Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)

Movie Title: Jagun Jagun (The Warrior)
Directors: Tope Adebayo, Adebayo Tijani
Genre: Action, Drama, Epic
Year of Release: 2023
Date of Release: August 10, 2023
Length of Movie: 2 hours 14 minutes
Country: Nigeria
Language: Yoruba
Age Rating: 18+

About the Movie Jagun Jagun

Jagun Jagun is a Nigerian movie set in pre-colonial Yorubaland.

The film follows the story of Gbotija, a young man, who seeks to become a warrior after witnessing the death of his father at a young age.

He joins an elite army led by the ruthless and powerful warlord Ogundiji, a man known for his conquests of kingdoms.

As Gbotija rises in rank, his path intertwines with love, betrayal, and the harsh realities of warfare.

Main Plot & Characters

• Gbotija (Lateef Adedimeji): A brave young warrior with some unique abilities who seeks to become a warrior.
• Ogundiji (Femi Adebayo): A fearsome warlord whose leadership is threatened by Gbotija’s growing prowess and ambition.
• Kitan / Agemo (Bukunmi Oluwasina): A woman who becomes Gbotija’s love interest.
• Gbogunmi (Ibrahim Yekini): A member of Ogundiji’s army who forms a bond with Gbotija and treats him as a son.

Key Themes of Jagun Jagun

Through Gbotija’s journey, the film explores themes of ambition, power, loyalty, and the enduring impact of tradition.

Themes Explored in Depth

• Power and Corruption: Portrays how the desire for control can lead to destruction and moral decay.
• Love and Sacrifice: Highlights how personal relationships are tested in the face of duty and ambition.

Setting & Filming Locations

Set in the landscapes of southwestern Nigeria, the film authentically portrays the rich culture and historical essence of Yorubaland.

Fun Facts about the Movie

• Jagun Jagun was produced by Femi Adebayo’s Euphoria360 Media and received global recognition shortly after its release on Netflix.
• Within 48 hours, the film trended in the top 10 charts in over 18 countries.
• The movie’s costumes and set design earned high praise for their detailed representation of Yoruba traditions.

Quotes from the Movie

• “One who conceals his character is an enemy.”— Ogundiji
• “Death today, wealth tomorrow…If we die today, how will we enjoy the wealth of tomorrow.” — Gbotija
• “It’s at Ogundiji’s that I learned that it’s other people’s children that are sent on deadly errands.” — Kitan

Songs & Credits:

• Ogundiji Praise Chant – written and performed by Adam Songbird and Ibrahim Chatta.
• O Wunmi – written and performed by Dhortune Thatondoboy.
• Memories (choral) – written by Adam Songbird, performed by Adam Songbird, Dhortune Thatondoboy the Folajomi and Hassan Nduka Amaka.
• Edira – written and performed by Adam Songbird and Dhortune Thatondoboy.
• Kaba Kaba – written and performed by Adam Songbird.

Cast:

• Femi Adebayo as Ogundiji
• Lateef Adedimeji as Gbotija
• Bimbo Ademoye as Morohunmbo
• Faithia Balogun as Erinfunto
• Bukunmi Oluwasina as Kitan / Agemo
• Ibrahim Yekini as Gbogunmi
• Odunlade Adekola as Jigan
• Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello) as Oba Alayaki
• Mr. Macaroni as Moyale
• Yinka Quadri as Amoye
• Aishat Lawal as Ajintoni
• Jimi Solanke as the Narrator

Awards:

In 2024, the movie won three awards at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA). It won awards for Achievement in Visual Effect, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, and Achievement in Make-Up.

Have you seen this movie? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.