Somto Bisina
The highly anticipated Niyi Akinmolayan-directed film, “House of Secrets,” has hit the screens, offering viewers a unique cinematic experience.
With a notable cast, including Efe Irele, Shawn Faqua, Kate Henshaw, and Femi Jacobs, the film presents an intriguing plot set across two timelines, promising suspense and mystery.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHowever, while the movie impresses with its production design and cinematography, it falls short in terms of storytelling, leaving some viewers wanting more.
The film takes viewers on a journey between 1999 and the present day, as the story unfolds through the eyes of an aged woman named Sarah, played by Efe Irele. Sarah, who is surrounded by people claiming to be her family, becomes increasingly suspicious of their intentions.
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As she recovers lost memories, a web of secrets is unveiled, involving a politician and an NGO seeking to expose him. The plot thickens as lies and betrayals come into play, jeopardizing Sarah’s safety and the mission to bring justice to light.
“House of Secrets” breaks away from conventional Nollywood storytelling by incorporating elements of nostalgia, with flashbacks and the use of black and white cinematography.
The production design successfully captures the essence of both time periods, creating a visually appealing experience for the audience. The film’s soundtrack adds to the overall ambiance, complementing the scenes without distracting from the narrative.
Despite its technical achievements, the film falters in certain areas. The scripting, predominantly in English, lacks the authenticity of Nigerian colloquialisms and native languages, missing an opportunity to reflect the diverse linguistic landscape of the country.
Additionally, the plot progression feels sluggish, with the early scenes failing to engage viewers fully. The suspense promised falls short as certain revelations appear predictable, leaving little room for audience interpretation.
The performances vary, with actors like Najite Dede delivering commendable portrayals, transitioning convincingly from a vulnerable woman to a courageous individual challenging authority.
However, some actors miss the mark, as observed in the train scene where background performances lack the desired impact. The chemistry between the love interests also fails to ignite, preventing viewers from truly investing in their journey.
In conclusion, “House of Secrets” excels in its aesthetic appeal, setting a precedent for cinematography and production design in Nollywood. However, it falls short in terms of storytelling, leaving viewers longing for more intrigue and engagement.
With room for improvement in character development, plot pacing, and dialogue authenticity, the film achieves a rating of 6/10. Despite its flaws, “House of Secrets” offers a new streaming experience for viewers and is now exclusively available on Prime Video for audiences to judge for themselves.
