"Breath of Life is a visually stunning and spiritually compelling film that redefines faith-based storytelling in Nollywood, blending profound themes with masterful cinematography."
In an industry yearning for intricately crafted narratives, "Breath of Life" stands as a beacon of grand and ambitious filmmaking. Directed by Bodunrin Sasore, who returns after a creative hiatus since his 2018 film "God Calling," this latest offering exemplifies his distinctive prowess in faith-based Nigerian cinema. Sasore reunites with key collaborators Ola Cardoso (cinematography) and Holmes O. Awa (editing), ensuring a continuity of artistic vision and technical excellence. The film's remarkable achievement was recently recognized at the African Magic Viewer's Choice Awards (AMVCA), where it won Best Film, and lead actor Wale Ojo secured the award for Best Male Actor in a Leading Role.
"Breath of Life" commences in a futuristic setting before delving into an extensive flashback that chronicles the life of young Temi, portrayed by Ademola Adedoyin. The film uses voiceovers and visually stunning frames to navigate through Temi’s military service, religious tutelage, and accumulated wealth. Upon returning to Nigeria, Temi’s life takes a tragic turn, leading him to become a recluse, disenchanted with his faith. The story then shifts focus to Elijah (Chimezie Imo), who strives to rekindle the religious fervor in the community while grappling with personal and romantic challenges involving Anna (Genoveva Umeh).
One of the film’s most commendable aspects is its subtle treatment of faith-based themes. Unlike many evangelical films that draw clear lines between good and evil, "Breath of Life" carefully modulates its religious undertones. The characters, particularly the antagonist Chief Okonkwo (Sam Dede), are not overtly villainous but represent a nuanced opposition. This restrained approach allows the film to invite viewers gently into its spiritual narrative without overwhelming them.
Visually, "Breath of Life" is a triumph. Cardoso’s cinematography, in harmony with the lighting department, captures the essence of Ibadan’s landscapes and the characters' intimate spaces, crafting a visually immersive experience. However, this visual splendor occasionally masks some of the film’s shortcomings. For instance, Anna's abrupt transition from religious apathy to fervent activism feels rushed and unconvincing. Similarly, the relationship dynamics between Timi and Elijah, along with Elijah's reliance on an inhaler due to an underexplained health issue, could have benefited from more nuanced development.
The film’s narrative struggles extend to its anachronistic props, which disrupt the temporal setting and detract from the otherwise cohesive visual language. Despite these script and prop-related inconsistencies, the actors' performances anchor the film. Adedoyin’s portrayal of young Temi is especially compelling, drawing viewers into his profound grief. Imo’s evolution from a humble servant to a fervent preacher showcases his versatility, while Umeh’s vibrant energy adds depth to her role, reminiscent of her breakout performance in "Blood Sisters" (2022). Conversely, Wale Ojo’s depiction of the older Timi occasionally falls short, with his physical expressiveness not always matching the emotional gravity of his character’s plight. Nevertheless, Ojo’s overall performance was strong enough to earn him the Best Male Actor award at the AMVCA.
Despite its flaws, "Breath of Life" represents a unified vision of ambitious storytelling and performance. It reflects Sasore’s dedication to creating thought-provoking, faith-based cinema that resonates with both spiritual and secular audiences. In a film culture often devoid of substantial narratives, "Breath of Life" emerges as a definitive example of grand and ambitious filmmaking, leaving an indelible mark on Nollywood’s evolving landscape. Its accolades at the AMVCA underscore its impact and significance in contemporary African cinema.
Rating: 7.5/10
