Ile Owo: House of Money (2022)
Director: Dare Olaitan,
Genre: Drama, horror, thriller.
Actors: Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kie Kie), Bisola Aiyeola, Sophie Alakija, Mofe Duncan, Temisan Emmanuel, Ikponmwosa Gold, Efa Iwara, Akin Lewis, and Tina Mba.
Film duration: 95 minutes.
Ile owo: Introduction
In this review, there may be a few spoilers, so if you haven’t watched the movie yet, I recommend pausing your reading and doing so first!
Plot/Synopsis
Ile Owo is a thriller that draws inspiration from folklore and traditional origins. It tells the story of Akanni Owo, a wealthy man who desires immortality, and how his request crosses with Busola, a young spinster who finally finds her prince charming after a string of unsuccessful relationships.
The movie starts in a captivating manner, and the initial scenes leave you wanting more. However, as the plot unfolds and tries to establish itself as a horror film, it becomes somewhat confusing.
Character development
There are several gaps in the movie, particularly in terms of character development. Efa Iwara delivers a solid performance as Sagbadewe’s priest, but like many neo-Nollywood movies, there are numerous characters whose roles remain unclear even at the end. One prominent example is Busola’s father – what did he have to lose or gain? How does he fit into the story? Was he also an “owo”? What was the connection between his leg ulcer and his relationship with Sagbadewe?
While Nollywood has moved away from the era of “to be continued” endings, there could have been better explanations provided for what occurred between Akanni’s encounter and the emergence of the Owo brothers within the 95-minute runtime.
Certain scenes in the movie, such as Busola vomiting the idol, her running through a haunted house, Efa Iwara engulfed in flames, and her sudden appearance at her friend’s door, become confusing and disjointed. The abruptness of the ending leaves much to be desired from the screenwriter. Additionally, the limited screen time given to Bisola Aiyeola feels like a waste of a talented actor, while skit maker “Kiekie” offers some welcome comic relief without overpowering the narrative.
At certain points, the movie hints at the triumph of good over evil, but the church scene raises questions about what exactly happened and why Busola’s mother had to die despite possessing the same anointing as Busola.
Makeup, videography, Sound
In terms of sound, the movie successfully evokes the desired fear associated with horror films. It is also refreshing to see the relative absence of excessive gore, blood, and unrealistic makeup/costumes often found in Nollywood horror movies. The videography, editing, and directing quality of Ile Owo deserve commendation.
Themes:
The film highlights the power of a mother’s prayers, the reality of ritual sacrifice for immortality, and the presence of magic in our society. Above all, it explores themes of deception, immortality, and family tradition.
Final thoughts/rating
In conclusion, I would rate this movie a two on a scale of zero to five. While I appreciate the effort made to give a unique twist to Nollywood horror, I cannot overlook the confusing plot and the abundance of unanswered questions by the end. My verdict? Watch it for curiosity’s sake.