Nollywood Film Club is not only about critical assessments of the most widely distributed film of the weekend. Occasionally, when these releases dry up, the hosts have to get creative with more formats.
In this September episode of the Nollywood Film Club, members dive into a face-off between the directorial debuts of two iconic Nollywood actors: Genevieve Nnaji’s Lionheart and Ramsey Nouah’s Living in Bondage: Breaking Free. Through comparisons in performances, story, production, and overall appeal, the strengths and weaknesses of the films are assessed.
While Lionheart is appreciated for its simplicity and authenticity, Living in Bondage won the majority of categories for its ambition, world, and bolder storytelling.
Performances
The debate over performances sees a slight tilt towards Lionheart. Nkem Owoh and Pete Edochie, two veteran actors in Lionheart, shine, with Owoh’s energetic portrayal standing out in what some felt was an otherwise restrained cast. On the Living in Bondage side, Otas notes that Jidekene Achufusi has better direction and role understanding compared to Nnaji’s one-dimensional lead performance.
Vanessa finds Eyinna Nwigwe to be the highlight in Living in Bondage, though she still favors Lionheart. Eccentric Sholzy praises the chemistry between Jidekene Achufusi and Munachi Abii in Living in Bondage, while Stephanie felt more connected to the characters in Nnaji’s debut. However, not everyone agreed; Emmanuel was less impressed, stating that Lionheart “doesn’t strike any chord” for him, and Mrs. C. called Nnaji’s performance “a little one-note.”
Story
When it comes to story, Living in Bondage takes a more commanding lead. With its roots in the original, the sequel had a well-developed world to expand on, which Vanessa praises. Lionheart, in contrast, is described as “paint by numbers” by Vanessa, with a basic and predictable storyline. However, Sholzy appreciated Lionheart’s positive portrayal of a female protagonist in a patriarchal society, calling it “authentic.”
Other members lean towards Living in Bondage. Otas felt Lionheart played it too safe, lacking the intensity needed to elevate the stakes, while Mrs. C noted that although she initially saw Lionheart as fresh, it ultimately paled in comparison to the more layered Living in Bondage. Mr. C was more critical of both films but felt that Living in Bondage’s ambition outweighed Lionheart’s attempts at deviation.
Production
Production value is where Living in Bondage takes another decisive win. While the CGI may not have been flawless, as Mr. C points out, it was more ambitious in scope, aiming to create a world of spectacle and grandeur. Vanessa and Emmanuel praise Living in Bondage for its production quality, particularly its more polished look compared to Lionheart. Stephanie remarked that Lionheart felt “bare at times,” lacking the same visual depth or dynamism.
Mr. C did point out a flaw in Lionheart: some office scenes were too dark, almost giving off a “shady business dealing” vibe, which detracted from the production’s overall quality. Nonetheless, Living in Bondage takes the production category 6-1, thanks to its ambition and visual appeal.
Overall
In the overall comparison, opinions remained split, with both films receiving strong support. Vanessa and Mrs. C. leaned toward Living in Bondage, with Vanessa commenting that her initial love for Lionheart faded upon rewatch, while Living in Bondage’s depth held her attention. Otas also sided with Living in Bondage, acknowledging its spectacle even if it lacked substance at times.
On the other side, Sholzy and Stephanie championed Lionheart, appreciating its simplicity and rewatchability. Stephanie expressed that she would revisit Lionheart over Living in Bondage, which she felt aimed too high and didn’t always deliver. Mr. C, more critical of both films, admitted Lionheart failed in a quieter way, whereas Living in Bondage at least tried to achieve something more. However, the final sentiment from most viewers, especially with multiple speakers’ praise of Living in Bondage’s opening scene, gave Living in Bondage the edge in the overall category.
My (not-so) key lesson: More of such head-to-head formats might come depending on how people enjoy the episode, according to the hosts, Iroko Critic. That said, I would like to see a cultural impact category, which I believe should be fun to examine for films in general.
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