The Lost Okoroshi

The Lost Okoroshi is a satirical adventure movie directed by acclaimed Nigerian director Abba T. Makama. Released in 2019, the film combines traditional African storytelling with contemporary issues to create a niche, thought-provoking cinema. With a star-studded cast featuring Seun Ajayi, Judith Audu, and Tope Tedela, The Lost Okoroshi grapples with elements of mysticism, urbanization, and the struggle between the past and the future.

The film opens by introducing us to our protagonist, Raymond Obinwa, portrayed by the talented Seun Ajayi. Raymond is a security guard working in Lagos, Nigeria, but his mundane existence is far from satisfying. He yearns for a deeper connection to his roots and his culture, which, in this fast-paced digital world, often seem forgotten and overlooked. He is incessantly haunted by vivid dreams of masquerades that signify traditional spirit entities called the Okoroshi, representative of ancestral spirits in the Igbo culture.

One day, Raymond's life takes a dramatic turn when his recurrent dreams spill over into reality. In his dream, he is transformed into an Okoroshi, a traditional ancestral spirit. However, he wakes up and discovers that his dream has become his new reality. Now as an Okoroshi, Raymond finds himself mute and vibrant, a stark contrast to his former quiet and subdued existence.

We then follow the Okoroshi as he navigates the chaotic urban environment of Lagos. Dressed in vibrant traditional regalia and unable to communicate verbally, he is a stark outlier in the bustling city. His journey through the city takes us through a rollercoaster of moments- some comical, some poignant, and some downright frustrating. His alienness acts as a mirror that exposes the ironies of the society we live in, leading us to question the very nature of our modern world.

Meanwhile, other characters are introduced who cross paths with this "Lost Okoroshi", each with their narrative contributing to the film's overarching exploration of cultural conflict. One of these characters is Nneka, played by Judith Audu. Nneka is a liberated woman who becomes an unlikely ally to the Okoroshi. Her character provides a grounded perspective against the mythic persona of the Okoroshi. There is also a small gang led by Tope Tedela who become fascinated by the Okoroshi and set out to capture it for financial gain.

Throughout the film, the director skillfully uses the Okoroshi figure as a metaphor to tell a larger story about identity and cultural resistance in a postcolonial Africa. The movie effectively taps into Nigeria's rich cultural symbolism to explore the complex relationship between tradition and modernity, the spiritual and material world.

Visually, The Lost Okoroshi stands out with its bold and colorful cinematography. The use of vibrant colors throughout the film adds an element of whimsy, further elevating its unconventional narrative. The director's background in visual arts is apparent and lends the film a distinct visual style that perfectly complements its layered narrative.

Performances are convincing across the board, with Seun Ajayi stealing the show. His silent performance as the Okoroshi exudes a powerful magnetism that draws viewers in. Similarly, Judith Audu and Tope Tedela deliver compelling performances, adding layers of complexity to their respective characters.

Overall, The Lost Okoroshi is not your typical commercial cinema. It is an artistic commentary that explores existential themes wrapped up in a colorful and amusing package. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in gaining a fresh perspective on African cinema and one's cultural identity.