By Adedamola Adedayo
Cultural history has always had a way of captivating audiences, offering a nostalgic connection to the past while fulfilling a deep-seated need for belonging. Films rooted in historical narratives, like Lísàbí: The Uprising and its sequel Lísàbí: A Legend is Born, tap into this yearning, paying homage to pivotal moments in Yoruba civilization. These films explore the legacy of Lisabi, an 18th-century leader who spearheaded Egbaland’s emancipation from the oppressive Oyo Empire.
In Lísàbí: A Legend is Born, the titular hero, played by Lateef Adedimeji, leads his people against the formidable Oyo Army, commanded by the ruthless Aronimoja (Deyemi Okanlawon). Despite suffering heavy losses, Lisabi triumphs with the aid of Ikeola and a coven of witches, earning him widespread admiration. However, jealousy and betrayal within his inner circle sow the seeds of his eventual downfall.
Adedimeji’s portrayal of Lisabi—marked by resilience, mysticism, and tragic resolve—is a standout element of the film. His performance is complemented by Tolu Obanro’s evocative musical score, which underscores the emotional highs and lows of the narrative. Flashbacks to The Uprising provide continuity, drawing on emotionally charged moments like Lisabi’s reaction to Osokenu’s death, while new scenes capture his anguish over Ikeola’s demise and his poignant farewell speech.
A Familiar Yet Flawed Journey
While Lísàbí: A Legend is Born enriches the cultural tapestry of Yoruba epics, it struggles to break new ground. The sequel lacks the narrative depth and surprises that could have set it apart. Key moments feel stretched, with war preparations and battle sequences seemingly elongated to fill time. Flashbacks from The Uprising feel more like filler than meaningful callbacks, prompting questions about whether the two films might have been more effective as a single production.
The film’s production design also falters in authenticity. Historical inaccuracies, such as painted nails on a character in an 18th-century setting and a baby Lisabi wearing modern diapers, disrupt immersion. These missteps are compounded by underwhelming performances, notably Olumide Oworu’s portrayal of Bejide, whose struggle with the Yoruba dialect undermines his character’s credibility.
Missed Opportunities in Storytelling
Beyond its technical flaws, A Legend is Born leaves significant gaps in its narrative. The backstory of Lisabi’s mother, her mysterious escape, and her tragic fate are glossed over. Similarly, Lisabi’s formative years—his training by mystical creatures and his migration to Egbaland—are only lightly touched upon, depriving the audience of a richer understanding of his journey. The Alaafin of Oyo, a central figure, is depicted in ways that contradict Yoruba cultural norms, such as examining corpses—an act deemed inappropriate for a monarch.
A Visual Spectacle Without Narrative Depth
Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, Lísàbí: A Legend is Born prioritizes visual and auditory aesthetics over storytelling. While the film aligns with the recent surge of Yoruba epics like Jagun Jagun and House of Ga’a, its lack of narrative complexity and underdeveloped characters make it feel formulaic.
Despite its shortcomings, A Legend is Born adds to the growing body of work celebrating Yoruba heritage. However, the film’s failure to fully explore Lisabi’s legacy and the politics of his time results in a missed opportunity to deliver a truly compelling historical epic. For viewers seeking a deeper dive into cultural history, the film may feel like a journey that promises more than it delivers.