Netflix and Circuits TV viewers now have a new movie to watch: The Waiter, starring Ayo AY Makun, Bucci Franklin, Shaffy Bello, Deyemi Okanlawon, Regina Daniels, Williams Uchemba, Sunshine Rosman, Uzee Usman, and more.
The film has garnered attention for its ambitious storytelling and political commentary. From the cinematography to the choice of locations and the ensemble cast performances, AY’s production demonstrates remarkable attention to detail. The movie boldly tackles issues of corruption, embezzlement, and staged poverty alleviation programs, highlighting how citizens are paraded for show while public funds are misappropriated.
Despite the strong execution, some elements of the film could have been tighter. Around the 1 hour 26-minute mark, a scene shows Akpos locking a security door to prevent a violent confrontation with a revolutionary group. While the action makes narrative sense, the subsequent scene—where Idara is attacked during a phone call—renders Akpos’s rapid response less convincing, as he seemingly didn’t know her exact location in the control room.
Additionally, Akpos’s trademark humour, while entertaining, sometimes overpowers the story. A more restrained approach would have helped balance the film’s serious political undertones with its comedic elements.
Nevertheless, the film’s visual storytelling and thought-provoking themes make it a standout Nollywood production. It succeeds in sparking conversations about societal issues long after the credits roll, showcasing AY’s growth as a filmmaker and storyteller.
In summary, The Waiter is an engaging, visually striking film that impresses on multiple fronts, though slight pacing issues and overused humour slightly hinder its overall impact.
Rating: A bold, compelling story that is highly recommended, but could benefit from more careful handling of pacing and comedic timing.
