A Look into Funke Akindele's "A Tribe Called Judah"

 

 Funke Akindele popularly known as Jenifa, has continued to captivate audiences with her exceptional talent and quest to keep producing groundbreaking movies in the Nigerian film industry, popularly referred to as Nollywood, outdoing herself producing outstanding movies like ‘Omo Ghetto’, ‘Omo Ghetto' Saga's, ‘Battle On Buka Street’, among others. Her new movie ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, has surpassed her numerous successful ventures, grossing over a Billion Naira in the Box Office, making it the First Nollywood movie to achieve this feat. "A Tribe Called Judah" already stands as a significant milestone in her career.

The Making of "A Tribe Called Judah"

"A Tribe Called Judah" was a monumental project that took approximately two years to produce. The film's production journey began with meticulous planning, script development, casting, filming, and post-production, which contributed to its exceptional quality and storytelling, headed by Funke Akindele and Adeoluwa Owu popularly known as ‘Captain Degzy’, putting heads together to direct the movie. Barny Emordi headed the creative team behind the cameras as the Director of Photography.

Stars Featured

 

The movie boasts an impressive lineup of stars, including Funke Akindele as Jedidah Judah, Jide Kene Achufusi as Emeka Judah, Timini Egbuson as Pere Judah, Uzee Usman as Adamu Judah, Tobi Makinde as Shina Judah, and Olumide Oworu as Ejiro Judah, alongside other seasoned actors and actresses such as Ebelle Okaro, Uzor Arukwe, Nse Ikpe Etim, Genoveva Umeh, Faithia Williams, Nosa Rex, Greg Ojefua, Ibrahim Yekini, Boma Akpore, Paschaline Alex, Etinosa Idemudia, Juliana Olayode and Yvonne Jegede. The ensemble cast brought depth and dynamism to the characters, enriching the narrative with their remarkable performances.

Box Office Records

Upon its release, "A Tribe Called Judah" shattered box office records both domestically and internationally. It grossed over ₦500 million in Nigeria alone within the first month of its release, setting a new benchmark for Nollywood movies. Overtime, it has grossed over 1 Billion Naira on the Box Office, making it to the top as the highest ever earning Nollywood movie of all time, on the Box Office. The film's success extended beyond Nigeria, resonating with audiences across Africa and the diaspora, garnering significant attention and acclaim.

Plot and Themes

The storyline of "A Tribe Called Judah '' revolves around the struggles of typical African single mothers with children from different fathers, the stigma they face from society, and their ordeals trying to raise their children on their own to become responsible individuals in the society. The movie delves deep into themes of raising children as a single parent, poverty, leadership by example, love, and the resilience of the human spirit. With a perfect blend of drama, suspense, and emotional depth. From the reviews so far, the film resonated with audiences of diverse backgrounds across the world.

Cinematic Excellence

Visually captivating and technically sound, the film showcased breathtaking cinematography, expertly choreographed action sequences, and a powerful musical score that added to its overall impact. The attention to detail in chosen locations for the movie, costume design, set decoration, and visual effects contributed to the immersive experience for viewers, and says a lot about Funke Akindele’s penchant for excellent movie making.

Critical Acclaim and Legacy

Critics praised "A Tribe Called Judah" for its compelling storytelling, stellar performances, and its ability to resonate with audiences on multiple levels. It has received numerous accolades, including ‘Fastest Nollywood Movie to Hit 1 Billion Naira on the Box Office’, ‘Highest Grossing Nollywood Film of All Time', and ‘Highest Grossing Nollywood Director of All Time’. It is already predicted to win multiple awards for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actress at prestigious film festivals and award ceremonies. The movie's legacy continues to endure, inspiring discussions on single parenting, parenting and the rate of poverty I. Africa, leadership by examples, and other societal issues faced in Africa.

Where to see the movie

 The movie hit the Cinemas on December 15th in Nigeria, other parts of Africa, and the world over. It's still showing and grossing more Box Office income. 

Conclusion

"A Tribe Called Judah" stands as a testament to Funke Akindele's prowess as an actress and producer and solidifies her position as a force in Nollywood. The movie's impact on the industry, both commercially and artistically, cements its place as a significant milestone in Nigerian cinema.

As fans eagerly anticipate more groundbreaking projects from Funke Akindele-Bello, "A Tribe Called Judah" remains a shining example of the heights that Nollywood can reach in storytelling and cinematic excellence.


© Tanrose Anomuogharan 2024