Available on: Bolaji Ogunmola TV, YouTube
Starring: Uzor Arukwe, Bolaji Ogunmola, Pamilerin Ayodeji, Chandaza Mweenda, Ogbolo Bestowe
Runtime: 1 hour 50 minutes
Confusing and Misleading Title
The first thing that draws attention to Foolish People is its title. It instantly sparks curiosity—who are the foolish people, and what decisions define them as such? Unfortunately, the movie fails to answer these questions. By the end, the reasoning behind the title remains vague, leaving viewers puzzled rather than intrigued. If this ambiguity was intended as a marketing strategy to lure audiences, it falls flat, as it offers no meaningful payoff. Instead of enhancing the story, the title becomes a source of frustration, highlighting one of the film’s early shortcomings.
Weak Chemistry Between Leads
Phoebe and Charles, played by Bolaji Ogunmola and Uzor Arukwe, are meant to carry the emotional weight of the film. Their characters are reunited to co-parent the daughter of their late friends, a premise that could be emotionally compelling. However, the on-screen chemistry is weak and unconvincing. Their interactions lack warmth and believability, making it difficult to invest in their relationship or care about their journey. Even when the narrative attempts to showcase tender or intense moments, the performances fail to evoke genuine emotion, which significantly undermines the film’s central storyline.
Flat Narrative and Poor Pacing
The premise of grief, second chances, and co-parenting has the potential for a gripping narrative. Unfortunately, Foolish People is plagued by slow pacing and a flat storyline. Key plot points are underdeveloped, and dramatic moments that should carry emotional weight feel rushed or superficially treated. Scenes that could have heightened tension or built suspense instead drag, leaving viewers disengaged. Despite having a runtime of nearly two hours, the film struggles to create a memorable arc, which makes the viewing experience tedious rather than compelling.
Underutilized Supporting Cast
The supporting actors, including Pamilerin Ayodeji, Chandaza Mweenda, and Ogbolo Bestowe, are given minimal development. Their characters lack depth and dimension, which diminishes the overall impact of the story. Important plot elements tied to these characters are either overlooked or resolved too quickly, preventing the audience from connecting with them. The wasted potential of the ensemble cast further contributes to the film’s overall sense of underachievement.
Lack of Emotional Resonance
Perhaps the biggest failure of Foolish People is its inability to leave a lasting emotional impression. While themes of trust, loyalty, and responsibility are present, they are explored superficially. Moments meant to evoke empathy or reflection feel hollow, making it hard to care about the characters’ journey. Even standout performances, like that of Tabby, cannot fully salvage a narrative that struggles to engage on any meaningful level.
Final Verdict
Foolish People is a movie with promise that it never fulfills. Its confusing title, weak lead chemistry, flat narrative, poor pacing, and underdeveloped supporting characters make it a largely frustrating watch. While there are glimpses of talent and effort, the film fails to deliver on its potential and is unlikely to leave a lasting impression.
Rating: 2/10 – Mostly for effort, but largely disappointing.
