Watch Onye Ozi
- 2013
- 1 hr 26 min
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6.3 (18)
Onye Ozi is a 2013 Nigerian comedy-drama film directed by Obi Emelonye, starring Okey Bakassi, Anthony Aclet, and Stephen Moriaty. The movie tells the story of Metumaribe, a successful Nigerian businessman who moves to London to expand his business by importing African art and craft. However, Metumaribe's plan takes a wrong turn when he hires a British salesman, Malcolm, who knows nothing about African art and culture.
The film opens with Metumaribe hosting a fancy dinner party in his Lagos home, where he announces his business expansion plan to his friends and colleagues. His wife, Caro, is unhappy with the idea of moving to London and leaving behind her luxurious lifestyle in Nigeria. However, Metumaribe is determined to make it big in the United Kingdom and goes ahead with his plan.
Once in London, Metumaribe meets Malcolm, a struggling salesman looking for a job. Metumaribe is impressed by Malcolm's confidence and hires him as his business partner. However, things start to fall apart when Malcolm proves to be completely clueless about African art and culture. He struggles to sell the products, and his ignorance causes several embarrassing moments for Metumaribe.
As the business starts to crumble, Metumaribe's marriage also suffers. Caro feels isolated and bored in London, and her husband's obsession with the business leaves her neglected. She starts to draw closer to a handsome Nigerian man, causing tension in the couple's relationship.
The film also explores the theme of cultural identity and how it affects both Africans and Europeans living in a foreign land. Many scenes in the movie show the stark contrast between the Nigerian and British cultures, highlighting the challenges that immigrants face when they move to a different country.
Onye Ozi is a well-written comedy-drama that blends African and European cultures in a unique way. The film's humor comes mainly from Malcolm's ignorance and the clash between the two cultures. However, the movie also has several poignant moments, particularly in the scenes that focus on Metumaribe's marriage and the immigrant experience.
The performances in the film are commendable, particularly Okey Bakassi's portrayal of Metumaribe. Bakassi brings a sense of dignity and authenticity to his role, making Metumaribe both relatable and admirable. Anthony Aclet also delivers a solid performance as Malcolm, showcasing his character's wide-eyed innocence and comedic timing.
The film's cinematography is vibrant and colorful, making good use of London's iconic landmarks to create a visual contrast between the two cultures. The soundtrack features a mix of Nigerian and British music, adding to the film's cultural fusion.
In conclusion, Onye Ozi is a heartfelt comedy-drama that explores the challenges of running a business in a foreign country and the complexities of cultural identity. The film's humor and emotional depth make it an enjoyable watch, and its portrayal of Nigerian culture is both authentic and respectful.Overall, the film is a great addition to Nigerian cinema and a must-watch for anyone interested in African culture or immigrant experiences.