The Supreme Price

The Supreme Price is a compelling 2014 documentary movie directed by Joanna Lipper profiling Hafsat Abiola, a human rights and democracy advocate. The film is an exciting blend of past and present, personal and political, which provides a thoughtful and profound insight into the ongoing struggle for democratic governance and gender equality in Nigeria, Africa's most populous and economically powerful nation.

The documentary is particularly important, as it is an illustration of one of many instances of women's struggle for inclusion in the political sphere within a patriarchal system. It's a profound narrative of history, tragedy, and the unwavering spirit of a woman determined to challenge the system for a better future. Not just a narration of Nigeria's political history, The Supreme Price highlights the role of women in enhancing democracy, especially those that are at the forefront of promoting gender equity on the continent.

The film pivots around Hafsat Abiola who, following the annulment of her father, M.K.O Abiola's presidential election and her mother, Kudirat Abiola's assassination, decided to transform a tragedy into a beacon of hope. Hafsat Abiola's courage is truly inspirational, as she returns to Nigeria from the U.S. after a long period of exile to ensure that the blood and struggle of her parents were not in vain.

The film takes us through the historical political turmoil in Nigeria, from military coups to corrupt regimes, providing a distinctive view of the events that led to the inception of democracy in Nigeria. This historical chronology is intricately interwoven with Hafsat's personal journey, from a devastated daughter to a relentless human rights campaigner and an empowered woman setting new strides in her native country. The story of The Supreme Price demonstrates that politics is not detached from personal experience and that it often exacts a high price from those who defy its traditional boundaries.

But it’s not just an inward look at Hafsat’s life and the sacrifices she and her family made. The Supreme Price also visually captures essential parts of Nigerian life that often go unseen by international audiences. Director Joanna Lipper, through an excellent cinematic presentation, captures a layered portrayal of Nigeria, showcasing its vibrant culture, pulsating music and arts, hectic cityscapes, and beautiful landscapes.

Moreover, the movie provides viewers with an extensive understanding of Nigeria's political history without becoming overwhelmed or bored. Real-life footage of past political upheavals, protest movements, and significant political events are cleverly edited and used in the film to provide viewers an authentic feel of Nigeria's past. Lipper has carefully crafted this film over the course of several years, resulting in a deeply rich, well-researched, and visually stunning documentary.

Aside from delving into Nigeria's democracy from a historical and political standpoint, The Supreme Price provides a gender perspective of the political sphere by highlighting the importance of women's participation in politics. The film depicts the contrast of traditional patriarchal society with the vision of empowered women leaders, including Hafsat herself, boldly defying societal norms, demanding their rights and equal political representation. In so doing, this empowers female viewers in Nigeria and all over the world while also heightening international awareness about the need for gender equality initiatives globally.

Hafsat's resilience and dedication serve as the emotional core of the film, providing a poignant testament to the power of individuals in creating change against great odds. This is not just Hafsat's story, but a history lesson, a call-to-action for human rights, and a tribute to all women fighting for their voices to be heard in limitations imposed by society.

In the end, The Supreme Price is an inspiration, a testimony to the undying spirit of human resilience and determination. It's a crucial lesson in history and politics that speaks volumes about the struggle for democracy and gender equality not only in Nigeria but also in many other parts of the world. This luminous and poignant rendering of a family’s personal pain seen through the public lens of a nation’s political upheaval serves as a timeless reminder that the price of freedom is often steep, but the cost of silence and complacency is always greater. The Supreme Price is an extraordinary film that resonates powerfully and leaves viewers knowledgeable, inspired and challenged to make a difference in their societies.