“Oloture: The Journey,” the long-awaited sequel to the 2019 film “Oloture,” has finally arrived. This film follows a young journalist working undercover as a sex worker in Nigeria to expose corruption. Inspired by a PREMIUM TIMES investigative report on human trafficking, this sequel dives deep into the dark, treacherous world of human trafficking and the prostitution ring in Nigeria. My first criticism? The five-year wait. Why did it take so long to bring this crucial story back to our screens? The delay is frustrating, but trust me, this sequel is a lot of things—quite a lot of things. Follow me as I unravel its layers.
Star-Studded Cast and Production
Featuring an ensemble cast including Onunaku, Stan Nze, Amarachukwu Ono, Bukola Oladipupo, Daniel Etim Effiong, and Patrick Doyle, this series promises to be nail-biting. Produced by EbonyLife Studios, “Oloture: The Journey” follows in the footsteps of the studio’s previous Netflix series, “Wrath & Revenge,” and other successful collaborations like “Blood Sisters,” which captured hearts with 11 million hours viewed in its debut week. Given the success of the first film and the impeccable quality EbonyLife Studios is known for, this sequel is undoubtedly a must-watch.
Plot Summary: Where We Left Off
The three-part series, released on Netflix today, June 28, 2024, opens with clips from the first film to refresh our memories. “Oloture” ended with Beauty (the sister of Linda, played by Omowunmi Dada) running away after Linda’s tragic death. Unfortunately, Oloture, who goes by her undercover name “Ehi” (played by Sharon Ooja), couldn’t escape. She was forced back onto the bus taking them to Italy for sex trafficking. Chaos erupted when a rival trafficker sent men to kill the girls, sending a stern warning to Tony (Etim Effiong), the pimp, not to mess with his territory.
Beauty’s Painful Return
Beauty’s journey is pitiable. After escaping from the traffickers, she returns to Edo State, only to find her mother’s house burnt down with her mother inside. Devastated, she heads back to Lagos to the prostitute house. Her troubles don’t end there—she believes that the juju placed on them before they left for Europe is affecting them, as they were warned not to run.
Oloture’s Survival and New Friendships
Oloture survives the hitmen’s attack in an ethereal scene where the bus bursts into flames. Instead of returning to Nigeria, she forges ahead with her new friend Peju (Beverly Osu). They meet new allies, Ben (Stan Nze) and Andrew, and together they embark on a perilous journey through the desert. Andrew’s death along the way is a painful reminder of the harsh realities faced by those seeking a better life.
Alero (Omoni Oboli) continues her pimping business, clashing with Tony but eventually bouncing back stronger. The streets are tough, and her resilience is both impressive and heartbreaking.
Execution and Direction
The desert scenes are particularly emotional, capturing the brutal experiences of those who journey to Europe through the desert. The film’s portrayal of these moments is so vivid that it might bring tears to your eyes.
Despite juggling multiple storylines, the film stays true to its central theme of human trafficking. Kenneth Gyang’s direction is methodical and poignant. In a Nollywood filled with great performances, Gyang’s subtle storytelling stands out. The camera tells the story, making us feel the actors’ pain.
Stellar Performances
Sharon Ooja, Beverly Osu, Stan Nze, Etim Effiong, Omoni Oboli, and others deliver stellar performances. They bring their A-game, making their characters come alive and their struggles palpable. The acting is so good that you can feel the pain and trauma alongside them.
A Continuing Journey
“Oloture: The Journey” is an intense investigative journalism film that continues the story with emotional depth and realism. The third part ends with Oloture and her friends about to begin their journey through the sea after Ben is thoroughly beaten for not being able to provide their money to cross. Beauty declares she’ll go back to Europe, and Alero is seen recruiting girls for her latest connection to Europe. The anticipation for the next installment is high—Netflix, when are we getting the rest of the story?
Final Thoughts
For me, “Oloture: The Journey” is a harrowing tale that makes you question the necessity of Oloture’s continued ordeal. The trauma and pain are overwhelming, serving as a stark reminder of the horrors of human trafficking. Human trafficking is a messy, heartbreaking reality, and “Oloture” captures it with unflinching honesty.
This is a lovely and educative read. I have yet to see the first part of Oloture but this review explains what the movie is about.