Movie review: What to know about Funke Akindele’s Finding Me

“Finding Me,” directed by Funke Akindele and co-directed by Isioma Osaje, is a compelling movie that delves into themes of betrayal, self-discovery, and empowerment. The film tells the journey of Atinuke “Tinuke” Phillips portrayed by Akindele, a wealthy woman trapped in a marriage rife with deceit and manipulation. Her husband, Kolawole Phillips, is depicted as a calculating and unfaithful partner who exploits Atinuke’s affluence for his gain. The storyline intricately explores Atinuke’s evolution from a devoted wife to a woman reclaiming her identity and strength.

The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Efe Iwara, Joseph Benjamin, Omowunmi Dada, Femi Adebayo Salami, Shaffy Bello, Dele Odule, Sharon Ooja, Tina Mba, Dakore Egbuson-Akande, Omoni Oboli, Emeka Nwagbaraocha, and AbdulGafar Abiola (The Cute Abiola). Each movie cast delivers a closely delicate performance, enriching the movie’s story depth and originality.

The screenplay is deliberate, with each scene carefully building towards the unraveling of Kolawole’s deception and marital infidelity. The dialogue is sharp and reflective of societal norms, effectively conveying the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters. The film’s language swings beautifully between English and indigenous dialects, adding a rich aspect of the Nigerian cultural heritage and originality to the movie’s storytelling.

Visually, “Finding Me” is striking. The cinematography captures the contrast between Atinuke’s seemingly perfect life and the underlying darkness of her reality. The use of lighting and framing makes a profound distinction of the emotional weight of pivotal scenes, bringing the audience closer and deeper into Atinuke’s journey. The sound design further amplifies the tension, making each revelation more impactful.

Funke Akindele’s directorial prowess is evident in her ability to elicit powerful performances and weave a narrative that is both personal and universally resonant. Her portrayal of Atinuke is both heartbreaking and empowering, capturing the essence of a woman rediscovering her self-worth amidst adversity.

While “Finding Me” is a recent release and according to IMDb, the movie holds a 6.5 ratings from 20 critics. Asides that, it has received significant acclaim from audiences and critics alike. Viewers like myself have hailed the film for its engaging storyline, impressive performances from the casts, and the profound message of not losing oneself while trying to please others.

In conclusion, “Finding Me” is a crystal exploration of self-discovery and empowerment, masterfully crafted by Funke Akindele. Its rich themes, compelling characters, and visual storytelling make it a standout film that resonates deeply with its audience.