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Based on Wole Soyinka's play, this is the story of a horseman who must sacrifice himself to serve his ruler in the afterlife. But sudden distractions lead to unexpected tragedy.
The late Biyi Bandele put in a lot of effort translating Wole Soyinka's literary work onto the big screen and while the final result is commendable, it is let down by its rather anti-climatic third act.
The story begins and you are drawn in from the very first scene. The set pieces are beautiful, the costumes impressive, and the characters all play their parts well.
Elesin Oba thrives when it comes to its dialogue; rich, poetic, and infused with unending proverbs and metaphors, the interaction among the characters is nothing short of amazing.
Odunlade Adekola is imposing and impressive as the King's Horseman. He does a pretty good job with the role. The only complaint from me is that ridiculous fake beard.
I almost didn't recognise popular singer Brymo when he was first shown on screen. As an artiste, he has shown talent but I never expected to be won over by his acting as well.
To me, the standout of this film in terms of performance is Shaffy Bello as Iyaloja. The scene where she reprimands Elesin Oba continues to stand out in my memory as one of the highlights of the third act.
I will not forget Deyemi Okanlawon who equally shines despite limited screen time.
Plot-wise, this film does well until the concluding path which fails to produce the expected effect. This is where a theatrical performance thrives whereas a film doesn't.
Soyinka wrote the book to be acted on stage and maybe that's the only place Elesin Oba can really be the masterpiece it ought to be.
