The Presidency is a Nollywood movie that weaves politics, crime and violence together to form a drama that every politically conscious Nigerian can relate with.
The movie stars Yemi Blaq, Jide Kosoko, Antar Laniyan, Fadekemi Olumide-Aluko, Gideon Okeke, Mallum Arik, and Akin Lewis and was directed by Sampson Afolabi-Johnson.
The Presidency tells the story of Durodola Jaiyeola, whose return to Nigeria from abroad draws him into a world of drama that is mixed with patriotism, betrayals, deception, and ambition. He has to urge his mother, a strong woman in the political realm in Nigeria, to run for President. However, his ambition is challenged by the estranged nature of his relationship with his mother, fierce political opponents and the corruption that plagues the country. He’s left with the option to relent or give his all to attain a better country.
This movie’s poster and title might be the reason why many Nigerians won’t head out to the cinema to see it. The title ‘The Presidency’ gives it this White House of Washington DC kind of movie vibe, which many Nigerians won’t be able to relate to. It also gives off the vibe of a film about the lifestyle of the political elites, something most Nigerians aren’t concerned about. Why would a market woman want to spend her hard-earned money on cinema tickets for such a movie? Now I understand why the likes of Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham keep churning out the dramatic movies they issue every December. Their movies are easy for a large demographic to relate to. I digress. The poster of The Presidency doesn’t feature any of today’s popular dramatic actors, just legendary actors or old timers that might not resonate with Gen Z movie lovers. I digress further.
However, I believe those who are into activism in Nigeria will love this movie as it embodies their struggle for a better country.
The Presidency displays some not-so-bad stunts, especially the car crash scenes. The movie also has a bit of fights that look a bit like Kung Fu.
The costumes in The Presidency go with the story. The politicians were dressed in Agbada and beads, similar to what is obtainable with Nigerian politicians. The male politicians also look overfed, which is typical of Nigerian politicians.
Fine acting was displayed by veteran Akin Lewis who made me feel a glimpse of what Nigerian politicians do behind closed doors. As for Patrick Doyle, I thought he struggled with the Igbotic accent or whatever it was they made him sound like. The directors could have easily featured someone with a natural Igbotic voice for the role.
The technical aspect of this movie is nothing to write home about. The lighting of the night scenes are average. The daylight outdoor scenes, especially the one involving a rallying crowd with placards is poor. The movie lacks the necessary punch or contrast to make it visually appealing.
The only saving grace is the story, which I like. However, I can only recommend this movie to politicians, activists and those who are down with Nollywood content suited for matured minds. As for Gen Z and market women kind of people, this movie will make you sleep because it is not Jenifa’s Diary. The Presidency gets a 5/10.
