges traditional notions of protagonists, as at times, the audience may find themselves rooting for Akin, despite his actions of killing his brother’s father-in-law and being responsible for the death of a police officer.
Twists and Turns ‘Brotherhood’ keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its unexpected twists and turns. Just when you think you have figured out the plot, the movie takes a sharp turn, leaving you in awe. The climax of the film is intense and action-packed, with a thrilling showdown between Akin and Wale that keeps you glued to the screen. The film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of crime and the consequences that come with it, adding depth and complexity to the characters and their choices.
Themes and Messages At its core
‘Brotherhood’ explores the themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of one’s choices. The film raises thought-provoking questions about the blurred lines between right and wrong and the impact of external circumstances on an individual’s actions. It also sheds light on the complexities of sibling relationships and the struggles of making choices between family and duty. ‘Brotherhood’ leaves the audience with a powerful message about the repercussions of one’s actions and the importance of making responsible choices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘Brotherhood’ is a thrilling twist on the tale of twin brothers, offering a fresh take on the usual Nollywood tropes. With its engaging plot, impressive performances, and well-executed cinematography, the film delivers an exhilarating viewing experience. While it has its flaws, ‘Brotherhood’ is a must-watch for fans of action-packed dramas and those looking for a unique story that challenges traditional notions of protagonists. I am eagerly looking forward to a possible sequel that could provide answers to the unanswered questions left by this intriguing film.
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