With “Ajosepo,” director Kayode Kasum continues to wow audiences with another fantastic film, building on the popularity of “Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story,” his previous project.
“Ajosepo” skillfully combines romance, comedy, and tragedy, captivating audiences from beginning to end. I was completely engrossed in the narrative as I watched, and I never once regretted choosing to go to the movies. The movie is about a broken family about to celebrate the marriage of their son Dapo (Mike Afolarin) and his sweetheart Tani (Tomike Adeoye), who are both from devout Christian families. There is a lot of turbulent drama throughout the wedding festivities, which could ruin the upcoming nuptials.
I’d love to go into more detail about the fascinating things that happened the night before the wedding, but that would ruin the moment. Nonetheless, I have to applaud Dare Olaitan and Stephen Okonkwo’s deft writing for creating a story with surprising turns. The incident that almost throws the couple’s plans for a loop is handled so expertly that, considering the day’s events, I’m left wondering how they would handle it.
In addition to Bisola Aiyeola, Deyemi Okanlawon, Ibrahim Yekini, Muyiwa Ademola, Adewale Ayuba, Gbohunmi David, and Lizzy Jay, the film’s cast also features Ronke Oshodi as the groom’s mother, Yemi Sholade as the groom’s father, Timini Egbuson as the groom’s brother, and Kanaga Jr. as the best man.
Yemi Sholade is deserving of special praise for his excellent work. He brings humor to the movie from the beginning and keeps a humorous demeanor the entire time, especially with his flirting antics. Even though he plays a caring parent, his divorced character struggles with one major weakness: women. This causes him to have a scandalous encounter at his in-laws’ house. Viewers will have to wait to find out if the encounter is with the bride or the bride’s mother.
Uncle Frank was played by Deyemi Okanlawon, who gave a really good portrayal. There was a scene with booze that made me laugh so hard I couldn’t stop laughing. But Lizzy Jay’s entrance fell short of what the crowd had anticipated. I was expecting a lot from her comedic skills, but she didn’t live up to the hype. This is the second movie I’ve been let down by an Instagram comedy skit creator.
Positively, the costumes stole the show, with Ronke Oshodi and her companions looking amazing in red and yellow outfits. The vibrant music and dancing, together with the immaculate wedding party outfits, brilliantly encapsulated the spirit of a Yoruba wedding.
“Ajosepo” demonstrates that a compelling tale is all that’s needed to keep viewers interested in a film, even in the absence of elaborate Hollywood special effects.
