Citation is a good reference when perceived from a filmmaking point o view. The opening visuals were stunning and richly endowed with breath-taking cinematography utilizing calculated rhythmic camera movements.
The story is apt and timely, in view of the current agitations against sexual molestation and abuse in Nigerian Universities.
The sound design is realistic and it helped with the story progression. The setting was natural and relatable; likewise the characters.
Now, to the structure. The non-linear nature of the storytelling made it easier to keep the viewer glued to the unfolding story; blurring out all rigid demarcations between the inciting incident, lock-in, right up to the first and main culminations.
However, the mise en scene countered the suspense in the plot and structure. It was clear from the beginning that the professor was guilty hence, I was just waiting for the end of the movie to see the 3rd act twist - which came with little surprises.
The predictability of the conflict resolution watered down the anticipation that would have ordinarily fueled the dynamism of my emotions throughout the 190 minutes of pure artistry on screen.
I also found Moremi to be more fluent in French than in Yoruba, which is not too much of a bad thing if only her effort in delivering her lines in Yoruba didn't affect her overall performance in those scenes.
Her strongest scenes were those in which she spoke french... oh, it was a beauty to behold!
All the key actors were exceptional - especially the Professor, and Gabriel Afolayan, who graced his scenes with his signature near-lifelike acting. Ini Edo was good but didn't quite hit an exceptional note with her performance.
Overall, Citation is a brilliant movie with a high production value. It is embellished with well-thought-through artistry from the lighting design to the cinematography, and overall production design.
From my subjective point of view, it might have been graded differently to keep it contemporary. But this doesn't undermine the grading it currently has.
Finally, Citation did what every contemporary movie should do - reflect the times, and address pertinent issues amidst the entertainment.
Just like Kunle's past movies, Citation triumphs in elaborating a simple plot with believable characters, placed in realistic situations.
Well done, Kunle.
Well done, Kunle.