"A Tribe Called Judah" is Funke Akindele's Latest Cinematic Triumph - And it's a Billion Naira One!
ATCJ stands not only as a testament to Akindele's cinematic prowess but also as a beacon for the future potential of Nollywood productions.
Story by: Funke Akindele
Written by: Funke Akindele, Collins Okoh, and Akinlabi Ishola
Directed by: Funke Akindele and Adeoluwa Owu
Production house: Funke Ayotunde Akindele Network (FAAN)
Starring: Funke Akindele, Jide Kene Achufusi, Uzee Usman, Tobi Makinde, Timini Egbuson, Olumide Oworu, Uzor Arukwe, Ebele Okaro, Nse Ikpe Etim, Genoveva Umeh, Faithia Williams, Nosa Rex, Greg Ojefua, Ibrahim Yekini, Boma Akpore, and more.
When Nollywood lovers say, "Funke Akindele is in a league of her own," they point to her not only as a seasoned actor with an illustrious filmography since the 1990s but especially as a filmmaker. Over the last three years, Akindele has been setting and breaking financial movie records with successive power moves. A Tribe Called Judah, her latest cinematic venture was always destined to be a high-grossing blockbuster even before its cinema debut. Funke Akindele doesn't just guarantee entertainment; she delivers it with unexpected depth and intentionality with each outing promising something different.
A Tribe Called Judah unravels the story of Jedidah Judah (Funke Akindele), a single mother with five sons from five different fathers and tribes. The narrative pivots when Jedidah falls critically ill, necessitating a significant sum of β¦18 million for a surgical transplant. In a desperate move to secure the funds, her sons plan a heist to rob a luxury furniture store, setting off a chain of chaotic events when they find armed robbers already at the target.
A Tribe Called Judah excels in fleshing out its familial dynamics, investing time in establishing the relationships between Jedidah and her sons. This groundwork becomes crucial when the central conflict of Jedidah's illness and the subsequent heist unfolds. The world-building is remarkable, especially as it leads to a mostly satisfying payoff when things become heated.
The movie boasts commendable performances, from Funke Akindele's compelling portrayal of the Judah matriarch to Uzor Arukwe's Igbotic rendition of Oga Chigozie, Nse Ikpe-Etim's despicable Collette, and Genoveva Umeh as the vibrant Testimony. The core cast is rounded off by Jidekene Achufusi, Uzee Usman, Tobi Makinde, Timini Egbuson, and Olumide Owuro, who play the Judah brothers from oldest to youngest, and all contribute to the cohesive and engaging narrative.
A Tribe Called Judah is a multifaceted narrative, intertwining elements of a heist story with a profound exploration of family ties. It navigates the adventurous terrain of a heist while delving into the theme of familial unity during crises.
The film is visually pleasing to look at thanks, featuring vibrant costumes, especially notable during the heist scene. Thanks to Barney Emodiβs vision, the imagery is well-crafted, and the colorful aesthetics promise an exciting cinematic experience. While some parts could have benefited from brevity, especially during the heist shootout, they don't significantly detract from the overall viewing pleasure.
As of this review (January 5, 2024), A Tribe Called Judah has reportedly surpassed a billion Naira at the Nigerian box office, a historic achievement for the industry. Funke Akindele is rightfully crowned the box office queen of Nollywood, and ATCJ deserves the accolades itβs garnered.
The combination of Funke Akindele's prowess, a well-developed plot, strong performances, and the storyβs ability to up the stakes at almost every turn makes A Tribe Called Judah an unequivocal success, both critically and commercially. It stands not only as a testament to Akindele's cinematic prowess but also as a beacon for the future potential of Nollywood productions. A Tribe Called Judah is more than a movie; it's a cinematic triumph for Nollywood.
A Tribe Called Judah is still showing in cinemas, go see it if you can.