THE BLACK BOOK movie review on NMN.ng takes a look at the game-changing action thriller that proves that African stories, told by African filmmakers, can compete on the global stage. A Nollywood triumph on Netflix!
When The Black Book premiered on Netflix on September 22, 2023, it didn’t just arrive as another Nollywood offering—it stormed onto the global stage, claiming the No. 3 spot on Netflix’s worldwide charts and amassing over 20 million views in its opening weeks. Directed by first-time filmmaker Editi Effiong, this Nigerian crime thriller is a bold, gritty, and unapologetically authentic masterpiece that holds a mirror to Nigeria’s societal struggles while delivering high-octane action. For NMN.ng readers, The Black Book is not just a film to watch—it’s a cinematic milestone that demands your attention.
At its core, The Black Book is a revenge saga that follows Paul Edima (Richard Mofe-Damijo), a retired hitman turned church deacon whose quiet life is shattered when his son, Damilola (Olumide Oworu), is framed for a kidnapping and murdered by corrupt police officers. What unfolds is a relentless quest for justice as Paul confronts his dark past and takes on a powerful network of corruption led by his former boss, General Issa (Alex Usifo). Comparisons to John Wick are inevitable, but The Black Book carves its own identity by weaving Nigeria’s socio-political realities—corruption, police brutality, and the struggle for justice—into a taut, emotionally charged narrative.
Effiong’s directorial debut is nothing short of remarkable. With a modest $1 million budget—a significant sum for Nollywood but a fraction of Hollywood’s standards—he crafts a visually stunning film that rivals global blockbusters. Shot on Panavision cameras (a first for Nigerian cinema), the cinematography captures Lagos in its raw, unfiltered glory, from bustling streets to shadowy hideouts. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed, delivering heart-pounding gunfights and chases that feel both chaotic and authentic. However, the film’s true strength lies in its authenticity. As Effiong himself noted, “We showed Nigeria as Nigerians see it, not a Hollywood version of Lagos.” This commitment to realism resonates deeply, making every scene feel lived-in and relatable.
The ensemble cast is a Nollywood dream team, with Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) delivering a career-defining performance as Paul Edima. RMD balances stoic grief with lethal intensity, making Paul a protagonist you root for and fear in equal measure. Ade Laoye shines as Vic Kalu, an aspiring journalist whose pursuit of truth adds moral weight to the story. Veterans like Sam Dede, Shaffy Bello, and Alex Usifo elevate the film with nuanced performances, while Bimbo Akintola’s brief but powerful role leaves a lasting impact. The chemistry among the cast grounds the film’s larger-than-life stakes in human emotion.
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Beyond its thrills, The Black Book is a poignant commentary on Nigeria’s history and present. The script cleverly traces 40 years of the nation’s challenges, from military rule to modern-day corruption, with General Issa’s chilling line—“We allow them a sense of democratic freedom but retain power”—encapsulating the film’s critique of systemic oppression. This political boldness, paired with a universal story of loss and redemption, makes the film resonate far beyond Nigeria, topping charts in South Korea, South America, and beyond.
If there’s a flaw, it’s that the film’s ambitious narrative occasionally stumbles under its own weight. Some subplots, like Vic’s journalistic arc, feel underdeveloped, and a few action scenes could benefit from tighter editing. Yet, these are minor quibbles in a film that achieves so much with so little. The sound design, often a weak point in Nollywood, is crisp, though some early gunfights lean slightly artificial—a small reminder of the budget constraints.
The Black Book is a game-changer for Nollywood, proving that African stories, told by African filmmakers, can compete on the global stage. It’s a film that entertains, provokes, and inspires, leaving you both exhilarated and reflective. For Nigerian audiences, it’s a proud moment to see our stories told with such craft and courage. For global viewers, it’s an invitation to discover the power of Nollywood.
NMN Rating: 8.5/10
Stream The Black Book on Netflix and witness Nollywood’s finest hour. Editi Effiong and his team have not only raised the bar—they’ve redefined what Nigerian cinema can be.
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Sources: Hollywood Reporter, IMDb, The Conversation, Businessday NG
