In a recent collaboration, Nigerian film production powerhouse, Inkblot Productions, partnered with FilmOne Studios to unveil its crime thriller, “No Way Through.” The highly anticipated film made its debut on December 8, exclusively on Prime Video.
The movie showcases action-packed scenes, intricate set pieces, compelling dialogue, and a core of excellent storytelling, offering a well-balanced mix of excitement, suspense, and engaging moments. The ensemble cast features A-list actors such as Funke Akindele, Chidi Mokeme, Chioma Chukwuka, Ikechukwu, Nengi Adoki, Seun Ajayi, Jnr Pope, Eso Dike, Roberta Orioma, Sheggz Olusemo, and many more.
Set against the backdrop of Lagos, Nigeria, the narrative revolves around Jolade Okeniyi, a single mother navigating the challenges of making ends meet. Her primary source of income involves working as a driver for the local drug cartel. When apprehended by the authorities, she faces the choice of becoming an informant against the cartel to avoid imprisonment for herself and her daughter. However, obtaining the necessary information exposes them to the deadly consequences of the ruthless cartel.
Directed by Chinaza Onuzo, who also penned the screenplay, “No Way Through” centers on the sacrifices made to provide for one’s family and the risks undertaken in the pursuit of freedom.
The movie’s cast delivered performances of exceptional quality, particularly the three main actors: Funke Akindele, Chidi Mokeme, and Chioma Chukwuka. They brought their A-game to the film, portraying their roles with finesse. Other characters also excelled, with the NDEA agents and the Apostle’s thugs showcasing commendable action acting throughout the movie. Overall, the acting was impressive.
The action scenes in the movie are well-executed, featuring carefully planned and choreographed fights and gunfire. However, a slight drawback occurs during one shooting scene involving NDEA agent Christian, played by Ikechukwu.
In this scene, a ruse is staged to make it seem like he died in an old house to confuse the Pastor’s thugs. While there is intense shooting between different gunmen, passersby are portrayed standing and watching instead of fleeing.
Realistically, people would not stand and watch during such a dangerous situation. Additionally, the end scene of the movie is somewhat confusing as one agent is seen arresting another.
The Apostle and his wife, Deaconess Rachael, portrayed by Chidi Mokeme and Chioma Chukwuka, are two characters that truly drive the movie. Their ruthless actions, all while making references to the Bible or embodying biblical aspirations, are truly remarkable. These characters are impressive in the way they successfully conceal their true identities for years. Deaconess Rachael’s exceptional ruthlessness deserves applause, showcasing Chioma Chukwuka’s versatility in acting.
The film unveils the inner workings of drug cartel owners and members, shedding light on the cartel’s activities, the various methods employed to transport drugs to other countries, the carriers involved, the repercussions for those who falter, and other perilous aspects associated with drug trafficking and traffickers.
Furthermore, the movie exposes how individuals engaged in nefarious activities often hide behind a facade, much like the Apostle, Pastor Lotanna, and the gang members who masquerade as church leaders and administrators.
The film also highlights the operations of the NDEA and their efforts to disrupt the activities of drug cartels. However, it portrays them as occasionally reckless and indifferent, particularly evident in the officers’ treatment of Jolade, where they show a lack of respect for human life if the person has been associated with drug traffickers in the past.
Most importantly, the film illustrates the deep love parents have for their children, evident in the relationship between Jolade and her daughter.
The cinematography of the movie is exceptional, skillfully guiding the audience through a riveting action-packed journey. The fight and shooting scenes are expertly captured on camera.
Comparing the settings, the Apostle’s home exudes luxury with golden chairs and opulent furnishings, while the church appears as a modest rented space with basic white plastic chairs for the congregation, a contrast that seems inconsistent with expectations.
Above all, “No Way Through” takes viewers through a journey of love, loss, danger, and ruthlessness that runs in dangerous places
From us at Kemi Filani, it’s 8/10 for “No Way Through”
