Living in Bondage: Breaking Free

Living in Bondage: Breaking Free is a highly captivating Nigerian drama thriller movie, released in 2019. This thrilling Nollywood film is a sequel to the 1992 classic 'Living in Bondage', which has been credited as the movie that gave birth to the magnificent era of African cinema. Ramsey Nouah that had originally starred in the classic version laughingly shifts role and comes in as the director of the sequel, introducing a new face, Jide Kene Achufusi (also known as Swanky JKA) alongside the return of the original protagonist, Kenneth Okonkwo.

The plot furnishes an intoxicating mix of life's practical realities, metaphysical elements, and human desires. Without giving too much away, the narrative centers around a young ambitious man, Nnamdi, played by Jide Kene Achufusi. Nnamdi is the son of the protagonist from the original movie and becomes entangled in a web of high society, wealth, power, and the supernatural world. Unfulfilled with his life of menial jobs and a measly income, Nnamdi decides to explore the path that his father had previously walked, leading him into a mysterious world that promises him fame and immense wealth.

Living in Bondage: Breaking Free offers audiences a depiction of the Nigerian culture in its undiluted form. From city life to village settings, the film superbly captures the beautiful landscapes, stunning city views, and traditional rural settings of Nigeria, providing a captivating and authentic background to the captivating plot.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the film is its comprehensive look at Nigeria's societal views around affluence and success, adding a sociological angle to the captivating drama thriller. It throws light on the fact that many societies define success majorly by the person’s material possessions leading to Nnamdi, like many others, desiring such material wealth at any cost. The film brings out the complexities of these societal expectations, and the desperate measures individuals might resort to in an attempt to rise above their existing circumstances.

What sets Living in Bondage: Breaking Free apart from most thriller movies is its employment of the supernatural as a major plot device. The story combines elements of African traditional religion with Christian beliefs, portraying a startling picture of the mysterious world that purportedly lies behind the curtain of everyday reality in many African societies. This fusion of religious beliefs, creating a potent, sometimes horrifying amalgamation that assumes a life of its own in the narrative, makes for an intriguing watch for viewers who enjoy deep and complex storylines.

The film significantly dazzles with the performance of its cast. Newcomer Jide Kene Achufusi delivers an intensely engaging performance as the main lead, carrying his role with an admirable blend of innocence, frustration, ambition, and tenacity. Kenneth Okonkwo, resurrecting his role as the enigmatic Andy, creates an air of suspense that complements the movie's mystery-laden plotline. Ramsey Nouah, stepping away from the cameras, does an excellent job at the helm as director, working with brilliant precision to deliver a film that is not only thoroughly entertaining but also psychologically profound.

Living in Bondage: Breaking Free combines innovative storytelling with beautiful visual imagery, creating a sound and visual spectacle guaranteed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Undoubtedly, it is the type of cinema that not only entertains but also challenges societal norms and succeeds in its aim to provide a thought-provoking commentary about the Nigerian socio-cultural landscape.

In conclusion, Living in Bondage: Breaking Free is a compelling blend of drama, thriller, and supernatural elements, offering the audience a multi-dimensional cinematic roller-coaster ride. The film also explores the modern African society's fascination with wealth and the lengths to which individuals might go to achieve prosperity, thereby adding a certain depth and critical social commentary. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to explore African cinema. The captivating storyline, along with charismatic performances, makes it a truly worthwhile cinema experience.