Coming From Insanity

Coming From Insanity is a compelling, thought-provoking crime-drama movie directed by acclaimed director Akinyemi Sebastian Akinropo. First released in 2019, the film profoundly implicates society's indifference towards impoverished children and mirrors the dark side of the social-economic disparity straight out of Nigeria's heart.

The film stars celebrated Nigerian actors Gabriel Afolayan, Damilola Adegbite, and Dakore Akande, who weave a gripping narrative with their outstanding performances. Each character is meticulously crafted, adding depth to the film's plot, further immersing the audience in the story's realism.

The movie's narrative pivot is Kossi (Gabriel Afolayan), a character whose transition from an impoverished child to an audacious criminal mastermind forms the centerpiece of this riveting plot. Gabriel Afolayan, whose acting portfolio spans over a decade, convincingly portrays Kossi with an intense emotional range that provides the viewers with an in-depth understanding of his character's complexity.

Assembled with a dynamic cast, Damilola Adegbite puts forth a memorable performance as Lara, adding another layer to the dimension of the storyline. Dakore Akande, on the other hand, portrays a detective navigated by her own obsessions and past which drives her relentless pursuit for justice.

The storyline of Coming From Insanity revolves around Kossi, who is trafficked from Togo to Lagos, Nigeria, as a child. He's forced into domestic servitude for the Martins, a wealthy Nigerian family. However, through inadvertent access to educational resources and familial perks, Kossi engages his natural intelligence and develops high tech skills making his presence invaluable to the Martins. Despite this, the biting reality of his servitude and glass ceiling keeps him rooted in his unfortunate circumstances.

Strained by the heavy shackles of his grim existence, Kossi devises a daring plan to extricate himself from his situation. He finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and forgery, catering to the elite of Lagos society. His risky venture involves counterfeiting the Nigerian currency, a crime that carries hefty consequences.

The movie explores the intricacies of Kossi's clandestine activities with a blend of suspense and high-intensity drama. It also portrays the relentless resolve of a law enforcement officer, played by the exceptional Dakore Akande. Her firm determination runs parallel to Kossi's increasing audacity, setting the tone for riveting confrontations and creating suspenseful anticipation for the viewers.

One of the striking features of Coming From Insanity is its ability to maintain a realistic portrayal of societal contrasts in contemporary Nigeria. The dialogue had been crafted ingeniously, carrying the essence of Nigerian idioms, culture, and street-smart bravado that resonate with the audience long after the film concludes.

Director Akinropo displays mastery in painting a vivid backdrop for the narrative arc using the bustling cityscape of Lagos, the opulence of the elite, and the stark neighborhood where Kossi carries out his illicit activities. The excellent cinematography and attention to detail ensure that the settings' vivid portrayals often function as characters themselves, shaping the narrative in significant ways.

The riveting plot twists coupled with the film's highly realistic depiction of its character's socioeconomic environment make Coming From Insanity a blend of thrilling crime-drama and social commentary. It not only provides the audience with intense, gripping entertainment but also compels them to reflect upon the tragic outcome of systemic social inequities.

Coming From Insanity evokes sense of suspense, empathy, thrill, and thoughtful introspection throughout its duration, making it an embodiment of modern African cinema. The film marks a promising milestone in the Nigerian film industry, spotlighting the country's critical social issues while delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience.