Lionheart

Lionheart, a 2018 Nigerian movie directed by one of Africa's leading actresses, Genevieve Nnaji, stands out as the first original Nigerian movie purchased by global movie powerhouse, Netflix. It is also Genevieve Nnaji's directorial debut. This film introduced the world to a unique brand of African filmmaking, gaining recognition for the world-class talent within the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, to the global audience.

The film's plot weaves a complex tapestry set within the vibrant culture and day-to-day life of a typical community in Southeast Nigeria. It brings to the limelight a narrative often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream cinema: the merging of traditional values with modern sensibilities, challenges of corporate leadership, importance of family kinship, gender roles, and the celebration of endurance and resilience.

Lionheart narrates the story of an ambitious young woman, Adaeze Obiagu, excellently portrayed by Genevieve Nnaji. Adaeze is a dedicated manager in Lionheart Transport Company, a family business in dire financial straits. She is confronted with the urgent task to save her ailing father's company from bankruptcy due to accumulated loans.

However, her ambition isn't without hurdles. As opposed to being granted the reins of leadership in her father's absence, the responsibility is passed onto her seemingly inept Uncle Godswill, humorously played by Nkem Owoh. This placement is based on traditional customs that favour male leadership ahead of a woman's. But Adaeze, being headstrong and determined, doesn't let this deter her goal.

Lued by the corporate world's challenges and her family's doubting her ability as a female to lead the company, Adaeze is hellbent on proving them wrong. Nnaji delivers an inspiring performance, portraying a strong-willed female resolute to surmount cultural barriers and save her family business from crumbling.

Uncle Godswill, a comic character, adds an element of light relief to the intense plot. His seemingly eccentric and unconventional solutions to problems mask a deceptively shrewd mind, making him quite an endearing and pivotal character.

Renowned actor, Pete Edochie, plays Chief Ernest Obiagu, father to Adaeze. He excellently represents an old guard who must come to terms with his fragile health and the subsequent transition – reluctantly handing over the reigns of his company while dealing with the complexities of trust, succession, and tradition.

One of the most compelling features of Lionheart is its authentic portrayal of Igbo culture, language, and the Nigerian business environment. The film portrays the interactions, negotiations, conflicts, and resolutions typical for Nigerian business dealings, representing the meaningful dynamics between tradition and modernity. It also highlights the bilingual nature of many Nigerian communities. The excellent combination of English and the native Igbo language in the script adds a genuine feel to the dialogue.

The creators make robust efforts to represent female characters who break stereotypes and resist patriarchal norms by pushing for leadership roles usually reserved for men. Lionheart showcases womanhood, not as a limitation but as a powerful force for change and progress in society. It is a firm exposure to the growing wave of feminism within Africa, which calls for equal opportunities for all, irrespective of gender.

Lionheart is rich in values and lessons, providing viewers with an inspirational narrative about perseverance, hard work, and unity of purpose. It shows that working together, rather than trying to outdo one another, promises better results.

Visually, the cinematography showcases the beauty of Nigeria's southeastern region, with a combination of aerial shots that capture the scenic landscapes and bustling city life. The scenes are impeccably shot, giving a true representation of Nigerian life and aesthetics.

The director's admiration for her culture shines through, with Nnaji's subtle infusion of captivating local music that provides a heartwarming emotive layer to the storyline. In addition, her emphasis on family values and the prominence of community displays a unique African storytelling style.

Lionheart received its fair share of accolades for the unique narrative style, significant cultural displays, and poignant themes. It was given a spotlight at the international Toronto film festival where it was very well received by the audience.

In conclusion, Lionheart is soothingly comedic, richly cultural, humbly honest, and champions change in a society predominantly ruled by tradition. It's an engrossing trip within Nigeria's southeastern region, an exploration of cultural dynamics, gender norms, and a significant shift from the norm. This movie, without a doubt, punches above its weight in the global film landscape, making it a must-watch for lovers of meaningful, culturally rich cinema.