It is finally here! The long-awaited directorial debut of Genevieve Nnaji, and first original Netflix Nollywood Movie. Lionheart was recently made available for viewing on Netflix and probably a bunch of people has already seen it. The comment fields around the web have been filled with both hyping and trashing. Here’s an unbiased Lionheart review that can be trusted. And don’t worry, we are not adding any spoilers for those who haven’t seen it yet.
Impressive Production Quality
The entire production is in line with Netflix quality standards. The picture quality is excellent throughout the entire movie. We wouldn’t have expected less from a Netflix original. They capture the city of Enugu from its nicest angles, displaying all the best parts of the city. The use of music throughout the movie is also very professional and similar to what can be found in many Hollywood classics. Furthermore, the music by Phyno was a refreshing addition.
Heartwarming Movie Focused on Family Legacy
Lionheart is truly enriched with Nigerian, and especially Igbo culture. It captures the importance of family legacy. For many of the international viewers, this movie will reach through Netflix, it will be a window to a country they don’t know much about. The movie also has some good moral points, like the importance of working hard and helping each other.
Before the movie was released, it was promoted as having a very strong feminist point of view. Adaeze is presented as a hardworking woman, but the movie is still not particularly written from an extreme feminist point of view.
Acting Performances
Lionheart is packed with veteran actors. All the actors perform well, but some stood out more than others. Onyeka Onwuenu, who played Abigail Obiagu – the wife of Chief Ernest Obiagu, killed it all the way. Superb performance!
Another standout is Nkem Owoh, who maintains his humor as always. One of the best scenes is when his character Godswill catches the fraudsters trying to defraud Hamza Maikano. It’s classic. Very classic. “They are swindlers,” he said.
Furthermore, Hamza Maikano was perfectly portrayed by Yakubu Mohammed. Another standout. And Genevieve Nnaji played her role like a pro as always. But how can Chika Okpala play a mute character? That’s sad. He is too good for that.
Lionheart Review Conclusion
Even though the movie has several good qualities, it didn’t quite reach its full potential. The main reason for this is the storyline, as also rated in another Lionheart review. Even though the plot in itself is good, it is missing a clear direction at some points. The movie is also not able to build enough suspense. Maybe our expectations were too high since the movie was already hyped.
To sum up, the movie didn’t disappoint. It is a heartfelt movie, that has its funny moments, and many good acting performances. Lionheart highlights the gender inequality and portrays some obvious corrupt practices that can still be found in Nigeria. It also shows the best side of Nigeria, with the beautiful nature, rich culture and strong family ties.
