Movie Title: Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti
Date Release: 17 May 2024
Running Time: 91 Minutes
Rating: 9/10
Cast: Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Ibrahim Suleiman, Jide Kosoko, Dele Odule, Adebayo Salami, Keppy Ekpeyoung, Adunni Ade, Omowunmi Dada, Patrick Diabuah and many others.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was a woman of many firsts. Everyone’s encounter with her was in primary school’s ‘current affairs’ learning that she was the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria. Her list of accomplishments is long and inspiring: the first female member of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, the first African woman in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the first Nigerian woman to receive the Lenin Peace Prize, and the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School.
Seeing her bravery displayed on screen is a beautiful experience. Every scene is intentional, capturing the essence of a strong, resilient African woman. Kehinde Bankole’s portrayal of Mama Funmilayo is nothing short of transformative. Her grace, poise, and fierce determination are palpable. You can almost hear her cracked voice from rallying the Egba women. Kehinde Bankole was truly magnificent.
The film focuses solely on Mama Funmilayo, steering clear of delving too much into other aspects, such as her children’s lives. The story centers on young Frances, who later becomes Oluwafunmilayo, marrying her school sweetheart, Israel. It chronicles her career as an educationist and the formation of the Abeokuta Women’s Union, through which she championed women’s rights, fought unfair taxes on market women, and demanded representation in government.
The chemistry between Kehinde Bankole and Ibrahim Suleiman, who plays Israel, is gentle and authentic. He is a supportive figure in Funmilayo’s journey. Each scene is impactful and well-crafted. The chaotic opening scene, showing Mama Funmilayo being thrown down from a two-story building grabs your attention and pulls you into the narrative. The acting is relatable, the sound quality is good, and local music enhances the storytelling. However, the scene where the Egba women storm the palace could have been more realistic. The blows seemed off, and the lack of weapons and resistance was noticeable. A more intense confrontation would have added to the drama.
This film revives the memory of Mama Funmilayo, showcasing her resilience and strength against oppression. The movie is highly recommended.
The biopic reveals much more about Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti than her famous motherhood to Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti or being the first Nigerian woman to drive a car. Director Tunde Babalola wisely narrows the focus to a significant aspect of her life, allowing the narrative to shine.
The film highlights female power and feminism as underlying themes, showing the strength that comes from women uniting against injustice. It portrays women as powerful beings capable of incredible feats, much like Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti herself. The depiction of colonial influence and corruption in traditional rule during that era is poignant. Funmilayo and her women challenge both chiefs and the government, highlighting systemic oppression.
The cinematography complements the storytelling, visually conveying the characters’ emotions, struggles, and triumphs. Attention to historical accuracy in costumes, set design, and overall visual style transports viewers to the early 20th century, adding depth to the story.
“Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti” is an exemplary biopic that sets a high standard for future films. By focusing on a singular significant event, it highlights the enduring relevance of Ransome-Kuti’s life and legacy. This film ensures that she is remembered not just for her well-known achievements but for her broader impact on women’s rights and social justice.