REVIEW: “Finding Me” is a movie with unrealized promise.
After almost a year of waiting, Funke Akindele’s film “Finding Me” finally made its Prime Video debut on March 16.
The film made a mixed impression despite its exciting plot and star-studded ensemble. The novel doesn’t adequately explore the concepts of self-love and self-discovery, so even while it addresses important ideas and emotions, the title “Finding Me” feels a little deceptive.
ANALYSIS
In “Finding Me,” Atinuke, a young lady dealing with relationship control and confidence issues, sets out on a path of self-empowerment and self-discovery.
THE POWERFUL ASPECTS
Among the most notable aspects of the movie were the makeup and clothing, which were expertly done. Atinuke’s attire, jewelry selections, wigs, shoes, and even nail paint all beautifully displayed her dubious sense of style. Her transition gowns were thoughtfully designed and meticulously constructed, demonstrating a progression.
With its lengthy gold chains and embroidered lace fabrics, her parents’ clothing similarly embodied the spirit of opulence. On the other hand, her brother’s clothing quietly conveyed his individuality and his attempt to adopt modernism. Every figure was appropriately attired, and there were no costume errors; everything seemed purposeful and expertly done.
Another noteworthy aspect of “Finding Me” was the performances, which had both important and minor characters played with nuance and skill. Funke Akindele really went above and above, giving her role a genuine, intensely emotional life. She hasn’t portrayed a non-comedic part in a long time, but she did it so brilliantly that you could sense the gravity of her character’s hardships. The scenario in which she attempted to woo her husband? It was compelling; you could feel how desperate she was to win his approval at all costs.
Additionally, Joseph Benjamin gave his all to his job, presenting a narcissistic and manipulative personality so effectively that I couldn’t help but hate him. The picture was made even more captivating by the exceptional performances of Efa Iwara, Omowunmi Dada, Femi Adebayo, Dele Odule, Omoni Oboli, and the rest of the ensemble. Not to be overlooked is Emeka Nwagbaraocha, who gave an excellent performance, particularly in the scene where he betrayed his sisters.
The narrative resonates and is incredibly relatable. Even if it might not be a completely novel idea, it is nevertheless a significant one that merits more research. Since these problems are still very much a reality for many people today, raising awareness of them helps to keep these discussions going. These problems include infidelity, financial abuse, body shaming, and emotional manipulation. One of the film’s best qualities is its relatability, which makes it both captivating and powerful.
Equally striking was the cinematography, which featured beautiful images and expertly placed camera angles. The film’s overall appeal was increased by the clear, well-framed shots, which gave the narrative more depth. The veracity of several scenes was, nevertheless, occasionally impacted by the camera angles. In the moment where Ndidi was pounding her brother with a keg, for example, it was evident that the object was striking the chair rather than her brother. Although it makes sense that safety precautions were taken, the scene may have been more credible with a different camera viewpoint. In spite of this, the film’s polished appearance was largely due to the excellent visual quality.
THE WEAK ASPECTS
The tempo of “Finding Me” is its main weakness. For the majority of the movie, the narrative moves along steadily, smoothly, captivatingly, and without needless pauses. But everything feels hurried as the plot twists come to light near the end. The emotional impact of these disclosures isn’t completely realized, and the rushed ending seems strange for a two-hour and thirty-minute movie.
The romance between Anthony and Atinuke is where the hurried tempo is most noticeable. Even so, how did they fall in love? There was no build-up, no previous chemistry, and not even a deep passionate interaction before it happened. One chat, and then all of a sudden, a kiss? It sounded phony and unnatural.
The last part, when several twists are jammed together, comes next. Ndidi’s passing, the family doctor controversy, Anthony’s arrest, and the phony test findings. Everything happens so quickly that it feels more overwhelming than significant. Even worse, it leaves questions unsolved. What, for example, was the purpose of Kola’s blackmail? Given that he was seeing a married woman, Anthony’s predicament is obvious, but what about Kola? What was so incriminating about that photo when his wife was already aware of his infidelity? What drove him to commit murder? Why did Rebecca suddenly vanish, and what happened to her? Has Atinuke made amends with her father?
The fact that another suspect was conveniently apprehended with video evidence that solved the case nearly immediately after Anthony was arrested for alleged murder was even more perplexing. The climax felt hurried and unfinished because the resolution felt too neatly tied up. The story’s climax feels hurried and unfinished because of these loose ends.
The lost chance to thoroughly examine “Finding Me’s” themes of self-love, self-worth, and self-awareness is another weakness in the film. Because of this, the movie’s title doesn’t feel fully realized, at least not in a way that conveys a powerful, ethically sound lesson, as I indicated in the opening.
I anticipated Atinuke’s journey to be one of personal development based on the title. Through her own efforts, she was able to recover her confidence, find strength inside herself, and regain her voice. The groundwork was in place: she had a buddy who encouraged her, she began attending to the gym, and even her brilliance was recognized. But rather than genuinely discovering who she was, her metamorphosis became linked to approval from others—more especially, a guy. In the name of evolving, she turned to lying, cheating, and even neglecting her son.
A story that tapped into her friend’s influence and led her to true self-discovery would have been far more thought-provoking. Was she truly herself? But what if Anthony was another Kola? What real lesson does the movie impart to someone going through a similar ordeal? Does obtaining the acceptance of another man bring about such healing? A deeper, more powerful narrative that promoted self-reclamation rather than romantic dependence could have been conveyed through the plot, content, and even the title.
END VERDICT
I give “FINDING ME” a 6 out of 10.
