Kunle Afolayan released his new movie ‘Swallow’ on Netflix on the 1st of October, 2021 and we bring you a review of the 2 hours long drama which stars singer Niyola as its lead.
It further stars Ijeoma Grace Agu (as Rose), Deyemi Okanlanwon (as Sanwo), Eniola Badmus (as Mrs Durojaiye), Chioma Akpotha (as Mama Chidi), Kevin Ikeduba (as OC), Offiong Anthony Edet (as Johnny) and veteran Olusegun Remi (as Mr Salako).
The Kunle Afolayan directed film is an adaptation of Sefi Atta‘s best-selling novel, Swallow which explores the burgeoning drug trafficking trade, set against a backdrop of 1980s Lagos, struggling under the weight of austerity measures and the infamous War Against Indiscipline.
In Swallow, Kunle Afolayan opts for a retro film look that pays perfect homage to a nostalgic past and it was indeed a cinematic masterpiece.
For the lead role, Afolayan handpicks singer Eniola Akinbo aka Niyola, who save for music video features, has no formal or informal acting experience and to be honest she wasn’t very impressive with her acting; her friend, Rose (Ijeoma Agu) however saved her character.
Agu was a brilliant actor and probably the best decision Afolayan made in ‘Swallow’. As Rose, Agu was the reason ‘Swallow’ has a modicum of rewatch value and in saner industries, producers would be falling over themselves for a sprinkle of the magic which she effortlessly offers her characters.
Away from Afolayan’s problematic choice of lead, is ‘Swallow’ a good watch? Undoubtedly, Afolayan has a good eye for art direction and is an all round impeccable producer. In ‘Swallow’, he brandishes his expertise with the portrayal of the fashion, language and events (sometimes monotonous) of the era that the film is set. And then the ending and sound track will have you giggling like a baby!
