Movie review: American Playboy is recommended for couples

American Playboy, written and produced by Silas Babalola and directed by Rotimi Raji, is a Nollywood film that stars Adunni Ade, Seun Akindele, Wole Ojo, Adeniyi Johnson, Jide Kosoko and Tina Mba.

The plot centres on Akindele, a man who has been unemployed for four years, and his partner Fadekemi. They are a couple in love, navigating the challenges of life as they dream of a more secure future together. Akindele’s optimism is tested as he struggles to find employment, a task that becomes urgent as the couple considers solidifying their commitment to each other. The arrival of Jimmy, a vengeful American returnee, adds a layer of tension to the story, threatening to unravel the already fragile relationship between Akindele and Fadekemi. What I enjoyed about this film is the test that the couple’s relationship went through. The movie also shows the huge difference finance can make in a relationship and what can happen in the lack of it. I recommend this movie for married couples. One drawback is the s*x scene which is becoming prevalent in Nollywood today.

One of the film’s strengths lies in how its narrative captures the pressures of economic instability and the emotional toll it takes on personal relationships. The chemistry between Akindele and Fadekemi, portrayed by Adeniyi Johnson and Adunni Ade, is palpable, making their journey relatable and engaging.

However, the film falters in its execution of certain elements. The character of Jimmy, played by Wole Ojo, feels somewhat underdeveloped, with his motives and backstory not fully explored. This lack of depth in the antagonist’s character makes his actions seem more like a plot device than a believable threat, which weakens the overall impact of the story.

The dialogue in American Playboy is a mix of poignant exchanges and moments that feel somewhat contrived. While some conversations effectively convey the emotional weight of the characters’ struggles, others come across as overly dramatic or clichéd. This inconsistency in the script detracts from the authenticity of the characters and their interactions.

Cinematographically, the film does an admirable job of capturing the essence of its setting. It is, however, not something significant to write home about. The scenes depicting the hustle and bustle of urban life, especially the parties, juxtaposed with the quieter, more intimate moments between Akindele and Fadekemi create a compelling visual narrative. The use of close-ups effectively conveys the emotional turmoil experienced by the characters, while the wider shots provide a sense of the overwhelming environment they find themselves in.

The performances by the cast are commendable, with Adunni Ade and Seun Akindele delivering convincing acts. The supporting cast, including Jide Kosoko and Tina Mba, add depth and authenticity to the film, grounding it in a sense of reality that resonates with the audience.

American Playboy is a thought-provoking film that, despite its imperfections and low-budget nature, succeeds in telling a story of hope, perseverance, and the enduring power of love. It’s a film worth seeing, not for anything cinematic but for the story that is relatable, especially by those in a relationship, either marital or with the prospect of tying the knot. It gets a 6/10.