Áfàméfùnà: An Nwa Boi Story, a recently released movie from Come On Naija, is the inaugural feature-length film dedicated to delving into the intricacies of the Igbo apprenticeship system.
This culturally rich narrative explores how the system played a pivotal role in revitalizing the community’s economy, allowing successful Igbo men to impart knowledge and blessings to apprentices, thus perpetuating a cycle of wealth creation.
It reveals the pursuit of economic freedom by Igbo boys as they engage in apprenticeship, highlighting their aspirations, the sacrifices tied to success, and the unavoidable betrayals that accompany it as portrayed by the dealings of Afam, Paulo, Obum, and the other boys in Odogwu’s business empire. Áfàméfùnà is backed by Aiico Insurance plc and Optimal Capital, and it took us on a pleasurable journey through history, tradition, and the intricacies of the business.
Directed by Kayode Kasum, the film boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring Kanayo O. Kanayo, Stan Nze, Alexx Ekubo, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Chuks Joseph, Segun Arinze, with notable appearances from Jide Kene Achufusi and Noble Igwe. Produced by Omobayowa Alabi, the film is executive-produced by Lawumi Fajemirokun and Kenechukwu Egbue.
Áfàméfùnà is a revolutionary exploration of Nigerian history, delving deep into the intricacies of the Igbo apprenticeship system. It unveils the cultural heritage, ambition, sacrifice, love, betrayal, and redemption that have molded this esteemed institution. The Igbo apprenticeship system, highlighted by Odogwu; played by Kanayo O. Kanayo, played a pivotal role in revitalizing the fortunes of the Igbo tribe, notably after the Nigerian Civil War, also known as the Biafra War.
Against the backdrop of the Nigerian Civil War, the film underlines the crucial role played by the Igbo apprenticeship system in revitalizing the fortunes of the Igbo tribe. Odogwu, portrayed by Kanayo O. Kanayo, becomes a symbolic representation of this resurgence, highlighting the economic challenges faced by the Igbo community post-war.
“Áfàméfùnà” also challenges prevalent stereotypes by portraying instances of existing good and incorruptible officers within Nigerian government agencies. A notable portrayal is the customs officer who steadfastly refuses bribes and helps Odogwu clear out his goods the right way as opposed to the 10 million naira he was initially charged, offering a narrative departure from the commonly held belief in pervasive corruption within the Nigerian government sector.
The film’s characters, brought to life by an exceptional cast, successfully transport viewers into history. Particularly noteworthy is the Igbo Amaka/Apprenticeship lecture, delivered by Odogwu to Afam, providing viewers with an immersive experience beyond the surface of young Igbo boys selling in a shop. The casting is impeccable, with seamless transitions between younger and older characters.
Set in Nnewi Anambra and Lagos State, Áfàméfùnà skillfully showcases the richness of Igbo culture. The film seamlessly intertwines traditions, language, and cultural diversity, with most dialogues in Igbo, sprinkled with elements of Yoruba and Hausa languages, depicting unity and uniqueness of Nigerian tribes.
The cinematography in Áfàméfùnà is noteworthy for its targeted lighting, capturing beautiful angles that enhance the overall visual experience. The use of VFX and Computer Generated Imagery, especially in monetary transactions from Afam to Paulo, contributes significantly to the storytelling, creating a cinematic experience that is visually compelling and aesthetically pleasing.
Above all, Áfàméfùnà emerges as a resounding exploration of the intricate Igbo apprenticeship system, laying bare the cultural heritage, ambition, sacrifice, love, betrayal, and redemption that have shaped this institution.
From us at Kemi Filani, it’s 8.7 for Áfàméfùnà, applauding its masterful portrayal of history, culture, and human dynamics in the context of the Igbo apprenticeship system.