Faculty of Arts Students Decide on Taking a ‘Breath Of Life’ or Getting Rich in ‘A Tribe Called Judah’

Blessing Iviero and Eniola Awolesi

There have been a lot of controversial talks and arguments about the two movies that premiered in the latter months of 2023. In fact, a wave of controversial discussions and debates surrounding the cinematic productions, ‘Breath of Life’ and ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, have surfaced since resumption. Many students have evaluated the movies and have expressed their opinions on the merits and demerits of both productions.

On the one hand, in the case of ‘Breath Of Life’ the narrative revolves around Mr Timi, a clergyman who, out of love for God, retires from his military service to pursue a religious calling. A tragic event results in the loss of his wife and daughter, and Mr. Timi places all the blame for the situation on God. He took matters into his own hands to avenge their deaths, and in the latter years, he became bitter and harsh after his numerous failed attempts at suicide.

His life regains just a glimmer of hope when a young corp member, Elijah, begins the new role as his house manager. Elijah returns happiness to Mr. Timi’s life and even reopens the church despite its dangers. The hopes of a happy ending for Mr. Timi are soon dashed when Elijah’s lungs collapse, and he needs an urgent transplant. The love Mr. Timi had for Elijah made him go back to God. He begged God to let him die to save Elijah, whom he took as a son. Mr. Timi not only gives Elijah his lungs but also wills all his property to him.

Student sentiments are varied about the plot, and the positive ones are more prominent, with Demilade Fadugba describing it as “a humanity movie that makes us question our faith and the importance of life.”

Inioluwa Awodele supports this sentiment, noting that ‘Breath of Life’ elicits genuine emotions experienced in real life. “It portrays a lot of emotions that people go through and feel,” he said.

On the other hand, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ narrates the tale of a determined mother and her five sons with different fathers, all bearing the family name Judah. The film explores the challenges the mother faces in raising her sons and, of course, the societal perspectives of her “promiscuity.” The plot takes a dramatic turn when the sons decide to rob a mall to raise the amount needed for their mother’s kidney transplant after being diagnosed with kidney disease.

Their robbery attempt, although almost successful until another raiding team double-crosses them, results in unforeseen consequences, including the death of the first son, Emeka. Emeka’s death is concealed, and the remaining children elope with their mother, together with the last son’s girlfriend, who helped in putting out an adversary. The sons become wanted fugitives in the country.

Orobiyo Elizabeth found the movie appealing because of its comedic elements, especially displayed by the fifth son and his girlfriend. She said, “I love their accountability for each other. But in ‘Breath of Life’, the main character didn’t receive any restoration. He didn’t get anything back. Even the happiness he got for a while was timed, although he fought for what was right.”

Oladele Opeyemi was particularly impressed by the blend of culture and the standout performances of the actors. She expressed, “I like Funke Akindele; she is a top-notch actress, and all the characters stood out. There was a mixture and blend of culture.”

Yet, the argument remains that ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ is boring. The plot is perceived as tedious, and it is considered over-hyped. Conversely, ‘Breath of Life’ is applauded for its versatility and ability to touch on diverse aspects of life.

Critiques on ‘Breath of Life’ are not absent, however. Some students argue that it portrays a fate for its main character, Mr. Timi, that is too cruel. He was deprived of the chance to savour moments of happiness he managed to get out of life after enduring significant suffering.

Additionally, the absence of well-known actors is considered a downside as opposed to the star-studded cast of ‘A Tribe Called Judah’. This observation highlights the influence of popular actors and actresses in shaping viewers’ preferences. Because of this lack of influence, ‘Breath of Life’ is perceived to lack the publicity that ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ enjoyed due to a lack of promotional efforts.

Chinelo Nwabunka of Classics felt that “‘Breath of Life’ is more emotionally touching, but the actions and storyline of ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ are not feasible. It can’t happen in Nigeria.” She emphasised the emotional resonance of ‘Breath of Life’ while expressing reservations about the feasibility of the actions of the Judah boys. By her argument, her preference leans towards ‘Breath of Life’ due to its emotional depth and the unpredictability of events.

Despite the reservations stated of both movies, they have provided a rich source of entertainment for the students and also allowed them to engage with storytelling tactics, character portrayal, societal implications on one’s actions, and lots more.