Within Me Movie

OVERVIEW

ITEM REVIEWED: Within Me

AUTHOR: Nollywood REinvented

CAST: Chidi Dike, Stefania Bassey, Ejike Ibedilo, Oby Titus,

LENGTH: 1hr 48mins

DIRECTOR: Morgan Ukaegbu

PRODUCER: Ruth Kadiri & Precious Kadiri

SCREENPLAY:Amachris

YEAR: 2023

WATCH ONLINE AT: YouTube

The filmmaking approach commonly associated with Ruth Kadiri merits a comprehensive examination due to its consistent ability to elicit intended emotions from audiences. 

This approach relies on a blend of storytelling conventions, predictable narrative arcs, strategically manipulative music, and performances that occasionally raise questions about acting skills. "Within Me" serves as a quintessential example of this filmmaking style.

The core of "Within Me" revolves around the character of Craig, portrayed by Chidi Dike, and the unexpected disruption of his life plans. Set to depart for Canada to continue his education, Craig's ambitions are derailed when Ella, played by Stefania Bassey, and her mother unexpectedly arrive at his parents' doorstep. They assert that Ella is pregnant with Craig's child. 

In response, Craig vehemently denies any involvement, acutely aware of the potential havoc this revelation could wreak on his aspirations. His mother hastily takes his side, defending her son, while his father exhibits a more measured and contemplative stance. Subsequently, when Ella returns, having been cast out by her own mother due to her refusal to undergo an abortion, Craig's father steps forward, offering her refuge and support.

Yet, within this narrative, certain elements raise valid questions for the astute observer. Foremost among them is the issue of Ella's unwavering refusal to consider abortion. While the film briefly depicts a romantic moment between Ella and Craig in a car, this fleeting scene seems insufficient to justify her adamant decision, particularly in light of the immense challenges associated with carrying a pregnancy at her age, especially after Craig's initial denial. Given the gravity of such a decision and its profound implications for her education and life, a more in-depth exploration of Ella's thought process through additional script and screen time would have provided valuable context.

One commendable aspect of Ruth Kadiri's productions is her dedication to offering opportunities to emerging talents. In "Within Me," Stefania Bassey and Chidi Dike, who assume the roles of Ella and Craig respectively, are relatively fresh faces in the industry. They bring a genuine youthfulness to their characters, effectively embodying individuals in their late teens and early twenties. However, their performances also underscore the fact that they have room for growth and refinement, as is the case with several other actors in the film.

As the movie unfolds, it becomes increasingly evident that the characters undergo a remarkable transformation, suddenly embracing rationality at the most opportune moment. In many other films, such a drastic shift in behavior would demand more extensive explanation. However, "Within Me" adheres to a consistent stylistic choice of offering minimal exposition throughout its narrative. This approach refrains from overexplaining and invites viewers to accept certain developments without an exhaustive backstory.

Ruth Kadiri's films, despite their shortcomings and the predictability of certain plot elements, hold a unique charm. They have a knack for resonating with viewers emotionally, and by the time the end credits roll, audiences might find themselves shedding tears alongside the characters. This ability to evoke genuine emotions, even within a formulaic framework, is a testament to the effectiveness of the "Ruth Kadiri" approach to filmmaking, ensuring that her films remain an intriguing subject of study and discussion for both enthusiasts and critics alike. 

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