The Arbitration

The Arbitration is a thought-provoking 2016 Nigerian film that combines elements of legal drama, corporate intrigue, and interpersonal connection. The film is directed by Niyi Akinmolayan and boasts stellar performances from its star-studded cast. Among the actors are Fiyin Adebayo, who embodies each emotional blow with the stoic poise of a seasoned actor; Bimbo Ademoye, whose character unveils shards of deep humanity behind the business persona; and Bunmi Ajakaiye, who stunningly plays a fierce, determined woman. The film's setting is pioneeringly original, providing a distinct Nigerian perspective.

The plot focuses on a successful startup company called "Iwaju," which becomes the battleground when accusations of sexual assault are leveled against its wealthy and charismatic CEO, Gbenga Sanni. Shockwaves reverberate through Nigeria's corporate sector as Gbenga's former employee and intimate partner, Dara Olujobi, alleges that he raped her. With explosive allegations threatening to crumble the empire he built, both parties agree to an independent arbitration to dissect the multi-faceted truth hidden beneath accusations and defenses.

The story unfolds with deep-seated themes of power, influence, gender dynamics, corporate ethics, and the personal cost of ambition. By using the innovative setting of an arbitration panel, the film delves into corporate governance and industrial tribunal proceedings, revealing how fairness can get convoluted in the shadow of power and money. The screenplay sensitively handles the sexual assault allegation, fleshing out every angle without resorting to sensationalism, melodrama or oversimplification.

Simultaneously, the plot weaves in a subplot of Dara's pregnancy, the baby's paternity, and the impact of these factors on the arbitration hearings. It introduces an exciting element of suspense, keeping viewers engaged and on their toes. Along with pushing the story forward, Dara's pregnancy raises additional social and moral questions, further enriching the narrative complexity of The Arbitration.

The film's characters are meticulously layered, each with unique motivations and personas. Fiyin Adebayo portrays Gbenga Sanni, the ambitious CEO of Iwaju, who's used to getting his way regardless of the costs. Bimbo Ademoye plays the wronged Dara, a woman on a quest for justice, and proves her versatility as an actor. Other actors round out the cast gloriously, and everyone offers up a no-holds-barred performance, capturing the intricate dance of truth and lies.

From a direction perspective, The Arbitration skillfully uses its single-location setting to its advantage and efficiently generates tension within this framework. Despite the limitations, the film maintains an engaging pace throughout. The screenplay doesn't shy away from harsh realities nor neglects the subtle bias in the corporate structures and legal proceedings. The unfolding of the case is realistically depicted, not muddling the line between the victim and the accused, which tests the audience's morality and judgment, a testament to its brave storytelling.

The dialogue and delivery are crisp and sharp. The Arbitration doesn't indulge in gratuitously long speeches but prefers razor-sharp wit and tense silence. The characters’ exchanges are intellectual but not overcooked, which gives a natural flow to the narrative. Additionally, cinematography and sound design are sleek and polished, immersing audiences in the corporate atmosphere and making an impressive contribution to the overall realistic portrayal.

The Arbitration is an unusual blend of a courtroom drama and a relationship story, skillfully exploring romantic entanglement within a professional setting while navigating legal proceedings. While the film might dwell within the walls of a corporate boardroom, it doesn't shy away from exploring the human ramifications of love, power, ambition, and assault, which linger well after the final verdict.

In conclusion, The Arbitration delivers a powerful narrative about corporate governance, sexual assault, and power dynamics within one of the most vibrant startup scenes in Africa. Its tale is riveting and thought-provoking, leaving the audience with more than just a movie experience but a reflection on the state of justice in the ever-evolving corporate world.