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MY REVIEW OF AJAKAJU BY ENIOLA AJAO



After a controversial PR move that saw the internet sensation Bobrisky being awarded 'Best Dressed Female' at the premiere, "Ajakaju (Beast of Two Worlds)" has soared to unprecedented heights. This marketing strategy not only sparked discussions but also significantly heightened the film's visibility and allure. As of today, April 2, 2024, "Ajakaju" has made a monumental impact on the Nollywood scene, grossing an impressive N63.2 million within just three days of its release. It now stands as the third-highest opening for a Nollywood film of all time, a remarkable achievement for Eniola Ajao's first production venture.

Eniola Ajao's "Ajakaju (Beast of Two Worlds)" is a cinematic triumph that redefines the scope and ambition of Yoruba filmmaking. Directed by the esteemed Adebayo Tijani and Odunlade Adekola, this epic narrative was meticulously crafted over three weeks in the picturesque landscapes of Oyo State. The film boasts an ensemble cast of luminaries, including Bimbo Akintola, Sola Sobowale, and Odunlade Adekola, alongside Lateef Adedimeji, Faithia Williams, Mercy Aigbe, and Eniola Ajao herself, with Ibraheem Chatta adding to the star-studded lineup.

In the movie "Beast of Two Worlds" is the enigmatic Ajalara, a character who embodies the duality of human and animal, bringing to life the mythic and the mortal. Her nightly forays into the forest spell doom for the hunters, as she disrupts the natural order, decimating crops and crippling the local economy. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when King Towobola confronts Ajalara, leading to an epic battle that culminates in an unexpected alliance through marriage, with the hope of securing a male heir to the throne.

The plot thickens as Ajalara births a son, the kingdom's beacon of hope, only to cast him into the fire in a shocking twist. This act sets off a chain of events filled with suspense, daring escapades, and a web of mystery that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

"Ajakaju" is not just a film; it's a cultural phenomenon that has elevated the status of Yoruba cinema. Its gripping storyline, coupled with stellar performances and breathtaking visuals, make it a must-watch. The movie's ability to bring traditional elements with contemporary storytelling is a confirmation of its 9/10 rating (for me). It's a film that doesn't just entertain but also ignites a sense of pride in the richness of Yoruba heritage.

In essence, "Ajakaju" is more than a movie; it's a movement that has shifted the narrative of Yoruba movies, setting a new benchmark for quality and storytelling in the industry. It's a cinematic experience that beckons audiences far and wide, urging them to witness a story that transcends the screen and resonates with the soul. If you haven't seen it yet, you're missing out on a piece of film history that's sure to leave an indelible mark.

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