4th Republic

4th Republic is a heart-throbbing political thriller directed by acclaimed director Ishaya Bako in 2019. The movie showcases a phenomenal ensemble, featuring Alfred 'Six Foot Plus' Atungu, Kayode Aiyegbusi, and Audu Altine as the leading cast members. The movie strikes at the heart of the often convoluted and murky world of politics, and is a timely reflection on Nigeria's 20 years of unbroken democratic rule. The stoic acting prowess of the lead players and the well-written script make it a compelling watch.

The movie centers on the unyielding character of Mabel King, played by Hilda Dokubo, whose resume as a governorship candidate working round the clock for a party in the middle of a political tumult has immense determination and resilience. The movie is a journey through King's tireless struggle to claim her stolen mandate in a race littered with systematic corruption and malicious machinations, immediately following an awfully rigged state governorship election.

Alfred 'Six Foot Plus' Atungu brilliantly plays the role of the perennial election rogue, Bene Benibo. The performance of Atungu is intense, menacing, and chillingly realistic as a character who exudes the power and highhandedness common amongst electoral miscreants in most political climates. Kayode Aiyegbusi personifies the authentic democratic spirit as Danladi, the right hand to King. His is an unflinching demonstration of loyalty and honesty. Audu Altine is fascinating in his performance as a law enforcement officer, depicting the role of a man torn between preserving the law and ensuring safety.

The plot also balls into a relentless drama, including a chilling car chase, narrow escapes, and deadly encounters. At its heart, 4th Republic is a fascinating exploration of African politics. It reveals the darker side of the political spectrum, with its tense narratives and shocking plot twists, speaking to the realities of many corrupt political regimes.

The cinematography of 4th Republic deserves much praise. The director and photography team masterfully captures the essence of the story through the lens, using a blend of close, medium, and wide shots that immerses the audience in the story. From bustling market scenes to quiet solitary moments, each scene is depicted in a way that captures the beauty and complexity of Nigeria.

4th Republic, being rooted in Nigerian politics, spills over into the African context as well. The movie subtly raises questions about African democracy and power plays, drawing viewers to reflect on their understanding and perception of democracy. It mirrors the grim reality of African democracy and forces viewers to introspect on the value of their votes.

The script, written by Emil B. Garuba and Zainab Omaki, exceptionally communicates the tale of a differently abled African woman's quest for her rightful mandate. The movie sparks dialogues about female representation, disability, and the fight against political corruption, and implicitly questions the status quo of these elements in society. It illuminates the circumstances many African women face daily, showing that despite the resilience and determination of women, societal perceptions and restrictions remain.

The movie does a fantastic job of shocking the viewer as it draws the curtain on the grim reality of electoral politics, putting a strong emphasis on the relevance of every single vote. Cynthia Ebijie's haunting score plays an essential role in building tension and creating an atmosphere of thrill and suspense. Thus, every ingredient necessary for an unforgettable political drama is present in 4th Republic.

In conclusion, 4th Republic offers a raw critique of the Nigerian political landscape. It raises timely questions about the state of democracy in the country, as well as the role of women in politics and society. Director Ishaya Bako, alongside cast members Alfred 'Six Foot Plus' Atungu, Kayode Aiyegbusi, and Audu Altine, have crafted a compelling political narrative with much scope for thought and reflection. From its mesmerizing performances to its intricately woven storyline and captivating visuals, 4th Republic is worth every second of its screen time. Ultimately, it is a tightly crafted narrative that dismantles the façade of politics and power in a democracy, making it a must-watch for cinephiles and political enthusiasts alike.