“Kunle Afolayan’s ‘Ijogbon’: A Fascinating Dive into Nigerian Cinema”
Award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has once again captivated audiences with his newest creation, ‘Ijogbon,’ which officially landed on Netflix on Friday, October 13, 2023.
“Ijogbon” Cast
Kunle Afolayan, celebrated for his masterful storytelling in blockbuster films such as ‘Anikulapo,’ ‘Swallow,’ and ‘October 1,’ has been making waves in the world of cinema. ‘Ijogbon’ continues his impressive body of work.
Here’s everything you need to know about ‘Ijogbon’ before you watch it:
“Ijogbon” Unveils a Thrilling Coming-of-Age Story
This compelling film, scripted by Tunde Babalola, the genius behind hit movies like ‘Citation,’ ‘October 1,’ and ‘Mokalik,’ delves into the lives of four teenagers. Their world takes a dramatic turn when they stumble upon a bag of diamonds and decide to keep it a secret.
According to Kunle Afolayan, ‘Ijogbon’ reveals the universality of human emotions, influenced by unique cultural backgrounds and beliefs. It offers an insight into the lives of teenagers in rural areas, their aspirations for a brighter future, and their willingness to embark on unconventional journeys, even if it means leaving their home country—a practice colloquially known as ‘Japa.’
“Ijogbon”: The Final Chapter of Afolayan’s Netflix Trilogy
In 2021, Kunle Afolayan entered into a significant partnership with Netflix. The collaboration was set to produce three distinct Nigerian-centered films, each exploring different genres. The trilogy began with ‘Swallow,’ a story about a secretary who becomes a drug mule in the mid-1980s. It continued with ‘Anikulapo,’ narrating the tale of Saro and his greed-induced downfall. The third and final installment in the trilogy is ‘Ijogbon,’ a character-driven drama.
Meet the Stellar Cast of ‘Ijogbon’
‘Ijogbon’ introduces audiences to a mix of seasoned Nollywood veterans and fresh talents. The film features renowned actors such as Bimbo Manuel, Gabriel Afolayan, Sam Dede, Yemi Solade, Yemi Sodimu, Femi Branch, and Adunni Ade. Additionally, emerging Nollywood stars like Dorothy Bachor and Fawaz of the Ikorodu Bois, among others, infuse their unique charm into the narrative.
‘Ijogbon’ Draws Inspiration from Local Folklore
With a runtime of approximately 115 minutes, ‘Ijogbon’ draws inspiration from local folklore to enrich its storytelling. Reportedly shot in a rural setting, the film may have been filmed in Kunle Afolayan’s KAP Village, where his previous movie, ‘Anikulapo,’ came to life.
As Kunle Afolayan continues to be a frontrunner in the Nigerian film industry, ‘Ijogbon’ is poised to be another outstanding addition to his portfolio. The film’s roots in local culture and its depiction of universal themes make it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts.
Stay updated as ‘Ijogbon’ takes audiences on a journey through the diverse landscapes of Nigeria, weaving an engaging narrative of youth, adventure, and cultural discovery.