Epic Fantasy ‘Osamede’ Brings 1897 Benin Kingdom to Life
In a groundbreaking blend of history and mythology, director James Omokwe transports audiences to the twilight days of the 1897 Benin Kingdom in the ambitious new film “Osamede.” Adapted from Lilian Olubi’s stage play, this Nollywood epic unfolds entirely in Bini and Edo languages, weaving a tale of power, betrayal, and supernatural destiny against the backdrop of colonial invasion.
At the heart of this mythic narrative is Ivie Okujaye, who delivers a commanding performance as Osamede, a stone-born savior whose origins trace back to the sacred Arousa stone. The story begins during a devastating drought in Idu town, where a sacrificial act births a powerful artifact known as the Eyes of Osanobua. As British forces approach during the sacred Igue festival, the kingdom splits between those seeking compromise and those demanding resistance.
William Benson brings chilling depth to Iyase, a treacherous general whose hunger for power sets off a chain of events leading to the kingdom’s upheaval. When the devoted priestess Adaze (Tosin Adeyemi) refuses to surrender the stone to Iyase’s coup attempt, she makes the ultimate sacrifice – transferring its power into her unborn child before falling victim to the ensuing raid.
Twenty years later, we find a colonized Benin where Osamede, raised by the blacksmith Agbokhai, discovers her supernatural abilities while defending oppressed mine workers. Her awakening powers make her a target for both British forces led by Major Roger Wild and Iyase’s resurgent army, forcing her to flee with Nosa, a British-trained translator who becomes an unlikely ally.
While the film sometimes struggles with pacing and clarity, particularly in its opening sequences, it shines in its cultural authenticity and emotional core. The decision to film entirely in indigenous languages powerfully emphasizes the colonial divide, though some performances from the British cast feel stilted. The visual effects, while not always polished, serve the story’s magical elements adequately.
Director Omokwe maintains a deliberate pace that allows the rich cultural elements to breathe, even as the narrative occasionally rushes through key character developments. The production design shows careful attention to period detail, though some scenes fall short of capturing the kingdom’s full grandeur.
“Osamede” marks an ambitious step forward for Nollywood historical epics, earning a 3.1/5 rating. Despite its technical limitations, the film succeeds in using mythology to examine pressing questions about resistance, complicity, and cultural identity. It’s especially recommended for audiences interested in Nigerian history and those who appreciate culturally rich storytelling.
The film is set to release in cinemas on October 17, 2025, offering viewers a unique glimpse into one of the most pivotal moments in Benin’s history, reimagined through a lens of magic and mythology.
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