Today
Breathe In
Exhale. Today, I saw Funmilayo Ransome -Kuti (F.R.K) produced by the multi-award-winning director Bolanle Austen Peters at the cinema. I had a good laugh and a belly full of food for thought. Sometimes we don’t realise what we need until we move outside ourselves. Given that I had and still have a lot of uncompleted work on my to-do list, I’m pleased I took the chance when my cousin invited my sister and me to a movie date. There will always be work to do.
I began getting ready closer to the time of the date, despite my initial reluctance due to exhaustion. How did I think I’d make it on time when I hadn’t decided what to wear? To make matters worse, a neighbour parked behind our car, and they arrived unhurriedly to remove their vehicle. After conquering that adversity, we were fortunate that Lagos Road was unexpectedly empty, especially, because you never know.
Arriving at the cinema, the atmosphere was vibrant, the mall had so many open shops. Given that this is Lagos, I shouldn’t be shocked, yet I was. The theatre on the other hand was scanty with lovers wandering, nevertheless reflecting the widespread hardship in the country.
While I missed the opening scenes, I was captivated by the portrayal of early 20th-century Nigeria in the later parts of the film. The film did an excellent job of setting the scene with its rich historical detail and authentic settings. Kehinde Bankole, who played Funmilayo, gave a stunning performance that captured the spirit of her character’s tenacity and drive.
The narrative took us through Funmilayo’s early life at Abeokuta Grammar School, her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti, and her revolutionary activities. Each phase of her life was depicted with great care, highlighting her role in founding the Abeokuta Women’s Union and her fight against colonialism and gender inequality. The supporting cast, including Joke Silva, Adebayo Salami, and Omowunmi Dada, provided strong performances that enriched the story.
“Nobody in the world, nobody in history, has ever gotten their freedom by appealing to the moral sense of the people who were oppressing them.” — Assata Shakur
One of the film’s most moving aspects was its depiction of Funmilayo’s sacrifices and the impact of her activism on her family. The scene featuring Israel, her husband and her children added a poignant touch and underscored that freedom always comes at a price.
The cinematography and musical score were also noteworthy, enhancing the emotional and cultural depth of the film. After the movie, there was a palpable sense of appreciation among the audience. A couple of us stayed back to discuss the film’s impact, its historical accuracy, and the relevance of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s legacy today while the credits rolled. It was clear that the film struck a chord, and brought to light the story of a woman whose contributions had shaped Nigerian history beyond being “the first woman to drive a car” we were all taught in school.
Leaving the cinema, I am still here reflecting on the cost of true freedom.
“Freedom is a constant struggle.”
— Angela Y. Davis
