The movie ‘Lisabi’ is a true life story of Egba warrior who revolted and liberated his subject from the shackles and manacles of oppressors (Tax collectors from Oyo empire)

The movie reveals the oppressive rule and subjugation in the old Oyo empire and how the Alafin hegemonic rulership enslaved the Egbas . It presents Sangodeyi, the head of Oyo Tax collectors as an antagonist who misuses power to constitute nuisance, kill, molest young women and torment the citizens. The character of Sangodeyi portrays how power intoxicates and subject to abuse. Although the abuse of power has taken another dimension in the modern days, the fact that people at the corridor of power still abuse it in various ways certifies the lesson in the movie.

The movie extols Yoruba great culture, history, heritage, and value. What the Nollywood is doing differently with their epic stories is the promotion of Yoruba cultural heritage and reawakening of historical value of the Yoruba warriors. Lisabi whose character reflects humility, courage, perseverance, and resilience is pushed to revolt the oppressive rule and deliver his people from imposed slavery by Oyo empire. Definitely, the modern generation will know Lisabi and the role he played in the struggle towards liberty in the primordial era.

Lisabi’s resistance is a thorough reflection of how freedom is achieved. Lisabi reveals that freedom is not cheap, freedom can never be acquired through rants and complaints. The spirit of freedom lies in the art of fighting against it: the injustice, inhumane treatment, dehumanisation, corruption, oppression, and many lots which have come to roost in our ambience as societal norms. As displayed in the movie, Lisabi’s lamentations could not stop the inhumane treatment by Oyo tax collectors until he encouraged his people against the menace. This shows that freedom is not a lonesome exploration, freedom is collective. There is nowhere in history where freedom is attained on a platter of gold. It comes with a price, which is sacrifice.

The casts played their roles perfectly as expected, the director did a distinct job, the cinematography is topnotch and the costume blend well with the setting. The soundtrack is cool though with touch of India movie experience. The themes of oppression, war, love, allegiance, revolution among others contribute to the perfect story line.

As the movie continues, I believe the producer will work on the English translation to be more perfect and incorporate more casts who can speak Egba’s dialect perfectly. It is a great suspense to know at the tail end of the movie that Lisabi is a powerful man who equally has relationship with people with supernatural power.

You cannot afford to miss the movie. Naming it best movie of the moment is not an exaggeration. No regret watching it, it is not a waste of time. Kudos to the Lateef Adedimeji and his priceless jewel, Oyebade Adebimpe Adedimeji.