Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre is a Nigerian drama directed by Kunle Afolayan and co-written with Shola Dada, said to be a sequel to the 2022 film, Anikulapo.
The cast of the series includes Kunle Remi as Saro, Bimbo Ademoye as Arolake, Sola Sobowale as Awarun, Taiwo Hassan as Alaafin Ademuyiwa, Gabriel Afolayan as Akin, Owobo Ogunde as Bashorun, Lateef Adedimeji as Awolaran, Titi Kuti as Adigun, Faithia Balogun as Ojumo Queen, Eyiyemi Afolayan as Omowunmi and others.
The series picks up where the original Anikulapo movie left off, with Saro journeying again to the afterlife while Arolake finds herself on the run. From the outset, the movie ambitiously expands its world-building, introducing new subplots alongside the main narrative thread. With deliberate pacing, the storyline flows smoothly, connecting scenes and maintaining a brisk tempo.
However, viewers expecting a continuation of the 2022 film may be surprised by the series’ divergence from its predecessor’s plot. The shift away from Saro leaves lingering questions about his fate and the resolution of his mission.
The series opens with a dramatic and visually stunning first episode, setting a high standard for what follows. Foreshadowing Balogun’s character as a challenger to the King of Oyo heightens audience expectations, while Saro’s dynamic with the three ghosts adds depth and intrigue.
Transitioning from film to series poses challenges, and Rise of the Spectre occasionally struggles with pacing and narrative inconsistencies. While the first episode excels both narratively and technically, subsequent episodes suffer from minor flaws that detract from the overall experience.
One such flaw includes an oversight in a scene where Saro as a wandering spirit bumps his head into the roof of a hut, causing it to move. While such mistakes may be overlooked by the makers, they are not unnoticed by the audience.
Despite these shortcomings, Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre offers a captivating blend of historical accuracy, Yoruba mysticism, and magical realism. Kunle Afolayan skillfully weaves these elements into a compelling narrative, appealing to audiences interested in culture and tradition.
The series’ cinematography and sound design enhanced its immersive experience. Authentic costumes and settings contribute to its visual appeal, creating a culturally rich cinematic masterpiece.
However, the series’ narrative shortcomings stem from its additional subplots, which sometimes serve as mere plot devices without thorough exploration. Concepts like ghosts burying themselves and Arolake’s sudden wealth with the assistance of a spirit raise ethical concerns according to Yoruba beliefs, where spiritual wealth typically involves a law of exchange. The absence of reciprocity raises questions about the consequences and moral implications of her newfound prosperity. While Arolake’s wealth serves a narrative purpose, its acquisition through supernatural means lacks ethical justification. Also, what is the relevance of Arolake going back to be a queen in Oyo? Being a ‘side chick’ to the king?
Inconsistencies in character motivations and actions further complicate the narrative, leaving viewers questioning certain decisions. The resolution of the series is marred by a major narrative flaw involving the role of the Ifa priest, undermining the story’s coherence and leaving unresolved plot threads.
Despite these flaws, the cast delivers commendable performances, with standout moments from Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Owobo Ogunde as the complex antagonist Bashorun Ogunjimi. Their performances elevate the series, captivating audiences even in moments of narrative uncertainty.
Anikulapo: Rise of the Spectre offers a complex journey through myth and ambiguity. Those anticipating a storyline related to the 2022 film may be disappointed, as the series takes a divergent plot trajectory. As the focus shifts away from Saro, lingering questions about his fate and the resolution of his mission may leave viewers pondering the untold aspects of his journey.