The 2024 film Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters, is a powerful biopic celebrating the legacy of Nigerian activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.
Known as the “Lioness of Lisabi,” Funmilayo fiercely championed social justice, challenging colonial and patriarchal systems in Nigeria.
The film follows her journey from being Abeokuta Grammar School’s first female student to founding the Abeokuta Women’s Union. This movement united women against oppressive taxes and discrimination in the 1940s.
Using flashbacks and narration by Nollywood veteran Joke Silva, who plays Funmilayo in her later years, the movie portrays her life and legacy.
Kehinde Bankole takes on the role of a young Funmilayo, capturing her fierce activism and unyielding spirit.
The film emphasizes her role as a movement leader, inspiring countless women to rise against injustice.
It also touches on her personal life, showing the support of her husband, Israel, portrayed by Ibrahim Suleiman, and the sacrifices she made for her cause.
The Cast of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti
The cast of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti is led by a talented ensemble of Nigerian actors, each bringing authenticity and depth to their roles:
Joke Silva as Older Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti: Joke Silva portrays Funmilayo in her later years. She served as the film’s narrator, reflecting on Funmilayo’s achievements and struggles.
Her performance provides the film with gravitas and emotional weight, capturing Funmilayo’s wisdom and resilience after a lifetime of activism.
Kehinde Bankole as Young Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti: Kehinde Bankole delivered an exceptional performance as the younger Funmilayo.
Having grown up hearing stories about Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, I was thrilled to see Kehinde bring her fierce spirit and unyielding dedication to social justice to life exactly as I had always imagined.
She masterfully portrays Funmilayo’s transformation from a trailblazing student to a formidable activist.
One of the standout moments for me was the protest scene in front of the Alake of Egbaland’s palace. When Kehinde launched into her speech in Yoruba, I was absolutely floored—it was powerful and deeply moving.
Iyimide Ayo-Olumoko as Child Funmilayo: Portraying Funmilayo in her childhood, Ayo-Olumoko introduces viewers to the formative years of the activist.
Her role highlights the early influences that shaped Funmilayo’s values and determination, such as her father’s encouragement to pursue education, setting her on the path to leadership.
Ibrahim Suleiman as Israel Ransome-Kuti: Suleiman portrays Funmilayo’s husband, Israel, a supportive figure who stands by her through her struggles.
Despite his character’s limited screen time, Suleiman’s performance leaves a lasting impact as he embodies Israel’s strength, support, and complex relationship with Funmilayo.
I thoroughly enjoyed watching the captivating on-screen chemistry between Kehinde and Ibrahim. Their dynamic felt genuine and brought depth to the story, beautifully highlighting the strength of their partnership.
Patrick Diabuah as Mr. Thomas: Diabuah plays a key role as a colonial official, highlighting the challenges Funmilayo faced from British authorities.
His performance brings to life the opposition Funmilayo encountered and underscores the colonial forces she actively resisted.
Dele Odule as Osi: Odule plays a traditional leader representing conservative forces that oppose Funmilayo’s activism.
His portrayal captures the resistance from local male figures toward Funmilayo’s efforts, highlighting the tension between tradition and change in Nigerian society.
Jide Kosoko as Otun: Kosoko plays another local leader aligned with Osi. His character symbolizes the obstacles Funmilayo and the Abeokuta Women’s Union faced in their fight for justice.
Kosoko brings a strong presence to the role, reinforcing the cultural resistance to Funmilayo’s activism.
Adunni Ade as Mrs. Thompson: Ade portrays a close ally of Funmilayo, supporting her throughout her activism.
Her character adds depth to the portrayal of female solidarity in the film, showing how women across different backgrounds joined Funmilayo’s cause.
What I liked about Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti?
The cast of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti delivers performances that bring this historic story to life. They portray a wide spectrum of Nigerian society and its varied reactions to Funmilayo’s revolutionary efforts.
Each actor adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the personal and political challenges Funmilayo faced in her fight for social reform.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Nigeria, the film features meticulous period details, from the costumes to the languages.
I loved the bilingual approach, with dialogue in both English and Yoruba, which made the experience feel authentic and enriched the era’s cultural essence.
The visuals captivated me, showcasing Nigeria’s natural beauty and the intensity of Funmilayo’s confrontations with colonial authorities.
What I appreciated most was the focus on Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s own life, rather than her role as Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s mother. Growing up hearing her stories, it was refreshing to see the film honor her legacy with well-deserved recognition.
And the music, sound, and powerful speeches during the protest in front of the Alake’s palace were simply electrifying.
What didn’t I like?
Honestly, I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and found it engaging from start to finish. There wasn’t anything that stood out as disappointing or that I felt detracted from the overall experience.
Would I Recommend the Movie?
Absolutely! I’m reviewing this a few months post-release, and it has already won several awards, including Best Overall Feature Film.
It also took home Best Screenplay at the Africa International Film Festival, affirming its impact and relevance today. It is currently showing on Prime.
How would I rate this movie?
I would rate Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti 4.5 out of 5.
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