Directed by Adeoluwa Owu, The Griot is a movie about a storyteller with secrets, finding true love, friendship and betrayal. It is a Nigerian movie with a total runtime of 110 minutes. The cast of the movie includes Abimbola Adebajo, Lateef Adedimeji, Yewande Adekoya, Funso Adeolu, Kunle Afod, Opeyemi Dada, Imoh Eboh, Rita Edward, Goodness Emmanuel, Temilolu Fosudo, Oladapo Gbadimosi, Caroline Igben, Sharon Jatto, Abiodun Kassim, and Toyin Oshinaike. The writers of the movie are Temilolu Fosudo and Dapo Lanre-Badmus.
Adeoluwa Owu and Goodness Emmanuel are also the producers of the movie, along with Tunji Jamiu Shoyode and Genoveva Umeh. Adeoluwa Owu is also the cinematographer of the movie, and the music is done by Debbie Ohiri Oletubo.
Netflix synopsis of the movie reads:
A talented but shy storyteller faces betrayal after his best friend steals his tales in order to impress the woman they both love.
-The Griot Review Contains No Spoilers-
The Griot is a fictional period drama filmed in a Nigerian village. The movie’s plot is about a storyteller’s journey to wealth and fame. The story is straightforward. The movie is based on one of the age-old fables passed from generation to generation.
The location in the movie is breathtaking. Filmed in the deepest of the Nigerian village, the cinematographer generously showed off Nigeria’s beauty. The use of the green environment all around was done to the fullest. The beautiful environment made the story reach the audience.
The viewer could also see themselves being invested in the movie because of the various folk songs and cultural habits being incorporated. It is fascinating to view another culture so closely, and it feels like one has been transported to a different time and period. The traditional songs and dances included elevated the plot of the movie further.
Goodness Emmanuel, who played Tiwa, one of the main characters of the movie, stole the show not only with her acting but also with her captivating vocal abilities. The rest of the cast was not extraordinarily exceptional, but they got the job done. Considering that they are not native English speakers, their command of the language was excellent. Their accent included made the Nigerian film exotic, and people all over the world would thoroughly enjoy it.
Also Read: Dead to Me Season 3 Ending Explained: Did Jen and Judy Get Their Happy Ending?
The story was predictable, yet one would keep watching it because of its wonderful execution. The story progressed slowly, and the characters were along with it. In the present times, where movies have so many twists and turns, one would thoroughly enjoy one with none. A straightforward story about a man who lost his way due to fame, and money can be enjoyed by anyone.
The major takeaway from The Griot is nothing out of the ordinary. The story conveys how one must be true to themselves, be faithful and appreciate the things around them. It is a repeated and recycled script, but it still keeps one engaged, thanks to the actors and the beautiful visuals.
One has to appreciate the music. With incredible singers and songs, it will keep the audience hooked. Days after watching the movie, the music will keep lingering with you. The mesmerizing tunes and incredible vocals make the simple movie better than the rest. It makes the storytelling process easier.
The Griot Review: Final Thoughts
A simple story about the storyteller who strays on the wrong path due to greed for fame and money. The tale about basic human nature is predictable yet will keep the viewer engaged. With the traditional culture of the Nigerians, along with alluring visuals and delightful music, one will be transported right to the country.
The Griot is now streaming on Netflix.
Did you watch The Griot? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Also Read: Urusei Yatsura Episode 6 Review: Unintentional Participant in a Battle