The Last Tree

The Last Tree, released in 2019, and directed and written by Shola Amoo, is a profound coming-of-age drama that narrates an evocative tale of identity, belonging and personal evolution. Rising star Samuel Adewunmi showcases an extraordinary portrayal of the main character, Femi, against a backdrop of anxiety, confusion, and yearning for self-discovery. The cast includes Nicholas Pinnock and Denise Black, who add depth to this novel and piercing self-reflection.

The movie establishes a captivating landscape in the bucolic setting of Lincolnshire, where Femi spends his childhood under the loving care of a foster mother, played by Denise Black, alongside other white foster kids. It's a peaceful, if simplistic, existence where he has developed a sense of belonging and security. However, his life takes an abrupt turn when his biological Nigerian mother, played by Gbemisola Ikumelo, unexpectedly reclaims custody and transplants him into a drastically different world in the bustling city of London.

A bewildered Femi finds himself thrust into an unpliable cosmopolitan life amidst people who share his skin color but show little of the warmth and understanding he is accustomed to. The culture shock gradually manifests in the growing child as he tries to grapple with his changing world, paving the way for an intense exploration of identity crisis. This powerful narrative is enforced by the stark contrast between the tranquility and warmth of his rural upbringings juxtaposed with the chaotic and harsh reality of urban life.

Samuel Adewunmi flawlessly portrays the interior and exterior struggles of a confused teenager spiraling through anger, dismay and an increasing disconnection from his cultural roots. Nicholas Pinnock impeccably epitomizes a father figure who appears as Mace, an empathetic local man. Mace takes Femi under his wing and attempts to guide him, showing tenderness and concern while underscoring the complexities of Femi's internal conflict and struggle to fit in.

The progression of Femi from an innocent countryside boy to a conflicted teenager in the city is a testament to Shola Amoo's ability to weave meaningful insight throughout the film. The audience watches as Femi tries to storm the fortress of his identity, bridge the cultural gap and reconcile with his mother, all while grappling with new friendships, love interests, and mentors. Femi's journey becomes a poetic restlessness, a representation of a young black man torn between his African roots and British upbringing - a journey that stands as an allegory for the experiences and tribulations of many young people in a multicultural society.

Shot by Stil Williams, the cinematography of The Last Tree is both poignant and symbolic. The serene green fields of Femi's childhood home stand starkly against the urban landscapes of London. With shots marinated in tranquillity and tense city scenes infused with symbolic realism, the film aspires to connect on a more visceral level. The striking visual metaphors parallel the deep, psychological conflict unravelling within the protagonist as he gradually loses touch with his childhood innocence, carving his path in the overwhelming world around him.

The soundtrack, composed by Segun Akinola, plays a crucial role in molding the film's narrative and emotions. It oscillates between serene melodies that imitate the calmness of the Lincolnshire countryside and haunting, turbulent tunes that reflect the internal chaos brewing inside Femi. Through such intuitive mixes, the music transcends its traditional role and becomes the voice of the protagonist's undeclared inner turmoil - resonating with the audience and imbuing them with a sense of the protagonist's struggle.

In a nutshell, The Last Tree is an exceptional coming-of-age film that exploits cinematography and sound to extend the narrative beyond the script and provide a multi-dimensional exploration of self-realization and identity. It depicts Femi's journey of self-discovery and endurance, struggling between his cultural roots and the world he's come to inhabit. Samuel Adewunmi's stunning performance reinforces the complex layers of the story, furnishing an intimate yet broad view of adolescence and the struggle for belonging in a split world.

The Last Tree, undoubtedly, is a film that engages the audience, makes learning experiences out of Femi's trials, and arouses introspection about personal identities and multicultural realities. It is a powerful portrait of resilience, evolution and a continual journey towards self-discovery, resonating with the audience long after the credits have rolled.