Film lovers who would like something different from the usual comedy and romance of most Nollywood movies have an answer in Code Wilo. The story is a political thriller which centers on the drama that a chief triggers when he announces his daughter’s intention to run for state governor.
The movie explores the harsh realities of societal norms and political behavior in Nigeria. It is a grim display of violent power plays, ruthless ambition, betrayal, and conspiracies.
Who is in it?
The cast is star studded. It features dependable Nollywood veterans like Zach Orji, Eucharia Anunobi, and Alex Usifo; so, you know you can expect some good acting. The film features some interesting new talents as well. Gbenga Titiloye plays the character of Livinus Thompson and Bikiya Graham Douglas plays one of the leading roles as Nimi Thompson, the daughter planning to contest in the upcoming governorship elections. Gabriel Afolayan also appears in this film, and other performers you can look forward to seeing on the big screen are Kalu Ikeagwu and Uzo Arukwe.
What is it about?
Things go wrong for Livinus Thompson, a shady politician and businessman, after he announces that his daughter Nimi will be a candidate in the upcoming governorship elections. After the pre-campaign announcement party, his daughter is kidnapped. It becomes clear that the kidnappers want more than just money, and the chief begins to suspect that there is an enemy in his camp.
Why you should watch it
Code Wilo is not just about electoral violence. It’s an intriguing story that addresses salient issues in Nigerian society and politics. The concept of a woman running for governor highlights the bias against women in politics and the struggle for female empowerment. The film presents the honest facts of the violence, unrest and confusion that never fails to precede elections, and we see karma wreaking vengeance against wickedness and bad leadership in the role of the kidnappers. There’s definitely more, but as usual, you’ll only find out how good a film is when you watch it.
Although Code Wilo has just been released in cinemas, it debuted as a free on-demand movie on DSTV in April. In an announcement concerning its decision to make the film available for free on DSTV, the Multichoice company stated:
“It’s a film carefully crafted to deliver suspense, entertainment, star-power, amazing performances and reflections that we hope enhances public conversations about women empowerment in our politics.”
Code Wilo was directed by Mike Steve-Adeleye and produced by Hauwa Allahbura. Hauwa Allahbura is a young and dynamic female producer rising in the Nigerian film industry. Her first project as a producer was a 2018 romantic comedy titled The Eve in which she starred. The film also features Beverly Naya and Adeolu Adefarasin in lead roles. It was very well received by Nollywood audiences. Code Wilo is Allahbura’s second project as a producer, and it became available for private screening during the February election season of this year.
Sources:
Black House Media
Pulse NG
Thenet NG
Premium Times NG
Featured image source: Pulse NG