A Bag of Trouble Review: Laughter, Drama and lessons from ‘sudden wealth syndrome’

The dynamic comedic duo of Samuel Animashaun Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggi, and Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, widely recognized as Oga Sabinus, take centre stage in the recently debuted Nigerian psycho-comedy film titled A Bag of Trouble.

This cinematic creation, produced by Collis T. Miller and Michael Chimex Onwunali for Spinning Films and Tehilla Films, respectively, finally hit theatres on September 1, 2023.

A Bag of Trouble ventures into the intricate domain of human behaviour and the complexities of the human psyche, seamlessly blending elements of humour, drama, and psychology. What sets this film apart is its artful ability to blend humour seamlessly with profound psychological exploration.

The movie’s cast features an impressive lineup of Nigerian talent, with luminaries such as Jide Kosoko, Samuel Animashaun Perry(Broda Shaggi), Hafiz ‘Saka’ Oyetoro, Emmanuel Ejekwu (Mr. Funny), and the gorgeous Bimbo Oshin gracing the screen.

Under the meticulous direction of Mazi Chimex, the narrative unfolds with an artful delicacy that is winsome while eliciting laughter. The film probes the intricate relationship between wealth and mindset, traversing the far-reaching complexities through the authentic portrayal of the main character, Mosquito acted by Broda Shaggi.

In this riveting Nigerian psycho-comedy, viewers are in for a rollercoaster of laughter, drama, and self-discovery. Broda Shaggi, portraying the character Mosquito, takes us on a wild ride into a world where an unexpected windfall triggers a chain of events that is both comically absurd and profoundly thought-provoking.

Mosquito, a humble vulcanizer

The movie starts with a chance encounter where Mosquito, a humble vulcanizer in Ibadan, becomes an unwitting hero by saving the daughter of Senator Coker, brilliantly played by Jide Kosoko. What follows is a cascade of humour and human psychology as Senator Coker’s gratitude takes an unexpected turn. A mysterious bag of money enters the scene, setting off a series of hilariously paranoid reactions from Mosquito, who believes everyone is out to get him because of the bag’s contents.

As Mosquito’s mind torments him with wild assumptions and delusions, the story explores the psychology of fear, suspicion, and the repercussions of sudden wealth. It’s a journey that’s as comical as it is thought-provoking, highlighting the stark contrast in how different individuals handle newfound prosperity.

The movie’s ensemble cast, including the talented Saka, adds depth to the storytelling, portraying characters who embody various psychological responses to sudden wealth, as seen in how Mosquito handled the bag of money and how Jamiu handled the same bag of money. There’s comedy, there’s drama, and beneath it all lies a reflection on the human psyche when confronted with unexpected fortune.

A Bag of Trouble Cinematography

The cinematography in A Bag of Trouble is a visual treat that beautifully complements the film’s narrative. Director Mazi Chimex, in collaboration with the cinematography team, has crafted a visual style that captures the essence of the story and enhances its impact on the audience.

One of the standout aspects of the cinematography is its ability to adapt to the film’s ever-changing tone, effectively translating the humour, tension, and psychological depth onto the screen. This dynamic approach to cinematography mirrors the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by the characters and the viewers.

The use of colour and framing is noteworthy. The film employs a vibrant colour palette that adds energy to the comedic scenes while it shifts to more muted tones during the introspective and dramatic moments. This visual strategy helps convey the complex emotions of the characters.

Nigerian landscape

Furthermore, Incorporating the rich Nigerian landscape, the cinematography also showcases the beauty of Ibadan, providing a sense of place and culture. It immerses the audience in the surroundings and captures the essence of the setting.

The film uses creative camera angles and movements to emphasize certain emotions or plot points. Whether it’s a close-up of Mosquito’s bewildered, sweat-beaded face or a sweeping shot through the side mirror of a car when the police officers pursue Mosquito, the cinematography enhances the storytelling and engages the audience on a deeper level.

Amidst the laughter and comedic escapades, A Bag of Trouble mirrors society’s response to sudden wealth, reminding us that the term ‘sudden wealth syndrome’ is more than just a humorous catchphrase. It delves into the emotional challenges and complexities that arise when individuals are thrust into wealth they are unprepared for, offering both humour and a profound message.

Broda Shaggi’s character Mosquito may come across as foolish and annoying at times, but his journey speaks to a broader truth about the human condition. So, if you’re ready for a drama-filled cinematic experience that will tickle your funny bone and leave you pondering the quirks of human behaviour, A Bag of Trouble is a must-watch.

Spoiler though, as the movie reaches the end, viewers will be left with an indelible impression—a sense of catharsis that encourages introspection and self-discovery, but the movie transcends being merely a film; it’s a thought-provoking immersive experience that will linger in the hearts and minds of viewers long after the closing credits, but in its purest essence, A Bag of Trouble captures the soul of Nigerian storytelling.