Have you ever heard the saying, “If you go somewhere and there are no Igbo people, there’s nothing there”? Well, Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story, directed by Kayode Kasum, tells a tale that reveals the truth behind this proverb. It’s a beautiful and educational film that celebrates the Igbo culture of hard work, mentorship, and community.
For too long, cinema has focused on stereotypical portrayals of Igbo people. Afamefuna shatters those stereotypes, showcasing the Igbo tradition of apprenticeship, known as the Nwa Boi system.
Bonds of Brotherhood: Afamefuna and Paul
The story follows Afamefuna, a young man who enters Odogwu’s shop to learn the art of selling building materials. There, he meets Paul, and an instant friendship blossoms. They become the closest among the “Nwa Boys,” known for their dedication and hard work. Paul is a charming salesman, while Afamefuna finds innovative ways to increase profits.
Their bond is tested when Odogwu “settles” Afamefuna first, even though Paul started his apprenticeship earlier. In the Nwa Boi system, settling means giving a starting sum to the apprentice to begin their own business. While both friends genuinely helped Odogwu, Afamefuna’s act of service earns him the privilege first. This decision sparks jealousy and resentment in Paul, ultimately leading him down a destructive path.
Odogwu: The Wise Mentor
Odogwu is the epitome of a good master. He not only teaches his apprentices the tricks of the trade, but also shares stories about the Nwa Boi system’s history. We see the emotional toll the Nigerian-Biafra war took on the Igbo people, forcing them to rebuild their lives through business. Odogwu treats his boys with respect, even sharing meals with them.
However, his choice to settle Afamefuna first sows the seeds of discord. This highlights the complex dynamics within the Nwa Boi system, where loyalty and ambition can sometimes clash.
Proverbs and the Power of Language
The film is rich with Igbo proverbs, like “Will a snake not birth a long animal?” These proverbs offer wisdom and insight into Igbo culture. Additionally, the movie seamlessly blends Igbo with Yoruba and Hausa, showcasing the beautiful tapestry of Nigerian languages.
The use of authentic costumes and set design further immerses viewers in the world of the story. There’s even a subtle message about cultural identity. When Paul remarks that Afamefuna’s son speaks English and not Igbo, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving one’s heritage.The title itself, “Afamefuna,” translates to “may my name never be lost.”
A Story Woven with Threads of Life
Afamefuna, written by Anyanwu Sandra Adaora, is a film with ambition. It tackles various themes like loyalty, betrayal, and the importance of hard work. While some moments feel disconnected the story skillfully weaves these threads together, offering resolution to most conflicts by the end.
One lingering question surrounds Paul’s sense of entitlement and Afamefuna’s strange compliance. A late revelation about paternity might hold the key, but the film leaves room for interpretation.
The love story between Amaka, Odogwu’s daughter, and Afamefuna feels underdeveloped. It’s clear she doesn’t share his feelings, settling for him only because Paul wasn’t a serious option. Afamefuna deserved better.
A Celebration of Igbo Spirit
Despite these minor flaws, Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story is a gem. It’s a film that will make your heart swell with pride. Odogwu’s words encapsulate the Igbo spirit perfectly:
Igbo Amaka
An Igbo man doesn’t beg.
An Igbo man doesn’t steal.
Hard work is not Charm.
Afamefuna is a must-watch for anyone who wants to experience the heart and soul of Igbo culture. It’s a story of friendship, betrayal, and ultimately, the triumph of hard work.
Ndi Igbo kwenu!
Afamefuna made me fall absolutely in love with the Igbo culture. This article is nothing short of the experience the movie gave me.
This is an awesome piece. Now I understand the movie better.
The way this piece talks about everything about the movie in few paragraphs is brilliant.
Afamefuna is a movie that must be watched by all Nigerians regardless of one’s tribe because it just an eye-opener to the Igbo people’s culture and their business.
Wow,this is so nice and thrilling
I should see the movie too????
Well done Eriki????.
Yes you should please????.
It’s such a beautiful piece of art
Great review! I watched the movie you covered, and I must say, it was an absolute rollercoaster of suspense and intrigue. The storyline had me glued to the screen from start to finish.
This is a great summary! It gives a clear picture of what the film is about. It made me intrigued, motivating me to check the movie out.
A movie worth watching, this is so beautiful to read????❤️
This is an exceptional review. I’m sure the makers of the movie will doff their hats for this one. Now, I can’t wait to see the movie.
Incredible! These few words have sparked a deep appreciation for the Igbo tribe and their culture in me. This is a fantastic one, I am definitely seeing the movie.
Yeah, this movie is a great one. I so much love how the igbo cultural heritage was portrayed in the film from the language to the dressing modes and others.
Igbo Amaka indeed
Chukuwu Gozie Gi
You indeed analyzed this movie in great details, it shows dedication, diligence and creative prowess. Welldone.
I love the movie too.
Mumsy Imma????????????????
This piece has given me an idea about the movie and I look forward to watching it.
Sounds interesting and insightful.
Wow, I will like to check this movie out because of this summary
The movie is a really good one, and this article is awesome.
Nicely penned! A true portrayal of the Igbo spirit, and the rich culture of it’s people.
What a captivating review!
Afamefuna will indeed be worth watching.
Absolutely love this piece on Afamefuna and how the Nwa boi shape the Igbo economic societies. So many great moments in this article, so I can’t even pull just one quote
After reading this write up I was eager to see the movie and I really learnt a lot. Afamefuna is a really educating piece about the Igbo culture.
I saw the movie when it came to the cinema and it was worth my money. Erupted different emotions in me! And the way you recapped it? Stunning!
This is such a beautiful review. Now, I look forward to watching the movie.
Wow! Thank you so much for this great and insightful piece to the story and Igbo culture at large, I’m inspired to learn more about the Igbo culture and most importantly, check the movie out.
This is a beautiful review. Kudos to the writer. You took us through the film. Amazing.
Wow!
This is a great summary
This review captures everything about the film succinctly
I particularly love the focus on the beautiful side of the Igbo culture
I agree with the notion that the love story between Odogwu’s daughter and Afamefuna seemed one sided. I also do not like that her infidelity was swept under the rug like nothing happened.
In addition, while we may think that Paul was the bad one, save for using his master’s daughter, I think he worked almost twice as hard as Afamefuna for his master. It was unfair on him for his junior colleague to get settled before him. Anybody would get bitter over that
But it is still no excuse to become a bad person
The story is loaded with a lot of life lessons and history. Well done Joan.
Nice Article!
This has convinced me to see the movie for myself.
Amazing!
Beautiful write up and review …… Afamefuna is a must watch, many lessons to be learnt
It is very detailed and gives more than an insight to the movie tracing it to traditional and existing backgrounds
You see the way you summarized the whole story but touching every single part is really intriguing. I’ve seen the movie already thanks to you. But after reading your Article I definitely want to see it again. Afamefuna is indeed not one of those movies that will be said to be overhyped. Actually it erased this feeling I had that most boys no longer hustle genuinely and make good money but nahhhhh, Afamefuna proved me wrong. I hope young boys can actually see this movie so they would still have the believe that indeed Hard work pays!
Nice job Eriki babyyyyy????