- Lisabi: The Uprising was released to Netflix on September 27
- One of the most anticipated Nollywood biopics in recent times captured the familiar theme of oppression and the fight for freedom
- It starred seasoned Yoruba actors, but Ibrahim Chatta’s outstanding performance makes it more memorable
Oppression of masses by tyrant rulers is an age-long history interplaying the power dynamics of exploitation and injustice, and Lisabi: The Unsurprising follows this familiar plot.
A biopic like this is a terrain embarked on by notable Nigerian filmmakers with Bolanle Austen-Peters leading the way for me. While it is commendable to see these titles and the poignant historical themes they amplify, there's still work to be done.
For its preservation of African culture and tradition, its sacrosanct themes and the exceptional performance of Ibrahim Chatta, I found consolation in appreciating Niyi Aromolayan’s directed masterpiece, Lisabi: The Uprising.
Plot structure
Set in the 18th-century Oyo Empire, Lisabi:The Uprising plot revolves around Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, who was a skilled military strategist and farmer.
Years after the unending oppression of the Oyo Empire on the Egba people, Lisabi organized a rebellion against the Oyo Empire between 1775 and 1780.
He sought the support and collective strength of his fellow farmers to free the Egba people from tyranny. Before their liberation, communities such as Ijaiye, Gbagura, and Igbeyin were all under the control of the Oyo Empire.
Character analysis
The cast appearances in Lisabi: The Uprising prior to its premiere on September 27 had stirred controversy over the use of popular faces. Despite that, I must commend their performances.
Highlighting Mr Macaroni’s emotional depth, to Liqurose’s breath of fresh air appearance, Lateef’s rebellious character arc and Odunlade’s majestic role, the actors delivered on their characters to elevate the film.
However, for me, the most memorable was Ibrahim Chatta. The actor with his performance further solidified his place in Nollywood with his exceptional ability to embody the tyrant Oyo Empire leader. The emotional depth and charisma he added to his character is professional and deserves flowers.
Reviewing ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’
One hour, forty-seven minutes watching Lisabi: The Uprising film, struggling with its slow-burning pace, slightly pissed at the obvious ‘fake’ props and cliche scenes, my question is, at what point in Nollywood do we get to watch a film without realising that it is a film? To be lost in the story and make viewers believe the story world is their reality?
Executively produced by Lateef Adedimeji with a partnership with Netflix, Lisabi: The Uprising was brought to life. The film captures the oppression endured by the Egba people and how a farmer, Lisabi, eventually conquered the tyranny of the Oyo Empire.
The film continues the commendable quest of Nollywood filmmakers to tell authentic stories while exploring the unique history, identities and roots of African existence. It is a notable addition to Nollywood's biopic repertoire.
Exploring the core theme of oppression significant in even in present times is one admirable aspect of the film. soundtrack elements like eulogies and traditional songs gave the film the cultural depth it needed.
The set design and costumes did well to capture the story world of the film from sculptures, to architecture to mural paintings with some forgivable inconsistencies.
For flaws, I struggled with the realism of Lisabi: The Uprising. The Visual Effects (VFX) and props didn't help either. We know it is a film but these little flops glaringly reminded viewers that it was a film. With the technological advancements of today’s Nollywood, this is certainly not the best.
Lisabi, played by Lateef Adedimeji, who is ought to be the central character, wasn't memorable until towards the end of the film. Why did it take forever to set him up? His trajectory from a quiet farmer to becoming a fierce warrior also raises questions. I want to believe it is an attempt to build suspense. Maybe the sequel in January 2025 would have answers.
Final thoughts
Amid its strengths and weaknesses, Lisabi: The Uprising yet again proves Nollywood as a custodian of our culture and traditions. Through authentic historical stories, it is changing the narrative to tell our stories to the world. For me, Lisabi: The Uprising is a 7/10.
Analysing flaws, strengths of recently released ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’ trailer [PHOTOS]
Earlier, TheRadar reported that the trailer of Lisabi:The Uprising heightened the excitement surrounding the upcoming cinematic experience.
On the basis of costume, production design, story world, characters, cultural embodiment, believability and overall cinematic feel. TheRadar drew an analysis on the flaws and strengths of the trailer as anticipation heightens for the film.
