Directed by Jade Osiberu, the crime drama "Gangs of Lagos" shows how ambition does not always come hand in hand with success. Even though it is full of energy, stylish visuals, and solid performances, the movie tells too much in such a limited time frame that the viewer cannot be engaged with the story and the characters.
Right from the start, the director proves that she knows her way around Lagos perfectly well. The setting plays a crucial role in the story: it is not just a place where the action takes place but a participant in the narrative that deserves attention. The director depicts Isale Eko in its authentic form – narrow streets, markets, and other features of the neighborhood.
In terms of performance, the actors show their best. Bakre Tobi is convincing in his role as Obalola. He combines toughness and sensitivity perfectly. Adesua Etomi-Wellington plays Kachi with great emotion. Chike Ezekpeazu makes an admirable acting debut as Chike.
The story in "Gangs of Lagos" is quite dynamic, so the chemistry between the main characters works well. They manage to create a unique bond that goes beyond friendship. There is a good deal of betrayal, loyalty, and survival in it.
Technically speaking, this movie is among the best Nigerian productions. The cinematography is great as it catches the vibrant and raw atmosphere of Lagos without falling into clichés. Besides, the action scenes are very convincing – especially street confrontations, which do not require any special effects to be thrilling. Moreover, the soundtrack of the film supports the story perfectly.
What prevents "Gangs of Lagos" from becoming really good is the pace of the narration. The script is overloaded with political intrigues and gang wars. Many characters appear in the movie, but there is not enough space for their development. Some relationships are introduced in such a fast way that their importance is not fully understood. In addition, several secondary characters have too little time to unfold their stories.
"Gangs of Lagos" is the perfect example of a condensed story that should be a part of a limited series. There is enough material here to make a TV series that would last for several episodes and give an opportunity to see all those fascinating details that can only be mentioned here. This story needs time – the time to introduce the political players, to develop the relationships of the characters, and to make several emotional scenes more intense.
However, despite this fact, the director manages to raise relevant questions in her film and leaves the viewer to think about them after watching it. For instance, the film talks about the inheritance of violence and about the way in which loyalty may become both the means of identification and entrapment. Those topics are thought-provoking and will stay in your mind for a long time after the end of the film.
Sometimes, the scriptwriter is too obsessed with crime genres and tries to put the story in the framework of this genre. However, the plot is full of twists that can be easily guessed by the viewer.
Despite all the weaknesses of the story, the director does a wonderful job: she keeps the viewer involved with the help of competent pacing and visual style.
"Gangs of Lagos" is a step forward for Nollywood: in its technical qualities and in its scale. It is entertaining, emotional, and technically well-executed. Nevertheless, the biggest flaw of the film lies in the attempt to tell the expansive story in such a limited time frame.
It is a good crime drama – but one which constantly suggests an alternative version of itself. If it were made as a limited series, it would deserve more attention. Even so, it is still one of the best Nigerian films of this period.
Rating: ★★★★☆